Despite higher interest rates and a slower national housing market, Canadians are still moving to Alberta in large numbers heading into 2026. For buyers and renters priced out of Ontario and British Columbia, Alberta continues to stand out as one of the few provinces offering a rare mix of affordability, job opportunities, and lifestyle.
This article breaks down why interprovincial migration into Alberta remains strong, what’s driving the trend, and whether it’s likely to continue into 2026.
Interprovincial Migration to Alberta in 2026: The Big Picture
Alberta has led the country in net interprovincial migration for several years, and early indicators suggest that trend is holding into 2026.
What makes this notable:
- Migration continues even with higher borrowing costs
- Most newcomers are coming from Ontario and British Columbia
- Housing affordability remains the dominant factor
While migration has cooled slightly from peak levels, Alberta is still gaining population from other provinces at a pace unmatched elsewhere in Canada.
Housing Affordability: The Primary Driver
Affordability remains the single biggest reason Canadians are moving to Alberta in 2026.
Compared to Ontario and BC:
- Detached homes remain significantly cheaper
- Entry-level ownership is still achievable for many households
- Buyers can often trade a condo for a single-family home
For many migrants, Alberta represents the last major province where homeownership still feels realistic, even in a higher-rate environment.
Wages and Employment Opportunities Still Matter
While housing costs dominate the conversation, income potential continues to support Alberta’s migration appeal.
Key employment factors:
- Competitive wages in energy, construction, trades, and professional services
- Growing tech, logistics, and health-care employment
- Strong labour demand relative to population size
For households relocating from Ontario or BC, Alberta often offers a better balance between income and housing costs, even if interest rates remain elevated.
Lifestyle and Space Are Increasingly Important
Lifestyle has become a growing motivator for interprovincial movers.
Why Alberta appeals beyond affordability:
- Larger homes and lots at lower prices
- Shorter commute times in many cities
- Access to outdoor recreation and open space
Remote and hybrid work arrangements have also made it easier for workers to prioritize quality of life over proximity to major urban cores.
Where Canadians Are Moving Within Alberta
Migration into Alberta is not evenly distributed.
The most common destinations include:
- Calgary, driven by job growth and amenities
- Edmonton, appealing for affordability and stability
- Surrounding communities such as Airdrie, Okotoks, and Leduc
Smaller cities continue to benefit from spillover demand as buyers look to stretch their budgets further.
Why Higher Interest Rates Haven’t Stopped the Move
One of the most common questions heading into 2026 is why migration continues despite higher rates.
The answer is relative affordability:
- Higher rates impact all provinces
- Alberta buyers often need smaller mortgages
- Monthly payments remain more manageable than in Ontario or BC
For many households, the math still works better in Alberta than anywhere else.
What This Means for Alberta’s Housing Market in 2026
Ongoing migration continues to support housing demand across the province.
What to expect:
- Steady demand for entry-level and family homes
- Continued pressure on rental markets
- Slower but more sustainable price growth
While Alberta is no longer a “hidden gem,” migration is helping keep the market resilient as other provinces cool more sharply.
Is Alberta’s Migration Boom Sustainable?
Most analysts expect interprovincial migration into Alberta to continue in 2026, though likely at a more moderate pace.
As long as affordability gaps persist between Alberta and other major provinces, Alberta is expected to remain a top destination for Canadians rethinking where they can realistically live and buy.
For many households, moving to Alberta is less about chasing growth – and more about restoring financial breathing room.
References
Statistics Canada. (2025). Interprovincial migration estimates. https://www.statcan.gc.ca
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. (2025). Housing market outlook – Alberta. https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca
Canadian Real Estate Association. (2025). Quarterly housing market outlook. https://www.crea.ca
Royal Bank of Canada. (2025). Canadian housing and migration outlook. https://www.rbc.com
Bank of Montreal. (2025). Canadian economic outlook. https://www.bmo.com
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