If the only thing you know about Chestermere is its lake, then you might be in for a surprise the next time you visit this vibrant, growing city just east of Calgary.

New home owning opportunities abound, and there are several new residential communities already underway and a couple more that are just about ready to go. Many new homebuyers are attracted by the recreation-centred lifestyle the young city offers.

Chestermere has been on fast track to growth, with a population of 24,649 in 2022, the 19th highest in the province, according to a Government of Alberta census. And it continues to grow at a 6.38 per cent clip year-over-year, and 15.7 per cent in the last five years, making it the 17th fastest growing municipality in Alberta.

“Chestermere is a great place to live if you’re looking for a more relaxed city life,” says Monica Bilyk, Marketing and Communications Manager at Qualico Communities Calgary, who are about to embark on their second community in Chestermere – Bridgeport - following the success of their first community, Dawson’s Landing.

“Homes are more affordable, there’s less traffic and noise, and yet everyday needs - such as groceries, and entertainment, are only minutes away.”

Fast track to growth

There are plenty of choices of where to live in Chestermere. Dawson’s Landing by Qualico and Chelsea by Anthem are closest to Calgary on the west part of Chestermere, and they started relatively at the same time. Both will undoubtedly benefit from the addition of a new school.

“We received exciting news in February when the Province announced construction for two new school sites in the Rocky View School District - one of which was Chestermere’s K-9 School located in Dawson’s Landing,” Bilyk says.

“The school site is located in Phase 4 of the community and will ease overcrowding in neighbouring schools. It’s something that residents on the West side of Chestermere have been waiting for and we’re thrilled to hear that we’re now one step closer to making it a reality.”

New communities

Besides Chelsea and Dawson’s Landing, also growing fast is the new community of South Shore. Developed by GDS on behalf of Edgewater Communities Inc, South Shores is adjacent to the south shores of Chestermere Lake. It is comprised of 77.5 gross acres interlaces with pathways, playgrounds and adjacent shoreline.

Newest is Clearwater Park by Centron, and the 580-acre community located along Highway One is clearly becoming a hit.

“We sold four townhomes in the last week here,” says Calbridge Homes Area Manager, Jenny Dore. “There’s a lot going on in Clearwater, it will have Chestermere’s first indoor pool and a new school is also coming on in the community.”

Also coming up quick is Qualico Communities’ Bridgeport, located just north of Dawson’s Landing. This new community will encompass seven phases over 659 acres of land, three major park spaces, a small retail site, and a public-school site upon full build out.

“Bridgeport will offer a variety of home types in order to accommodate a variety of young families, individuals, and seniors alike. On-site construction has now begun and the community’s first showhomes are set to open late this Summer,” Bilyk says. Sign up to receive updates on Bridgeport at liveinbridgeport.com.

Recreational haven

Beach fun in the summer, outdoor skating rink in the winter, Chestermere Lake is what has made the city such a prime destination for active, young families. It’s the only lake in the Calgary area that allows for motorized recreation.

Chestermere is a bustling City with plenty of recreation opportunities! The Chestermere Regional Community Association manages facilities for hockey, ringette, lacrosse, curling, soccer, baseball, dance and much more. Chestermere is also home to the Calgary Yacht Club featuring a broad range of sailing, educational, and social activities throughout the year.

There are two new go-to restaurants that are highly recommended in Chestermere. The first isDunn & Company Kitchen and Mercantile. This casual dining restaurant offers some the freshest and tastiest options around.

For something more robust, Global Fusion Bistro offers a huge selection of breakfast items, brunch, main entrees – from Greek and Italian to classic Canadian choices - and a kids with all the staples!

Of course, Chestermere also has easy access to the massive East Hills shopping centre is right on the border between Calgary and Chestermere, and its cinemas, big box stores and boutique diners have provided a ton of convenience to residents along the 17th Avenue SE - Chestermere Blvd. corridor.

What attracts people to Chestermere today isn’t solely its resort town charm, but rather its total family-oriented, ease-of-living package. Not to mention the wide range of housing options available in its vibrant, new communities.