Calgary’s lifestyle vs. Edmonton’s affordability: Where should homebuyers look in 2026?
Posted December 9, 2025 5:01 pm.
Last Updated December 9, 2025 6:35 pm.
A new forecast from Royal LePage is putting Alberta’s two largest cities head-to-head in the housing market outlook for 2026.
Calgary is expected to remain strong and balanced, while Edmonton inches toward long-awaited stability. But when it comes to buying a home, which city has the edge?
Royal LePage projects that detached homes in Calgary will see the biggest lift, with the mean price reaching approximately $828,000. In Edmonton, the projected price for a detached home is almost $542,000 — a difference of nearly $300,000.
For some Calgarians, the higher price tag comes with lifestyle benefits.
“Closer to the mountains. I’m not landlocked like in Edmonton, so I would prefer Calgary over Edmonton any day,” said one resident.
Condominiums are also expected to rise in value, though more modestly. The median price is forecast to increase to $207,000 in Edmonton and $265,000 in Calgary.
Tom Shearer, broker and owner of Royal LePage Noralta Real Estate, says Calgary’s appeal often outweighs Edmonton’s in the minds of buyers.
“The quality of life in Calgary — you do have a great community to live in, the active lifestyle for a lot of Calgarians — is really strong. Your downtown area is vibrant, and there’s lots of great things to do,” he says. “In Edmonton, we’re kind of the second or third choice for a lot of people, and I think one of the things Edmonton has done a poor job of is showcasing how livable the city is.”
Shearer notes that Calgary’s market remains supported by interprovincial migration, strong consumer confidence, and a local economy outperforming national growth. Edmonton, meanwhile, continues to emphasize affordability as its key advantage.
The survey finds Calgary’s market is powered by lifestyle and confidence, while Edmonton’s strength lies in affordability.
Either way, both cities are poised for modest growth heading into 2026 — leaving homebuyers to decide whether mountain views or lower prices matter most.
