City Profile
Cold Lake, Alberta
Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Cold Lake, Alberta, is a vibrant city nestled on the shores of its namesake lake, known for its natural beauty and as a key hub for Canada's national defense. The city is home to 4 Wing Cold Lake, a major Canadian Forces Base, which significantly influences its economy and demographic makeup. This strong military presence, combined with its proximity to the oil and gas sector, provides a unique blend of community life and economic activity. People are drawn to Cold Lake for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and access to extensive wilderness, offering a balanced lifestyle amidst a robust local economy. The city is actively pursuing commercial and residential growth, with ongoing planning to accommodate future expansion.
Alberta is a Canadian province known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Rocky Mountains to prairies and boreal forests. Its economy is largely driven by the energy sector, particularly oil and gas extraction, though agriculture, forestry, technology, and tourism are also significant industries. Living in Alberta generally offers a high standard of living with competitive incomes and a lower cost of living compared to some other major Canadian provinces, partly due to no provincial sales tax. The climate is continental, characterized by warm summers and cold winters, with rapid temperature swings and occasional warm Chinook winds in the south.
How this 58/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 45 / 100 | 45.0 | 30% | 13.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 85.0 | 62.5 | 25% | 15.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $85,007 Income needed to live here: $40,000 Unemployment rate: 7.9% | 63.1 | 20% | 12.6 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 2.18% Job growth rate: 1.5% | 64.8 | 15% | 9.7 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 58.0 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=67, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
7 August 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Local Directory
Businesses in Cold Lake
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Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Cold Lake is generally considered moderate, with average rent for all property types sitting at approximately $1,210.4 USD per month as of August 2026. This is notably lower than the national average for Canada. While housing costs are a significant factor, the average monthly cost for utilities is around $175.94 USD, and groceries average about $321.11 USD per person. The overall affordability is supported by a higher average salary compared to the Canadian national average, which helps residents manage expenses.
Income
Salary Insights
Cold Lake's economy is primarily driven by the military and defense sector, owing to the presence of 4 Wing Cold Lake, a major Canadian Forces Base that has seen significant investment. The oil and gas industry also plays a crucial role, with these sectors reporting substantial job creation in the broader Wood Buffalo-Cold Lake region. Other significant employment areas include sales and service, education, law, community and government services, and trades and transport. The average annual salary in Cold Lake is approximately $46,347.2 USD as of July 2026, which is higher than the Canadian national average. While the regional unemployment rate was 7.9% in June 2026, the city is actively working on economic development initiatives and fostering business growth.
The average salary in Cold Lake is $46,347 per year. You would need approximately $40,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Cold Lake primarily relies on personal vehicles, as indicated by its 'Car-Dependent' walk score of 28 out of 100. However, the city does operate Cold Lake Transit, a public bus service that runs Monday to Saturday with two routes covering the entire city and 4 Wing. This transit system is unique in that it is free for riders and utilizes a real-time tracking app to help passengers manage their schedules. Despite the presence of public transit, the limited bike infrastructure, with a bike score of 45, suggests that cycling is somewhat challenging for daily errands.
At a Glance
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Community Q&A
Questions about Cold Lake
What people ask about living in and moving to Cold Lake, Alberta.
How does the cost of living in Cold Lake compare to other Alberta cities?
Cold Lake’s cost of living index is 85, meaning it is about 15% lower than the national average. Housing is the biggest factor; the average monthly rent is $1,210, which is modest compared to larger cities. Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are also slightly below national averages, so a salary of $46,347 per year should comfortably cover basic expenses. However, keep in mind that some specialty goods ma...
What are the typical rental options in Cold Lake?
The average rent is $1,210 per month, which is typical for a 2‑bedroom apartment or townhouse. Rental listings often include both single-family homes and multi‑unit complexes. Many landlords offer short‑term leases, especially near the military base, so you can negotiate a one‑year contract. Check local online classifieds and the city’s housing portal for current availability and to compare prices. Be sure to ask abo...
What job opportunities are available for someone with a marketing background?
Cold Lake’s economy is largely driven by the military base, oil and gas, and tourism sectors. Marketing roles can be found in defense contracting firms, energy companies, and local tourism boards. Many positions offer competitive salaries close to the average of $46,347 per year. Look for openings on the city’s employment portal and regional job boards; networking with local business groups can also uncover hidden op...
How are the schools in Cold Lake for my children?
Cold Lake has a range of primary and secondary schools that serve the community. The school district offers public, Catholic, and charter options, with student‑teacher ratios that are generally favorable. Extracurricular activities include sports, arts, and technology clubs. For specific school performance data, visit the district’s website or contact the school board’s enrollment office. They can provide recent insp...
Is Cold Lake a safe place to live?
Cold Lake’s safety score is 45 out of 100, which is below the national average. The area has lower rates of violent crime but higher rates of property theft compared to larger cities. Emergency services are available, with a local police station and fire department staffed to handle typical incidents. Residents often report a strong sense of community and neighborly support. If safety is a priority, consider neighbor...
What public transit options are available for commuting?
Cold Lake offers a modest city transit service that connects residential areas with the military base, commercial zones, and key community hubs. Buses run on a fixed schedule, with routes covering major streets. For those who prefer driving, parking is available at most commercial centers, and the main roads are well maintained. If you need specialized transport, look into local taxi services or ride‑share apps. Chec...
What healthcare facilities are in Cold Lake?
The city hosts a regional health clinic that offers primary care, urgent care, and some specialist services. For more complex treatments, patients typically travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities. The clinic provides home health visits and medication management programs. For specific provider details, consult the regional health authority’s directory or the city’s health services page. They list available specia...
What recreational activities can I enjoy in Cold Lake?
Cold Lake is surrounded by water and forests, offering boating, fishing, and kayaking on the lake. In winter, cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing are popular. The city also hosts seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and community events that showcase local arts and crafts. For organized sports, look for local clubs that offer hockey, soccer, and tennis. Checking the city’s recreation calendar will give you dates for...
What should I know about moving to Cold Lake from another province?
When moving to Cold Lake, consider the seasonal weather; winters are cold and snowy, so you’ll need appropriate winter gear. Pets must be registered with the local animal control office, and you may need a health certificate for dogs. Shipping household goods can be arranged through local movers who offer seasonal discounts. It’s also wise to set up a local bank account and register for the municipal services portal...
What is the overall vibe of Cold Lake for new residents?
Cold Lake is a tight‑knit community with a strong emphasis on outdoor living and community events. Residents often describe a relaxed pace, friendly neighbors, and a supportive environment, especially for families and retirees. The presence of the military base contributes to a steady influx of new residents, which keeps the cultural scene dynamic. If you value a quieter lifestyle with access to nature, Cold Lake off...
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