Alberta is experiencing an unprecedented surge in population growth, driven by both international and interprovincial immigration. According to the latest data from Alberta’s Office of Statistics and Information, the province’s population increased by 204,677 people—an impressive 4.41%—between April 2023 and April 2024. This marks the highest growth rate among all Canadian provinces for the period, surpassing the national average growth rate of 3.20%.
This growth represents a significant jump from Alberta’s 3.67% growth in the previous year, making 2023-24 the most robust period of population expansion the province has seen since 1981.
A large portion of Alberta’s growth comes from international migration. In just the first quarter of 2024, the province gained 32,893 net new residents through international immigration, including permanent residents, temporary workers, students, and asylum seekers.
Alberta also saw significant gains from interprovincial migration, with individuals relocating from other provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, and Manitoba. Over the year leading up to July 2023, Alberta recorded the highest net gains from interprovincial migration, outpacing British Columbia.
Alberta’s four major cities all saw population increases: Calgary added 26,662 residents, Edmonton gained 16,082, Lethbridge grew by 1,651, and Red Deer expanded by 1,277 people. Meanwhile, Ontario’s major cities reported a net loss in interprovincial migration.
Why are so many people choosing Alberta? According to Statistics Canada, factors such as affordable housing and a strong economic outlook are key. Despite recent increases, Alberta’s property prices remain more affordable than in Ontario and British Columbia. For example, in the second quarter of 2024, the median price for a detached home in Calgary was $710,000, significantly lower than the $1.3 million median price in Toronto.
Alberta’s economy is also thriving. The province’s real GDP is projected to grow by 3.3% in 2024, buoyed by a diversification of industries beyond the traditional reliance on oil and gas. There has been a notable rise in demand for trades and healthcare workers, as well as a growing interest in technology skills like data analysis.
Additionally, Alberta’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) has been focusing on high-demand sectors like tourism, hospitality, and healthcare, further attracting newcomers. For example, healthcare professionals may be eligible for permanent residence through Alberta’s targeted immigration pathways.
Alberta’s appeal as a destination for newcomers continues to grow, as it offers affordable housing, economic opportunity, and a welcoming environment for international and interprovincial migrants alike.