Moving to Edmonton: The Ultimate Guide

Moving from Calgary, Toronto, and Calgary.
What is the weather like in Edmonton?
The top attractions in Edmonton
Edmonton’s top 5 must-try signature foods
What type of transportation is most used in Edmonton?
Is Edmonton a good place to raise a family?
Is housing affordable in Edmonton?

1. Moving to edmonton from other major cities

moving from toronto to edmonton

Toronto has some of the most expensive real estate prices and cost of living of any major city in Canada. It’s no wonder we’re seeing flocks of Torontonians moving out West. 

Edmonton comes with some serious cost-of-living benefits. Edmonton is also close to the Canadian Rockies. This means that nature lovers have a huge variety of activities to take advantage of. 

Moving from Toronto to Edmonton does require a bit more planning based on the distance and moving process. We highly recommend hiring professional movers to help the process run smoothly. There are a number of reputable long-distance moving companies. Some examples are Miracle Movers and Number 1 Movers Van Lines, who specialize in moves from Toronto to Western Canada.

moving from vancouver to edmonton

As is the case with Toronto, the cost of living in Vancouver has people looking outside their province for affordable options.

The cost of living in Edmonton and Alberta as a whole is considerably more affordable. In 2024 average home price in British Columbia is forecasted to be $966,069. In this same timeframe, Alberta’s average home price is forecasted to be $478,886. British Columbia’s average home price is almost double Alberta’s.

This means that Vancourites can see their dollar go much further in Edmonton than by comparison to Vancouver.

moving from calgary to edmonton

In terms of housing affordability, Edmonton real estate prices are usually more affordable than in Calgary. This means that Edmonton is a great option for young professionals and families. 

On top of affordability, Edmonton’s cultural scene, festivals, and community spirit make it an appealing place to raise a family. While it shares similarities with its counterpart Calgary, Edmonton has its own distinct identity, offering a wealth of experiences and opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

2. what is the weather like in Edmonton, alberta?

Edmonton has a humid continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. The city experiences significant seasonal variations in temperature, with average daily high temperatures ranging from -9°C (16°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in July.

Overall, Edmonton’s climate is characterized by distinct seasonal changes and significant temperature variations throughout the year. The days are short in the winter and very long in the summer (as little as 7 hours of daylight in the winter and up to 17 hours in the summer). Edmonton averages more hours of sunshine than any other major city in Canada.

Edmonton offers plenty of things to see and do, food to eat, and modes of transportation that make it an excellent place to live. Whether you want to shop at one of the largest malls in North America, explore river valley parks, visit art galleries, museums, or experience the city’s vibrant music scene, Edmonton has something for everyone.

3. the top attractions in edmonton

The iconic Ice District and lively Whyte Avenue pulse with energy, providing entertainment and cultural enrichment for residents and visitors alike. Rogers Place is located in the Ice District, which is home to the Edmonton Oilers.
Visit the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest malls in North America, which includes an amusement park, water park, and other attractions.
The Muttart Conservatory, which features botanical gardens and plant collections from around the world.
The Royal Alberta Museum, which has exhibits on Alberta’s natural history, human history, and culture.
The North Saskatchewan River, which winds through the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The River Valley, Edmonton boasts the highest area of parkland per resident in Canada, providing serene retreats within the bustling cityscape. Moreover, the city’s abundant green spaces, including the expansive River Valley with its extensive network of trails, offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. With an impressive 27,400 acres of parkland,
For a journey through Edmonton’s past, Fort Edmonton Park offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s history through immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, making Edmonton truly unique among Canadian cities.

4. edmonton’s top 5 must-try signature foods

Alberta Beef – Edmonton is known for its beef, and there are many restaurants that serve delicious cuts of meat. Some of the popular places to try Alberta beef include The Hardware Grill, The Butternut Tree, and RGE RD.
Ukrainian Perogies – Edmonton has a large Ukrainian population, and perogies are a popular dish. Some of the popular places to try perogies in Edmonton include Uncle Ed’s Ukrainian Restaurant, Taste of Ukraine, and Yo Baba Foods.
Donairs – A donair is a popular Canadian dish that consists of spiced meat cooked on a spit, wrapped in a pita with tomatoes, onions, and a sweet sauce. Some of the popular places to try donairs in Edmonton include Swiss Donair, Istanbul Kebab House, and Tasty Tom’s.
Bannock – Bannock is a traditional Indigenous bread that is often served with savory or sweet toppings. Some of the popular places to try bannock in Edmonton include the Indigenous-owned restaurant, Tiramisu Bistro, and the Indigenous-inspired cafe, The Nook Cafe, The Homefire Grill, and Tee Pee Treats Indigenous Cuisine.
Poutine – This classic Canadian dish consists of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Some of the popular places to try poutine in Edmonton include The Next Act Pub, La Poutine, and The Local Omnivore.

5. WHAT type of TRANSPORTATION IS MOST USED IN EDMONTON?

Edmonton boasts a diverse and accessible transportation system designed to cater to the needs of residents and visitors alike. Operated by the Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), the city’s public transit system encompasses buses and a light rail transit (LRT) network. With two LRT lines traversing different parts of the city, commuters enjoy convenient access to major transportation hubs, including the Edmonton International Airport.

For those preferring to drive, Edmonton features a well-connected network of highways and major roads, although heavy traffic during rush hour, especially along routes like Anthony Henday Drive, is not uncommon.

Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of the city’s extensive bike lanes and paths, complemented by the popular bike-sharing program, “Pogo.”

Edmonton’s pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods offer sidewalks and crosswalks, facilitating easy navigation on foot.

Additionally, residents and visitors can embrace eco-friendly alternatives with ride-sharing services provided by Bird Canada and Lime, offering e-scooters and e-bikes accessible via mobile apps for seamless exploration of the city.

6. Is Edmonton a good place to raise a family?

Edmonton is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world, with a high standard of living, excellent education and healthcare, and a low crime rate. It is also culturally diverse with a vibrant and varied arts and culture scene.

There is a strong history of Indigenous culture, which is celebrated through numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the annual Edmonton Indigenous Peoples Festival.

Edmonton has a lot to offer families and is very family-friendly. Additionally, it is a great place for children to flourish as adults: with a stable job market and one of Canada’s top post-secondary institution: the University of Alberta. However, it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a decision to move here. It’s a great idea to visit the city, talk to locals, visit different communities.

7. Is housing affordable in edmonton?

Edmonton’s housing market continues to offer relative affordability compared to other major Canadian cities.

Currently, there’s a noticeable trend towards increasing housing prices and heightened demand. Despite this, the market maintains a balance between buyers and sellers, providing a wide selection of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The affordability factor remains a significant advantage, enabling more individuals to enter the housing market and embark on the path to building equity.

Find out more about Edmonton’s Housing Market Outlook for 2024 here.

Edmonton is much more than just a city

Edmonton is a dynamic and thriving metropolis that offers a high quality of life, diverse opportunities, and a welcoming community. There are various job prospects and top-notch healthcare and education. Whether you’re drawn to its cultural attractions, economic opportunities, or family-friendly environment, Edmonton has something to offer everyone.

Ready to make your move? Check out our range of quick-possession homes and communities.