Client Spotlight – City of Chestermere

Source: Facebook

Just east of Calgary, the City of Chestermere is demonstrating how a community can embrace rapid growth while preserving the character and quality of life that first attracted people to its shores.

Chestermere’s identity has always been closely connected to the water. What is now Chestermere Lake was developed as part of an irrigation system in the early 1900s, but soon became a popular destination for seasonal recreation. The community became the Summer Village of Chestermere Lake in 1977, transitioned into a town in 1993, and officially achieved city status in 2015.

Since then, its growth has been remarkable.

Chestermere’s 2025 municipal census recorded a population of 32,255, representing a 15 per cent increase in just one year. That followed a 2024 census that found the city had already grown by 27 per cent since 2021. Chestermere now includes 9,296 dwellings, with an average of 3.5 residents per household and a median age range of 35 to 39, reflecting the city’s strong appeal to young people and growing families.

That population growth is creating new opportunities for housing, local businesses, community services, and economic development. Located near Calgary International Airport and major highways, Chestermere offers businesses access to the Calgary Metropolitan Region while maintaining the advantages of a smaller city. More than 1,100 acres of commercial and industrial land have been identified for future development, and the City promotes investment through its economic incentive program and the absence of a municipal business tax.

Chestermere is also looking beyond its borders to support sustainable growth. In 2025, it became a founding member of Invest Greater Calgary, joining seven other municipalities in a regional partnership focused on research, investment attraction, business support, and promoting the Calgary region to national and international audiences.

At the centre of the community remains Chestermere Lake. Residents and visitors can enjoy boating, paddling, swimming, fishing, beaches, parks, and walking trails during the warmer months. In winter, the lake and surrounding outdoor spaces provide opportunities for skating and other seasonal activities. This year-round access to recreation gives Chestermere a distinctive identity within the region and supports the City’s message that “Life is Better by the Lake.”

The City’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan recognizes both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with this pace of expansion. Guided by a vision of a “Vibrant Lake Community: Thriving, Connected, and Welcoming,” the plan prioritizes infrastructure that keeps pace with growth, modern and accountable municipal services, a diverse local economy, recreation, and stronger social connections.

From its beginnings as a lakeside summer community to its emergence as one of Alberta’s fastest-growing cities, Chestermere continues to evolve. With new residents, neighbourhoods, businesses, and opportunities arriving each year, the City is working to ensure growth strengthens the community while protecting the qualities that make Chestermere an exceptional place to live, work, and visit.