I am looking for opinions of towns outside of Calgary as we get ready to move.?

Question

My family will be moving to Calgary this year and due to the explosion of the housing market would like to consider buying in a surronding town. Not being familiar at all with the area would like opinions on towns like Turner Valley/Black Diamond, Okotoks, Chestermere or Airdrie. I have 4 boys 10 and under to consider for schooling and activities. Any comments on these towns or suggestions of others to consider? Thanks so much for your time.

Answer 1

I agree with David about Red Deer ... look into it!! It might be a bit far to commute though if someone is working in Calgary. Okotoks is nice, and not too far from Calgary, but as mentioned, can be expensive, moreso than some areas in Calgary.

If you are just moving to the Calgary area and no one is commuting to the city, then definitely check out Red Deer, you just might very much like what you see!!

I also agree that Turner Valley/Black Diamond is wonderful, it's a lot more rural than okotoks if that is what you are looking for. Personally, I would prefer that area, but its a farther commute. Remember too that a larger area is going to have more to offer in the schools, if that is important.

Answer 2

I haven't lived and worked in Alberta since 1994 but spent 17 years working oilpatch throughout the province. Is someone working in Calgary and you are thinking commute wise? If you are just looking for a small town period, all of those areas are getting expensive to buy Turner Valley is nice. Try Travel Alberta.ca for a good webite.Lots of work.

Answer 3

Why not try Red Deer, the boom has not been as powerful there and is a big enough town and has the services to make it a place to consider.

It has schools shopping and is well within distance of Calgary and Edmonton. Housing is available and there is plenty to do there also.

Answer 4

Carstairs is close to Calgary and quite nice.