10 Things to Know Before Moving to Fort McMurray

Known for its association with oil sands industry, Fort McMurray (popularly called “Fort Mac”) is nestled in the boreal forest at the confluence of the Athabasca River and the Clearwater River. Located in northeast Alberta, it lies in the middle of the Athabasca oil sands. The 130 km of trails in the city are simply amazing, and when you look up in the sky after lights out, you'll be hooked to one of the best views of northern lights. If you are planning a move to Fort McMurray but have no idea how it will treat you, read on! We've got insights to share with you for a better look at this fantastic spot up north.

1. Location and Reaching Fort McMurray

Located 435 kilometres northeast of Edmonton on Highway 63 and about 60 kilometres west of the Saskatchewan border, Fort Mac is the largest community in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. It was established as a Hudson's Bay Company trading post in 1870, marking its historical significance in the region. Also, you can access Fort McMurray through Highway 881, and Highway 69 – a short diversion from Highway 63, which connects the town with the airport and some of its residential developments to the southeast. Highway 63 is the only highway between Fort McMurray and Edmonton, emphasizing its significance due to the high tonnage of traffic resulting from the oil sands industry. The town is the center of the oil sands industry, witnessing one of the largest and heaviest truckloads carried out in Canada. Also, Highway 63 boasts of the highest tonnage per kilometre.

2. Not a City!

Fort McMurray is not a typical example of an urban center, but as Alberta’s largest unincorporated “city,” it is a popular destination for new residents. It became an urban service area in April 1995 when it merged with Improvement District No. 143 to create the municipality of Wood Buffalo. Despite its current designation as an urban service area, many locals, politicians, and the media still refer to Fort McMurray as a city.

Climate and Average Annual Precipitation

For the ones moving from cities like Vancouver, or coastal areas in general, 5 or 6 months of snow may seem like a daunting factor. Fort Mac experiences subarctic climate with long cold winters and short warm summers, as the region lies in a lower elevation than most parts of Alberta. Organic matter from the forest floor, which typically ignites slowly, can become difficult to extinguish once a fire has started, especially when surrounded by drier, more flammable materials. The climate is classified as humid continental, characterized by its long, cold winters and warm, short summers. This means that summers have an average daily high of 17°C with winters having an average daily high of -4°C. The annual precipitation amounts to 464.8 millimetres, and the rains are mainly witnessed in summers while you find snowfall around 172.0 centimetres in winters.

Economic Overview and Oil Sands

With growth rate characteristic of a boomtown, Fort MacMurray is the heart of Alberta's primary oil production activities, drawing innovation and creative force from all over the globe. The region is facing rapid growth in population and oil sands development with the municipality actively pursuing a zero-waste initiative to become a global model for sustainable waste management. It is expected that oil sands will continue to power Canada’s economy for another 25 to 30 years. the vast majority of oil sands operations are centered in the region surrounding the Athabasca Oil Sands. However, the economy also relies on natural gas and oil pipelines, forestry and tourism. The largest oil sand mining companies in Fort McMurray are Syncrude and Suncor Energy. Interestingly, it was the single region in Alberta with employment growth of 12% during the recession period. Oil and supporting industries dominate the local economy, making it a hub for energy production in Canada.

Public Transit in the Regional Municipality

If you prefer public transportation, you'll be delighted to know that the regional municipality of Wood Buffalo operates a public transit service for seven days a week. This consists of local scheduled bus routes, specialized transportation for people with disabilities and school buses including a special Saturday service for people in Saprae Creek. If you intend to reach Fort McMurray by air, there are several airlines which connect to the region including Air Canada, WestJet and United Airlines. You'll find scheduled flights to Calgary, Edmonton, Fort Smith, Peace River, Saskatoon, Toronto, Vancouver, Denver and more. Also, many oil companies operate their own corporate and charter flights. Ready to make your move to Fort McMurray ? Talk to one of our friendly team members today. We're here to answer any questions you have and provide a free quote for your move. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most – settling into your new home. Experience the difference with Two Small Men with Big Hearts Moving Co. and make your move a positive and memorable experience. ALBERTA

6. About Wood Buffalo

Wood Buffalo, the regional municipality encompassing Fort McMurray, is a vast and stunning area in northeastern Alberta. Spanning approximately 61,374 square kilometers, it is the largest municipality in Alberta. Named after the native wood bison, Wood Buffalo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with its diverse fauna including bears, moose, and deer. The Athabasca River, a significant waterway, meanders through this region, adding to its natural charm. Fort McMurray, the largest community within Wood Buffalo, serves as a central hub, offering a blend of urban amenities amidst the serene backdrop of forests and lakes. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or someone who appreciates natural beauty, Wood Buffalo has something to offer.

7. Education in Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray boasts a robust education system catering to students of all ages. The Fort McMurray Public School District and the Fort McMurray Catholic School District operate numerous elementary and secondary schools, ensuring quality education for younger residents. For those seeking higher education, Keyano College stands out as a premier institution offering a variety of programs in arts, science, and technology. The college’s partnerships with other institutions provide students with pathways to further education and specialized training. Additionally, the Fort McMurray area is home to several private schools and online education providers, offering diverse learning options to meet the needs of all students.

8. Healthcare and Medical Services

Residents of Fort McMurray have access to a comprehensive healthcare system designed to meet a wide range of medical needs. The Northern Lights Regional Health Centre is a state-of-the-art hospital providing essential services such as emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. Beyond the hospital, the area is served by numerous medical and specialty clinics offering family medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and more. Community health programs are also available, including public health nursing, mental health services, and addiction counseling, ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need.

9. Culture and Community

Fort McMurray is a vibrant community with a rich cultural scene and a plethora of activities throughout the year. The Fort McMurray Arts Council and the Wood Buffalo Regional Library are at the heart of the city’s cultural life. The library offers a variety of programs, from author readings and book clubs to children’s storytime sessions. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events, such as the Fort McMurray Folk Festival, the Wood Buffalo Pow Wow, and Canada Day celebrations, fostering a strong sense of community. Additionally, various community groups, sports teams, service clubs, and volunteer organizations contribute to the lively and inclusive atmosphere of the Fort McMurray area.

10. Cost of Living and Expenses

Living in Fort McMurray comes with its unique set of financial considerations. Due to its remote location and high demand for housing, the cost of living is generally higher than in other parts of Alberta. The average price of a single-family home hovers around $500,000, with a range from $300,000 to over $1 million. For those looking to rent, a one-bedroom apartment typically costs around $1,000 per month. Besides housing, residents should budget for other expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities. Despite these costs, Fort McMurray offers numerous amenities, including MacDonald Island Park, which features recreational activities like swimming, skating, and fitness classes. The city’s average annual precipitation is about 450 mm, with an average annual snowfall of 150 cm, adding to the unique living experience in this northern community. As of December 2021, the median price for a single-family detached home was $488,950.