(Cochrane, AB) – Cochrane’s desirability as a mid-sized Alberta community is reflected in the 24.5% growth rate experienced between 2016 and 2021.
According to the 2021 federal census results released on February 9, 32,199 residents now call Cochrane home. In addition, Cochrane had the 11th fastest growth rate of all municipalities in Canada and is the fastest growing community in Alberta.
“These census results come as no surprise to us,” said Mayor Genung, Town of Cochrane. “Cochrane is a community of choice to live and work in. A great proximity to the mountains and the city, an amazing sense of community spirit and small-town values, and a thriving business community. We are truly a desirable, complete community.
The growth rate reflects the challenges the municipality has faced as it continues to respond to increased needs from a rapidly growing population. While striving for planned and managed growth, Council and Administration continue to lay the groundwork to serve the residents of today, as well as plan for the residents of the future.
Cochrane has continued to grow at a rapid pace for the last 20 years. In 2002, the community was home to 12,074 people, in comparison to a population that has tripled since that time. In 2021, the Town saw nearly 700 new housing starts, reflecting an anticipated healthy growth rate for 2022.
“This population growth translates to a growth in Cochrane’s economy,” added Genung. “Realtors, trades people, retail stores – they’re all seeing the impacts of new customers. The economic recovery for Cochrane is well underway as this growth brings growth in the local economy. And residentially, we get to welcome new neighbours.”
The census results demonstrate that Alberta’s population has increased by 4.8% during this same time frame. For more information on the federal census results, visit www.census.gc.ca.
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