The Cost of Living in Edmonton [2025]

Edmonton is a bustling university hub which gives the city a fresh, progressive feel. It offers unique experiences such as the West Edmonton Mall and North America’s largest urban parkland, the Edmonton River Valley.

The University of Alberta ranks in the top 6 universities in Canada. It's joined by 8 other universities in Edmonton, making this northern Albertan city a top location for students coming from abroad to complete their education.

Additionally, Edmonton’s tech and innovation sectors are growing rapidly. Both students and entrepreneurs find the cost of living in Edmonton appealing thanks to its affordability.

Beyond the fact that Edmonton has the most annual festivals in all of Canada and a passionate hockey culture, it’s one of the best places in Canada to view the Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights). For adventurers, it’s only 4 hours away from Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies, considered one of the most beautiful protected parks in the world.

Edmonton winters are long and harsh, with temperatures dipping to -30℃. Yet, Edmonton locals do not let the extreme weather diminish their spirits. They stay busy with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, outdoor ice skating, ice fishing, hockey, and numerous winter festivals throughout the city, every year.

Reasons to move to Edmonton

Edmonton has a strong economy and job market, with a high-median household income. There are three main industries offering hundreds of new high-paying positions every year:

• Energy, oil, and gas: Edmonton is sometimes referred to as the oil capital of Canada, and is near Fort McMurray (a.k.a. Fort Mac). Several companies in the area focus on oil and gas extraction, refining, and petrochemical production. The industry attracts engineers (petroleum, chemical, mechanical), project managers, geologists, heavy equipment operators and safety specialists—all seeking competitive salaries in their fields.

• Construction and infrastructure: Between seemingly endless new commercial endeavours and ever-expanding residential areas, the construction industry in Edmonton continues to flourish. The industry keeps city planners, engineers, construction companies, and tradespeople busy year-round and provides thousands of jobs throughout Edmonton.

• Tech and innovation: Edmonton’s tech scene continues to grow, focusing on AI, machine learning, and health technology. There are many career opportunities for software developers, data scientists, AI researchers, cybersecurity analysts, and IT project managers.

Other prominent industries include healthcare, education, manufacturing, logistics and transportation, government and public admin, hospitality, and renewable energy. Naturally, agri-tech is emerging as a prominent industry, as Alberta’s long-standing food production industry seeks more sustainable solutions.

The average annual salary for Edmontonites is CA$56,800, with an average household income of CA$110,600.

Combine these numbers with the city’s low cost of living, and you’ll find that it's relatively easy to live a good life in Edmonton.

What’s different about Edmonton?

Nature lovers take note. Edmonton hosts North America's largest stretch of urban parkland, the Edmonton River Valley which is 22 times the size of NYC’s Central Park.

Even in the middle of winter, Edmonton enjoys a record amount of sunny days, making it one of Canada’s sunniest cities. As mentioned in the introduction, the city is one of the best places in North America to view the Northern Lights, and Elk Island National Park is an hour away and one of Canada’s largest Dark Sky Preserves

Cost of living in Edmonton

Renting in Edmonton

Edmonton is more affordable for renters compared to other Canadian cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, and nearby Calgary.

Since Edmonton attracts a large number of students, it can be tough to find a rental in the month of September. If you are moving here for school, it's recommended that you start looking for a place a few months in advance. Luckily, a lot of places become available in June and July as students finish their studies and move on.

Factoring in affordability, access to amenities, and easy commuting, some of the best neighbourhoods for renting in Edmonton include:

• Oliver

• Gatineau

• Central McDougall

• Alverta Avenue

• Bonnie Doon

• Westmount

• Southgate

Spend some time researching the pros and cons of each area. Some areas have better access to public transit, and others are known for being budget-friendly. Families and seniors prefer some areas over others for safe, quiet streets, and some areas are best for daily commuters and convenience.

Rent prices can be higher in the downtown area and a bit cheaper in neighborhoods further from the city centre. The average monthly rent for a 3-bedroom house in Edmonton is about CA$1,550. However, the price can vary widely.

For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent is CA$1390. Again the price can vary between CA$950-2,800.

Expect to pay CA$600-CA$750 per month on rent if you share your rental with a partner or roommates.

The best online platforms to find or advertise room rentals are:

• Craigslist

• Kijiji

• Facebook Marketplace

• Roomies.ca

• Rentals.ca

• Zillow

• Roomster

• Zumper

Buying a property in Edmonton

The average price for a home in Edmonton is around CA$450,000, making it one of the most affordable Canadian cities to own a home.

In comparison, the average cost of houses in Toronto is over four times as much!

Home prices vary by location, with the most affordable options being in the following areas:

• Alberta Avenue

• Eastwood

• Kensington

• Lago Lindo

• Belvedere

• Newton

• Dovercourt

• Balwin

Edmonton’s neighbourhoods of interest

Edmonton hosts 34 municipalities, and there are some special areas that stand out from the others, for various reasons.

Whyte Avenue (Old Strathcona)

In a setting of historic architecture, the arts scene dominates Whyte Avenue, with lively nightlife to boot. You can find a mix of trendy and vintage boutiques, theatres, and some of the best restaurants. The area comes alive during Edmonton’s famous Fringe Theatre Festival—the biggest Fringe festival in North America.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment on Whyte Avenue is CA$1,700.

Westmount (124th Street District)

Westmount is a trendy, sophisticated area known for its art galleries, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. The 124 Grand Market happens every Thursday and Sunday. It's a popular farmers market that brings the community together in the name of local food and products.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Westmount is CA$900, while an entire house averages at CA$3,110.

Glenora

Prestige often accompanies areas with peaceful, beautiful surroundings and historic mansions. Glenora offers old-fashioned elegance with easy access to downtown.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Glenora is CA$1,450, while an entire house averages at CA$3,110.

Riverdale

This area is tucked right in the gorgeous Edmonton River Valley, offering a sanctuary from the bustling city. People come here for outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, and paddleboarding. Nature lovers rejoice in the natural beauty, and it's easy to forget that downtown is close by.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Riverdale is CA$1,240, while an entire house averages at CA$2,311.

Highlands

The beauty of the Highlands area lies in its character homes, giant trees, and gorgeous river views. The area feels like a small town, with a tight-knit community that is centred around local shops, cafes, and historic landmarks.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the Highlands is $1,225, while an entire house averages at CA$2,600.

Ritchie

Ritchie is where you can find a trendy, hipster vibe, complete with numerous microbreweries and local cafes. The Ritchie Market is the place to go for craft beer, connoisseur-grade coffee, and gourmet meals and food products. Mill Creek Ravine is close by for outdoor activities.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Ritchie is CA$1,350, while an entire house averages at CA$2,580.

Things to do in Edmonton

There are a handful of unique experiences in this diverse city that offer a perfect balance of culture and nature.

West Edmonton Mall

The West Edmonton Mall is probably one of the most famous malls in the world–because it’s much more than a shopping mall. Along with being one of the largest malls in North America, it also hosts:

• World Waterpark: World Waterpark admission is CA$64 for guests 48" (122 cm) and taller, CA$54 for those under 48", and free for kids 2 and under. Seniors (55+) and guests with disabilities get CA$10 off. A 2-Day Multi Park Pass costs CA$169, valid for all attractions over two consecutive days. The Weekday Value Pass is CA$45, available on select weekdays with a limited slide schedule (excludes holidays, school breaks, and mid-June to mid-September). A CA$64 Choice Pass offers a single entry to either World Waterpark or Galaxyland, and it is valid for one year.

• Galaxyland Indoor Amusement Park: Same rates as the World Waterpark mentioned above.

• Ice Palace Indoor Skating Rink: General admission is CA$16; children aged 3 to 10 can enter for CA$11. Kids aged 2 and under can get in for free. Seniors receive CA$2 off the regular admission price.

• Sea Life Caverns Underground Aquarium: Single admission for the Sea Lion Show on Saturdays and Sundays is CA$13, available on-site only with limited capacity (arrive 20 minutes early). General admission to Sea Life Caverns is also CA$13, while children aged 2 and under enter for free.

Elk Island National Park

Just a short drive from Edmonton city centre, Elk Island is an ideal place to go hiking or biking, and it's common to spot bison, elk, and other Albertan wildlife. It’s perhaps best known for stargazing its designated dark sky preserve.

Edmonton River Valley

There is a lot of space to walk, run, or bike the 160+ km of trails in the largest urban park system in Canada. Citygoers enjoy the park for picnics and kayaking the North Saskatchewan River. Festivals are often held in Hawrelak Park, situated within the valley.

Muttart Conservatory

This unique botanical paradise hosts four iconic glass pyramids. There are also biomes themed with various ecosystems of the earth: tropical, arid, temperate, and a feature pyramid with seasonal displays. Muttart is a great way to get a nature fix, even in the middle of winter.

• Adults (18-64 years): CA$14.95
• Youth (13-17 years) and Seniors (65+): CA$12.95
• Children (2-12 years): CA$7.75
• Children under 2 years: Free

Fort Edmonton Park

Canada’s largest living history museum is where you can explore historical buildings from the 1840s fur trade era to the 1920s. You can also experience a steam train ride or go to and fro in a vintage steam car. There are plenty of interactive exhibits, guided by costumed interpreters.

Notable Festivals & Events of Edmonton

Edmonton has over 50 festivals annually, making it Canada’s “Festival City”. However, hockey fans can attest that festivals aren’t the only events worth attending!

Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival (August)

This is the largest and oldest fringe festival in North America.

Individual tickets range from CA$9-20, and some shows offer special pricing for students, seniors, and children. You can purchase tickets online or by phone, and your e-tickets will be emailed to you. You'll need to show your ticket on your smartphone to get scanned into the show.

• Frequent Fringer Pass: CA$160 for 10 tickets

• Double Fringer Pass: CA$320 for 20 tickets

• Fringe Champion Pass: CA$20 for CA$5 off all tickets to participating shows

• Single Pass: CA$60 for one ticket to each show

• Double Pass: CA$120 for two tickets to each show

• Season Pass: Save at least CA$15 by purchasing a Season Pass

Edmonton Heritage Festival (August)

International cuisine, performances, and crafts to celebrate the city’s cultural diversity. And it’s free to attend!

Ice on Whyte (January)

An ice carving competition and winter festival. Also free to attend!

Deep Freeze Byzantine Winter Festival (January)

A multicultural winter celebration featuring ice carving, Indigenous storytelling, and traditional winter games. It’s free to attend!

K-Days (July)

Edmonton’s biggest fair of the summer has amusement rides, live music, a parade, and fireworks every night. 2025 admission rates TBD. Family-friendly!

Flying Canoë Volant (January/February)

This nighttime event features illuminated trails, canoe races, music, and storytelling, all inspired by Indigenous and French-Canadian traditions. Free admission!

Luminaria (December)

Perhaps Edmonton’s most ambient event of the year, Luminaria turns the University of Alberta’s botanical garden into a dreamy, twinkling winter wonderland with candle-lit pathways, lanterns, and light sculptures.

• Adults: CA$25
• Seniors (65+) and Youth (13-17): CA$20
• Children (3-12): CA$12
• Children under 2: Free

Edmonton Oilers Hockey Games

To say that Edmonton locals are enthusiastic about their hockey team is a massive understatement. The energy in the city during playoffs is a force to be reckoned with, and the games are a must-see for sports fans.

Edmonton Oilers game tickets at Rogers Place range from CA$50 for upper bowl seats to over CA$200 for lower bowl seats closer to the ice. Premium seats can go beyond CA$300, especially for high-demand games. Prices vary based on the opponent, seat location, and game day.

Cost of food in Edmonton

Edmonton has a thriving food scene, where local flavours can be experienced at indie bakeries, bistros, and food trucks scattered throughout the city. Fine dining options are plentiful, as are the multitude of choices for international dishes throughout the city.

Fun fact! Edmonton has its own signature dish—green onion cakes, that are prepared either in a pan or deep-fried.

Grocery Costs

The average cost of food per month to feed a family of four is CA$800. People who live alone pay around CA$350 per month. Couples can expect to pay CA$500 every month for groceries.

Several factors can affect grocery costs, including the types of products you choose and their availability. Personal habits such as buying in bulk and cooking larger meals can help lower the cost per person.

Cost of dining out

Edmonton has 2,859 restaurants according to data gathered by Google Maps. The cost of a meal depends on the type of establishment. No matter what type of budget you have for eating out, there will always be more than enough options.

Cheap Eats CA$5-15

• Cosmic Pizza (Pizza)
• Remedy Cafe (Indian)
• Dagu Rice Noodle (Asian-style rice noodle soups)

Mid Range - CA$12-30

• Little Wolf (Modern fusion)
• Homefire Grill (Indigenous-inspired dishes)
• Padmanadi (Indonesian)

Fine Dining CA$30-80

• Bündok (Contemporary Canadian)
• Sorrentino’s Downtown (Italian)

Getting around in Edmonton

The cost of getting around in Edmonton varies based on your choice of transportation.

Edmonton's public transit system, operated by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), includes buses, the Light Rail Transit (LRT), and the newer Arc fare card system. The LRT has two lines—Capital and Metro—that connect main areas such as downtown, the University of Alberta, and major shopping centres. Buses serve both the city and suburbs.

The Arc fare card allows for easy, tap-on/tap-off payments and offers a monthly fare cap of CA$100 for frequent riders.

For drivers, Alberta generally has lower gas prices compared to other provinces, with the average vehicle owner spending around CA$80 per month on fuel. However, this can fluctuate depending on your car type and driving habits.

Edmonton is also very bike-friendly and many areas promote cycling, especially during good weather. Downtown and nearby areas have dedicated bike lanes, while the Edmonton River Valley offers over 160 km of multi-use trails that are perfect for both cyclists and e-bike riders. Most of the public transit buses are equipped to carry bicycles.

Parking in Edmonton

On-street parking rates in Edmonton vary by location and time. From Monday to Saturday, rates are CA$1-3.50 per hour (8 am - 9 pm), with premium zones costing CA$4.50 per hour. On Sundays (10 am - 5 pm), rates remain the same. Parking is free on statutory holidays, including New Year’s Day, Canada Day, and Christmas.

City-operated parkades charge around $350 per month for monthly parking passes. Hourly rates range from CA$2.50-4.50, with certain high-demand areas like downtown charging higher fees, especially during events.