Edmonton.

(metro pop. 1,321,425)

Edmonton’s population reflects Alberta averages: 69% are under 50 years old, live in a household making more than $100k, and 29% of the population has a university education. In keeping with Edmonton’s blue-collar reputation, 4% more of the population than Calgary have trades-based education, and at that rate, it reflects both provincial and national averages.

Over 18% of all Edmontonians work in a trade. That is slightly higher than the provincial average, but considerably less than the 30% of those in Fort McMurray or even the 22% in Grande Prairie. Construction jobs are the single largest industry employer in Edmonton at 12%, followed by healthcare and retail at 11% each. Public Service, uniquely high in Edmonton due to the city’s capital status, holds 7% of the jobs. 

Edmonton is a highly diverse city for Alberta, with 28% of citizens identifying as a visible minority. South Asians make up 7% of all residents, followed by Filipinos, Chinese, and Black persons. Like most other regions in Alberta, those immigrating since 2011 are largely coming from the Philippines at 37% of all new Canadians. Eleven percent of Edmonton newcomers are from India. Edmonton also boasts a higher immigrant rate from Africa than most other cities in the province. 

Of the nearly 6% identifying as Indigenous or Métis in Edmonton, Cree speakers dominate at 78%, followed by Stoney, Dene, Ojibway, and Dakota.