Why More Edmonton Renters Are Becoming Homeowners in 2025

Owning a Home in Edmonton Now Makes More Sense Than Renting

By Gabby Hillier, Real Estate Investing Masters

May 4, 2025 | Edmonton, AB

For the first time in a long time, the numbers in Edmonton are tilting in favour of homeownership — and it’s catching a lot of renters by surprise.

With the average entry level home in Edmonton priced around $400,000, a typical mortgage payment with property taxes comes to about $2,100/month.

Meanwhile, market rent for the exact same home is around $2,200/month.

That means you're paying more to rent than you would to own — and you're building someone else's equity in the process.

Why Rent When You Can Own?

While interest rates are still a concern in some parts of Canada, Edmonton continues to lead as one of the most affordable major cities to buy in. In fact, monthly ownership costs in many neighbourhoods now match or beat rental rates — something we haven’t seen in years.

Benefits of Homeownership

Owning a home doesn’t just match rent — it gives you long-term financial leverage and personal stability. Here’s why it matters:

• Build Equity Instead of Paying Rent

• A portion of every mortgage payment goes toward your ownership — not your landlord’s.

• Fixed Payments vs. Rent Increases

• Locking in a mortgage protects you from the rising rents we’ve seen across Alberta.

• Freedom to Customize and Renovate

• Want to paint a wall, build a deck, or convert the basement? You’re the boss.

• Long-Term Wealth Creation

• Homeownership is one of the most proven tools for generational wealth in Canada.

• Potential to House Hack

• Many first-time buyers in Edmonton are using suites or basement rentals to offset their mortgage — something renters can’t do.

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Downsides of Renting

There’s nothing wrong with renting during certain seasons of life. But in today’s market, here are a few major disadvantages:

• No Control Over Your Housing Stability

• Your landlord may choose not to renew your lease — or may sell the property entirely.

• No Equity Gain

• You’re paying 100% of the monthly cost with 0% return.

• Subject to Rent Increases

• While Alberta doesn’t have rent control, rental prices have climbed significantly in the past few years — and will continue to.

• Limited Freedom

• Renters are restricted when it comes to pets, renovations, or even hanging shelves.

Final Thoughts

With the gap between ownership and rent shrinking — and in many cases disappearing entirely — Edmonton is in a unique position right now. Buyers who take action today could lock in stable housing costs, start building equity, and gain long-term control over their financial future.

If you’re on the fence, now’s the time to run the numbers. You might be closer to ownership than you think.

Gabby Hillier - Alberta Landlord & Property Management Expert

About the Author

Gabby Hillier is Alberta’s leading landlord and property management expert. Based in Edmonton, she has over a decade of experience managing rental properties and coaching Canadian landlords how to build profitable, stress-free rental businesses.

As the co-founder of Real Estate Investing Masters and co-host of The Real Estate Investing Morning Show, Gabby shares practical, no-nonsense advice on tenant management, landlord systems, and real estate operations. Her mission is to help landlords across Canada succeed with confidence and clarity.