Housing
A vibrant, inclusive community starts with housing that meets the needs of all who call it home. Here in Sylvan Lake, we’re committed to creating a range of housing options that support residents at every stage of life—whether you're just starting out, raising a family, or enjoying retirement.
On this page, you’ll find helpful information about local housing conditions, available supports, and exciting initiatives aimed at making housing more accessible for everyone. Through thoughtful policies, partnerships, and programs, we’re working to ensure Sylvan Lake remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive.
Whether you're a resident, developer, or community partner, this page connects you to resources and updates on housing affordability, housing policy, and the collaborative work underway to meet both today’s and tomorrow’s housing needs.
Housing Initiatives
Big News for Housing in Sylvan Lake!
In February 2024, the Town of Sylvan Lake was awarded over $5.4 million dollars through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). In March 2025, the Town was awarded an additional $540,000 as a "top performing" municipality for our progress in achieving the outcomes of our action plan. This exciting investment will help us take bold steps to improve housing affordability and tackle local housing challenges head-on.
Curious about what’s planned? Visit our HAF Engage webpage to explore the Town’s Action Plan and learn how this funding will support real solutions for our growing community.
Keep checking back for future initiatives!
Housing Need
The 2024 Housing Needs Assessment is based on 2021 federal census data.
This portal is updated by CMHC and offers free access to the latest housing market data via an interactive map.
Affordable Housing
The Town of Sylvan Lake has adopted the term Attainable Housing which is defined as follows:
A household is in need of attainable housing when it earns less than seventy percent of the area median household income and pays more than thirty percent of their income on shelter costs including rent, mortgage, and basic utilities, including heat, power and water.
The Town of Sylvan Lake plays an important role in housing affordability including as a:
PARTNER: Undertaking meaningful engagement with housing stakeholders in our community
REGULATOR: Acting as the steward of municipal policies, bylaws and development regulations affecting housing options
FUNDER: Offering grants where municipal funds exist
The Town of Sylvan Lake hosted a Housing Summit on June 17, 2025 bringing together housing professionals, municipal leaders, developers/builders, non-profits and community advocates to understand local affordable housing challenges and connect with those who can drive solutions forward.
You may view the presentation slides here.
The discussions from the Housing Summit are summarized in a What We Heard Report - Housing Summit 2025 (coming soon).
Wellness and Community Connections (WCC) promotes the well-being of community members by offering social programs and services. For more information please visit the WCC webpage
Federal and Provincial assistance programs for affordable housing projects:
- CMHC offers many funding opportunities to build or renovate affordable housing. Please visit the CMHC Funding Programs webpage.
- Province of Alberta offers funding for eligible affordable housing projects through the Affordable Housing Partnership Program
Housing Authorities and Non-profits
Established in 2024, the Homes for Sylvan Foundation is a non-profit housing society operating at arm’s length from the municipality, dedicated to increasing access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. Working in collaboration with community partners, local government, and housing providers, the society's objective is to promote and facilitate the provision of affordable housing solutions in Sylvan Lake.
Currently the Homes for Sylvan Foundation is providing interest free loans up to $30,000 funded by the Housing Accelerator Fund for the development of a new secondary suite. Please go to our Engage webpage for more information on the program.
T 403 887 1185 ext 243
Established in 1971, the Red Deer Housing Authority (RDHA) manages social housing owned by the government. RDHA administers 309 community housing units located in Red Deer, Sylvan Lake and Innisfail, as well as rent supplement programs.
Designated a Management Body by Ministerial Order in 1995, RDHA is bound by regulations of the Alberta Housing Act. The Ministerial Order empowers the Management Body to manage the social housing owned by the government and to carry out other activities related to the provision of housing and associated support services.
T 403 343 2177 | Website
Open Wednesday and Thursday | 9:00 - 11:00 AM and 1:00 - 3:30 PM
Identifying affordable housing needs and gaps within the Town of Sylvan Lake. Qualified individuals and families can apply for affordable housing units. All applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
T 403 887 1137 Ext. 425 | L 4725 - 43 Street
Seniors Housing
As we age, our housing needs change—and Sylvan Lake is committed to supporting seniors with options that promote comfort, independence, and connection. Whether you're looking for supportive living, downsizing opportunities, or resources to help plan for the future, this section provides information on local seniors housing, services, and supports available in our community.
Together, we’re building a community where seniors can thrive and feel at home.
Seniors Care Facilities
Since 1945, Bethany has provided seniors and adults with disabilities with holistic care of the mind, body and spirit and a place to call home.
T 403 887 7741 | L 4700 - 47 Avenue | Website
Providing seniors of modest means with affordable, secure, home-like living.
T 403 887 2555 | L #100 4620 - 47 Avenue | Website
Volunteering is at the heart of a strong, connected community. There are many meaningful ways to support seniors living in Sylvan Lake—and every act of kindness helps build a more caring, inclusive town.
Visit our Volunteer Centre webpage to explore the many ways you can give your time, share your talents, and make a positive impact in the lives of our seniors.
Additional Resources
Interested in making a difference? For information about the following housing related committees please go to our Boards and Committees webpage.
- Community Services Committee
- Municipal Planning Commission
- Housing Committee (details coming soon)
- Community Hub Committee
- Alberta Landlord and Tenants - Rights and responsibilities
- Affordable housing programs Province of Alberta
- ASCHA (Alberta Seniors & Community Housing Association)