Why Alberta’s Population Boom Matters for Calgary Real Estate
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Calgary, there’s a powerful force shaping the market you might not have fully considered—Alberta’s record-setting population growth.
Demographic trends might sound like something for economists to worry about, but make no mistake—they affect housing prices, competition, timing, and your real estate strategy.
So let’s take a closer look. Why is everyone moving to Alberta? What does it mean for your next move in Calgary? And what trends should you watch closely in the months ahead?
Alberta’s population growth surged to 4.4% in 2024—outpacing the national average dramatically. Source: Statistics Canada & ATB Economics.
Alberta Is Leading the Nation in Population Growth
According to ATB Economics and Statistics Canada, Alberta has been Canada’s population growth star for two years in a row. Over 24 months ending July 1, 2024, Alberta added nearly 378,000 new residents—more than any other province. As of May 11, 2024, Alberta officially passed the 5-million mark1.
Even more striking? Alberta’s population grew by 4.4% in 2024—the fastest pace since 1981 and more than double the national average.
➡️ What this means for you: More people equals more demand for housing. Whether you’re listing your home or buying your first one, the stakes are higher—and the opportunities greater—than they’ve been in decades.
Why Are So Many People Moving to Alberta?
The growth isn’t just a baby boom. It’s happening because of five major drivers:
- Record immigration – Over 60,000 new immigrants arrived in Alberta in 2024.
- Surge in non-permanent residents – Alberta added over 91,000 non-permanent residents (NPRs), up 113% in just two years.
- Interprovincial migration – Nearly 44,000 Canadians moved to Alberta in 2024, many from Ontario and B.C.
- Natural increase – Alberta still experiences population growth from births outpacing deaths, unlike many provinces.
- Younger age profile – Alberta’s median age is just 38 years, with the lowest percentage of seniors in Canada1.
Calgary: Ground Zero for Alberta’s Growth
While all this growth is provincial, Calgary is at the epicenter.
- Since 2014, Calgary’s population has grown by 28.3%, adding nearly 393,000 residents.
- Calgary ranks among the fastest-growing large cities in Canada.
- Surrounding communities like Cochrane and Airdrie have seen massive growth—Cochrane grew by 67.3% in the last 10 years1.
➡️ If you’re buying: If you’re buying: Understand that competition is still intense for homes priced under $700,000—especially in desirable Calgary neighbourhoods.
➡️ If you’re selling: You’re likely to attract interest from local upsizers, newcomers, and relocating professionals.
How Population Growth Impacts Calgary Real Estate
In March 2025, Calgary remains one of Canada’s most affordable major cities with a benchmark resale home price of $581,100—far below Toronto and Vancouver.
Source: Canadian Real Estate Association & ATB Economics.
For Buyers:
- Affordability is drawing attention. Calgary’s benchmark home price ($581,100 as of March 2025) is dramatically lower than Vancouver ($1.18M) or Toronto ($1.05M)1.
- Rental pressure is rising. Increased demand has also pushed average Calgary rents to over $1,900/month, making buying more appealing over time.
For Sellers:
- Strong demand fuels upward pressure on prices in desirable neighbourhoods like Aspen Woods, Lake Bonavista, or Altadore.
- Timing matters. With population-driven demand still outpacing supply in many areas, listing your home with the right strategy can lead to multiple offers—if you’re priced and prepared properly.
What’s Next for Alberta’s Growth?
While Alberta’s growth has been scorching hot, projections show things will moderate—but remain strong:
- Alberta’s population is expected to add 2.1 million people by 2051 (medium-growth scenario).
- 85% of that growth will happen in Calgary and Edmonton.
- Net immigration will continue to be the biggest driver of population growth, followed by natural increase and interprovincial migration1.
In short, Alberta isn’t done growing—and neither is Calgary’s real estate market.
What This Means for You—Whether You’re Buying or Selling
At the Marnie Campbell Real Estate Team, we help clients navigate the real-life impact of these numbers. Because behind every stat is a story—your story.
If you're buying, we help you understand how competition and affordability trends affect your options. If you’re selling, we show you how to price and prepare your home to attract today’s active buyers—including those relocating from across Canada and around the world.
We’ve helped over 800 clients make confident real estate decisions—without regrets.
Let’s talk about what Alberta’s growth means for your next move.
Schedule your no-obligation consultation today.
Sources:
- ATB Economics. Adding up: Alberta’s population growth and its economic implications, May 2025.
- Statistics Canada, Population Tables and Real-Time Clock.
- Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), MLS® Benchmark Home Prices.
Explore More Calgary Real Estate Resources
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