Where Newcomers Live and Shop: Evidence from Edmonton
As Alberta’s population surpasses 5 million, Edmonton is experiencing dramatic demographic shifts. Where newcomers choose to live is not random; their settlement patterns are reshaping the residential and commercial real estate markets.
This research examines where newcomers settle and how their settlements connect to ethnic commercial development. For example, South Asian communities in Edmonton’s south have enabled specialized grocery stores and services to thrive, attracting more residents and transforming neighbourhoods. Using spatial mapping and interviews, the study will document emerging patterns—such as ethnic shopping plazas thriving without anchor tenants. The findings will help developers, real estate professionals, and municipal planners anticipate where residential–commercial synergies may emerge and position themselves strategically in Edmonton’s evolving and diverse market. The research is supported by ALI and BILD Edmonton Metro.
Amount Funded
$150,000
Year Funded
2026
Funding Priority
Real Estate Leadership: Build and elevate the capacity of real estate and related professionals to keep pace with the massive changes facing the real estate industry today and into the future.
Topic
Contributor
University of Alberta, Alberta Land Institute
Based out of the University of Alberta, our mission is to connect research and policy for better land management.
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