Are you Alberta-bound?
With more British Columbians moving to Alberta than ever (especially Calgary!) I wanted to do a deep dive into this migration pattern and see what’s really happening. It was time to see just what the numbers were exactly and share them. Personally in my business, since 2020 I have never had more clients move (or want to move) to Alberta (primarily Calgary! Whether it was prices or politics, people had enough here.
British Columbia and Alberta, two provinces known for their stunning natural landscapes and thriving economies, have been witnessing significant changes in migration patterns in recent years. While many individuals and families have been drawn to these provinces for their opportunities and quality of life, many now would say BC is way too unaffordable and they are now settling in Alberta.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this migration trend, provide tips for those planning to move out, discuss real estate considerations, and address common FAQs. A common sentiment among BC’ers is the cost of living being too high in BC. Alberta; with its robust economy, is an attractive alternative for both young families and people looking to retire!
“More people moved out of British Columbia than moved in between July and September, according to new data from Statistics Canada, and many outgoing residents went next door to Alberta.
It was the fifth quarter in a row that B.C. saw a net decrease in interprovincial migration—the longest stretch during which B.C. has lost more people to other provinces than it gained in a decade.
In the third quarter of 2023, 17,186 people left B.C. for another province or territory and 12,552 moved here, making for a net loss of 4,634.” Source
Understanding BC and Alberta
BC and Alberta boast diverse demographics, robust economies, and enviable quality of life factors. However, challenges such as rising housing costs, economic fluctuations, and environmental concerns have prompted some residents to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Reasons for Moving Out of BC
Migration is a complex phenomenon influenced by a myriad of factors ranging from economic considerations to environmental concerns and lifestyle preferences. Let’s explore each category in detail to understand why individuals and families may choose to move out of British Columbia and Alberta.
Economic Factors:
“Alberta has structural advantages over B.C. and the rest of the country in the form of lower tax rates and lower debt levels. Alberta has no provincial sales tax and a lower business income tax rate (eight per cent versus 12 per cent in B.C.). And Alberta’s public sector debt is roughly 9.3 per cent of GDP and on track to decrease in the coming years, whereas B.C.’s is currently 17.6 per cent of GDP and is expected to climb to 27.5 per cent by 2026-27.” Source
Cost of Living Comparisons:
Both BC and Alberta have seen significant increases in the cost of living in recent years, driven primarily by housing costs, utilities, and everyday expenses. For many residents of BC, the allure of more affordable living in Alberta becomes increasingly appealing as they seek to stretch their budgets further.
Housing Affordability Issues:
The soaring housing prices in BC and Alberta’s major urban centers have made homeownership increasingly unattainable for many. Skyrocketing real estate prices coupled with stagnant wages have pushed individuals and families to consider more affordable housing markets out of urban centers.
Job Opportunities and Unemployment Rates:
While BC and Alberta offer robust job markets in certain sectors such as technology, energy, and healthcare, others may find limited opportunities in their desired fields. High unemployment rates in specific regions or industries may prompt individuals to seek employment prospects elsewhere, where job markets are more favorable.
As of Dec. 19, there were roughly 100,000 job vacancies in Alberta, with an average hourly wage of $24.80 according to Statistics Canada. There were also about 24,000 jobs filled in Alberta from July 2020 to December 2022, according to a Business Council of Alberta survey. Source
“Alicia Planincic, an economist and manager of policy at the Business Council of Alberta, said that’s important information because Alberta’s labour market looks a lot different now than it did five or 10 years ago.
“It used to be the case that Alberta’s labour market really moved in lockstep with oil and gas, where we would see high oil prices and the industry would really ramp up hiring and all the related industries would see a boost because of that,” said Planincic.” Source
The job market in Alberta shows demand in health care and trades.
“We believe right now that about one in four — about 25 per cent — of job vacancies in the Calgary business region are either skilled trades or related white collar support roles in construction. [That’s] about 7,500 job vacancies out of about 30,000.” Source
In the evolving job market of Alberta, there is a growing demand for what are often referred to as “middle skills” and technical competencies. Employers are no longer solely seeking candidates fresh out of high school but are also not necessarily requiring individuals with a four-year degree or extensive industry experience.
Instead, there is a preference for candidates who have completed apprenticeship training or have attained a couple of years of college education. Alongside this, there is a notable surge in the demand for individuals with tech skills, particularly in areas like business intelligence and data analysis.
As the market dynamics begin to shift, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends develop in the future.
Tips for Moving To Alberta
Researching potential destinations, financial planning, networking, and understanding logistics and legalities are essential steps for a successful move. Thorough preparation can alleviate stress and ensure a smooth transition to a new location. The Alberta government actually has a good beginners resource here:
https://www.alberta.ca/moving-to-alberta-from-within-canada
Before You Move
Now I can already see it; you’ve googled “homes in Calgary”, haven’t you? 😉Likely you have already done this search a number of times before. There are many things to consider before moving, so we have a short form list here, with each section potentially becoming a blog post on their own!
Overall
Research Costs: Compare living expenses between BC and Alberta.
Job Market: Look for job opportunities in Alberta.
Legal Requirements: Understand residency and paperwork needs.
Working
Network: Connect with professionals in your field in Alberta.
Resume Update: Tailor your resume for the Alberta job market.
Flexibility: Be open to different job opportunities.
Living
Neighborhood Research: Look into different neighborhoods.
Budget: Plan housing costs ahead of time.
Community Involvement: Explore local resources and activities.
Health Care
Records Transfer: Arrange to transfer your health records.
Find Providers: Research healthcare providers in Alberta.
Insurance: Understand and obtain appropriate health coverage.
Education and Child Care
School Research: Look into schooling options in Alberta.
Child Care Exploration: Research child care services.
Smooth Transitions: Plan ahead for school changes.
Real Estate Considerations
You can definitely research this; but come on! It’s our home turf – so to speak 😉!
Researching housing markets, budgeting for housing costs, understanding the home buying process, and exploring options for selling or renting out current property are crucial aspects of the moving process, particularly when real estate is involved. Let us do the heavy lifting here!
Conclusion
Moving out of British Columbia and Alberta is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. Whether driven by economic, environmental, or lifestyle factors, understanding the reasons behind migration trends and knowing how to navigate the moving process is essential for a successful transition. By following the tips, considering real estate factors, and seeking answers to common questions, individuals and families can embark on their relocation journey with confidence.
Remember, each moving experience is unique, and seeking professional advice when necessary can help ensure a smooth transition to a new chapter in life. Moving out of province is never an easy transition, thorough preparation and a positive mindset are key to making the most of this exciting opportunity for change. Call Corbin – the Alberta Ambassador to help you get started with your move!
We have connections with industry professionals who specialize in all aspects of moving to Alberta (realtor, moving company, immigration lawyers and more!) – ask for our Ambassador Packet or call 604.825.2853 to get started today!