Calgary, Edmonton among cities with highest non‑mortgage debt: Equifax
Posted May 27, 2026 4:29 pm.
Last Updated May 27, 2026 7:09 pm.
Calgary and Edmonton households are carrying some of the highest non‑mortgage debt in the country, according to new data.
The latest Equifax Canada report suggests rising financial pressure is hitting Alberta especially hard.
For many Calgarians, stretching a paycheque has become more difficult than it was just a few years ago. Equifax says the average Calgarian now carries just over $24,500 in non‑mortgage debt, while Edmontonians are close behind at nearly $24,000.
The non-mortgage debt totals include credit cards, car loans and lines of credit. Overdue payments in both cities also continue to climb.
Laura, an Alberta homeowner, is feeling that strain firsthand as she manages renovation debt on top of everyday expenses.
“We’re renovating our home, so we’ve got a lot of loans for that reason,” she said. “My husband takes on side jobs when he can. I do different things from home to provide services for other people.”
The Equifax data lands as many Alberta households continue to face higher grocery prices, rising housing costs, elevated interest rates and ongoing pressure from auto loans and credit use.
Economist Moshe Lander says the issue isn’t just how much debt Albertans carry, but how quickly it’s rising compared to incomes.
“The debt itself isn’t a problem, it’s how fast the debt is growing in relation to income,” he said. “If debt is growing at 5 per cent a year and your income is growing at 3 per cent, then you’re in a lot of trouble, because you’re never going to find a path to make it back.”
Nationally, the report shows insolvencies have climbed to their highest level since 2009, while fewer Canadians are taking on new credit cards. It’s a sign many are pulling back on borrowing.
