Sylvan Lake is more than just a picturesque destination; it’s a thriving community that combines lakeside charm with vibrant economic opportunities. Located in the heart of Alberta, Sylvan Lake features a pro-business environment and a highly skilled workforce. The quality of life here is unmatched in the Calgary-Edmonton Corridor. Whether you’re looking to invest, grow your business, or enjoy lakeside living, Sylvan Lake is ready to welcome you.
A Strategic Location at the Center of Alberta’s Growth
Sylvan Lake’s prime location along Highway 11 is just 18 kilometers west of the City of Red Deer, a regional economic hub. It is centrally positioned between Calgary and Edmonton. The town enjoys seamless access to two international airports, both just a 90-minute drive away, providing global connectivity for businesses and visitors. With Red Deer Regional Airport nearby, Sylvan Lake’s central position within the Calgary-Edmonton Corridor makes it an ideal hub for commerce, tourism, and regional trade.
A Rapidly Growing Economy Built on Diverse Strengths
Sylvan Lake’s economy is thriving, bolstered by its high population growth of 13.4% over the past five years, one of the highest rates in Alberta. This rapid growth supports a forward-looking economy driven by tourism, professional services, and manufacturing. Tourism remains a cornerstone, attracting over one million visitors annually and contributing $75 million to the local economy. Beyond tourism, Sylvan Lake is a hub for professional services in energy, construction, and engineering, while the manufacturing sector provides opportunities in construction materials and precision manufacturing, supported by regional training institutions.
A Thriving Hub for Retail and Consumer Services
Sylvan Lake’s central location in a prosperous region makes it a prime destination for retail and consumer service businesses. With access to an immediate trading area of over 313,000 people, the town offers unparalleled opportunities to reach a vibrant and growing customer base. As the largest lakeside community in central Alberta, Sylvan Lake attracts high visitor traffic and benefits from strong local and regional demand. This makes it an ideal location for businesses seeking sustained growth in retail and services.
Investment Opportunities That Inspire Growth
Sylvan Lake is investment-ready, offering opportunities in retail, industrial, and waterfront redevelopment. Development permits surged from $23 million to $58 million in one year, highlighting its appeal to investors. Planned projects, such as a grocery store anchoring a commercial hub, are expected to attract 7–10 additional businesses. The waterfront, including Lighthouse Park, continues to be a focus for enhancing tourism and residential opportunities. With no provincial sales tax and a streamlined process, Sylvan Lake is primed for growth.
Support for Business Success
Sylvan Lake is committed to fostering a business-friendly climate through a range of programs and partnerships designed to support businesses, developers, and investors. The town offers flexible waterfront design guidelines to facilitate development and encourage growth through annual business support programs. With a dedicated Economic Development team ready to assist with site selection, permitting, and long-term planning, Sylvan Lake provides businesses with the tools they need to succeed.
Explore Commercial Property Opportunities
Sylvan Lake offers a range of prime commercial properties for sale or lease, making it ideal for businesses looking to establish or expand in a vibrant and growing community. From high-visibility downtown locations to spaces in emerging commercial hubs, these opportunities cater to various industries. To find the perfect property for your business, explore our easy-to-use Property Search Tool. This tool is designed to help you navigate available listings and make informed decisions.
A Lifestyle That Balances Work and Play
Sylvan Lake offers an exceptional quality of life, blending small-town charm with modern amenities and year-round outdoor recreation. The NexSource Centre provides state-of-the-art facilities, including NHL-sized arenas, an aquatic center, and spaces for community events. The town features excellent healthcare services, strong public and Catholic schools, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Residents and visitors enjoy summer activities like boating and paddleboarding, while winter brings ice fishing and hockey. The revitalized waterfront and affordable housing make Sylvan Lake a premier destination for living and recreation.
Discover Sylvan Lake’s Potential
Sylvan Lake is ready to help you build your future. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or family seeking a vibrant community, Sylvan Lake offers the resources and opportunities to meet your goals. Contact Amanda Mercer, Economic Development Officer, at amercer@sylvanlake.ca or call 403-887-1185 ext. 226 to learn more about how Sylvan Lake can support your vision.
