TOP Airbnb cities in Alberta, Canada

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Alberta is a beautiful Canadian province that offers its visitors a ton of amazing experiences. Thanks to local legislation, it has also become a great place for short-term rental businesses. There are numerous Airbnbs that are thriving in Alberta, but as all experienced entrepreneurs know, it is crucial to choose the correct location.

Read also:

Best Cities in Alberta for an Airbnb Investment

The preciousness of Alberta for aspiring entrepreneurs is in its diversity of markets. The province has large cities with intense competition and stable business environments, medium-sized cities with great opportunities for growth, and small towns with almost untapped rental markets.

The markets are very different, so it is important to evaluate the performance of the properties that are already operating there. The best approach is to compare the Average Daily Rates, Occupancy Rates, and Revenues between the cities, but it is also necessary to take the local real estate prices into account before making a decision.

City	Revenue, $
Banff	$8,300
Canmore	$6,852
Jasper	$3,989
Chestermere	$3,260
Drumheller	$2,543
Calgary	$2,268
Spruce Grove	$2,033
Lethbridge	$1,976
Edmonton	$1,707
Wetaskiwin	$1,063

Wetaskiwin

Number of Listings: 8
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 50% of listings
Entire Homes: 50% of listings
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 75% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 25% of listings
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $110; Maximum $207 in September
Occupancy Rate: 44%; Maximum 95% in October
Monthly Revenue: Average $1,063; Maximum $4,500 in October
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $43.8; Weekend RevPAR $89.5

The City of Wetaskiwin is located south of Edmonton. It offers an almost untapped short-term rental market, characterized by eight available listings. It is caused by the very limited levels of demand from tourists. These listings are split between private rooms and entire homes, offering different types of accommodations to visitors. A majority of these are one-bedroom units, making up 75% of the listings, with two-bedroom units comprising the remaining 25%.

The Average Daily Rate (ADR) in Wetaskiwin stands at $110, with the rate peaking at $207 in September. The city experiences an average Occupancy Rate of 44%, with a significant surge to 95% in October, indicating a time of heightened demand. Correspondingly, the average revenue is $1,063, reaching a peak of $4,500 in October. The Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) is valued at $43.8, and it sees an increase during the weekends, with a Weekend RevPAR of $89.5.

While the number of listings in Wetaskiwin is limited, the variety in accommodation types and sizes, along with the fluctuating occupancy rates and revenue potential, make the city an interesting prospect for investment. The relatively lower real estate prices in the area could be appealing for entrepreneurs looking to invest in a market with less competition.

Banff

Number of Listings: 153
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 26% of listings
Entire Homes: 70% of listings
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 68% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 22% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 5% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 3% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 3% of listings
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $546.4; Maximum $694 in July
Occupancy Rate: 65%; Maximum 79% in July
Monthly Revenue: Average $8,300; Maximum $15,800 in July
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $292.9; Weekend RevPAR $528

Banff is a picturesque town located in the mountains west of Calgary, known for its stunning outdoor activities and natural sights. Unlike the City of Wetaskiwin, Banff has a more extensive range of properties, attracting investors to analyze its market. With 153 available listings, the town has become a hotspot for tourists and travelers alike.

Of these listings, 70% are entire homes, while 26% are private rooms. When it comes to the size of rentals, the majority (68%) are 1-bedroom properties, followed by 2-bedroom rentals at 22%. There are fewer 3-bedroom (5%), 4-bedroom (3%), and 5+ bedroom (3%) properties available.

The Average Daily Rates in Banff stand at a whopping $546.4, which is considerably higher than in many other cities. This rate can even soar to $694 in July, the town’s peak month for tourism. The consistency in price levels here is commendable, with not much fluctuation throughout the year. On average, the Occupancy Rate is 65%, but this rate can rise to 79% in July.

For property owners, Banff proves to be a lucrative investment. The average monthly revenue for a property is $8,300, with potential earnings reaching up to $15,800 in July. Furthermore, the RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room) averages $292.9, with the weekend RevPAR at $528.

However, while the metrics are enticing, they demand a careful interpretation. With a Market Score of 81, potential investors should tread thoughtfully. Given Banff’s limited listing count, predicting the success of a new short-term rental might pose certain complexities.

Canmore

Number of Listings: 2,008
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 5% of listings
Entire Homes: 95% of listings
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 35% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 48% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 13% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 3% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 1% of listings
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $366.8; Maximum $512 in July
Occupancy Rate: 71%; Maximum 95% in July
Monthly Revenue: Average $6,852; Maximum $13,600 in July
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $244.5; Weekend RevPAR $385
Best Month for Rentals: July
Market Score: 68

Canmore is a larger city located adjacent to Banff. Due to its popularity among visitors, it unsurprisingly boasts a more extensive vacation rental market than its neighbor. The competition in Canmore is moderate, and the market environment remains stable. However, like many vacation destinations, Canmore’s rental business is subject to seasonality, with most of the profits being generated during the summer months. The city has about 2,008 rentals spread out everywhere. This means that many areas, not just one or two neighborhoods, have places to rent.

Of all the available properties in Canmore, a significant 95% are entire homes and apartments. These properties predominantly have between 1 and 2 bedrooms, with 35% being 1-bedroom units and 48% being 2-bedroom units. On average, they can comfortably accommodate about 5.7 guests. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) in Canmore stands at $366.8 throughout the year, peaking at $512 in July. The Occupancy Rates are commendable, averaging 71% and spiking up to 95% in July.

Given the seasonal fluctuations, properties in Canmore generate an impressive average monthly revenue of $6,852. This figure can rise even higher in July, with the potential to reach $13,600. The Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) averages $244.5, with the weekend RevPAR being around $385.

It’s worth noting that July stands out as the best month for rentals and the market score for Canmore is 68.

Drumheller

Number of Listings: 123
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $219.5
Maximum Daily Rate: $233 in August
Occupancy Rate: 57%; Maximum 71% in August
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 39% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 31% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 19% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 6% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 6% of listings
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 16% of listings
Entire Homes: 84% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $2,543; Maximum $4,300 in August
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $125.2; Weekend RevPAR: $222
Best Month for Rentals: August
Market Score: 48

The Town of Drumheller is situated northeast of Calgary. It is also a relatively remote location with a developing vacation rental market. In total, there are 123 properties actively being rented out in this town, 84% of which are entire homes. Based on the rental sizes provided, the average property can host a varying number of guests, with the majority having between 1 to 3 bedrooms. Many of these properties might have been launched in recent years, indicating the growth of the short-term rental market in the area.

The Average Daily Rate (ADR) in the Town of Drumheller stands at $219.5, with the maximum rate in August reaching $233. The Occupancy Rates average 57% throughout the year, but spike to a high of 71% in August. The average monthly revenues generated by local properties are approximately $2543, with the highest earnings recorded in August at $4,300. While summer remains the most popular season for travelers, the town sees reduced activity during other parts of the year. One of the town’s main advantages for potential investors is its budding market. The presence of 123 rentals indicates growth, but there’s also room for newcomers, especially given its Market Score of 48. Potential investors might find Drumheller an attractive option for property investment.

Jasper

Number of Listings: 95
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $229.3; Maximum $289 in July
Occupancy Rate: 73%; Maximum: 97% in August
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 74% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 24% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 1% of listings
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 28% of listings
Entire Homes: 72% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $3,989; Maximum $7,600 in July
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $159.7
Weekend RevPAR: $225
Best Month for Rentals: July
Market Score: 54

Jasper is a picturesque town nestled in the mountains west of Edmonton, perfectly positioned between Jasper National Park and Pyramid Mountain. This location offers visitors a range of attractions to explore. Although it’s somewhat remote, it doesn’t deter tourists from visiting, especially with the ongoing development in the area. Airbnb has also made its mark in Jasper, with hosts offering a variety of accommodations to travelers.

Currently, there are 95 active Airbnb listings in Jasper. A significant majority, 72% (or 68 listings), are entire homes and apartments. The remaining 28% (or 27 listings) are private rooms.

Jasper’s tourism business is notably seasonal. The town sees a surge in visitors during the summer months, particularly in July, which is considered the best month for rentals. Conversely, during other parts of the year, the occupancy rates tend to dip.

The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb listings in Jasper stands at $229.3. However, during the peak month of July, hosts can charge up to $289 per day. The average Occupancy Rate hovers around 73% throughout the year, but this spikes to a remarkable 97% in August. On the revenue front, hosts can expect an average monthly income of $3,989, with July being the most lucrative month, boasting revenues of up to $7,600. The Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) is $159.7, and during weekends, this figure can go up to $225.

It’s also worth noting that half of the properties, specifically 50.4%, in Jasper have a strict cancellation policy. This suggests that new entrants into the market might gain a competitive edge by offering more lenient cancellation terms.

Chestermere

Number of Listings: 63
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $312.9; Maximum $399 in July
Occupancy Rate: 48%; Maximum 67% in July
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 35% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 30% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 11% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 11% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 13% of listings
Average Number of Bedrooms: Approximately 2.37
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 22% of listings
Entire Homes: 78% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $3,260; Maximum $6,600 in July
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $146.1; Weekend RevPAR $301
Best Month for Rentals: July
Market Score: 50

Chestermere is a small town located right next to Calgary. It has a surprisingly small rental market, taking into account its proximity to a large city that is so popular among tourists. The town undoubtedly benefits from the development and growth of Calgary, attracting some of its visitors with a calmer and more peaceful environment.

Currently, Chestermere boasts 63 active vacation rentals. A majority of these, 78% (or 49 listings), are entire home listings, while the remaining 22% (or 14 listings) are private rooms. On average, these properties feature around 2.37 bedrooms.

The town’s strategic location, just a short 30-minute drive from the heart of Calgary, makes it a favorable choice for those wanting a peaceful retreat yet remaining close to city amenities. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb listings in Chestermere is $312.9. This rate can go as high as $399 in July, which is also the best month for rentals with an impressive Occupancy Rate of 67%. On average, throughout the year, the Occupancy Rate stands at 48%. Hosts in Chestermere can expect an average monthly revenue of $3,260, with July being particularly profitable, bringing in as much as $6,600.

Calgary

Number of Listings: 5,124
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $165.1; Maximum $226 in July
Occupancy Rate: 65%; Maximum 79% in July
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 47% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 30% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 13% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 7% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 3% of listings
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 20% of listings
Entire Homes: 80% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $2,268; Maximum $4,100 (in July)
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $106.3; Weekend RevPAR $182
Best Month for Rentals: July
Market Score: 68

Calgary is the largest city in the province, attracting vast numbers of visitors every month. The city boasts a well-developed infrastructure and a significant short-term vacation rental market. Given its size and appeal, the market is fiercely competitive. However, it provides entrepreneurs with a stable business environment seldom found in other Canadian cities. While a large portion of the properties is situated around the city center, other neighborhoods also offer a variety of rental options.

In total, Calgary has a whopping 5,124 active listings, with a majority, 80% (or 4,099 listings), being entire homes. These properties, on average, feature around two bedrooms (1.89). The Average Daily Rate (ADR) in Calgary stands at $165.1, which, while competitive, is reflective of the city’s vibrant rental scene. This rate can even climb to $226 in July, the city’s prime month for tourism. The demand in Calgary has its peaks, particularly during the summer months. The Occupancy Rate averages 65% over the year, reaching as high as 79% in July.

For property owners in Calgary, the potential for profit is evident. On average, an Airbnb listing can yield a monthly revenue of $2,268, with the lucrative month of July potentially bringing in up to $4,100. Furthermore, the Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) sits at an average of $106.3, with weekends seeing a surge to $182.

Yet, despite the promising numbers, potential investors should approach with due diligence. With a Market Score of 68, it’s crucial for investors to be well-informed and strategic in their ventures, especially given the city’s competitive landscape.

Spruce Grove

Number of Listings: 20
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $190.8; Maximum $302 in January
Occupancy Rate: 48%; Maximum 59% in July
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 24% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 14% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 48% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 10% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 5% of listings
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 24% of listings
Entire Homes: 76% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $2,033; Maximum $2,900 in January
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $89.4; Weekend RevPAR $189
Best Month for Rentals: January
Market Score: 57

Spruce Grove is a small town with market conditions that are very similar to the ones of Chestermere. Spruce Grove is located right next to Edmonton, meaning the tourists of the city can stay there for the duration of their visit. The demand is rather moderate right now, but the properties will undoubtedly benefit from the growth of the province’s capital over time. Another benefit is that all the properties are evenly spread around the town’s area. There are no large clusters with high levels of competition, so the investor can choose any neighborhood for launching the enterprise.

The town currently showcases 20 active Airbnb listings. A significant chunk, 76% (or 15 listings), are entire home listings, while the remaining 24% (or 5 listings) are private rooms. These accommodations typically have around 2 to 3 bedrooms and can host a varied number of guests. The emerging market of Spruce Grove has witnessed growth, with indicators suggesting upward trajectories. Property prices in the town remain comparatively affordable, marking this as an opportune moment for investments in this budding market.

The Average Daily Rate (ADR) in Spruce Grove stands at $190.8. The demand, though not firmly established, averages an Occupancy Rate of 48% across the year, with some seasonal variations. In terms of revenue, properties here can expect an average monthly intake of $2,033. However, the peak month, January, can see this number rise to $2,900. Given the limited number of listings, these metrics offer a preliminary insight into the town’s potential and should be interpreted with the evolving market context in mind.

Edmonton

Number of Listings: 2,598
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $127.5; Maximum $133 in August
Occupancy Rate: 59%; Maximum 75% in August
Rental Size Distribution:
1 Bedroom Units: 43% of listings
2 Bedroom Units: 29% of listings
3 Bedroom Units: 18% of listings
4 Bedroom Units: 6% of listings
5+ Bedroom Units: 4% of listings
Listings by Rental Type:
Private Rooms: 19% of listings
Entire Homes: 80% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $1,707; Maximum $2,200 in August
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $73.8; Weekend RevPAR $138
Best Month for Rentals: August
Market Score: 76

Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and the second-largest city in the province. The vacation rental market is not as developed there as in Calgary, but it is a viable alternative option for investors who wish to launch an Airbnb in a large city. The largest cluster of properties is situated in the downtown area, but there are many rentals offered in the residential neighborhoods of Edmonton as well.

Currently, Edmonton is home to 2,598 active Airbnb listings. A sizable majority, 80% (or 2,078 listings), are entire homes, while the remaining 19% (or 494 listings) are private rooms. On average, these properties feature about 2 bedrooms. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) in Edmonton is $127.5, a value that’s more moderate compared to Calgary’s rates. The demand in Edmonton remains relatively consistent, with an Occupancy Rate averaging 59% across the year and peaking at 75% in August.

For those considering property investment in Edmonton, the rewards can be promising. The average monthly revenue from these rentals stands at $1,707, with August, the city’s prime month for tourism, potentially yielding up to $2,200. The market, while competitive, showcases resilience and potential growth, making it a viable avenue for newcomers to the Airbnb scene.

Lethbridge

Number of Listings: 185
Average Daily Rate (ADR): $142.8; Maximum 159 in August
Occupancy Rate: 63%; Maximum 81% in July
Rental Size Distribution:
- 1 Bedroom Units: 28% of listings
- 2 Bedroom Units: 38% of listings
- 3 Bedroom Units: 17% of listings
- 4 Bedroom Units: 12% of listings
- 5+ Bedroom Units: 5% of listings
Listings by Rental Type:
- Private Rooms: 16% of listings
- Entire Homes: 84% of listings
Monthly Revenue: Average $1,976; Maximum $2,900 in July-August
Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR): $86.7; Weekend RevPAR $142
Best Month for Rentals: July
Market Score: 70

Lethbridge is the last town on the list. It is situated in a rather remote location in the southern part of the province. The market here is quite similar to the one in Jasper, the only difference being that it is larger in Lethbridge. The largest cluster of properties is located in the London Road neighborhood, while most other areas of the town do not have many vacation rentals in them.

Currently, Lethbridge boasts 185 active Airbnb listings. The town’s Average Daily Rate (ADR) is $142.8, with the potential to climb to $159 in August, highlighting the town’s summer allure. Demand in Lethbridge is commendable, with an Occupancy Rate averaging 63% across the year, and soaring to an impressive 81% in July.

For prospective investors, Lethbridge offers a promising landscape. On average, properties can yield a monthly revenue of $1,976, with the peak months of July and August potentially generating up to $2,900. Despite witnessing a growth spurt in recent times, the number of new property launches remains modest. Yet, the consistent performance of these recent additions suggests ample opportunities for further Airbnb ventures in Lethbridge.