Canada at 3.9%, well below the national average of 6.8%. When this low unemployment rate is combined with low natural population growth and record-setting numbers for job creation, the result is that there are many job opportunities available for immigrants in the province. In recent years the province has increased the number of permanent resident immigrants as well as temporary foreign workers living and working in the province, yet the unemployment rate continues to decline. International surveys consistently rank Calgary and Edmonton among the top cities in the world to work. On top of the availability of jobs, people enjoy working in Alberta thanks to its high standard of living.Alberta Standard of LivingThanks to low levels of unemployment and high demand for workers, Albertas average wage and salary rates are highly competitive with the rest of Canada. The minimum wage in Alberta approaches the Canadian average at 8.80$/hr. Most noteworthy, Albertan families have the highest average combined income in Canada at approximately 61 000$/yr.Albertans also have the lowest personal taxes in Canada, thanks to the wealth of natural resources. Based on a two-income family with two children, earning an income of 60 000$, Albertans pay $3,583 less in taxes than residents of Newfoundland and Labrador and $990 less than residents of Ontario. Alberta's personal tax advantage results from a low single rate tax system, including the highest basic and spousal exemptions in the country, no general sales tax, the lowest gasoline tax rate among the provinces, and low property taxes. What this all translates to is more income remaining for families to spend on living expenses.Alberta enjoys a very low crime rate that makes its cities and towns pleasant places to live and safe to raise a family. In addition, the provinces natural beauty, including vast forests and the Rocky Mountains contribute to a desirable living environment. The standard of living in Alberta is one of the most important factors in attracting immigrants to the province.Alberta Residential HousingAlberta has one of the more affordable housing markets for major cities in Canada. Although the high rate of migration to the province as well as increased incomes for Alberta residents has created a surge of demand that has brought a rise in prices, the province remains an affordable place to buy or rent housing. With home builders putting up new homes at a fast pace, housing costs are expected to decline in the next few years.The average house price in Alberta is approximately 38% to 48% less than in Toronto and Vancouver. (Edmonton: 179, 610 $; Calgary: 222 860$). Overall, the percentage of household income taken up by housing costs is below the Canadian average, varying between 18-28% depending on the type of accommodation. For more information on finding a place to live when you move to Alberta, this Government of Alberta site is rich in information for buying or renting homes.Alberta EducationAlberta has a renowned education system, from kindergarten right through to its universities, which produce world-leading research. In Canada, all citizens and permanent residents under the age of 20 are entitled to