Census

The most recent municipal census was conducted in 2024, with the previous one having been completed in 2019.

The reason for the gap is due to the fact that in 2020 the provincial government released a new population estimation model that would model estimate populations for municipalities based on a standard methodology used across Canada that considers provincial administrative data and federal government data sources (i.e., federal census). The Government of Alberta moved away from using municipal census data to this system of provincially developed population estimates in 2021.

Many provincial government grants are awarded on a per capita basis —a precise census count ensures the Town receives the maximum funding the community is entitled to.

Census results are submitted to Alberta Municipal Affairs once all the data is in; population numbers become official once the report is accepted by the province.

There are many potential benefits of conducting a municipal census. With frequent and accurate population counts, municipalities may be better able to plan community services. Municipalities experiencing high population growth like the Town of Cochrane may qualify for more funding through provincial grants that are based on population counts. Conducting a municipal census will:

• Provide the municipal population counts for years other than those during which the federal census takes place (every four years).
• Enable efficient and accurate data collection, which can help plan for future social and infrastructure projects, such as planning for school sites and transit route creation.
• Allow the municipality to better meet the specific needs of individual communities based on population data.
• It will update the community population numbers requested by Fire Services for updating the MEP (Municipal Emergency Plan), which allows the municipality to know how many people would need to be evacuated from community “X” if required.
• It helps address cleanup across all internal systems (ie. Accounting & Geomatic Information System (GIS)); this then helps with accuracy of data for our 911 service and all emergency service providers.

By filling out the survey, you are helping create an accurate population count, which not only assist in improving our service planning but also pave the way for potential increased funding opportunities through provincial grants.

Beyond funding, the census helps with long-term planning by collecting data for tailored social and infrastructure projects that meet residents' needs.

It also improves emergency preparedness by informing evacuation plans, updating the Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP), and ensuring precision in 911 services and emergency response protocols.

After data collection, census results are submitted to Alberta Municipal Affairs for official population figures.