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FORT McMURRAY — Federal census codes have now been mailed to households across the Wood Buffalo region, and Alberta’s government is encouraging residents to take part, arguing participation is directly tied to how much federal funding the province receives.
The province says Alberta’s rapid population growth over the past several years has increased pressure on healthcare, schools, highways, housing and other public services, making an accurate population count increasingly important.
Statistics Canada’s 2026 Census of Population officially runs from May 4 to May 12, with households able to complete questionnaires online or by mail using secure access codes provided through the federal government.
Alberta’s population surpassed five million people in mid-2025, according to provincial figures, up nearly 750,000 people since the last census was conducted in 2021.
Finance Minister Nate Horner says census participation is tied to fairness and representation.
“Census participation is about more than numbers — it’s about fairness, representation and ensuring Alberta’s growth is fully recognized and supported,” Horner said in a statement.
The province says federal transfer payments are partly calculated on a per-person basis, meaning population growth can influence the amount of federal money Alberta receives for healthcare, social services and infrastructure.
Alberta is projected to receive about $9.2 billion through the Canada Health Transfer and Canada Social Transfer programs during the 2026-27 fiscal year, equivalent to roughly $1,792 per resident.
Provincial officials say census information is also used by municipalities, Indigenous communities, businesses and emergency planners to guide decisions involving schools, hospitals, seniors housing, transportation projects and disaster preparedness.
The province says businesses and industry groups also rely on census data when making investment decisions and assessing local workforce and infrastructure needs.
According to the federal government, completion of the census questionnaire is mandatory under Canadian law.
Statistics Canada says all census responses are kept strictly confidential.
Results from the 2026 census are expected to be released approximately 18 months after census day.
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