In a startling revelation, Statistics Canada’s latest data indicates that British Columbia experienced a significant population shift in 2023, with more individuals leaving the province than migrating to it for the first time in over a decade. The negative net interprovincial migration, totaling -8,624 people, marks a departure from the positive trend observed since 2012.
The data reveals that a staggering 67,944 Canadians bid farewell to British Columbia over the past year, with the majority, approximately 37,650 individuals, choosing to relocate to Alberta. The allure of Alberta’s affordability and economic opportunities appears to have played a pivotal role in this mass exodus.
One such individual, Kolten Willick, shares his firsthand experience of leaving Kelowna, B.C., for Edmonton in 2021, citing the exorbitant cost of living as a driving factor. Willick, a fourth-generation British Columbian and member of the Cree Nation, underscores the financial advantages of living in Alberta, including lower rent and higher wages, which influenced his decision to make the move.
Andy Yan, director of the city program at Simon Fraser University, contextualizes this migration trend within the broader landscape of interprovincial movement, attributing it to the natural ebb and flow of population dynamics. He highlights the allure of greater opportunities and lower living costs in Alberta as key factors driving migration patterns.
While British Columbia experienced a notable decline in interprovincial migration, its overall population continued to grow, reaching over 5.6 million as of January 1, 2024. Immigration played a significant role in driving this growth, with over 70,000 immigrants choosing to settle in B.C.
Despite the challenges posed by the outflow of residents, B.C.’s Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon remains optimistic about the province’s appeal, emphasizing ongoing efforts to address housing affordability and deliver essential services to residents. He acknowledges the unprecedented migration levels witnessed in 2023, underscoring the province’s booming population.
In conclusion, while British Columbia grapples with a record exodus, the province remains resilient, with continued efforts to mitigate challenges and uphold its reputation as a desirable place to call home.
