Edmonton is the only major Canadian city where housing is keeping pace with growth

A new report by MoneySense and Zoocasa ranks Edmonton as Canada’s only major city where housing construction is keeping pace with population growth, offering stability amid national market fluctuations. The 2026 *Where to Buy Real Estate in Canada* report highlights Edmonton’s affordability, with a benchmark home price of $408,300—a 0.6% dip in 2025 but a 23% increase since 2020. The city’s median after-tax income of $75,000 (per report context) and lower costs than Toronto or Vancouver make it attractive for buyers and investors. Edmonton ranked third nationally, trailing only Fredericton ($344,467 benchmark) and St. John’s ($381,042 benchmark). Local real estate agent Aligul Arslan noted demand for detached homes priced between $400,000 and $600,000, as first-time buyers prioritize single-family properties over condos. Investors are also shifting from Calgary to Edmonton due to better cash-flow potential, Arslan said. The report attributes Edmonton’s stability to its housing supply matching demand, unlike other major cities facing shortages. With a 3% population growth from July 2024 to July 2025, the city remains Canada’s fastest-growing metropolitan area while maintaining affordability. Economists had predicted a 2025 housing rebound, but national sales declined year-over-year through May before recovering slightly as the Bank of Canada signaled the end of rate cuts. Edmonton’s long-term growth—9% price increase since 2022—aligns with investor strategies focused on buy-and-hold stability. The city’s appeal extends to those relocating from high-cost markets like Toronto or Vancouver, where prices are three times higher. The report emphasizes Edmonton’s balance of urban amenities and affordability as key advantages for prospective buyers.