Chestermere Business & Community Reviews

Chestermere is a picturesque lake community located immediately east of Calgary in Rocky View County within the Calgary Region. Originally developed around Chestermere Lake, the town functions largely as a commuter and residential community for Calgary, offering a unique resort-style lifestyle centered on its namesake lake. With a land area of 37 square kilometres and a population of over 20,000 residents, Chestermere is known for its tight-knit, culturally diverse community and relaxed atmosphere that makes it a sought-after destination for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a serene waterfront lifestyle.

Chestermere offers residents a high quality of life characterized by its picturesque surroundings centered around a beautiful lake. The town has experienced high population growth with a 31.95% increase over 5 years, among the highest in Alberta, and features a young population with an average age of 36.4. Residents enjoy a thriving economy, exceptional public services, and a close-knit community that embraces both advancement and tradition. With easy access to parks, beaches, and recreational facilities, Chestermere provides the perfect setting for boating enthusiasts and families alike. The city's tax-friendly environment attracts businesses and creates job opportunities while maintaining its unique identity as a serene lakeside haven.

Chestermere's appeal is centered on its namesake lake, which attracts water sports enthusiasts year-round. The lake offers activities such as waterskiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating, and is one of the only venues allowing motorized boating in the area.

Key Beaches & Parks: Cove Beach offers a quiet retreat complete with a playground, while Anniversary Beach serves as a gathering spot for community events including sandcastle competitions. John Peake Park is the crown jewel, serving as the epicenter of signature events such as the Food Festival and Winter Lights Festival. The city's growing neighborhoods include Dawson, Chelsea, Clearwater Park, and Bridgeport. Lakeside Greens, a stunning golf course that winds through the city, offers a tranquil escape for golf enthusiasts.

Chestermere has five elementary schools, two junior high schools, and one high school serving students. The City works closely with the Rocky View School Division (RVS) and the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) to identify and protect land for current and future school needs.

Current Schools: Prairie Waters Elementary School (RVS), Chestermere Elementary School, Chestermere Middle School, and Chestermere Composite High School.

Future School Sites: Multiple new schools are planned or under construction across the city, including joint school sites in Dawson's Landing and Chelsea (K-9, 600 capacity) with design and construction funded, a high school site (10-12, 900 capacity) with planning funded, and additional sites in Bridgeport, Waterford, and Clearwater Park at various stages of planning.

There is no LRT service in Chestermere. The closest LRT station is located in Calgary, approximately 15 km away.

• Bus Service: Several bus routes serve the town, connecting to Calgary's transit network. Route 42 is a key connection from Chestermere to Marlborough LRT Station in Calgary, with a total trip duration of approximately 40 minutes.
• Road Access: The city has modernized transportation routes with easy access to the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and Stoney Trail, providing a convenient commute to Calgary.
• Commute to Calgary: Approximately 15-20 minutes to Calgary's eastern edge; 25-30 minutes to downtown.

Chestermere is frequently compared to other bedroom communities in the Calgary region.

• vs. Airdrie: Chestermere offers lakefront living with motorized boating access, while Airdrie is a larger city without a lake. Both are popular commuter communities with similar drive times to Calgary.
• vs. Cochrane: Cochrane offers mountain views and Bow River access; Chestermere offers prairie lake living with a beach and water sports. Both have seen significant growth.
• vs. Okotoks: Okotoks is south of Calgary with Sheep River access; Chestermere is east with a large recreational lake. Both offer family-friendly atmospheres and strong community events.
• vs. Strathmore: Strathmore is further east without a lake; Chestermere's lake amenity commands a premium in home values.

The real estate market in Chestermere offers a diverse range of housing options.

• Housing Types: Single-family homes, semi-detached properties, and row-style townhouses.
• Benchmark Price: Approximately $686,000.
• Market Trend: Chestermere's real estate market has maintained steady sales levels, thanks to the appeal of relatively affordable semi-detached and row-style properties.
• Property Types: Waterfront properties on Chestermere Lake, newer developments in Dawson's Landing, Chelsea, Clearwater Park, and Bridgeport, plus established neighborhoods near the town centre.
• Luxury Market: High-end lakefront properties can reach over $2 million for estate homes with private dock access.

For up-to-date listings and open house schedules, please refer to local real estate platforms or contact an area agent.

Chestermere offers a variety of shopping and dining options to serve its growing population.

Shopping Centres: Chestermere Station features a grocery store, pharmacy, financial institutions, and restaurants. The East Hills shopping complex is a short 10-minute drive away for additional retail options. Nearby stores include Sobeys, Safeway, and Walmart.

Dining: Chestermere Landing Dockside Bar & Grill offers a patio overlooking the water.

Recreation & Sports: Hyperactive Watersports offers stand-up paddle board and kayak rentals. The city also features wellness and fitness centers, medical and dentist offices, childcare services, and community groups and athletic associations.

Healthcare: Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary is approximately 15 km away.

Winter transforms Chestermere into a bustling social scene with several signature events.

• Annual Pond Hockey Tournament: A popular winter event drawing competitors and spectators to the frozen lake.
• Winter Lights Festival: A community celebration featuring light displays and festivities at John Peake Park.
• Food Festival: A newer signature event held at John Peake Park.
• Ice Fishing: The frozen lake offers ice fishing opportunities for winter enthusiasts.

John Peake Park serves as the epicenter of many signature events throughout the year.

Yes, Chestermere is a dog-friendly community. The city features numerous parks and open spaces, including John Peake Park, Rotary Park, and Lions Park, which are perfect for walking dogs. The lakefront promenade at John Peake Park offers scenic walking routes. The city's relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere extends to pet owners who enjoy outdoor activities around the lake and in the many green spaces.

Yes, Chestermere is considered a safe community with a relatively low crime rate. According to the 2022 Crime Severity Index, Chestermere has a crime severity index of 57, which is lower than the provincial average of 69. The city's family-friendly environment and active community associations, including the Chestermere Rotary Club and Chestermere Kinsmen Club, contribute to a strong sense of community safety.

• Population: Over 20,000 residents.
• Population Growth (5-year): 31.95%, among the highest in Alberta.
• Average Age: 36.4 years — younger than the Alberta average of 39.
• Land Area: 37.0 square kilometres.
• Character: Tight-knit, culturally diverse community known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Economic Development: AgeCare Health Services Ltd. invested $54M in their Dawson's Landing Seniors Center project.