Rocky View County, AB Real Estate Statistics
| Average Price | $2.5M |
|---|---|
| Lowest Price | $27.9K |
| Highest Price | $32.5M |
| Total Listings | 200 |
| Avg. Days On Market | 147 |
| Avg. Price/SQFT | $877 |
Property Types (active listings)
See the Newest Rocky View County, Alberta Acreages 1+ Acre
- All Listings
- Under $100,000
- $300,000 - $400,000
- $400,000 - $500,000
- $500,000 - $600,000
- $600,000 - $700,000
- $700,000 - $800,000
- $800,000 - $900,000
- $900,000 - $1,000,000
- Over $1,000,000
Find Your Dream Acreage in Rocky View County, Alberta
Popular COMMUNITIES: COchrane, Springbank, Bearspaw, Chestermere, Balzac, Delacour and Keoma, Redwood Meadows, and BRagg Creek
Rocky View County is the most popular choice for acreage buyers in the Calgary region, and for good reason. The county completely surrounds Calgary, which means you can find properties within 15 minutes of the city or push further out for more space and privacy. No matter where you land, you're close enough to access Calgary's job market, healthcare, shopping, and entertainment without dealing with the density and cost of living in the city itself.
The landscape varies significantly across the county. Western areas near the foothills offer rolling terrain and mountain views, while eastern portions tend to be flatter with larger parcels. You'll find everything from small residential acreages on a couple of acres to expansive estates with hundreds of acres, outbuildings, and fully developed equestrian facilities.
Rocky View has invested heavily in infrastructure over the years. Roads are well-maintained, high-speed internet is increasingly available, and services like fire protection and emergency response are reliable. The county has managed growth carefully, maintaining the rural character that attracts people while ensuring modern conveniences remain accessible.
Why Choose Rocky View County for Your Acreage?
Location is the primary draw. You're never far from Calgary, which makes commuting practical for work while giving you the space to live the way you want. Highway 1, Highway 1A, and other major routes provide easy access to the city from multiple directions, so you're not locked into one corridor with heavy traffic.
The county itself has a strong economy and a stable tax base. While property taxes in Rocky View are higher than some rural counties further from Calgary, they're still significantly lower than what you'd pay for a comparable property within city limits. The county provides solid services in return, including road maintenance, recreational facilities, and emergency services.
Schools throughout Rocky View are well-regarded, with options ranging from small rural schools to larger facilities in communities like Cochrane, Airdrie (adjacent to the county), and Chestermere. Families move here specifically for the education system and the ability to raise kids with space to explore and grow.
The sense of community in Rocky View is genuine. Despite the county's size and proximity to Calgary, people know their neighbors, and rural networks remain strong. Whether it's lending equipment, sharing advice, or helping out during emergencies, the connections here matter.
For outdoor recreation, you're minutes from provincial parks, the Bow River, and countless trails. The Rocky Mountains are less than an hour away for weekend trips, and local reservoirs like Ghost Lake provide fishing, boating, and water sports without needing to travel far.
Popular Communities in Rocky View County
Rocky View County is large and includes several distinct communities, each with its own character and appeal.
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Cochrane sits on the western edge of the county and has become one of the fastest-growing towns in Alberta. Properties near Cochrane offer quick access to the mountains, a strong local economy, and a town with its own identity beyond just serving Calgary commuters. Acreages here are in high demand and tend to be priced accordingly.
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Springbank is west of Calgary and known for its upscale properties, larger estates, and proximity to the Springbank Airport. If you're looking for premium acreages with mountain views and top-tier homes, this area delivers. Prices reflect the location and quality of properties available.
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Bearspaw sits northwest of Calgary along the Bow River and is one of the most exclusive areas in the county. Properties here often include significant acreage, river access, and custom-built homes. This area attracts buyers looking for privacy and natural surroundings without sacrificing convenience.
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Chestermere is a city within Rocky View County, located east of Calgary. While technically its own municipality, the surrounding acreages fall within Rocky View and offer lake access, recreational opportunities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Commute times to Calgary are short, making this area practical for people who work in the city.
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Balzac is just north of Calgary and offers larger lots with a rural feel while being extremely close to the city. If minimizing your commute is a priority, Balzac makes sense. The area has seen growth in recent years, and properties range from smaller acreages to larger parcels.
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Delacour and Keoma are, east of Calgary and tend to have larger, more affordable properties compared to areas closer to the foothills. If you're looking for significant land and don't mind a slightly longer commute, this part of the county offers good value.
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Redwood Meadows and Bragg Creek are located in the western part of the county near Kananaskis Country. These areas appeal to people who want mountain access, treed properties, and a more rugged lifestyle. The trade-off is longer commutes and fewer services compared to areas closer to Calgary.
What Acreage Living in Rocky View County Actually Looks Like
Living on an acreage in Rocky View County means taking on more responsibility than you would in the city. Most properties outside municipal boundaries operate on well water and septic systems, both of which require maintenance and occasional repairs. You'll need to budget for septic pumping, water testing, and potential system upgrades over time.
Snow removal is on you. Depending on your driveway length and property size, that might mean investing in a plow, tractor, or hiring someone to clear access after storms. Winter in Rocky View can bring significant snowfall, though Chinook winds often melt it quickly.
Lawn care, fence maintenance, and general upkeep take more time than a standard city lot. If you have animals, there's daily feeding, shelter management, and veterinary care to consider. None of this is unmanageable, but it's important to go in with realistic expectations about the time and money required.
That said, the lifestyle appeals to people for clear reasons. You have space to do what you want without neighbors complaining or bylaws restricting you. Kids can play outside, dogs can run, and hobbies that require room, like mechanics, woodworking, or large-scale gardening, become practical.
If you work from home, Rocky View offers a quality of life that's hard to match. You're not stuck in traffic, you have space for a proper home office, and Calgary remains accessible when you need it for meetings, clients, or services.
The community aspect is real. Despite being close to Calgary, Rocky View maintains a rural culture where people help each other out. Whether it's lending equipment, sharing livestock knowledge, or checking in during tough weather, the sense of connection is something many residents value.
Rocky View County Real Estate Market Overview
The acreage market in Rocky View County is competitive and varies significantly depending on location and property features. Smaller residential acreages (2-5 acres) closer to Calgary typically start around $800,000 and can exceed $1.5 million for newer builds with quality finishes and outbuildings.
Larger properties (10-40 acres) with older homes or fixer-uppers can be found in the $700,000-$900,000 range, depending on condition and location. Premium estates with extensive land, modern homes, and full equestrian facilities often exceed $2 million, particularly in areas like Springbank, Bearspaw, and western portions of the county near the foothills.
Eastern areas of Rocky View generally offer more affordable options, with larger parcels available at lower price points compared to western regions. If your priority is land over proximity to the mountains, the east side of the county provides better value per acre.
Zoning in Rocky View allows for residential use with some agricultural activity on most acreages. That means you can keep horses, chickens, and other livestock without special permits. Larger commercial operations or additional dwellings may require rezoning or development permits, so it's important to verify what's allowed before purchasing.
Inventory fluctuates seasonally, with more properties listed in spring and summer. Competition for well-priced acreages is high, and desirable properties often receive multiple offers. Working with someone who knows the local market and can move quickly is important in Rocky View's competitive environment.
Things to Do in Rocky View County
Rocky View County offers year-round recreation without needing to drive far. The Bow River runs through the county and provides fishing, rafting, and kayaking opportunities. Ghost Lake is popular for boating, camping, and water sports during the summer months.
For hiking and mountain biking, Kananaskis Country is less than an hour from most parts of the county. Bragg Creek, Elbow Falls, and countless trail systems offer outdoor activities for all skill levels. In winter, world-class skiing at resorts like Nakiska, Norquay, Sunshine, and Lake Louise is within easy reach.
Locally, the county maintains parks and recreational facilities in communities throughout Rocky View. Cochrane has swimming pools, arenas, and fitness centers, while smaller hamlets offer community halls and seasonal events that bring people together.
Calgary's amenities are always accessible when you want them. Professional sports, concerts, museums, shopping, and dining are all within a short drive. But day-to-day, most residents find they don't need to leave the county as often as they expected.
For families, youth sports leagues, 4-H programs, and other activities connect kids with peers and teach skills related to agriculture and rural living. Many acreage owners participate in local agricultural societies, equestrian clubs, and other organizations that support rural lifestyles.
Ready to Find Your Rocky View County Acreage?
We work with buyers throughout Rocky View County and understand the differences between communities, zoning regulations, and what to look for when evaluating acreage properties. Whether you're moving from Calgary, relocating from another province, or upsizing from a smaller property, we'll help you navigate the market and find the right fit.
Our team knows the local market, can connect you with lenders and inspectors who specialize in rural properties, and will walk you through every step of the process. We're not here to push you into something that doesn't make sense. We're here to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rocky View County Acreages
How much does an acreage cost in Rocky View County?
Acreages in Rocky View County typically range from $700,000 to over $2 million depending on location, size, and features. Smaller properties (2-5 acres) near Calgary start around $800,000, while larger acreages or premium estates with mountain views and extensive amenities can exceed $2 million. Eastern areas of the county generally offer more affordable options than western regions near the foothills.
How far is Rocky View County from Calgary?
Rocky View County completely surrounds Calgary, so distances vary by property location. Some acreages are within 10-15 minutes of Calgary city limits, while properties on the far edges of the county may be 45-60 minutes away. Most acreages offer commute times of 20-40 minutes to downtown Calgary via Highway 1, Highway 1A, or other major routes.
Is Rocky View County more expensive than other counties near Calgary?
Yes, Rocky View County generally has higher property prices than counties further from Calgary, like Wheatland, Kneehill, or Mountain View. The proximity to the city, developed infrastructure, and high demand drive prices up. However, Rocky View still offers better value than living within Calgary city limits, and property taxes are lower despite being higher than in more remote rural counties.
What utilities are available on acreages in Rocky View County?
Most acreages in Rocky View County operate on well water and septic systems rather than municipal services. Electricity is standard across all properties, and high-speed internet availability has improved significantly in recent years, though some areas still rely on satellite or fixed wireless service. Natural gas availability varies by location, with some properties connected to lines and others using propane.
Can you have horses on an acreage in Rocky View County?
Yes, horses are permitted on most acreages in Rocky View County. Many properties are specifically designed for equestrian use with barns, riding arenas, and fenced pasture. The county's zoning regulations typically allow horses and other livestock on residential agricultural land without requiring special permits, though setback requirements and other bylaws may apply.
Can you have chickens in Rocky View County?
Yes, chickens and other poultry are generally allowed on acreages in Rocky View County. The county has bylaws regarding minimum property sizes for keeping livestock and setback requirements from property lines, but most acreage owners can keep chickens without issue. Always verify specific regulations for your property before purchasing.
What is Springbank known for?
Springbank is known as one of the most desirable areas in Rocky View County, featuring upscale acreages, mountain views, and proximity to both Calgary and the Rockies. The area includes the Springbank Airport and attracts buyers looking for premium properties with larger lots, custom homes, and privacy. Property values in Springbank are among the highest in the county.
What is the commute like from Cochrane to Calgary?
The commute from Cochrane to Calgary typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and where you work in the city. Highway 1A and Highway 1 provide direct access to western Calgary, and the drive is straightforward year-round. Many people who work in Calgary choose to live in or near Cochrane for the lifestyle benefits and strong community.
Are property taxes high in Rocky View County?
Property taxes in Rocky View County are higher than in rural counties further from Calgary, but significantly lower than what you'd pay for a comparable property within Calgary city limits. The county provides strong services including road maintenance, fire protection, and recreational facilities. Actual tax amounts depend on property value and size, so it's important to factor this into your budget when considering a purchase.
What are the pros and cons of living in Rocky View County?
Pros include proximity to Calgary for work and amenities, strong infrastructure and services, excellent schools, diverse property options from affordable to luxury, access to mountains and outdoor recreation, and a genuine rural community feel. Cons include higher property prices than counties further from Calgary, competitive real estate market with multiple offers common, increased maintenance responsibilities compared to city living, and property taxes that are higher than more remote rural areas.
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