CMHC reports an 82% surge in Edmonton housing starts this June, citing affordability, zoning changes, and population growth as key drivers of the boom.
Edmonton Hits All-Time High in Housing Starts
Edmonton recorded its highest-ever number of housing starts in a single month, with 2,689 new units breaking ground in June. According to new data released by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), this marks an 82% increase compared to June 2024, when 1,475 units were started. The city now trails only Vancouver and Montreal nationally in new residential construction activity.
Why the Sudden Surge?
Experts say the dramatic uptick stems from a mix of affordability, updated zoning policies, and rapid population growth. The City of Edmonton’s new zoning bylaw has allowed for a greater variety of housing types across more neighbourhoods — including row houses, duplexes, and rental apartments — helping meet the demand from both new residents and developers.
What the City Is Saying
Lyla Peter, director of development approvals and inspections for Edmonton, noted the increase is consistent with the city’s development trends over the past year and a half.
“We have seen a high and sustained volume of applications,” Peter told Maple News Wire. “It reflects the work we’ve done to support housing delivery and adapt to our city’s growing needs.”
Diverse Housing Leads the Growth
The June 2025 numbers include a broad mix of housing types, with strong contributions from single-family homes, townhomes, and apartment buildings. These are being developed both in infill zones and new suburban areas. CMHC also reported that housing starts in urban centres with populations over 10,000 rose 14% year-over-year, totaling 23,282 in June nationwide.
Affordability Keeps Edmonton Competitive
Alberta’s relative affordability is playing a crucial role in drawing newcomers and investment. Scott Fash, CEO of BILD Alberta, said Edmonton’s construction pace helps maintain price stability.
“High levels of construction keep us affordable and attractive to families and young professionals,” Fash explained.
Migration Fuels Demand
Neal Lamontagne, urban planning professor at the University of Alberta, attributes the trend partly to interprovincial migration. “Alberta, and particularly Edmonton, is benefiting from consistent population growth and new permissive zoning,” he said. “With investment cooling in other provinces, Edmonton looks increasingly appealing.”
What’s Next for Housing Delivery
The City of Edmonton is continuing to streamline its approval processes, including the implementation of automated permitting systems for low-density homes. Officials say these efforts aim to keep pace with demand and ensure sustainable growth in the years ahead.
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