Fort McMurray doesn't always get the credit it deserves. People hear "oil sands" and picture a temporary work camp. What they don't see is a thriving city of over 100,000 people with strong schools, world-class recreation, a tight-knit community, and some of the highest household incomes in Canada. If you're considering a move to Fort McMurray, here's what you should know.
Strong Job Market and High Wages
Fort McMurray's economy is anchored by the oil sands industry, one of the largest energy projects on earth. This creates steady demand for skilled tradespeople, engineers, drivers, healthcare workers, teachers, and business owners. Wages in the region are consistently above the national average, and many residents earn well above what they'd make in larger cities.
Beyond energy, the local economy supports a growing healthcare sector, government services, retail, construction, and hospitality. Fort McMurray is not a one-industry ghost town — it's a full-service city with a booming labour market.
Affordable Housing Compared to Calgary and Edmonton
While housing prices in Fort McMurray are above the national average, they are significantly more affordable than Calgary or Vancouver — especially when you factor in the higher local wages. Many families who couldn't afford a detached home in Edmonton are able to own one in Fort McMurray.
The city offers a full range of housing: new-build communities like Parsons Creek, established neighbourhoods like Timberlea and Thickwood, and downtown condos for those who want a more urban feel.
A Real Sense of Community
If you've never lived in Fort McMurray, you might be surprised by how strong the community spirit is here. This is a city that was tested by the 2016 wildfire and came back stronger than ever. Residents are proud of where they live and look out for one another. The "Neighbours Helping Neighbours" attitude is real — it's not just a slogan.
The city hosts festivals, markets, sports leagues, cultural events, and a thriving local business scene. Fort McMurray has a multicultural community representing dozens of countries, making it a welcoming place for newcomers.
Outdoor Recreation Right at Your Door
Surrounded by boreal forest, rivers, and lakes, Fort McMurray offers exceptional outdoor recreation year-round. In summer: hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping. In winter: snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing on some of the most beautiful frozen lakes in Alberta.
The Athabasca River runs through the city, and Gregoire Lake Provincial Park is just a short drive away. For outdoor enthusiasts, Fort McMurray is hard to beat.
World-Class Facilities
Fort McMurray punches above its weight when it comes to public infrastructure. The city has a modern hospital, multiple recreation centres (including the MacDonald Island Park — one of the largest recreation complexes in Canada), excellent schools, a regional airport with direct flights to major cities, and a growing arts and culture scene.
Is Fort McMurray Right for You?
Fort McMurray isn't for everyone — the winters are cold, it's remote by southern Alberta standards, and if you're not in the energy sector, the job search can take time. But for those who embrace what it offers, Fort McMurray delivers a quality of life that surprises most people who move here.
If you're planning a move to Fort McMurray, Horizon Moving has helped thousands of families settle in. We know every neighbourhood and can make your arrival smooth and stress-free.