Edmonton’s Rental Revolution: Why Affordable Units Are Hotter Than Ever
Blog
5 min read
Share
Why Affordable Rentals Are Booming in Alberta Right Now
Alberta’s rental market is heating up—and it’s not the luxury condos driving the buzz. It’s affordable rentals in Edmonton and other Alberta cities that are drawing attention in 2025. The reason? Strong immigration, economic momentum, and renters prioritizing cost-effective living.
Boardwalk REIT Sees Major Gains in Alberta
Calgary-based Boardwalk Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), which owns over 12,500 rental units in Edmonton alone, reported a 6.2% revenue increase in Alberta. CEO Sam Kolias attributes much of this success to “better than expected” immigration numbers and their focus on keeping rent levels reasonable.
“We’re seeing strong demand because we’ve been doing everything we can to keep our rents as low as possible,” said Kolias. He emphasized the ongoing affordability crisis: “Wallet size isn’t growing as fast as rents and housing inflation.”
What Makes Edmonton’s Rental Market So Appealing?
- Average rent with Boardwalk in Edmonton: $1,514/month
- National rent average: Over $2,000/month
- Rental prices for one-bedrooms have dropped 2.4% to $1,334/month
- High interprovincial migration continues into Alberta
Compared to Toronto or Vancouver, resale homes and rentals in Edmonton remain significantly more budget-friendly—a key driver for population inflow and market stability.
Investor Interest Grows in Edmonton
Private equity firm Equiton recently acquired the Central Tower (2610 109 St.), citing Edmonton’s strong migration and rental growth. “Demand keeps rising with interprovincial migration and urbanization trends,” said Ryan Donkers, VP of investments at Equiton.
It’s clear that despite new supply being added, especially pre-construction homes in Edmonton, demand is still outpacing luxury offerings. Kolias argues the oversupply lies in expensive units, not in the affordable tier—where competition is fierce.
What’s Next for Edmonton’s Housing Market?
Even with strong performance, Boardwalk is making strategic moves—selling Insignia Tower and Imperial Tower for a combined $65.1 million. The company also calls for more government rental support, especially for higher-end properties with more vacancy.
Still, Edmonton remains one of Canada’s best-positioned cities for renters and investors alike. Whether you're exploring condos for sale in Edmonton or considering resale townhomes in Edmonton, affordability remains a major selling point.
Conclusion
With strong migration trends, economic growth, and a sharp focus on affordability, Alberta—and particularly Edmonton—is becoming a hotspot for cost-effective rentals. If you’re looking to invest or rent, now is the time to explore the thriving market of homes in Edmonton.
Sources:
