Community Guide

Cochrane

Surrounding Areas, Calgary

Historic Cochrane, located just 18 kilometers west of Calgary and nestled in the picturesque Bow River Valley, is one of Alberta’s fastest-growing communities.

With its rich western heritage, breathtaking mountain views, and small-town charm, Cochrane combines the best of both worlds: proximity to big-city amenities and a relaxed rural lifestyle.

With a population of over 34,000, Cochrane is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining connected to urban centers.

Cochrane is a charming and rapidly growing town located just west of Calgary in southern Alberta. Nestled in the Bow River Valley and surrounded by the scenic foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Cochrane offers a unique blend of small-town hospitality, natural beauty, and modern amenities. It is an ideal place for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a balance between rural living and easy access to the amenities of a larger city. With its rich history, strong community spirit, and picturesque setting, Cochrane has become one of the most desirable towns in the Calgary region.

Looking to buy a home in Cochrane?  Just 20 minutes west of downtown Calgary, Cochrane is a great place to raise a family and offers a full range of amenities, schools, parks and pathways. Learn more about the Town Of Cochrane here

For more information about properties for sale in Cochrane, Alberta, or to schedule a private showing, contact us today! Search for Cochrane real estate below.

Location and Accessibility

Cochrane is located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) northwest of Calgary, along Highway 1A and Highway 22, often referred to as the “Cowboy Trail.” This proximity makes it a convenient commuter town for those working in Calgary, while still offering a peaceful and relaxed rural lifestyle. The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) is also nearby, providing quick access to the Rocky Mountains, with Banff just an hour’s drive away, making it a gateway for outdoor adventures and tourism.

Education and Healthcare

Cochrane is served by both the Rocky View School Division and the Calgary Catholic School District, offering a range of public and Catholic schools for children from kindergarten to high school. The town also has a growing number of child care centers and preschools, as well as access to post-secondary institutions in nearby Calgary, including the University of Calgary and Bow Valley College.

Cochrane has several healthcare facilities, including medical clinics, dental offices, and pharmacies. The Cochrane Community Health Centre provides a range of services, including urgent care, X-ray and lab services, and health programs for the community. For more specialized healthcare needs, residents can access facilities in Calgary, such as Foothills Medical Centre and Rockyview General Hospital.

Life in Cochrane

Cochrane is known for its strong sense of community and small-town charm. The town hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including Cochrane Labour Day Parade, Cochrane Culture Days, and the Lions Rodeo, which celebrates the town’s western heritage. Residents enjoy a close-knit atmosphere, with a range of recreational programs and community events that cater to all ages. The town’s historic downtown area is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes that reflect the town’s western character.

With its growing population, family-friendly atmosphere, and beautiful natural setting, Cochrane offers a unique lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of residents, from young families to retirees.

On The Map

Cochrane is just a 20-minute drive from Calgary’s city limits via Highway 1A or Highway 22.

Cochrane Neighbourhoods

Cochrane communities are unique and diverse and offer something for everyone.  From riverfront properties to acreages, you can find the perfect Cochrane neighbourhood to call home.

bow-meadows-cochrane real estate team hripko
Bow Meadows
bow-ridge-cochrane real estate team hripko calgary real estate team
Bow Ridge
cochrane-heights-cochrane real estate team hripko
Cochrane Heights
downtown-cochrane - team hripko Cochrane real estate
Downtown
east-end-cochrane real estate team hripko
East End
A family-friendly community found on Cochrane’s southern borders, nestled along the Bow River.
Fireside
glenbow-cochrane real estate team hripko
Glenbow
GlenEagles-cochrane real estate team hripko
GlenEagles
heartland-cochrane real estate team hripko
Heartland
heritage-hills-cochrane real estate team hripko
Heritage Hills
jumping-pound-ridge-cochrane real estate team hripko
Jumping Pound Ridge
Precedence
riviera-cochrane real estate team hripko
Riviera
river-heights-cochrane real estate team hripko
River Heights
riversong-cochrane real estate team hripko
Riversong
riverview-cochrane real estate team hrip
Riverview
the-willows-cochrane real estate team hripko
The Willows
sunset-ridge-cochrane real estate team hripko
Sunset Ridge
west-pointe-cochrane real estate team hripko
West Pointe
west-terrace-cochrane real estate team hripko
West Terrace
west-valley-cochrane real estate team hripko
West Valley
river-heights-cochrane real estate team hripko
Rivercrest

Cochrane Schools

If you're buying a home in Cochrane and looking for a school for your child, you'll be pleased to know that the neighbourhood has a number of schooling options to choose from.

Nearby Schools

  • Holy Spirit Catholic School – FiresideWebsite
  • Fireside School – FiresideWebsite
  • Bow Valley High School – RiversongWebsite
  • Cochrane Christian Academy – East EndWebsite
  • Cochrane High School – Cochrane HeightsWebsite
  • Elizabeth Barrett Elementary School – Cochrane HeightsWebsite
  • Manachaban Middle School – Cochrane HeightsWebsite
  • École Notre-Dame Des Vallees – West TerraceWebsite
  • Mitford School – West TerraceWebsite
  • Glenbow Elementary School – GlenbowWebsite
  • St. Timothy High School – Sunset RidgeWebsite
  • RancheView School – Sunset RidgeWebsite

Calgary Schools

Amenities

One of Cochrane’s key attractions is its stunning natural surroundings.

The town is set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, and the Bow River runs through its southern edge, providing beautiful views and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Cochrane has a network of parks, trails, and green spaces, including the Cochrane Ranche and Big Hill Springs Provincial Park. These areas are perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. In the winter, Cochrane is also close to several ski resorts, offering skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

The Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre offers year-round activities, including ice rinks, swimming pools, a fitness centre, and programs for all ages.

Shop & Dine

Cochrane’s shopping and dining scene is a mix of local charm and larger retail options, catering to the town’s growing population.

The historic downtown area is known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, and local businesses. Residents can shop for handmade goods, home decor, and specialty foods while enjoying the charm of Cochrane’s western-style buildings.

For mainstream shopping, areas like The Quarry and Cochrane Crossing provide big-box stores such as Walmart, Canadian Tire, and Safeway, ensuring residents have access to all their daily needs.

Cochrane Real Estate

Cochrane’s real estate market has seen significant growth in recent years, with a wide range of housing options to meet the needs of its diverse population.

Whether you’re looking for a single-family home, townhouse, or condo, Cochrane offers a variety of housing styles across multiple neighbourhoods. Established areas like Riversong and Bow Ridge provide homes with stunning views of the Bow River, while newer communities like Fireside and Heritage Hills offer modern amenities and designs.

While housing prices in Cochrane are generally more affordable than in nearby Calgary, they have been rising steadily due to the town’s popularity. The range of housing options ensures that there’s something to suit different budgets, from first-time homebuyers to those seeking luxury estates with panoramic mountain views.

With Team Hripko’s expertise and extensive knowledge of the area, they will guide you through the available real estate options and help you find the perfect home.

Cochrane Real Estate

See today's Cochrane homes for sale.

You Might Like

Here are some more of our community guides.

Are you interested in buying or selling in Cochrane?

You deserve a stress-free process with a team of professional Realtors® who know the Calgary & area market.

Sign Up For Calgary Real Estate Updates

Get first dibs on all the newest Calgary MLS® listings the moment they hit the market.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Most people don't know where to start when buying or selling a home.

You deserve an easy, stress-free process with guidance with a team of professional Realtors® who know the Calgary & area market.

Our reputation for hard work, results and industry expertise is legendary, that is why over 80% of our business is based on referrals from our many past and present clients. Find out more about our team of professionals – we are here to help you find exactly what you need.

Compare listings

Compare
×
You deserve an easy, stress-free process with guidance with a team of professional Realtors® who know the Calgary & area market.

Find out more about our team of professionals – we are here to help you find exactly what you need.