The 2021 federal census results are in: Cochrane is the fastest growing community in Alberta and the 11th fastest in the country.
The results released on Feb. 9 conclude that Cochrane's desirability as a mid-sized community means it has grown 24.5 per cent between 2016 and 2021, with 32,199 residents now calling the town home.
“These census results come as no surprise to us,” said Mayor Jeff Genung in a press release. “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 population has tripled in comparison to figures from 2002, when the town was home to 12,074 people.
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,” said 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 only other Alberta community in the top 25 fastest growing municipalities was Airdrie, rounding out the end of the list.
Alberta’s population has increased by 4.8 per cent during this same time frame, according to census results. For more information visit census.gc.ca.
