As a corporation, the City of Edmonton serves a population of about 1 million residents, in a regional centre of over 1.4 million. (2021 data from Statistics Canada).

The Mayor and Council govern this corporation, setting policy, budget and direction to the City Manager. The City Manager ensures Administration carries out Council's direction and administers public services.

In addition to the City Manager, administration is divided into different departments, each responsible for a particular aspect of public service. Additionally, there are City-owned subsidiaries and authorities that provide services to the City and the public on the City's behalf.