By Troy Gillard (Twitter: @Troy_Gillard)

Lacombe and Red Deer ranked among best Canadian cities to live

Jul 31, 2018 | 3:08 PM

An online personal finance and lifestyle magazine says “The province is rebounding. And Red Deer is the place to enjoy the benefits.”

In its Canada’s Top 25 Best Places to Live in 2018 list, Moneysense ranks Lacombe as the fifth-best city in Canada in which to live. Red Deer is also on the list, checking in at number 12.

Moneysense says the strong rankings are a sign of Alberta’s improving economy.

“Lacombe’s year-over-year unemployment rate dropped the fifth fastest of any city in 2018, with high average incomes and a fast-growing population contributing to its strong showing,” the magazine noted.

“In 2017, Red Deer’s economy grew at a rate of just over 4 per cent, according to the Conference Board of Canada — a full percentage point faster than the growth rate of the Canadian economy overall,” Moneysense added. “And while natural resources remain vitally important, Red Deer’s economy is diversifying, with the arts, culture, recreation and sport among the industries accounting for the best job growth in the city in recent years, according to the municipality.”

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Lacombe was also the highest ranked Alberta city on the list – Camrose was seventh, St. Albert was 19th, Calgary placed 20th and Sylvan Lake was 41st.

“I am proud to be the mayor of the best city in which to live in western Canada,” said Lacombe Mayor Grant Creasey. “While we try not to read too much into statistics, one thing is clear; Lacombe is a well-balanced, safe community with strengths in multiple areas. When you visit our community, you will be immediately struck by the friendliness and positive energy of our citizens. “

Oakville, Ontario topped this year’s list followed by Ottawa and Russell, Ontario.

Moneysense, which is owned by Rogers Media, compiled its list by examining 415 Canadian cities and ranking them in 10 categories – wealth and economy, affordability, population growth, taxes, commute, crime, weather, access to health care, amenities and culture.