Are you thinking about moving to Canada? Particularly Edmonton? Here’s what you know about living in Edmonton, Alberta. 

Well, Canada is a vast country and the city you choose to call home will have a major impact on your lifestyle, career, cost of living, etc. Within Alberta, many people choose to live in Edmonton. Therefore, you need to research about the city and learn about the local economy and housing market. 

So, without further ado, let us begin!

About Edmonton, Alberta 

Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and the second-largest city in the province. It lies on the North Saskatchewan River and in the center of the Edmonton Capital Region. It is unique because it is an urban center surrounded by wilderness. The city dates back to the 1700s. In 1875, Fort Edmonton was established and it was in the year 1904 that the city was incorporated. Over the years, Edmonton has grown rapidly and merged with numerous surrounding towns, including North Edmonton, West Edmonton, Jasper Place, etc. 

Because of the oil, gas, and oil sand reserves in Alberta, Edmonton is known as the ‘oil capital of Canada.’ It is also called the Festival City of Canada because of the events that take place in the city year-round. 

How Many People Live In Edmonton, Alberta? 

In 2016, the population of Edmonton was 1,062,643. And today it is closer to 1.4 million. It is growing at a rate of 2% per year. About one-quarter of the population are minorities. Also, it is estimated that over 330,000 residents are immigrants and the city welcomes between 35,00 and 45,000 new immigrants every year. 

Edmonton’s Local Economy 

Edmonton is one of the fastest-growing economies among large Canadian cities and has the fifth-highest GDP of all Canadian cities. Since 96% of oil reserves are in Alberta, Edmonton’s economy undoubtedly focuses on the petrochemical industries. Oil supply, services, and technology research and development ensure the prosperity of the city.   

The top industries in Edmonton are: 

  • Oil and Gas
  • Energy 
  • Tourism
  • Financial Services 
  • Technology
  • Manufacturing 

Career Pathways In Edmonton

Many immigrants in Edmonton came to Alberta from other Canadian territories and provinces. However, over the last decade, the number of international immigrants has been increasing.

The city is presently experiencing growth because of the excellent job opportunities and the quality of life that it offers. Also, around 31% of the population includes people between the ages of 25 and 45 who are in their prime working, spending, and consuming years. With such demographics, Edmonton expects further economic growth. 

Moreover, the labor market is projected to grow by more than 3% in 2022 and 2023. It will also experience growth in 2030 and beyond. 

Is Housing Expensive In Canada? 

Another thing to know about living in Edmonton, Alberta, is the housing market. 

Well, real estate costs are on the rise in Edmonton. Many immigrants chose Edmonton over Calgary because it is more affordable to buy a home. Edmonton ranks as the ninth most expensive city to live in Canada, thus making it one of the most affordable big cities in the country. 

The neighborhood you choose to live in will also affect your costs. Some of the most affordable neighborhoods include Lauderdale, Prince Charles, Carlisle, etc. 

Buying A Home In Edmonton 

Home prices in Edmonton are more affordable than in other major cities like Calgary. Again, this is another excellent factor that immigrants should consider. 

Moreover, the median price to buy a home in 2021 was $431,500. This is a 9.7% increase from last year. In addition, the median price for a detached single-family home is $470,400, i.e., an 11% increase. Also, the price to buy a condo is $184,700. The price decreased by 3% year over year. 

Driving In Edmonton, Alberta

The Yellowhead Highway connects Edmonton to Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Edmonton has the lowest gasoline and diesel rates in Canada, and most residents use their cars. The roads in Edmonton form a grid system, with streets running from north to south as well as avenues running from east to west. 

Moreover, the city is divided into three quadrants, i.e., northwest, southwest, and northeast. The street names include the quadrants. 

This winter here can be quite challenging for drivers. Hazardous road conditions, frozen drifts, and black ice are common. Even though winter tires are not necessary in Alberta, they are significant for the safety of everyone on the road. 

Community Support For Newcomers 

Edmonton is a diverse city that welcomes new immigrants, and there are many diverse pre-arrival settlement and employment services in the city. The Welcome Center For Immigrants is an umbrella organization that provides newcomers/ immigrants with information and resources. It is a one-stop service for settlement as well as job-related information in the region. 

Newcomers can also use services such as the Edmonton Immigration Services Association and the Alberta Association of Immigrant Settlement Agencies. 

Language Support In Edmonton 

The next thing to know about living in Edmonton, Alberta is language support in the city. Language Support Services enable new immigrants to learn English and adapt to their new community. Organizations offering language support in Edmonton include the Edmonton Community Adult Learning Association, Cultural Connection Institute, and many others. 

Personal Finance and Banking 

Having a strong personal finance plan is integral for all newcomers. Getting a Canadian bank account is the foundational step to getting your finances in order. 

All local banks in the city have programs to help immigrants and newcomers open bank accounts and get credit cards. They can also access other financial products like lines of credit, mortgages, etc. 

Conclusion

Living in Edmonton, Alberta, offers a blend of vibrant urban life and natural beauty. Known as Canada’s Festival City, Edmonton hosts numerous events year-round, creating a lively cultural scene. The city boasts excellent education and healthcare facilities, along with diverse employment opportunities, specifically in the energy sector. Moreover, winters can be harsh, with temperatures dropping significantly, but the extensive indoor attractions and winter sports activities keep residents engaged. Edmonton’s river valley offers an expansive green space for outdoor enthusiasts, while its growing culinary and art scenes add to the city’s appeal. Overall, Edmonton offers a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.   

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].