Alberta crossed a historic threshold. In the second quarter of 2025, our province’s population surpassed 5 million people, marking a milestone that arrived years ahead of earlier projections. For local businesses across our communities, this growth represents both opportunity and transformation.
A Province on the Move
For twelve straight quarters—three full years—Alberta has led the country in interprovincial migration, with 6,187 people choosing to move here from other provinces in the second quarter alone. Walk through any Alberta community and you’ll see the impact: new faces at the coffee shop, more families at community events, and businesses adapting to serve a growing customer base.
What’s driving people here? It’s not just jobs anymore. Unlike previous migration waves driven by energy sector employment, relative housing affordability has become the primary draw, particularly from British Columbia and Ontario.
Beyond the Big Cities
While Calgary and Edmonton continue to grow rapidly, ATB projects significant growth in Lethbridge and Red Deer as well. This means opportunities aren’t limited to major urban centers. Smaller city businesses, from Canmore to Grande Prairie, are seeing new customers discovering what locals have always known—Alberta communities offer quality, value, and genuine connection.
Over the second quarter of 2025, Alberta’s population grew by roughly 0.4 per cent while Canada’s population grew by just 0.1 per cent. That gap tells a story: people are choosing Alberta, and local businesses are the beneficiaries.
What This Means for Your Community
Every new Albertan needs groceries, haircuts, home repairs, professional services, and places to gather with friends and family. They’re looking for mechanics they can trust, restaurants that feel like home, and shops that reflect their values.
For local business owners, this growth creates sustained demand. New residents need to establish relationships with service providers, discover their favorite local spots, and build the routines that make a house a home. Thats why being visible and accessible to these newcomers matters more than ever.
Taking A Look Ahead
Alberta’s economy is forecast to grow by 1.9% in 2025 and 2.2% in 2026, underpinned by activity in residential construction, steady energy production, and sustained population growth. This isn’t a boom-and-bust cycle—it’s steady, sustainable growth across multiple sectors.
The five million milestone isn’t just a number. It represents five million potential customers, five million neighbors, and five million reasons why local businesses matter.
As Alberta grows, the businesses that thrive will be those that stay connected to their communities, welcome new opportunities, and continue delivering the quality and service that make people proud to call Alberta home.
Thank you for supporting the AlbertasBest.ca community. Together, we’re connecting Albertans with the local businesses that make our communities stronger.
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