Alberta Housing Market January 2026: Calgary & Edmonton Update

Alberta Housing Market January 2026: A Comprehensive Update

Alberta's real estate market continues to offer exceptional value compared to other major Canadian markets. As we enter 2026, Calgary and Edmonton present distinct opportunities for buyers and investors alike.

Calgary Market Snapshot

Calgary's housing market in early 2026 shows strong fundamentals driven by continued population growth and economic diversification:

• Average Detached Home Price: $680,000 - up 4.5% from last year
• Average Condo Price: $320,000 - stable with moderate appreciation
• Average Townhouse Price: $470,000 - strong demand from young families
• Days on Market: 28 days average, indicating balanced conditions

Hot Neighbourhoods in Calgary

For First-Time Buyers:

• Saddle Ridge and Martindale continue offering excellent value under $550,000
• McKenzie Towne provides established amenities and CTrain access
• Seton is emerging as a master-planned community with growing infrastructure

For Move-Up Buyers:

• Tuscany and Arbour Lake offer family-friendly environments
• Bridgeland/Renfrew attracts those wanting inner-city living
• Aspen Woods remains popular for executive families

Edmonton Market Conditions

Edmonton maintains its position as one of Canada's most affordable major cities:

• Average Detached Home Price: $490,000 - representing exceptional value
• Average Condo Price: $210,000 - entry-level opportunities abound
• Average Townhouse Price: $340,000 - great for young families
• Days on Market: 32 days average

Edmonton Neighbourhood Highlights

Best Value Areas:

• Mill Woods continues delivering exceptional value with established amenities
• The Meadows offers newer housing stock at competitive prices
• Windermere provides suburban living with waterfront access

Urban Living Options:

• Oliver and Downtown provide walkable lifestyle
• Strathcona/Old Strathcona attracts young professionals
• Glenora offers character homes and mature trees

Alberta Economic Factors

Several key factors are driving Alberta's real estate market in 2026:

Population Growth:

• Alberta led Canada in interprovincial migration again in 2025
• Calgary and Edmonton continue attracting remote workers from BC and Ontario
• International immigration remains strong

Economic Diversification:

• Tech sector employment continues expanding
• Film and television production growing
• Renewable energy investments accelerating
• Logistics and distribution hub development

No Land Transfer Tax Advantage:
Alberta buyers continue benefiting from the province's lack of land transfer tax, saving thousands compared to Ontario and BC purchases.

Mortgage Rate Impacts

Current mortgage rates are influencing Alberta buyer behaviour:

• 5-year fixed rates hovering around 4.5-5.0%
• Variable rates showing potential for future decreases
• Alberta's lower home prices mean stronger qualification compared to other provinces

Affordability Comparison:
A household earning $100,000 can qualify for approximately:

• Calgary: $500,000+ mortgage (comfortable for detached home)
• Edmonton: $500,000+ mortgage (excellent detached home options)
• Toronto: $500,000 mortgage (condo territory only)
• Vancouver: $500,000 mortgage (modest condo only)

Tips for Alberta Buyers in 2026

1. Get Pre-Approved First: Lock in your rate and know your budget before house hunting
2. Consider CTrain/LRT Access: Properties near transit stations tend to hold value better
3. Factor in Full Costs: Budget for property taxes, utilities, and maintenance
4. Work with Local Experts: Partner with mortgage professionals who understand Alberta's unique market

Looking Ahead: 2026 Predictions

Experts predict continued stability in Alberta's housing market with modest appreciation of 3-5% through 2026. The combination of affordability, economic growth, and quality of life continues attracting buyers from across Canada.

Whether you're a first-time buyer looking at Calgary's northeast communities or considering Edmonton's excellent value proposition, Alberta offers genuine homeownership opportunities that are increasingly rare in Canadian major cities.