Moving to Fort Saskatchewan AB: Is it a Good Place to Live?

Is moving to Fort Saskatchewan a good idea? Plenty of homebuyers would say, "Yes!" 

Fort Saskatchewan's population is growing at an impressive rate. However, this city's uniqueness lies not in its growing number of residents but rather in the low cost of living, seasonal outdoor activities, healthy job market, and educational opportunities it offers. With these attributes, Fort Saskatchewan can provide its residents with a high quality of life and a strong sense of community.

What Is Fort Saskatchewan Known For?

Fort Saskatchewan is known for its lively arts and culture scene, which showcases local art exhibitions and performances at the Dow Centennial Centre Shell Theatre. The venue seats over 500 spectators and hosts a variety of events, from live music concerts to comedy shows and theatrical performances.

In addition to the Shell Theatre, the city offers access to the North Saskatchewan River and is known for its strong community spirit. Various community groups and organizations are vital in connecting residents and fostering a sense of belonging. Whether participating in local events or volunteering for a cause, residents of Fort Saskatchewan have ample opportunities to engage with their fellow community members.

Fort Saskatchewan Cost of Living

The cost of living in Fort Saskatchewan is 10% lower than the Alberta and Canada average. Homes for sale in Fort Saskatchewan are affordable, with one-bedroom condos starting around $80,000 and up to $400,000 for three or more bedrooms. Many single-family homes were built in the 2000s and span two floors with three or more bedrooms. They're often listed from the $300s to the $800s. Rental rates range from $900 for a one-bedroom apartment to $1,900 for a three-bedroom unit in a modern building.

As a bonus, Fort Saskatchewan has some of the lowest property taxes near Edmonton.

Monthly expenses in Fort Saskatchewan are typically around $2,400 per month for a single adult, not including housing. Luckily, housing is by far the biggest contributor to Fort Saskatchewan's low cost of living, and it has a cost of living index nearly 50% below the national average.

Best Companies to Work for in Fort Saskatchewan

With a stable job market and opportunities in sectors like manufacturing and finance, Fort Saskatchewan offers ample opportunities for career growth. The city's top employers include Dow Chemical Canada, Sherritt International, and Walmart.

Dow Chemical is a leader in the petrochemical industry that offers roles in engineering, research, and operations. Sherritt International has a reputation for its work in metals and mining, providing jobs in project management, IT, and other specialties. Walmart, a renowned retail giant, hires candidates for various roles in customer service, logistics, and management.

These companies contribute to Fort Saskatchewan's economic prosperity and offer competitive salaries. The city's average salary of $66,000 annually is 22% higher than the national average, making it an attractive location for job seekers.

Annual Weather Trends

Fort Saskatchewan has a humid continental climate with cold winters, warm summers, and no dry season. The average yearly temperature is 3.26ºC, and the annual precipitation is 19.56 millimetres.

The city experiences approximately 35 days of rainfall, which accounts for 9.52% of the year. July is the warmest month, with an average temperature of 17.39°C. February is the coldest month, with an average temperature of -13.96°C. In terms of precipitation, June receives the highest amount, with a total of 61.65mm. On average, the relative humidity during this month is 77.09%.

These weather patterns result in a distinctive climate throughout the year. The city enjoys moderate precipitation, and residents can expect to observe the beauty of each season. From colourful fall foliage and crisp winter snowscapes to vibrant spring blooms and sunny summer days, Fort Saskatchewan offers an appealing location for those who enjoy experiencing different weather conditions.

Seasonal Outdoor Activities in Fort Saskatchewan

Fort Saskatchewan offers myriad outdoor activities for every season, from scenic hikes in the fall to tobogganing in the winter. Below is a snapshot of each season. 

Fall

As autumn arrives in Fort Saskatchewan, locals immerse themselves in a tapestry of vibrant fall colours while exploring the city's outdoor activities. The crisp fall air provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, whether hiking, biking, or simply taking in the beauty of the changing season. Some residents enjoy hiking through trails surrounded by breathtaking yellow, orange, and red leaves. Others join the excitement of the Sheep Leaving Parade, waving goodbye to the city's flock as it returns home.

The Downtown Fall Festival is another highlight in the city, where locals enjoy vendors, entertainment, and seasonal treats. 

Winter

As the temperature drops in Fort Saskatchewan, the city transforms into a winter wonderland. Residents engage in various outdoor activities, including tobogganing, festive events like the Enchanted Forest, and holiday celebrations.

With several tobogganing hills scattered throughout the city, there's plenty of room to glide down the snowy slopes. For a more laid-back experience, locals might attend the Enchanted Forest event, sponsored by local businesses and civic organizations.

During the holiday season, Fort Saskatchewan locals immerse themselves in the spirit with the Christmas Marketplace, Holiday Lights Up, and the Santa Claus Parade. They also take advantage of free outdoor skating at public ice skating rinks, adding to the city's winter charm.

Spring

During spring in Fort Saskatchewan, residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including biking, walking, and running over 75 kilometres of paved trails. In addition to these paved trails, the city's outdoor spaces include sports fields, an off-leash dog park, and a skateboard park.

Another spring event is the annual Trade Show & Sale sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of Fort Saskatchewan. This event allows local businesses to showcase their products and services to over 6,000 attendees. Additionally, the Legacy Park Family Festival welcomes the sheep back to graze in the city's green areas, with local food, live music, and a parade.

Summer

Now that spring has passed, it's time to gear up for an exciting summer. From June through September, there are many things to do in Fort Saskatchewan, from shopping at the local farmer's market to attending the annual CO-OP Movie Under the Stars event to watching the local flock of working sheep maintain the parks.

The Downtown Market is open every Saturday and is a popular spot for locals to shop for goods. In August, the City Wide Garage Sale takes place, where visitors can find unique items, while the city's Canada Day event features a car show. For adventure seekers, paddling down the North Saskatchewan River in a canoe or kayak is a perfect way to immerse themselves in nature.

Things to Do in Fort Saskatchewan

When exploring Fort Saskatchewan, you'll find various options to enjoy. From the best restaurants, breweries, and wineries to live music and entertainment venues, there's something for every taste.

Best Restaurants, Breweries & Wineries

Indulge in Fort Saskatchewan's vibrant culinary scene by exploring the best restaurants, breweries, and wineries the city has to offer. From popular dining spots like Montana's BBQ & Bar and Original Joe's to local favourite Dare 2 Donair, there's a wide range of delicious options to satisfy each craving.

Don't miss the unique dining experiences at Hanabi and The Downtown Diner, known for their diverse and flavorful menus. For a quick caffeine fix or a relaxing break, swing by Tim Hortons, Starbucks, or Second Cup for a hot drink in a cozy atmosphere.

Live Music & Entertainment

Fort Saskatchewan has a small live music and entertainment scene, with Dow Centennial Centre Shell Theatre hosting a variety of shows and performances throughout the year. The theatre is a popular destination for concerts, festivals, and cultural performances, offering residents and visitors a diverse range of entertainment options.

The Dow Centennial Centre is a great place to go for fun activities for all ages, including a performance theatre, an ice rink, an indoor soccer field, and a fitness centre, among other amenities.

Other entertainment venues include Fort Cinema, Jubilee Recreation Centre, and Pots Bar & Grill. The Bear's Den bar is another venue for live music and pub grub.

Commuting to Edmonton from Fort Saskatchewan

Commuters may find that average drive times can exceed an hour during heavy traffic when commuting from Fort Saskatchewan to Edmonton. Familiarizing oneself with traffic patterns and alternative routes can improve navigation during the commute and help commuters arrive at their destination more efficiently.

Average Drive Times

The drive from Fort Saskatchewan to Edmonton can take up to an hour during heavy traffic. During peak hours, commute times may exceed the one-hour mark. However, Fort Saskatchewan has an advantage over larger cities in that the routes through town seldom experience significant backups. This results in smoother commutes for residents.

Bike routes present an alternative mode of transportation in Fort Saskatchewan. Biking across the city can take 30 minutes or less, providing a quicker commute option for some residents. Additionally, there are alternative routes available with varying commute times, offering flexibility to choose the best option based on traffic conditions. These include Highway 21, connecting Edomton's east end, and access to Edmonton's Ring Road.

Public Transportation

Fort Saskatchewan Transit (FST) offers local bus services from Monday to Friday, with routes 582 and 583 for convenient city commuting. During peak hours, Route 580 offers service to Edmonton, and FST provides varying ticket rates for both local and Edmonton public transit services.

Children under 12 ride free with a paying adult. FST ensures a reliable and cost-effective option for daily commutes. By riding with FST, locals can save on gas and parking fees while reducing their carbon footprints.

Schools in Fort Saskatchewan

For those searching for schools in Fort Saskatchewan, a variety of options are available, including public and private schools as well as universities like NAIT. These institutions offer a wide range of educational opportunities to suit different learning needs and career aspirations.

Public Schools

The city's public education system provides comprehensive support to students at every academic stage, laying a firm groundwork for future success. Nine public schools serve students from kindergarten to grade 12, giving residents access to various educational options. The city also features three preschools for children ages three to five, catering to the needs of young learners.

Private Schools

Fort Saskatchewan residents have access to a range of private schools for K–12 education. Four institutions, including John Paul II Catholic School and Fort Christian School, offer alternatives to public education.

These private schools offer specialized programs and smaller class sizes, which can be particularly beneficial for students with unique learning needs. However, it's important to remember that private schools may have different admissions processes and tuition fees than public schools.

Nearby Universities

In addition to primary and secondary schools, Fort Saskatchewan offers further educational opportunities at nearby colleges and trade schools, such as the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and CLAC Career Development College in Edmonton.

NAIT in nearby Edmonton is a leading polytechnic institution that trains students in practical skills and trades such as engineering, business, healthcare, and information technology. Another prominent post-secondary school in Edmonton is the University of Alberta, known for its engineering, technology, and nursing programs.

Planning a Move to Fort Saskatchewan?

Moving to Fort Saskatchewan can be an exciting adventure. To prepare for it, it's essential to research the city's different neighbourhoods, transportation options, schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational activities. It's also important to set a realistic budget, create a moving checklist, and hire a reputable moving company to make the transition as smooth as possible. Once you get here, though, you'll be able to enjoy living in one of the best suburbs of Edmonton.