Moving to Edmonton with Family: The Ultimate Relocation Guide for Families (2026)
Moving to Edmonton with Family
Swap your rush hour commute for river valley walks and financial freedom.
For families in Toronto or Vancouver, the “Edmonton Advantage” used to be a well-kept secret. In 2026, the secret is out. With housing prices in major hubs still hovering over the million-dollar mark, families are looking west—not just for cheaper houses, but for a lifestyle upgrade.
Edmonton offers a rare combination in 2026: big-city amenities (professional sports, world-class healthcare, major universities) with small-town affordability and community spirit.
If you are packing up the kids and heading to Alberta’s capital, here is everything you need to know to make the transition smooth.
The Financial Win: What You Actually Save
The biggest driver for families moving here is the cost of living.
- Housing: As of late 2025/early 2026, the average home price in Edmonton sits around $436,000 – $464,000, compared to over $1 million in Toronto or Vancouver. That means you can likely trade a cramped condo in the GTA for a detached house with a yard in Edmonton—and still have money left over.
- Rent: If you plan to rent first, expect to pay approximately $1,350–$1,550 for a standard unit, nearly $1,000 less per month than comparable rentals in Vancouver.
- Groceries & Utilities: Overall, families pay hundreds less per month on essentials, thanks in part to lower energy costs and no provincial sales tax (PST).
2. Choosing Your Neighbourhood
Edmonton is a city of distinct communities. Here are the top picks for families in 2026:
For the Active Family: Terwillegar & Riverbend
These southwest neighbourhoods are consistently ranked among the best for families.
- Why: They offer excellent schools, extensive walking trails, and the massive Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre.
- Vibe: Suburban safety with an active, outdoorsy culture.
For Safety & Luxury: Windermere
Ranked as one of Edmonton’s safest neighbourhoods in 2025, Windermere offers newer, upscale homes near the North Saskatchewan River.
- Why: Low crime rates and proximity to the Anthony Henday drive make it a top choice for professionals.
For the “Resort” Lifestyle: Lake Summerside
Yes, Edmonton has lake communities. Summerside residents get exclusive access to a private lake for swimming, fishing, and skating.
- Why: It creates a “vacation at home” feeling that is incredible for kids.
For Value & Space: The Suburbs (St. Albert, Spruce Grove)
Technically separate cities, these are integrated into the Greater Edmonton area.
- St. Albert: Known for its botanical arts focus and premium schools.
- Spruce Grove/Stony Plain: Offers larger lots and lower price points, perfect for first-time buyers.
3. Navigating Schools
Edmonton offers robust educational choices between two major publicly funded boards: Edmonton Public Schools and Edmonton Catholic Schools.
- Designated Schools: Every address has a “designated school” where your child is guaranteed a spot. You can apply to other schools, but acceptance depends on space and a lottery system.
- Registration: For the 2026-2027 school year, the deadline to register for your designated school or apply for a lottery school is typically March 25, 2026.
- Choice: You can choose from specialized programs like Cogito (structured academics), French Immersion, and Sports Academies within the public system.
4. Lifestyle: Embracing the “Winter City”
Edmonton doesn’t hide from winter; it celebrates it.
- The River Valley: It is the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America—22 times the size of Central Park. Even in winter, families use the 160km of trails for fat biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
- Festival City: From the International Fringe Festival in summer to the Deep Freeze Festival in winter, there is always a family-friendly event on the calendar.
- Indoor Fun: When it hits -30°C, families head to West Edmonton Mall for the indoor waterpark, Galaxyland, or the multiple City-run rec centers.
Edmonton Relocation FAQs
Contact us to receive a custom “Edmonton Relocation Package” including school maps and community guides.
How bad is the winter, really?
It is cold, but manageable. Temperatures can drop below -30°C for stretches in January or February. However, Edmonton is one of the sunniest cities in Canada, which makes the dry cold much more tolerable than damp coastal winters. You just need the right gear (good parkas and winter tires are non-negotiable).
Do I need a car in Edmonton?
For most families, yes. Edmonton is geographically large and spread out. While the LRT (train) system is expanding, most family-friendly suburbs (like Windermere or Summerside) are car-dependent for groceries and school runs. Commutes are generally easy, averaging 15–45 minutes.
Is healthcare accessible for new residents?
Yes. Upon moving, you should apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) immediately. Edmonton is home to world-class facilities like the Stollery Children’s Hospital and the University of Alberta Hospital.
What is the “School Lottery” system?
Popular schools in high-growth areas often have more applicants than desks. If you live outside the school’s designated boundary, your child’s name goes into a lottery for available spots. If you live inside the boundary, you are guaranteed a spot.
Can non-Catholics attend Catholic schools?
Generally, yes. The Edmonton Catholic School Division (ECSD) welcomes non-Catholic students if there is space available and the family agrees to respect the religious nature of the education. However, priority is always given to Catholic residents.
Ready to make the move? We specialize in helping families relocate from across Canada. We can do video tours of homes and help you navigate school zones before you even pack a box.
Start your Edmonton search with us today.
