Central Alberta Real Estate Market Report: October 2025 vs October 2024

by Cassie Orlando

The Central Alberta housing market continues to show incredible diversity and resilience, with unique trends unfolding across our local communities. From Red Deer’s steady strength to Lacombe’s record-breaking growth, the region’s real estate story remains one of opportunity, adaptability, and confidence.

Let’s take a closer look at how our market has evolved – and what it means for buyers and sellers heading into the new year.

Regional Overview

Across Central Alberta, the housing market showed positive year-over-year momentum.

Home sales: up 13% (492 this year vs 434 last year)
Median sale price: up 15.4% from $360,000 to $415,500
Average days to sell: increased slightly from 32 to 36
Active listings: climbed to 1,534 from 1,309

This balance of higher prices and growing inventory suggests a healthy, sustainable pace. Demand remains steady, and buyers continue to act quickly when homes are priced right.

Community Highlights

Red Deer – Consistent Strength

Red Deer continues to anchor the Central Alberta market. Sales rose 23%, with 165 homes sold in October 2025 compared to 134 the previous year. The median price climbed to $409,000, up 13.6%.
Inventory sits at 2.7 months, keeping the city in a firm seller’s market. Well-priced homes – especially under $450,000 – are selling within about 27 days.

What this means: Sellers can still expect strong interest when priced competitively, while buyers should be ready with pre-approvals and quick offers.

Lacombe – The Standout Performer

Lacombe saw the most dramatic growth across Central Alberta, with sales up 131% and median prices jumping 15% to $431,500.
Inventory tightened to only 2.1 months, creating multiple-offer conditions in many segments.

What this means: It’s an excellent time for sellers to list – but overpricing could limit results. Buyers need to act decisively when desirable homes hit the market.

Sylvan Lake – Lifestyle-Driven Growth

Sylvan Lake continues to attract lifestyle buyers. Prices climbed 18.6% year over year to $420,000, although inventory nearly doubled to 3.3 months. The market has shifted into a more balanced pace, giving buyers more breathing room to negotiate.

What this means: Sellers should highlight lake access and community amenities. Buyers can take advantage of more selection – especially for homes listed over 30 days.

Penhold – Consistent Demand

Penhold remains a solid seller’s market. Despite a small drop in total transactions, median prices rose 12.7% to $355,000. Homes here continue to sell quickly, with an average of 35 days on market.

What this means: Affordable, move-in-ready homes remain in high demand. Buyers looking near Red Deer will find great value here.

Innisfail & Ponoka – More Balanced Conditions

Both Innisfail and Ponoka shifted toward balanced territory, with inventory rising to about 4.6 months. Prices softened slightly, providing more room for buyers to negotiate favorable terms.

What this means: Sellers should price competitively and focus on presentation. Buyers now have more leverage – particularly on homes listed over 30 days.

The Big Picture

Six Central Alberta communities are now in seller’s markets – including Red Deer, Lacombe, Penhold, and Rocky Mountain House – while four are balanced and two are buyer-friendly. This diversity across such a compact region shows how local conditions, not just general trends, drive results.

Average changes by market type:

Seller’s markets: +12% average price growth
Balanced markets: +5% average price growth
Buyer’s markets: -7% average price change

Key Takeaways for Buyers and Sellers

For Sellers

Price with precision using recent comparables
Stage and photograph your home professionally
Move quickly in strong markets to capitalize on momentum
Stay flexible in balanced markets to attract serious buyers

For Buyers

Get pre-approved and act fast in high-demand areas
Negotiate confidently in balanced or buyer’s markets
Look for homes that have been listed over 30 days for the best opportunities

Cassie’s Insight

“Market shifts like these show why local insight matters. Each Central Alberta community has its own rhythm and opportunities. Whether you are buying, selling, or just watching the trends, the right strategy can make all the difference.”

If you would like a personalized market update for your neighbourhood or property type, I am happy to prepare one for you – no pressure, just the facts to help you make confident decisions.

Number of homes sold in Central Alberta comparing October 2024 and 2025, with strong growth in Red Deer and Lacombe.