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Airdrie, Alberta

Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

75
Overall Score

Airdrie, Alberta, is a dynamic and rapidly expanding city situated just north of Calgary within the bustling Calgary–Edmonton Corridor. Known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent amenities, and family-friendly communities, Airdrie has consistently ranked among Canada's fastest-growing cities and is currently the fastest-growing city in Alberta. Its strategic location offers residents the tranquility of a suburban environment while providing convenient access to Calgary's world-class amenities and a robust job market. This blend of affordability, quality of life, and proximity to a major urban center makes Airdrie an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

About Alberta

Alberta is a Canadian province known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Rocky Mountains to prairies and boreal forests. Its economy is largely driven by the energy sector, particularly oil and gas extraction, though agriculture, forestry, technology, and tourism are also significant industries. Living in Alberta generally offers a high standard of living with competitive incomes and a lower cost of living compared to some other major Canadian provinces, partly due to no provincial sales tax. The climate is continental, characterized by warm summers and cold winters, with rapid temperature swings and occasional warm Chinook winds in the south.

94,070
Population
$43K
Avg Salary
105
Cost Index
75.0
Quality Score

Quality Scores

Business
70
Livability
80
Affordability
95
Growth
85

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Airdrie is generally considered more affordable than in neighboring Calgary, though it can vary significantly based on individual lifestyle choices. As of 2026, a single person can expect to spend approximately $3,696 USD per month on common living costs, including housing, food, and transportation. Housing costs, while more expensive than the Canada average, are a primary driver of overall expenses, yet they remain lower than those in Calgary, offering more space for the money. Other factors influencing costs include monthly groceries, which average around $529 USD per person, and transportation, with a monthly general cost of about $256 USD.

Average Rent
$1,840/mo
Groceries
$529/mo
Transport
$256/mo
Utilities
$196/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$15.00
Cinema ticket
$10.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$54.00
Monthly groceries
$529.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$106.00

Salary Insights

Airdrie boasts a quickly evolving economy supported by a fast-growing population and a young, skilled workforce. While many residents commute to Calgary for work, the city is actively developing quality employment opportunities locally. Key business industry sectors driving Airdrie's economy include Manufacturing, Professional, Scientific & Technical Services, and Transportation & Logistics, all of which have seen significant growth. Major employers range from educational institutions like Rocky View Schools to industrial businesses such as Propak Systems and utilities like Fortis Alberta. The city's strategic location and supportive business environment contribute to its strong momentum for economic growth, attracting new businesses and fostering expansion.

The average salary in Airdrie is $43,126 per year. You would need approximately $64,499 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade Manufacturing Education Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services Transportation & Logistics

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
48.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Airdrie primarily involves personal vehicles, reflecting a medium car dependency, though public transit options are available. Airdrie Transit offers local routes and regional services connecting to Balzac and Calgary, with increased frequency on weekdays and evenings as of September 2025. Monthly transit passes for adults range, with an ICE pass (connecting to Calgary) costing approximately $94 USD. While specific walkability and transit scores are not readily available, the city's design and ongoing infrastructure projects aim to improve connectivity and ease of movement for residents.

min
Avg Commute
/10
Transit Score
/10
Walkability
Medium
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Airdrie is experiencing rapid population growth, making it the fastest-growing city in Alberta.
The city has a lower Crime Severity Index (43.2 in 2024) compared to the provincial average (95.6).
Housing in Airdrie is generally more affordable than in nearby Calgary, offering more space for the money.
Residents benefit from a high quality of life, characterized by a friendly atmosphere, excellent amenities, and family-friendly communities.
Airdrie's strategic location provides easy access to Calgary's extensive amenities and major transportation routes.
Drawbacks
Specific crime categories, such as motor vehicle theft and theft under $5,000, saw increases of 20% and 19% respectively in 2025.
Domestic violence incidents in Airdrie increased by eight percent year-over-year in 2025.
Public transit fares have been increasing, with further adjustments expected.
Businesses in Airdrie face challenges due to limited commercial space and rising leasing costs.
Employers report difficulties in attracting and retaining skilled staff, particularly in hospitality, trades, and healthcare sectors.

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