COCHRANE COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
The Cochrane Alberta Lifestyle
- One long‑time resident put it simply: “I absolutely love Cochrane. … People are incredibly friendly here. Way nicer than you are used to”. Another echoed the charm and culinary surprises, mentioning unexpectedly excellent international cuisine alongside dependable winter infrastructure
Small-Town Atmosphere:
Friendly Residents:
Affordability:
- Cochrane's cost of living is approximately 9% lower than both Alberta's & the national average, with housing costs about 41% below the national average. Detached homes typically start around $500,000, offering more affordable options compared to nearby Calgary.
RECREATION & AMENITIES
Outdoor Activities:
Nestled in the Bow River Valley, Cochrane provides easy access to outdoor pursuits like hiking, cycling & fishing, with scenic views of the surrounding Foothills enhancing the experience.
Local Events:
COCHRANE DESIGNATED SCHOOLS
Rocky View Schools (RVS):
Catholic Schools:
- St. Timothy High School (Grades 9-12)
- St. Peter's Catholic School (K-6)
- Holy Spirit Academy (K-6)
- Sacred Heart School (Grades 7-9)
COCHRANE ACCESS & TRANSPORT
Commuting:
- Located approximately 18 km west of Calgary, Cochrane serves as a Community that many residents commute to the City from.
Cochrane Weather Conditions.
- Summer:June-August. Daytime highs: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) Nighttime lows: 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F) Mostly sunny, low humidity & occasional thunderstorms
- Winter: December-January. Daytime highs: -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F). Nighttime lows: -15°C to -20°C (5°F to -4°F), colder during Arctic air outbreaks. Snow is common, with frequent snow cover. Chinook winds can temporarily raise temperatures above freezing.
Summary:
- Cochrane combines affordability, a strong sense of community & access to both urban & natural amenities, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
For Expert Guidance:
COCHRANE HISTORY
The Area
Now known as Cochrane is situated on Treaty 7 territory, the traditional lands of the Iyarhe Nakoda (Chiniki, Bearspaw, & Goodstoney) First Nations, as well as the Tsuut’ina & Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) peoples, including the Siksika, Piikani & Kainai nations. The Métis also have a historical presence in the region.
In 1881
Senator Matthew Henry Cochrane established the Cochrane Ranch, one of the first large-scale, privately owned ranching operations in what would become Alberta. The Canadian Pacific Railway granted the Town site in 1885, naming it in his honour. Despite the surrounding ranch population, few people called Cochrane home at this time.
Cochrane's Development:
It was marked by the establishment of a post office & Private homes in 1889, a saloon in 1890 & the Anglican Church in 1892. However, early industrial ventures, such as a coalmine & a brick factory, faced challenges & were short-lived. The nearby settlement of Mitford, which had similar aspirations, experienced a decline due to economic difficulties & a devastating fire in 1898. Some of Mitford's surviving buildings were relocated to Cochrane, contributing to the Town's architectural heritage today.
Cochrane's Growth:
Cochrane accelerated after World War II, with significant population increases & infrastructure development. In 1971, Cochrane was incorporated as a Town. By 2003, the Town celebrated its Centennial with a completed Downtown revitalisation, helping make Cochrane the popular tourist attraction is is today..
