Economy
Hinton’s economy is strong and diverse.
Regional Economy
Like most communities in Alberta, energy is important. The Duvernay Gas Field is north of Hinton and is one of the largest gas fields in the world. While the price of natural-gas is low, this is very ‘wet’ gas with high proportions of condensate. The condensate is used to thin bitumen and is highly sought after Hinton hosts a wide variety of energy service companies.
In addition, Hinton has many tourism options. Travellers can have a ‘park-like’ experience without the rules. West Fraser, managing one of the largest Forest Management Agreements (FMA) in the world, produces dimensional lumber and paper.
More Information:
- Hinton’s Economic Development Strategy
- Hinton’s Strategic Plan 2014-2017
- Community Profile for detailed information about Hinton and Area
10 Reasons to Invest in Hinton!
1. Location! Location! Location!
- Two major highway corridors (Highway 16 and Highway 40)
- Canadian National railway and VIA Rail service
- Access to major utility lines including fiber optic network
- Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains – an outdoor paradise
- 15 minute drive to Jasper National Park
- Hinton is the hub of the Alberta Northern Rockies Tourism destination area
2. Regional Hub
- Hub for tourism, commercial / retail, medical, and education
- Trading area of approximately 80,000 square kilometres and 35,000 people
- Highway 16 commercial and retail nodes see an average of 12,000 vehicles per day
- Top notch medical care including CT scanning, cancer clinic, mobile MRI and dialysis, stroke centre, great obstetrics, and a general surgeon
- Hinton Training Centre and Hinton Fire Rescue offer continuing education, university courses, Justice Institute BC training as well as forest fire suppression training
3. Alberta Tax Advantage
- Business taxes are among the lowest in Canada
- Lowest residential taxes in the nation
- No provincial sales tax
4. Low Municipal Taxes
- One of the lowest residential and non-residential tax rates (JPG) in the region
- No business tax
5. Business Friendly Leadership
- Recognize business as an important asset to our community
- Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Development Plan reflective of progressive government
- Government which is easy to do business with
- Active,engaged, and thriving business community
- Proactively planning for the success and sustainability of our community. Check out Hinton 2040
6. Key Industries
- Multiple resource industries (forestry, coal, oil and gas)
- Health and education
- Land and resource management research
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
7. Talent / Labour Force
- Young and stable population
- Culturally diverse with an average age of 36 years
- Educated and skilled workforce
- Higher than average wage
- Well positioned to attract business and residents
8. Quality of Life and Place
- Highly sought after mountain living
- 92% of citizens rate quality of life is good or better (2013)
- Abundant outdoor recreation opportunities
- Alberta’s Mountain Bike Mecca
- Vibrant arts, music, and culture community
- Festivals and events abound year ’round
- Excellent health care and education
9. Business Opportunities Abound
- Entrepreneurial Spirit
- Improving economic diversification
- Multiple business support organizations
- Active and engaged Chamber of Commerce
- Community Futures West Yellowhead
- 160+ home based businesses
10. Available Land and Lease Supply
Hinton is full of opportunity and there is land and lease supply available for many needs
The beauty of the place is apparent, but it is supported by a strong and diverse economy!