Moving to Alberta: Where Should You Live? – 2024

• Crime Rate: 21.06 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,160
• Average cost of buying a property: $334,075

Grande Prairie offers a combination of convenience and tranquility. Located in the northwest of Alberta, Grande Prairie boasts the largest commercial center north of Edmonton. For safety, it has a crime rate of 21.06 crimes per 1,000 people.

Noted by many locals, Grande Prairie features the Eastlink Center, providing facilities for the gym, a pool, and childcare drop-off. You can also expect to find several peaceful parks with stunning views, such as Muskoseepi Park and Crystal Lake Park, which promote outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities. 

As of October 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $334,075, while the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,160, making it one of the cheapest and safest places to live in Alberta.

Alberta Government (2022), City of Grande Prairie (Dec 2023), Zumper (Dec 2023) & CREA (Oct 2023)

• Crime Rate: 50.07 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $2,200
• Average cost of buying a property: $555,400

Okotoks has a low crime rate of 50.07 crimes per 1,000 people. Its appeal extends beyond safety, offering a blend of outdoor activities, including access to 100 parks and over 85 km of trails, ideal for residents who love nature. With 330 days of sunshine a year, outdoor enthusiasts have ample opportunities to explore. 

The neighborhood has a tight-knit community that fosters connection through initiatives like the Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), which provides social services and promotes partnerships to meet local needs. 

Additionally, various community initiatives, such as the Okotoks Civility Charter, the Okotoks Hall of Fame, and neighborhood block parties, further enrich residents’ experiences. In terms of housing and rental fees, as of October 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $555,400, while the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,200.

Okotoks (Apr 2024), Statistics Canada (2022), Alberta Government (2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & CREA (Oct 2023)

• Crime Rate: 54.59 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,100
• Average cost of buying a property: $303,216

Coaldale, known for its secure environment with a reported crime rate of 54.95 crimes per 1,000 people, has a rich agricultural history, once holding the world record for wheat crop production. In terms of housing and rental fees, as of October 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $303,216, while the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,100.

With various recreational facilities like the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre and the Gem of the West Museum, families enjoy fun-filled activities and educational experiences. For outdoor leisure, Coaldale’s spray park, wading pool, and refurbished swimming pool offer ideal spots for relaxation. 

Coaldale’s focus on recreational amenities and community spaces fosters belonging and social interaction. As a growing hub, its events allow residents to showcase pride and engage in local activities, enhancing the quality of life for locals.

Coaldale (Apr 2024), Statistics Canada (2022), Alberta Government (2022), Zumper (Dec 2023) & CREA (Oct 2023)

• Crime Rate: 54.95 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,323
• Average cost of buying a property: $370,400

St. Albert, Alberta’s Botanical Arts City, preserves its small-community feel while growing to be Alberta’s sixth-largest city. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with access to both small-town charm and urban amenities. As of October 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $370,400, while the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,323. 

Families can enjoy outdoor activities such as biking along the 90 km of trails along the Sturgeon River. The city’s Community Recreation team supports local not-for-profit organizations, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

Safety is important in St. Albert, with a reported crime rate of 54.95 crimes per 1,000 people. This ensures peace of mind for families and residents as they enjoy all that the city has to offer. 

City of St. Albert (Apr 2024), Statistics Canada (2022), Alberta Government (2022), Zumper (Dec 2023) & CREA (Oct 2023)

• Crime Rate: 58.35 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,300
• Average cost of buying a property: $555,400

High River is known for prioritizing its people by supporting local businesses—makers, bakers, and farmers alike. It’s also recognized as the gateway to Kananaskis and nestled amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. As of October 2023, the average cost of buying a property is $555,400, while the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,300. 

From quaint markets to charming cafés and restaurants, everything is conveniently within walking distance, making daily life a delightful experience. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in angling paradise along the Highwood River or enjoy bird watching at Frank Lake, a sanctuary for diverse bird species. 

Even during the winter months, residents can find solace in indoor activities and virtual community programs offered by High River’s Parks & Recreation Department. As for safety, it has a crime rate of 58.35 crimes per 1,000 people, making it a welcoming haven for locals seeking an enriching lifestyle amidst the wonders of Southern Alberta.

High Rover (Apr 2024), Statistics Canada (2022), Alberta Government (2022), Rentfaster (Apr 2024) & CREA (Oct 2023)

• Crime Rate: 76.44 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,055
• Average cost of buying a property: $352,000

Medicine Hat is located in the south of Alberta, along the South Saskatchewan River. The city is about 169 km east of Lethbridge and 295 km southeast of Calgary. Locals take pleasure in participating in outdoor activities and being surrounded by wildlife in Medicine Hat. Medicine Hat is often known as the retirement community, where relaxation is frequently enjoyed.

After a week’s work, locals love to wind down at their local breweries, known as Travois Ale Works, Medicine Hat Brewing Company, or Hell’s Basement Brewing. There are also local coffee shops for a midday pick-me-up, such as Madhatter Coffee Roastery. If you enjoy fishing, Medicine Hat would be the perfect place for you, as the South Saskatchewan River flows right through the town.

For safety, it has a crime rate of 76.44 crimes per 1,000 people. The average cost of buying a property is $352,000, while the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,055, as of October 2023.

City of Medicine Hat (Dec 2023), Statistics Canada (2022), Alberta Government (2022), Zumper (Dec 2023) & CREA (Oct 2023)

• Crime Rate: 114.42 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average cost of rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,180
• Average cost of buying a property: $342,021

Lethbridge is a city located just outside of Calgary. In addition to offering affordable housing, its amenities include the University of Lethbridge, which is a 10-minute drive from downtown Lethbridge. Locals appreciate the green spaces provided throughout the city, such as Botterill Bottom Park and Peenaquim Park, where multiple hiking trails can be found.

Lethbridge is the perfect blend of city and suburban life, thanks to the City Centre where you can find an assortment of restaurants, shopping malls, local businesses, and parks. As of October 2023, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,180, and the average cost of buying a property is $342,021.

For safety, it has a crime rate of 114.42 crimes per 1,000 people. Residents not only love the peaceful atmosphere of the city but also appreciate its proximity to the United States border—accessible by car, it is just 100 km away!

Statistics Canada (2022), Alberta Government (2022), Zumper (Dec 2023) & CREA (Oct 2023)