I didn’t shop around for car insurance very much, I ended up going with AMA, and my insurance guy was surprised I ended up paying less here than in BC, but like $50/year. Property taxes are going up crazy rates in Alberta right now, partially because bertians want everything but don’t want too be taxed ever. I was blown away by how expensive home energy is here, and the total illusion of choice. Alberta’s energy regulator is useless. You can pick your provider, but you’ll probably get taxed a “Atco zone” or whatever charge, then about $100/ month in “Administration” because they paid to upgrade the system ten years ago or something. It’s a mixed bag, there are something things that you won’t pay for, like the sales tax, and some gas savings, but other things you’ll get raked over the coals like 50% rent increases yearly, or property taxes going up 6%-8%.

I’m terrified by the prospect of this “Alberta Pension” the government seems to be fixated on. They released wrong information and keep doubling down on it. Then there’s the renewable energy moratorium for no raisen whatsoever that lost something like a billion in investment. I’m here for university, and if the government doesn’'t stabilize, when I’m done I’m planning to flee somewhere else.