Why Edmonton? We'll give you 10 reasons!

Lifestyle & Design

Edmonton is a great Canadian city – it is the capital of Alberta after all! If you’re thinking of making the move or trying to decide to if you should stay, here are 10 reasons why you should consider making (or keeping) Edmonton your home base:

1. It’s lush in natural landscape. Did you know Edmonton boasts the largest area of urban parkland in North America? It’s true! In fact, it’s 20 times the size of Central Park in New York. Covering a total of 7300 hectares is the North Saskatchewan River – with 20 parks making up the system, spanning both sides of the river. There is certainly no lack of greenery in this charming city.

2. Super sunny days. Due to its northern location, Edmonton is one of the sunniest cities in Canada. You can expect as long as 16 hours of sunlight when summertime rolls around. Let’s be honest – waking up to natural sunlight is one of the more simple pleasures in life.

3. Accessible via train. If you’re looking to take a scenic tour through Canada, you can expect Edmonton to be one of your stops. The Via Rail service runs through Edmonton to Jasper and then onto Vancouver. Why not take the opportunity to explore our beautiful country up close and personal?

4. West Edmonton Mall. While West Edmonton Mall may be old news to some, it’s still a great shopping outlet and entertainment hub, spanning 48 city blocks! Boasting the Fantasyland Hotel, World Waterpark, Galaxy Land, skating rink, and hundreds of shops and restaurants – it still makes a great place to spend a weekend with the family.

5. Abundant in festivals. Do you enjoy festivals? Then you’ll love Edmonton! Each year they host over 30 annual festivals and 50 events. You can be sure that there is always something to do in this sunny city.

6. It’s home to Fort Edmonton Park. Rich in Canadian culture and history, Edmonton is home to Fort Edmonton Park, which is the largest living history museum. Explore Canada’s history from the fur trade to the First World War. If you’re up for it – take a ride in a horse drawn carriage or on the stream train.

7. Loyal to the game. Maybe we can thank Wayne Gretzky for this one – but the residents of Edmonton are fiercely loyal hockey fans. They stand behind their team through thick and thin, offering unwavering support. If you’re a sports fanatic, you’ll appreciate the comradery this city provides.

8. Capital of Alberta. While Calgary may be larger and the (slightly) more popular of the two cities, Edmonton is still the capital of the province. It features all provincial areas of government, including the Provincial Legislature of Alberta. If you’re looking to work within a political role – this just may be the city for you!

9. No provincial sales tax. Just like Calgary and the rest of Alberta, Edmonton has no provincial sales tax which means you only pay 5% in Federal GST. Talk about a bargain!

10. Convenient commuting. Complete with numerous major roadways, getting around the city is quick and easy. To top it off, Edmonton’s transit system is extraordinary. Buses and trains get you where you need to go, while the Edmonton Light Rail Transit system travels even further out for those who need it.

Coming in as the fifth largest city in Canada, Edmonton is continuously growing and offers many amazing opportunities for its residents. Whether you enjoy long, sunny days or love attending festivals, this city is sure to make a fan out of you!

Why Edmonton