Why Now Is the Best Time to Move to Alberta: Job Growth, Affordable Homes and Low Taxes

If you’ve been thinking about moving to Alberta, you’re not alone. Over the past few years, thousands of Canadians have made the same move, leaving behind the high housing prices and steep taxes of Ontario and British Columbia for Alberta’s lower cost of living, job opportunities and strong housing market.

What’s driving the shift? It’s not just affordability. Alberta has quickly become one of the most attractive provinces for families, professionals, and investors who want financial stability, career growth and a higher quality of life.

Let’s break down why 2026 might be the best time to make the move.

Alberta’s Job Market Is Booming

Alberta’s economy is growing fast, fueled by energy, tech, healthcare and construction. The unemployment rate continues to trend below the national average, and major employers are expanding across Calgary, Edmonton and mid-sized cities like Red Deer and Lethbridge.

According to Alberta Labour data, more than 80,000 new jobs were added in the past year. While oil and gas remain strong, the province is seeing major growth in renewable energy, logistics, software and skilled trades.

For newcomers and relocators, this means something important - you can move to Alberta with confidence knowing there’s real opportunity to build your career and income. Many employers even offer relocation packages or hybrid work flexibility that make the transition smoother than ever.

Housing Is Still Affordable, But It’s Rising

The average home price in Alberta remains far below what you’d pay in Toronto or Vancouver. As of late 2025, the average detached home in Calgary sits around $670,000 and Edmonton’s average is closer to $440,000. Compare that to over $1.2 million in the Greater Toronto Area or $1.3 million in Vancouver.

Secondary markets like Airdrie, Leduc, Medicine Hat and Grande Prairie offer even better value - newer homes, larger lots and growing communities where prices still sit between $350,000 and $500,000.

But Alberta’s population boom means demand is climbing. The province added more than 200,000 new residents in 2024 alone. Many are young professionals and families from other provinces seeking affordability and opportunity. Builders are racing to keep up, but prices are slowly rising - which is why acting sooner rather than later could make a big difference in affordability.

Taxes and Cost of Living: The Alberta Advantage

This is one of Alberta’s biggest draws. There’s no provincial sales tax, lower personal income taxes, and lower property taxes than most other provinces. For a family earning $100,000, moving to Alberta can mean keeping $4,000 to $6,000 more per year compared to living in Ontario or BC.

Combine that with cheaper gas, more affordable groceries, and lower insurance rates, and your overall cost of living drops significantly.

The difference really shows up when it comes to homeownership. Lower taxes and utility costs free up more income each month, helping you qualify for a better mortgage or pay off your home faster.

Alberta’s Lifestyle: Space, Nature and Balance

Affordability isn’t the only reason people are drawn here. Alberta offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match. From the mountains and lakes to vibrant cities and tight-knit small towns, there’s something for every lifestyle.

Calgary offers the excitement of a big city with access to the Rockies just an hour away. Edmonton has a thriving arts and food scene plus one of the country’s largest urban park systems. Smaller centres like Cochrane, Okotoks and Sylvan Lake provide balance - modern amenities, great schools and peaceful surroundings.

If you’re moving with family, Alberta’s average daycare and education costs are lower than in Ontario or BC, and new communities are designed with families in mind: walking trails, playgrounds, and easy access to services.

Mortgage Planning When Moving to Alberta

If you’re relocating from another province, there are a few key financial steps to get right:

• Transferring your existing mortgage: Depending on your lender and current rate, you may be able to port your mortgage to your new Alberta property to avoid penalties.

• New mortgage pre-approval: If you’re selling in another province, talk to a broker early to get pre-approved based on Alberta lending guidelines and property values.

• Down payment planning: If you’re buying before selling, a bridge loan can make timing easier.

• Rental investment options: Many buyers choose to purchase a home to live in and a second as an investment property while prices remain relatively low.

At Merge Mortgage Group, we help clients across Canada plan these transitions seamlessly, from selling in BC or Ontario to closing on a home in Alberta.

Why Work With Merge Mortgage Group

Merge Mortgage Group isn’t just based in Alberta - we understand the local markets inside and out. We’ve helped hundreds of Canadians relocate here, guiding them through mortgage pre-approvals, interprovincial moves, new construction financing and investment property purchases.

We also know how to make your move strategic, from finding lenders comfortable with self-employed or cross-province income, to connecting you with Alberta builders and relocation professionals.

If you’ve been thinking about making Alberta home, now is the time to start planning. The window for affordability is still open, but demand is climbing quickly. Whether you’re moving for a new job, a better cost of living, or more space for your family, Merge Mortgage Group can help make the transition smooth and financially smart.

Visit mergemortgage.ca or connect with us to learn more.