The City of Port Alberni acknowledges that Port Alberni is located on unceded, traditional territory of the Hupačasath and Tseshaht First Nations. 

Port Alberni is centrally located on Vancouver Island, at the terminus of a 40-kilometre saltwater inlet, with direct access to Pacific Rim markets. Its transportation assets include a deep sea port, regional airport and Pacific Rim Highway #4.

The community is located in the Alberni Valley, bordered by mountains, with connections to freshwater and saltwater. It is the goods, services, academic and medical hub for all communities west. Its built amenities and quality of outdoor recreation opportunities are attracting new residents to relocate to Port Alberni from lower mainland BC, Pacific Rim communities, and all parts of Vancouver Island including remote First Nation communities.