Moving in with a significant other is a big step in any relationship. Whether it’s the first time living together or a step towards a long-term commitment, it’s important to choose the right location for both of you. Alberta offers a wide variety of options for couples looking for their first place together. From bustling cities to picturesque small towns, this province has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the best places in Alberta for couples to move in together. So, whether you’re looking for an urban adventure or a more laid-back lifestyle, read on to find the perfect place for you and your partner to call home.
1. Lloydminster
- Population: 20,204
- Average monthly cost of living: $1,378
Lloydminster is a unique city as half of it is located in Alberta and the other half in Saskatchewan. It is a smaller city compared to some other Alberta hubs but still has lots to do, shops, activities, and affordable housing. With $794 and $1,050, you can rent a 1-bedroom and a 2-bedroom apartment, respectively.
See the Lloydminster Rent Board
- Population: 63,000
- Average monthly cost of living: $1,422
Located south of Calgary, Medicine Hat is known for its large natural gas fields, it is nicknamed ‘The Gas City.’ Also known to be a windy city. If you don’t mind a little wind the average temperature in Medicine Hat tends to be a little warmer than the large cities located further north and has affordable housing. It’ll also cost you as low as $850 to rent a 1-bedroom apartment.
See the Rent Board here
3. High River
- Population: 14,220
- Average monthly cost of living: $3,016
Located within the Calgary Metro region High River is a great option for couples looking for a quieter spot, close to Calgary, and close to the mountains. The average cost of buying a house is $419,000 and the cost to rent a 1-bedroom apartment is around $850.
4. Stony Plain
- Population: 18,371
- Average monthly cost of living: $2,800
Stony Plain is located just west of Edmonton with only a 20-minute commute into the hustle and bustle of YEG. The area is considered a farming community and hosts a yearly farmers’ day in June. On average the cost of a home here is $413,000 and rent for a 1-bedroom can be found at an average close to $1000/month.
5. Red Deer
- Population: 104,392
- Average monthly cost of living: $2,860
Red Deer is located near the mid-point between Calgary and Edmonton along highway 2. In the last few years, the city has grown and expanded while still maintaining a relatively affordable cost of living. The average home price is $435,000 and you can rent a 1-bedroom apartment for an average cost of $950 (and even some lower!).
6. Sylvan Lake
- Population: 16,354
- Average monthly cost of living: $2,190
Known for the beach community, Sylvan Lake is located just west of Red Deer and has access to the gorgeous freshwater lake, Sylvan Lake. On average, you can buy a house in Sylvan Lake for around $499,000, and rent a 1-bedroom apartment for around $1200.
7. Edmonton
- Population: 1,519,000
- Average monthly cost of living: $2,918
Edmonton is one of the main hub cities of Alberta, known as a festival city, there is always a ton to do and see. Living in Edmonton is not as cheap as in some of the smaller towns and cities but still relatively affordable compared to some other Provinces. The average home price is $413,000 and the average rent for a 1-bedroom is $1,200.
8. Calgary
- Population: 1,640,000
- Average monthly cost of living: $3,173
Calgary, home of the Calgary Stampede, is one of the most sought-after areas to live in Alberta. With the proximity to the mountains and fantastic amount of things to do, it makes a perfect place to live. However, the average cost of a home in YYC is $701,142 and the average cost of a 1-bedroom is $1,619.
No matter where you decide to live as a couple there will always be pros and cons to the location. Be sure to discuss with your partner what is important to you, and what you need in a home, and come to an agreement on the budget. Living together as a couple for the first time is exciting and nerve-wracking all in one, so be sure to have those tough conversations beforehand to ensure you are setting both of you up for success.
Looking for more things to do in Alberta this winter? Kick Up Some Snow With These Winter Hikes In Alberta
