(Cochrane, AB) - Cochrane’s 2024 municipal census results reveal an official population count of 37,011. These results indicate that Cochrane's growth rate remains consistent with previous years – at approximately 5% growth year-over-year since 2011.
The last census, conducted in 2021 by the Federal government, indicated Cochrane’s population to be 32,199 with a 24.5% growth rate from the previous Federal census conducted in 2016. The 2021 Federal census results pegged Cochrane as the fastest growing community in Alberta, and the 11th fastest in all of Canada. Cochrane’s 2024 census results reflect a continued strong growth, as our community has grown by 43% from 2016-2024.
“Since the last federal census was conducted in 2021, just over an additional 4,800 people have chosen to make Cochrane their home,” said Stacey Loe, Executive Director of Corporate Services for the Town of Cochrane. “This reflects that Cochrane continues to be a community of choice – across the province and the country.”
The census asked Cochranites to identify the number of residents in their home, as well as the number of residents under the age of 18. The results demonstrated that 9,250 of Cochrane residents – nearly 25% - are under the age of 18.
“These numbers highlight a growing youth population and provide valuable insights into our community’s needs. This data supports our ongoing advocacy efforts to ensure adequate school spaces to support quality education for Cochrane's students and enhancing recreational amenities to meet the needs of our growing demographic,” added Loe.
Census data serves as a cornerstone for Cochrane's long-term planning and emergency preparedness strategies, informing updates to emergency management plans and guiding infrastructure projects tailored to community needs. By facilitating efficient and precise data collection, the census supports informed decisions on future social and infrastructure initiatives, including school placements and transportation routes. Moreover, this data empowers the municipality to address the specific needs of different neighborhoods based on demographic trends and evolving population counts.
The census ran from April 2 to June 30, 2024. Cochrane residents used unique ID door hangers to complete the census online via smartphones, tablets, or computers. Census workers also visited households to ensure comprehensive data collection. This resulted in a 97% response rate.
Loe highlighted the census's importance: "With nearly all households participating, this census provides crucial data to plan appropriately for our community's ongoing growth and development. Accurate population counts are essential for securing provincial grants and meeting the needs of our residents."
Following a provincial government decision in 2023 to reintegrate municipality-collected data, the Town resumed its census practices after a hiatus caused by the Province’s adoption of a new population estimation model in 2020 that no longer accepted municipal census as official data.
To celebrate community engagement, one resident who guessed closest to the final population count will receive a special Cochrane prize pack. Cochrane extends its appreciation to all participants for their involvement in both the census and the "Guess our Population" contest.
The census results have been submitted to Alberta Municipal Affairs to establish official population figures. Cochrane's proactive approach to census participation underscores its commitment to informed governance and community-driven decision-making.
For more information on the census, visit Cochrane.ca/census.
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