Calgary Economic Profile | Labour Force, GDP & Key Industries | CED

Canada’s fastest-growing labour force

People are moving to Calgary — and bringing bright ideas with them. Record population growth has strengthened our talent pool, while the city’s consistently high employment and participation rates mean more people are working — and ready to work — here than anywhere else in Canada.

Even as the market adjusts to rapid expansion, Calgary continues to attract and absorb skilled workers, making it easier for companies to scale with confidence.

Dive into the insights below.

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TALENT FACTS

Calgary’s talent pipeline

Calgary is a magnet for talent. People come for the limitless opportunities and stay for everything else. And with eight public post-secondary institutions, the city continually fills the pipeline with homegrown skilled workers ready to contribute to our economy.

Explore talent insights below.

EDUCATION

Skilled workforce

68% of Calgary’s workforce has post-secondary education

StatsCan
STEM TALENT

Tech strength

Calgary has the highest percentage of post-secondary graduates with STEM degrees of all major Canadian cities

StatsCan
DIVERSITY

36%

More than a third of Calgary’s workforce are immigrants.

StatsCan

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ECONOMIC ACTIVITY FACTS

Key economic activity

Companies choose Calgary for its connectivity, cost advantage and access to talent. With global air links and strong rail and road connections across North America, it's easy to reach markets and move goods. Add competitive taxes, relative affordability and a high quality of life, and your company can attract talent that fuels growth.

GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT

An economic engine

Calgary’s economy contributed $129 billion to Canada’s GDP in 2024

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BUSINESS FRIENDLY

Low taxes

With no provincial sales tax, land transfer tax, provincial capital or payroll taxes, Alberta is the most business-friendly province in the country

Calgary’s key industries

Low taxes, strategic location and a motivated workforce create the right conditions for business. Backed by a strong innovation ecosystem of venture capital, accelerators and incubators, Calgary's key industries—from technology to aerospace to film and television—are driving opportunity across the economy.

Explore key industries