Living in Alberta: the ultimate expat guide

Alberta's economy offers diverse opportunities for skilled workers. The province has historically been driven by the energy sector, but has successfully diversified into technology, healthcare, agriculture, and professional services. In November 2025, employment in Alberta grew by 4.2% year-over-year, with 105,000 new jobs created.

Key Industries and Employment

The oil and gas sector remains a major employer, particularly in Calgary and Fort McMurray. However, Calgary's technology sector is experiencing rapid growth, with companies like HCLTech opening offices in the city. Edmonton leads in government services, healthcare, and education employment. The healthcare sector added 13,800 jobs in November 2025 alone, driven by Alberta's Acute Care Action Plan.

Work Permits and Immigration

Foreign workers can access Alberta through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), which operates streams including the Alberta Express Entry, Alberta Opportunity Stream, and Rural Renewal Stream. The AAIP application fee is CAD 1,500 as of April 2025. Express Entry candidates who receive provincial nomination gain an additional 600 CRS points, significantly boosting their chances of obtaining permanent residence.

Sources: Statistics Canada, Government of Alberta

Alberta hosts several world-class universities that attract students from around the globe. International students benefit from quality education, research opportunities, and pathways to permanent residence after graduation.

Major Universities

The University of Alberta in Edmonton ranks among Canada's top five universities and is particularly renowned for its health sciences programs. The University of Calgary is recognized as Canada's top startup creator, having launched over 90 companies. Both institutions offer programs across engineering, business, sciences, and humanities.

Tuition and Admission

International undergraduate tuition at the University of Alberta ranges from CAD 27,000 to CAD 102,000 depending on the program, with a guaranteed tuition rate for the duration of the program. At the University of Calgary, undergraduate fees range from CAD 26,849 to CAD 38,734 annually. Both universities require a CAD 5,000 deposit to accept admission offers and obtain a Provincial Attestation Letter for study permits.

English proficiency requirements typically include an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent. Graduate programs may require GMAT or GRE scores depending on the faculty.

Sources: University of Alberta, University of Calgary

Alberta's education system ranks among the best in Canada, with both public and private school options available to expat families. Children of permanent residents and work permit holders can attend public schools free of charge.

Public and Catholic Schools

Alberta operates two publicly funded school systems: public schools and separate (Catholic) schools. Both follow the Alberta curriculum, which emphasizes digital literacy and STEM education. The Calgary Board of Education and Edmonton Public Schools are the largest school authorities, serving over 150,000 students combined.

Private and International Schools

For families seeking alternative curricula, several private schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Notable options include:

1. Calgary French & International School (CFIS) – Offers French immersion from preschool to Grade 12, tuition CAD 3,320 to CAD 14,600/year.
2. Lycée Louis Pasteur – Accredited by the French Ministry of Education, offering the French Baccalaureate.
3. West Island College – IB World School with rigorous academic programs.
4. Rundle College – College-preparatory curriculum with small class sizes.

International students attending K-12 schools must apply directly to school authorities. Tuition for international students varies by district, typically ranging from CAD 12,000 to CAD 15,000 annually.

Sources: Alberta Education, CFIS

Alberta offers more affordable housing than Vancouver or Toronto, making it attractive for newcomers. Rental markets in Calgary and Edmonton have stabilized in 2025, with prices actually decreasing in some areas.

Rental Market Overview

In Calgary, the average rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment is approximately CAD 1,537/month as of mid-2025, down from CAD 1,664 the previous year. Edmonton offers even lower rents at around CAD 1,302/month for a one-bedroom. Three-bedroom apartments average CAD 2,200 to CAD 2,500 in Calgary and CAD 1,800 to CAD 2,100 in Edmonton.

Popular Neighbourhoods

In Calgary, expat-friendly areas include Beltline for urban living, Mount Royal for families, and Bridgeland for young professionals. The Northeast quadrant offers the most affordable rentals at around CAD 1,519/month. In Edmonton, Oliver and Strathcona are popular central neighbourhoods, while Windermere and Summerside attract families seeking newer developments.

Renting Process

Tenants typically need to provide proof of income (often 3x monthly rent), references, and a security deposit equal to one month's rent. Alberta has no rent control, but landlords must provide proper notice for increases. Most leases run for 12 months.

Sources: liv.rent, CMHC

Alberta offers an exceptional quality of life with world-class outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a thriving arts scene. From the Rocky Mountains to urban festivals, there's something for everyone.

Outdoor Adventures

Banff National Park, just 90 minutes from Calgary, is Canada's oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Popular activities include hiking, skiing at resorts like Lake Louise and Sunshine Village, and visiting iconic locations like Moraine Lake and the Columbia Icefield. The Banff Gondola offers panoramic views of six mountain ranges. Jasper National Park provides additional wilderness experiences, including the famous Icefields Parkway.

Cultural Attractions

Calgary's Studio Bell houses the National Music Centre, while the Glenbow Museum showcases western Canadian art and history. Edmonton's Royal Alberta Museum and Art Gallery of Alberta offer cultural enrichment. Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary features over 200 exhibits across 127 acres, bringing prairie history to life.

Events and Entertainment

The Calgary Stampede (July 4-13, 2025) is the world's largest outdoor rodeo, attracting over 1 million visitors annually for 10 days of rodeo events, concerts, and western celebrations. Edmonton hosts the K-Days festival and numerous summer events. Both cities offer professional sports teams, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining scenes.

Sources: Banff Jasper Collection, Tourism Calgary

Life in Alberta blends urban convenience with easy access to nature. The province's cities are modern and well-organized, though a car is often necessary given the sprawling layout and cold winters.

Transportation

Both Calgary and Edmonton operate light rail transit (LRT) systems. Calgary's CTrain serves approximately 279,200 riders daily across two lines, with downtown travel being free. Edmonton's LRT connects key areas including the university and downtown. Monthly transit passes cost approximately CAD 112 in Calgary and CAD 100 in Edmonton.

However, most Albertans own vehicles due to suburban sprawl and winter conditions. Gas prices are generally lower than in other provinces. Uber operates in Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer, while FlixBus connects major cities including routes to Banff.

Climate and Lifestyle

Alberta experiences cold, dry winters (averaging -10°C in January) and warm summers (averaging 23°C in July). The province enjoys over 300 days of sunshine, more than any other Canadian province. Chinook winds can bring sudden temperature increases of 20°C within hours during winter.

Albertans embrace outdoor activities year-round: skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking and camping in summer. The relaxed, friendly culture reflects western Canadian values, with a strong sense of community and hospitality.

Sources: Calgary Transit, Travel Alberta

Alberta offers a lower cost of living compared to Vancouver and Toronto, particularly for housing. The absence of provincial sales tax provides additional savings on everyday purchases.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

According to Numbeo data, a single person in Calgary can expect monthly expenses of approximately CAD 1,585 excluding rent. When including a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, total monthly costs reach approximately CAD 3,100 to CAD 3,500.

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

A family of four in Calgary should budget approximately CAD 5,400 to CAD 6,500/month excluding rent, or CAD 7,600 to CAD 9,000 including a three-bedroom apartment.

Sources: Numbeo, liv.rent