A Moment with the Mayor: What Does Growth Look Like?

Residents, business owners, and neighbours often ask: Is the city growing? Are we gaining or losing residents? Several factors help determine the answer.

One key indicator is economic activity, which economists measure using trends such as unemployment rates, housing starts, vehicle sales, business licences and other factors. A noticeable sign for many residents is the number of properties for sale. Not long ago, more than 450 residential properties were on the market.

Today, inventory has dropped to around 100 homes, shifting from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market.
Who is buying these homes? As I regularly meet new community members, it’s clear people from across Canada are choosing Lloydminster. Some move for job opportunities, while others relocate to be closer to family in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Commercial real estate is another indicator of economic growth. According to local realtors, commercial space is in high demand, especially on the Saskatchewan side, where vacancies are limited. On the Alberta side, activity has picked up, with several properties recently sold or leased to businesses that are expanding or opening new operations in the city.

Schools also reflect growth as enrolment pressures continue across all grades. Increasing student numbers demonstrates a growing community and drives planning for future residential, commercial, and industrial development.

Lloydminster’s economic development team is actively working with potential businesses looking to establish themselves here. Growth can happen quickly or take years to materialize, depending on corporate approvals, zoning and planning requirements, and franchise or business ownership decisions.
Statistics Canada provides official growth figures on a monthly or annual basis, but signs of progress are evident throughout the city. As we move into 2025, we can expect to see more businesses and construction shaping Lloydminster’s future.

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster