Top 5 Pros and Cons of Moving to Edmonton, AB in 2025

Have you got sunshine on your mind?

Then moving to Edmonton seems like a perfect plan!

Edmonton is regarded as one of Canada’s sunniest cities, giving its residents an average of 2,300 hours of sunshine annually.

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is the fifth-largest city in Canada. It is known for its vibrant culture, diversity, and, most importantly, the exciting festivals it hosts annually.  

However, just like any other city, moving to Edmonton has its fair share of pros and cons.

The most significant advantages are evident. From diverse culinary scenes to shopping attractions, wildlife, sports, and festivals, this city offers a good blend of entertainment and serenity.

However, this city has a few downsides. Some cons of moving to Edmonton are frigid winters, urban sprawling, and congested roads. 

In this article, we will dig deep into the pros and cons of relocating to Edmonton.

But, before discussing, let’s also look at what it is like to live there and what you can explore when you move to the Oil capital of Canada. 

What is Edmonton Known for?

For Edmontonians, every day is a reason to celebrate, which is why it is recognized as Canada’s festival city. Let’s find out the exciting bits about living in Edmonton without further ado. 

1. The West Edmonton Mall

West Edmonton Mall is the second-largest shopping mall in North America by square footage.

It is home to 800 stores, two hotels, 100+ restaurants, and 16 attractions. 

This tourist attraction features an indoor amusement park called Galaxyland, which offers exciting games, roller coasters, rides, and much more.

In addition, you can experience the world’s largest indoor pool at World Waterpark, a luxury stay at Fantasyland Hotel, and watch the latest movies at Scotiabank Theatre, all under one roof.  

2. North Saskatchewan River Valley

The North Saskatchewan is a breathtaking river winding northeast through Edmonton.

It originates 1,800 meters above sea level and flows through Alberta and Saskatchewan to Lake Winnipeg, merging into the Nelson River. 

The river valley is the heart of Edmontonians’ outdoor recreation. People love canoeing, kayaking, boating, etc.

The North Saskatchewan River also supplies the residents and neighboring communities with drinking water.

3. University of Alberta Botanic Gardens

The University of Alberta Botanic Garden is a beautiful spot for people seeking natural greenery.

This lush parkland is the most extensive botanical garden, comprising a 240‑acre property with numerous parks, plant collections, a greenhouse, and trails.

The University of Alberta provides a world-class education and is among the top four Canadian Universities. It also promotes the Kurimoto Japanese Garden, the tropical showhouse, and its exotic butterflies. 

4. Hub for festivals

Edmonton is called the festival city for a reason. Edmonton hosts over 50 annual events, ensuring good vibes throughout the year.

From the week-long K-Day Festival to hosting the Edmonton International Film Festival and Shakespeare Festival, this city ensures that entertainment remains the top priority for its residents.

The city dramatically appreciates filmmakers, artists, literature, and music and, thus, is a top choice among the young crowd.

In August, Edmonton celebrates the International Fringe Theatre Festival, the oldest and largest fringe festival in North America. 

5. Edmonton Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers represent the NHL’s ice hockey team. They are named “Oilers” because Edmonton is the center of the Oil and Gas Industry.

It won five Stanley Cups and eight conference championships, raising the spirits of the proud Edmontonians in every match. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving to Edmonton, AB 

Planning a move to Edmonton soon? Let’s discuss the top 5 benefits that are essential to know before you make the move. 

5 Advantages of Moving to Edmonton, AB – The Upsides 

1. Affordable Housing

The cost of moving to Edmonton is cheaper than living in other metropolitan cities, such as Toronto, Calgary, or Vancouver. 

Buying a property in Edmonton is also more affordable than buying one in other major cities in Canada.

An average family house costs around $435,095 in Edmonton, compared to Toronto or Vancouver, where average houses cost a million dollars. 

According to 2024 data, the average rent of a one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton is $1,285. The same for Toronto is $2,521, Vancouver is $2,700, and Calgary is $1,708. 

2. Growing Economy and Job Market

Edmonton’s economy is heavily rooted in the energy sector, a hub for oil and gas industries.

Not just this, Edmonton is also becoming a tech and business hotspot, home to several large corporations, such as Canadian Western Bank, ATB, Gibson Energy, and Telus.

The economy is growing faster, with a 26% increase in tech jobs over the past five years. 

Other sectors, such as health services, retail, and educational universities, are also attracting people from abroad and other parts of Canada for either work or university enrolment.  

3. Low Taxes

Edmonton, as well as the rest of Alberta, gives you the luxury of paying low taxes. You pay 10% up to $148,269 of your taxable income.

Not just this, Alberta’s government will introduce 8% of the first $60,000 income soon.

In 2026, a new 9% bracket for income up to $60,000 will be introduced, ensuring two years of tax cuts. 

4. Diverse and Vibrant Culture

Edmonton appeals to its population as it is inclusive, diverse, and secular. The city is most influenced by European, Christian, English, and French-speaking populations.

A World Population Review report suggests that a large percentage of the population in Edmonton is Caucasian. 

This Canadian festival city celebrates over 50 annual festivals, including the most popular Edmonton Heritage and Fringe Theatre Festivals.

Offering a rich blend of global music, art, and cuisines, the city is loved by people seeking thrill and youthful galore. 

Edmonton’s world-class architecture reflects its heritage. Attractions like Fort Edmonton Park and the Royal Alberta Museum are iconic places you wouldn’t want to miss. 

5. Low Gas Prices

Edmonton has the lowest gas prices among other cities in Alberta. In 2017, Alberta’s gasoline fuel tax (including the carbon levy) was 17.5¢/L, the most minimal among different provinces.

Since then, the provincial fuel tax revenue has been allocated to other health, infrastructure, and education sectors. 

According to GasBuddy, the average price for regular gas is now $1.30 a liter, a whopping 13% drop from last month. 

5 Disadvantages of Moving to Edmonton, AB – The Downsides

After discovering the positives, let’s explore the cons of relocating to Edmonton before you plan and pack for a move. 

1. Harsh Winters

Edmonton’s frigid winters are often a reason why people hesitate to move.

Cold temperatures and low precipitation create dry air, prompting residents to buy a humidifier.

Investing in quality winter gear and adjusting driving habits on icy roads are essential for getting through winter in Edmonton.

Edmonton’s climate also shapes its outdoor culture. Edmontonians embrace winter sports such as cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating and indulge in seasonal cuisine every winter.  

What is the Average Wind Speed in Edmonton?

The average wind speed in Edmonton is approximately 12 kilometers per hour, but this varies depending on weather conditions. 

2. Bad Infrastructure

A recent Statistics Canada report says that 43% of Alberta’s highways are in reasonably poor condition, with over 13,500 km needing repair.

Edmonton’s freezing temperatures extensively impact road infrastructure, causing potholes and uneven pavements.

Commuters find driving through cracks and bumps challenging when they leave the driveways.

Edmonton’s deteriorating roads are due to a lack of maintenance funds, its high population, and harsh winters, which make commuters’ lives challenging. 

3. High Crime Rates

Although the overall crime rate in Edmonton is decreasing, violent and property crimes are still on the rise.

Violent crimes are homicide, harassment, murder, assault, robbery, kidnapping, etc.

Breaking into homes or cars, fraud, and vehicle theft are some property crime violations. 

According to Numbeo, Edmonton’s current safety index is 52.93, which indicates a moderate safety level.

Is it Safe to Walk at Night in Edmonton?

The safety level indicates that walking at night in Edmonton is safe, but you must be cautious. Avoid going alone to isolated routes and sketchy areas. 

4. Dependency on Oil (A little too much) 

A current poll at Pembina Institute reveals that 70% of Albertans think the province’s economy is too dependent on the oil and gas industry.

This means that when oil prices increase, the economy flourishes. However, oil and gas job markets are massively impacted when oil prices decrease.  

These extreme fluctuations shake the economy. To curb its excessive reliance on Oil and related industries, Edmonton needs to expand to diverse sectors such as technology, health, and agriculture, creating balance in the economy. 

5. Urban Sprawl

Edmonton is 684 square kilometers, and its population is dispersed. People move to the suburbs due to the lack of walkable areas, poor transportation, and crimes in the city. 

A larger portion of the population prefers having a personal vehicle and wants to live in areas with big houses and larger yard spaces.

This suburban sprawl leads to higher maintenance costs and higher taxes. Hence, Edmonton needs to discourage more suburban development to curb sprawling. 

Conclusion

Edmonton is a vibrant city overall. Like any other city, this Oil city has benefits and challenges.

Weighing the pros and cons gives you a clear idea. Ultimately, the decision to move also depends on your other personal factors. 

Ensure that your move to Edmonton is smooth and hassle-free, whether done alone or with the support of a professional moving company.

For a DIY move, you need a printable moving checklist that helps you understand how to pack your kitchen items, what moving supplies you need, and what moving items you need to make your local or long-distance move successful. 

FAQs

1. Is it worth moving to Edmonton?

Edmonton has advantages. For example, you enjoy cheap rentals, low-income taxes, and low fuel costs.

Edmonton is also known for its outdoor recreation, sports, music, and art attractions.

The city hosts more than 50 festivals a year, making it the entertainment hub for residents. 

2. Is Edmonton a cheap place to live?

Yes, compared to other metropolises, the rent of a one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton is $1,285. Meanwhile, rent in Toronto is $2,521; in Calgary, it is $1,708. 

3. Is Edmonton a safe place? 

Edmonton’s safety index is 52.93, which makes it a moderately safe place to live.

You are safe when you head out during the day, but at night, there are everyday worries about being attacked by drug addicts.

So, it is advisable to remain cautious while walking alone at night.

4. Is Edmonton a good place to live in? 

The answer is a big YES! Whether you are moving from Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, or elsewhere in Canada, you will not regret settling in Edmonton simply because it has a lot to offer.

This festival city is famous for hosting more than 50 festivals annually.

It also has a thriving energy sector, including abundant oil and gas industries. It is the perfect place to enjoy beautiful parks, art galleries, theaters, and outdoor recreation.