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Things To Know When Moving from BC to Alberta

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If you’re thinking about moving from BC to Alberta, you’re not alone. Many people are choosing Alberta for its affordability, job opportunities, and wide-open spaces. BC is known for its high cost of living, especially in cities like Vancouver. Meanwhile, Alberta offers a more affordable alternative without compromising on quality of life. Whether you’re moving for work or a change in lifestyle, Alberta has a lot to offer. For those planning a long-distance move, using professional help is key. Moving companies Victoria can help you plan everything from packing to transport, making the move a lot less stressful. For this reason, here are all the things to know when moving from BC to Alberta.

Cost of Living in Alberta vs. BC

One of the biggest reasons people move from BC to Alberta is the cost of living. Alberta’s housing market is much more affordable. In cities like Calgary and Edmonton, homes are less expensive than in Vancouver or Victoria. For example, the average home price in Calgary is around $500,000, whereas in Vancouver, it’s well over $1 million. Alberta also has no provincial sales tax, so you’ll pay less when shopping for everyday items. Groceries, fuel, and other essentials are more affordable in Alberta. That being said, you’ll still want to plan your move carefully. Pack efficiently and get moving boxes Victoria to keep things organized. This will save you both time and money when you arrive in Alberta. It’s not just about housing but also about stretching your money further in day-to-day life.

Things To Know When Moving from BC to Alberta during the night
Alberta offers more affordable housing compared to BC, especially in cities like Calgary and Edmonton

Alberta’s Job Market – Opportunities and Growth

Alberta’s economy is different from BC’s, and so is the job market.

  • While BC is known for its strong technology and film industries, Alberta shines in fields like energy, agriculture, and healthcare.
  • The oil and gas industry is a significant employer in cities like Calgary, with opportunities ranging from engineering to project management.
  • However, Alberta’s job market is diversifying. The technology sector is growing, especially in cities like Edmonton. Healthcare is another big employer, with Alberta having a high demand for professionals like nurses, doctors, and support staff.
  • You might also find opportunities in agriculture if you’re interested in that sector. When moving from BC to Alberta, it’s a good idea to research job openings in your field before you move. You’ll want to secure employment or at least have leads before making the big move.

Things To Know When Moving from BC to Alberta About the Weather

The weather is one of the most noticeable differences. BC’s coast, especially around Vancouver, enjoys mild, rainy winters. Alberta, on the other hand, experiences more extreme weather. Winters in Alberta are colder, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. In Calgary, for instance, you can expect snow from November through March. However, Alberta also enjoys more sunshine than BC, even during the winter months. Summers in Alberta are warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities. You’ll experience all four seasons, which might be a big change if you’re used to BC’s milder climate. Make sure to prepare for Alberta’s winters by packing warm clothing and preparing your vehicle for snow. Planning your move during the warmer months can make it easier, and using the services of professional moving companies can ensure your belongings arrive safely in any weather condition.

 Street covered in Snow Covered
Winters in Alberta are much colder than what you’re used to in BC

Education in Alberta: What to Expect

Alberta’s education system offers much to offer if you have kids or are planning to study. The province is home to several top universities, including the University of Alberta in Edmonton and the University of Calgary. For younger children, Alberta’s public school system offers excellent education, with schools in both urban and rural areas. Compared to BC, Alberta spends more per student, and many families find the education system robust. Alberta also offers different schooling options, including public, Catholic, and charter schools. Higher education is also more affordable in Alberta. If you’re looking to advance your education or have kids ready for college, Alberta is a great place to be. Before you move, research schools in the area you’re considering. Whether you’re relocating to a city like Calgary or a smaller town, long distance moving companies Victoria BC can help you move your family’s belongings smoothly and on time.

Outdoor Life and Recreation in Alberta

One of the best things about living in Alberta is the endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you love hiking, skiing, or camping, Alberta has it all. The Rocky Mountains, located on the Alberta-BC border, offer world-class skiing and snowboarding in places like Banff and Jasper. If hiking and wildlife spotting are more your style, Alberta’s national parks are some of the best in the country. In the summer, you can enjoy fishing, boating, and camping in Alberta’s many lakes and rivers. Compared to BC, Alberta offers a more diverse range of outdoor experiences, with fewer crowds and more open space. Alberta’s wide-open prairies and big skies are perfect for anyone who loves nature. Living in Alberta gives you the chance to explore everything from snow-capped mountains to vast forests.

A group of people in a canoe on a lake
The Rocky Mountains in Alberta provide world-class skiing, hiking, and outdoor activities year-round

Why Alberta Could Be Your Next Home

Moving from BC to Alberta can be a big change, but it’s a move many people are happy they made. The cost of living is lower, the job market is growing, and the lifestyle is rich with opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re moving for work, education, or just a change in pace, Alberta offers a lot to explore. It’s important to plan your move well in advance. Researching cities, schools, and job markets before you arrive will help you transition smoothly. Packing properly and choosing reliable movers can make all the difference. Make sure to prepare for the weather, job opportunities, and lifestyle changes before making your move. Now that you learn about all the things to know when moving from BC to Alberta, you can prepare properly!

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I bought a new fridge, and the delivery people said, "there's no way we can take your huge fridge up the stairs." So I called Hendra Moving and Andrew came out with his tape measure, double checked and said, "yes, we can!" Today, Kelly and Ryan showed up and got the job done in style! Took a bit of maneuvering, but they made it look easy (and I know it really wasn't easy!). Thanks Hendra!

Mathieu Powell

Hendra Moving & Storage

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Do you provide packing and unpacking services?

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Yes, we offer professional packing and unpacking services for an additional fee. Additionally, we provide high-quality moving supplies Victoria BC residents know they can rely on. These materials are available for purchase to ensure the safety of your belongings during transit.

Do you offer cleaning services?

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Yes, we do offer cleaning services, which can be arranged separately for an additional charge. Right after our furniture movers Victoria BC leave our cleaning crew can help you leave your old space spotless and ready for the next occupants.

How far in advance should I book my move?

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It's recommended to book your move as soon as you decide on your moving date. Our schedule tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so securing your desired date and Victoria moving services in advance ensures availability and helps us accommodate your relocation needs efficiently.

Can you help me relocate my car?

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Absolutely. We offer safe and reliable British Columbia car transport to ensure your vehicle arrives at your new address securely and on time. Our team will handle all the logistics involved in transporting your vehicle, providing you with peace of mind throughout the process.

What should I do if I need to change my moving date?

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If you need to change your moving date, please notify our movers Victoria BC as soon as possible. While we do our best to accommodate changes, availability may vary depending on our schedule. We'll work with you to reschedule your move to a date that works for both parties.

What storage options do you offer?

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As one of the top Victoria moving companies we offer a variety of storage options to meet your needs, including residential storage, commercial storage, student storage, military storage, realty storage, piano storage, fine art storage, climate-controlled storage, and more. Whether you need short-term or long-term storage solutions, we have options available to suit your requirements.