Housing and accommodation in Banff is limited and expensive compared to many other municipalities in Canada. Persons purchasing or renting housing may be asked to provide proof and/or sign an affidavit indicating that they meet the Banff National Park "need-to-reside" criteria.

Some of Banff's larger employers have staff housing units that they rent to employees upon hiring. However, most new residents find accommodation through advertisements in the two local newspapers (Banff Crag & Canyon and Rocky Mountain Outlook), or through listings held by local real estate agents.

The Town of Banff established the Banff Housing Corporation to ensure a range of housing types is available to Banff residents and families of all ages and income ranges.

The Banff Housing Corporation commissioned a study on the history of affordable housing initiatives in Banff, from 1945 until the incorporation of the Banff Housing Corporation in 1993. From lot giveaways to lotteries to selling homes below market rates, many efforts have been made over the years to provide residents with housing.

• Banff's Housing Conundrum (PDF)