Edmonton's housing market has delivered substantial financial gains for buyers over the past five years, with a new study quantifying the return on investment. According to a Zoocasa report, buyers who entered the market in May 2020 have seen their equity grow significantly, with Edmonton ranking in the middle of major Canadian cities.
Study Highlights Return on Equity
The study measured the return on investment for buyers who purchased an average-priced home in May 2020, based on their minimum down payment, and compared it to current values. In Edmonton, a buyer required a five per cent down payment of $17,860 for an average home priced at $357,206—the lowest among all major markets.
By February 2026, the average home price had risen to approximately $452,000, according to Canadian Real Estate Association data. This represents an equity gain of about $94,000, translating to a 528 per cent return on the initial down payment. Per $100,000 of invested equity, Edmonton buyers saw a $26,400 return.
Edmonton's Steady Growth
Erin Wagstaff, a real estate agent with eXp Realty Canada, noted that Edmonton is often overlooked compared to pricier markets like Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary. “Yet, its quiet strength offers a blend of growth and stability long term,” she said.
Comparison with Other Cities
Calgary topped the list, with buyers there achieving a $49,700 return per $100,000 equity, based on a down payment of $21,150. That investment grew by $210,187, a 994 per cent return. Vancouver fared worst, requiring a 20 per cent down payment of $208,276 due to an average price exceeding $1 million. After five years, the home gained about $167,000, an 80 per cent return on the down payment, or $16,000 per $100,000 equity.
Local Market Insights
Edmonton realtor Ed Lastiwka emphasized that the low average price in Edmonton is even more compelling given that a higher share of transactions are single-family detached homes compared to larger markets. This makes the city an attractive option for buyers seeking affordability and long-term growth.
Overall, while Edmonton did not lead in returns, its consistent appreciation and low entry costs offer a solid investment opportunity for homebuyers.
