If you’re considering a move to Alberta or thinking about real estate investing, the big question is often: Edmonton or Calgary?
Both cities offer excellent value, thanks to no land transfer tax, no provincial sales tax, and healthy rental demand, but they are very different markets. Here’s your 2025 breakdown on what each city offers.
🏡 Home Prices in 2025: Calgary Is Higher, Edmonton More Affordable
Official data shows:
- Calgary: Benchmark price dropped to ~$589,900 in May (a 2% Y/Y decline)
- Edmonton: MLS HPI benchmark price sits at ~$439,700 in June, up 7.7% Y/Y
- Average selling price: Edmonton $464,955 (up 5.9% Y/Y); Calgary average price ~$580,100 (+3.7% Y/Y)
Takeaway: Calgary homes cost approximately $150–$200K more. Edmonton remains one of Canada’s most accessible urban markets.
🌆 Lifestyle & Local Vibe: Two Cities, Two Personalities
Calgary shines with:
- Mountain views and proximity to Banff/Canmore
- A professional, corporate environment with more head offices
- Outdoor culture, hiking, skiing, biking
Edmonton offers:
- Laid-back pace and tight-knit communities
- Canada’s largest urban park system along its river valley
- A vibrant arts scene including Fringe Festival and Folk Fest
- More affordable with a stronger community feel
Choose Calgary if you’re after urban energy and mountain access.
Choose Edmonton for festivals, green space, and affordability.
🌤️ Weather & Sunshine: Calgary Slightly Sunnier, Edmonton a Bit Colder
| City | Avg Winter Temp | Days of Sunshine | Snowfall | Chinooks? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary | ~–7 °C | ~333/year | Moderate | Frequent (warmer) |
| Edmonton | ~–11 °C | ~325/year | Heavier | Very Rare |
Bottom line: Calgary’s climate is milder thanks to chinooks; Edmonton brings longer, colder winters.
💼 Real Estate Investment: Calgary for Appreciation, Edmonton for Cash Flow
| Metric | Calgary | Edmonton |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. 3‑bed Rent | $2,400–$2,800 | $2,200–$2,600 |
| Vacancy Rate (2025) | ~1.8% | ~2.1% |
| Cash Flow Potential | Neutral to modest | Stronger |
| Price Appreciation (Y/Y) | ≈ +3.7% – +9% depending on segment ICONIC YEG Real Estate | ≈ +5.9% – +7.7% WOWACREA Stats |
Investor insight:
- Edmonton offers better cash flow due to lower acquisition costs.
- Calgary attracts stronger long-term value gains due to corporate growth and demand.
🏦 Buying Cost Advantage: Both Cities Are Tax-Friendly
Alberta offers major closing savings:
- ✅ No provincial sales tax (PST)
- ✅ No land transfer tax
- ✅ Lower property tax rates than Ontario or BC
That means thousands in potential savings at purchase and during ownership.
🏁 Calgary vs. Edmonton: Final Verdict
| Priority | Best Fit |
|---|---|
| Lowest entry price | Edmonton |
| High monthly rental income potential | Edmonton |
| Appreciation & economic growth | Calgary |
| Outdoor lifestyle and mountain access | Calgary |
| Arts, festivals, and community feel | Edmonton |
| Corporate job opportunities | Calgary |
✨ Final Take
No matter which city you choose in Alberta, you’re looking at better value compared to Vancouver or Toronto. Choose Edmonton if affordability and cash flow are key. Choose Calgary if you’re focused on long-term property value and mountain-adjacent living.
📚 Resources
- Calgary RMREB & CREB 2025 stats → Benchmark price trend and supply data
- Edmonton REALTORS® Association June 2025 Market Report → Benchmark + average pricing
Canada Housing Market 
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