Wheatland County

Wheatland County sits east of Calgary and offers affordable acreage living with wide-open prairie views and larger properties than you'll find closer to the city. If you're looking for significant land without the premium price tag that comes with Rocky View or Foothills counties, Wheatland delivers solid value. The county is known for its agricultural roots, strong community connections, and practical approach to rural living. Let's help you find the space you need at a price that makes sense. See the newest properties for sale below. Or click here to read more.

A river flowing through a prairie in Alberta.

Wheatland County, AB Real Estate Statistics

Average Price $1.6M
Lowest Price $240K
Highest Price $7M
Total Listings 45
Avg. Days On Market 152
Avg. Price/SQFT $687

Property Types (active listings)

See the Newest Wheatland County, Alberta Acreages 1+ Acre

Find Your Dream Acreage in Wheatland County, Alberta

Popular COMMUNITIES: Strathmore, Hussar, Cluny, Standard, Rockyford

Wheatland County extends east of Calgary and offers acreage buyers a different value proposition than counties closer to the foothills. The landscape here is characterized by rolling prairie, open skies, and agricultural land that's been farmed for generations. If you're looking for larger properties at lower prices, Wheatland is worth serious consideration.

Strathmore serves as the main service center for the county, providing schools, healthcare, shopping, and other amenities without needing to drive into Calgary for everything. The town has grown steadily over the years and offers a strong local economy while maintaining the small-town feel that attracts people to rural areas.

The county itself has a population of around 10,000 people spread across a large geographic area. That means space, privacy, and the kind of rural lifestyle where people know their neighbors and help each other out. If you're tired of the noise and congestion that comes with living near major urban centers, Wheatland offers a genuine alternative.

Why Choose Wheatland County for Your Acreage?

Affordability is the main draw. You'll get significantly more land for your money in Wheatland compared to Rocky View, Foothills, or Mountain View counties. Properties with 10-40 acres are common and priced lower than smaller acreages closer to Calgary. If your priority is space over proximity to the city, Wheatland makes financial sense.

The commute to Calgary is manageable. Highway 1 provides direct access to the city, and most properties in Wheatland County are within a 30-50 minute drive to Calgary's eastern limits. If you work in Calgary but don't want to pay city prices for housing, this commute is reasonable for many people.

The agricultural economy in Wheatland is strong. Farming and ranching remain central to the county's identity, and that creates opportunities for people interested in hobby farms, livestock operations, or simply living in a place where agriculture is valued and supported. Local infrastructure, services, and businesses cater to rural landowners in ways that urban-adjacent counties sometimes don't.

Property taxes in Wheatland County are lower than Rocky View and other counties closer to Calgary. That translates to ongoing savings that add up over time, particularly on larger properties. The county provides solid services, including road maintenance, fire protection, and emergency respons,e without the premium tax rates you'll find closer to the city.

The climate in Wheatland is typical of southern Alberta, with cold winters moderated by Chinook winds and warm summers with plenty of sunshine. The growing season supports gardens, pastures, and agricultural use, and the flatter terrain makes property management and snow removal more straightforward than in hilly or treed areas.

Popular Communities in Wheatland County

Wheatland County includes several towns and hamlets, each with its own character and local services.

  • Strathmore is the largest community in Wheatland County and serves as the main hub for shopping, schools, healthcare, and services. The town has seen steady growth and offers amenities that reduce the need to drive into Calgary regularly. Properties near Strathmore are the most accessible and tend to be priced slightly higher than areas further from town.

  • Hussar is a small hamlet east of Strathmore with a tight-knit community and lower property prices. If you're looking for affordable land and don't mind being further from Calgary, Hussar offers good value. The area is agricultural, and properties here tend to be larger with older homes or buildings that may need work.

  • Cluny sits along the Bow River and offers river access, fishing opportunities, and a quiet rural lifestyle. The hamlet is small, and services are limited, but the setting appeals to people who want privacy and natural surroundings. Properties here vary widely in size and condition.

  • Standard is a small community in the eastern part of the county with a rural character and lower property costs. The area is primarily agricultural, and acreages here tend to be larger parcels aimed at farming or ranching operations. If you're looking for significant land at the lowest possible price, this part of Wheatland delivers.

  • Rockyford is in the northern part of the county and offers affordable properties with easy access to Highway 9. The community is small, but the location provides reasonable commute times to both Calgary and Drumheller. Properties here tend to be larger and more affordable than areas closer to Strathmore.

What Acreage Living in Wheatland County Actually Looks Like

Living on an acreage in Wheatland County means embracing rural life with all its responsibilities. Most properties operate on well water and septic systems, which require regular maintenance, testing, and occasional repairs. Budgeting for these systems is important, as well as replacements or septic issues can be expensive.

Snow removal is on you. The county maintains main roads, but your driveway and property access are your responsibility. Depending on your property size, that might mean owning a plow, tractor, or hiring someone to clear snow after storms. Winter in Wheatland can bring significant snowfall, though Chinook winds often melt the accumulation quickly.

Lawn care, fence maintenance, and general upkeep take time and effort. If you have livestock, there's daily feeding, water management, shelter maintenance, and veterinary care to consider. None of this is unmanageable, but it's important to understand the time commitment involved in maintaining a rural property.

That said, the benefits outweigh the work for most people. You have space to do what you want without neighbors complaining or bylaws restricting you. Kids can play outside freely, dogs can run without leashes, and hobbies that require room, like mechanics, large-scale gardening, or raising animals, become practical.

If you work remotely, Wheatland County offers a quality of life that's hard to match. You're not dealing with traffic or noise, and the cost of living is lower than in urban areas. Calgary remains accessible when you need it, but day-to-day, you're living in a place where the pace is slower and stress levels drop.

The community aspect in Wheatland is genuine. People help each other out, whether it's lending equipment, sharing livestock knowledge, or checking in during tough weather. The connections here feel real, and that sense of community is something many residents value deeply.

Wheatland County Real Estate Market Overview

The acreage market in Wheatland County offers better value per acre than counties closer to Calgary. Smaller residential acreages (2-5 acres) with decent homes typically start in the $500,000-$650,000 range, depending on condition and proximity to Strathmore. Larger properties (10-40 acres) with older homes or buildings that need work can often be found in the $400,000-$550,000 range.

Premium properties with newer builds, extensive outbuildings, and well-maintained infrastructure can exceed $800,000, but these are less common. Most buyers in Wheatland are looking for value and space rather than luxury finishes, so the market reflects that priority.

Zoning in Wheatland County typically allows for residential use with agricultural activity. That means you can keep horses, cattle, chickens, and other livestock without special permits. Larger commercial farming operations may have different zoning requirements, but hobby farms and small-scale agriculture are generally supported.

Inventory varies seasonally, with more properties listed in spring and summer. Competition is less intense than in Rocky View or Foothills counties, so buyers have more time to evaluate properties and negotiate offers. Properties that need work or are further from Strathmore tend to sit on the market longer, which can create opportunities for buyers willing to take on projects.

The market in Wheatland has remained relatively stable over the years. Property values don't experience the rapid appreciation seen in counties closer to Calgary, but they also don't see the same volatility. If you're looking for a place to settle long-term rather than an investment property, Wheatland offers stability and affordability.

Things to Do in Wheatland County

Wheatland County offers outdoor recreation focused on wide-open spaces and natural settings. The Bow River runs through portions of the county and provides fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Local reservoirs and dugouts attract waterfowl and offer peaceful spots to spend time outdoors.

For families, Strathmore has parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, and recreational facilities. The town hosts seasonal events, farmers' markets, and community activities that bring people together throughout the year. Youth sports leagues, 4-H clubs, and other programs connect kids with peers and teach skills related to agriculture and rural living.

Drumheller is less than an hour away and offers access to the Canadian Badlands, dinosaur museums, and unique geological formations. It's a popular day trip destination for families and provides activities that aren't available closer to Calgary.

Calgary is within reasonable driving distance when you want access to professional sports, concerts, museums, shopping, and dining. Most residents find they don't need to go into the city as often as they expected, but having it accessible for occasional trips is convenient.

For people interested in agriculture, Wheatland County has a strong network of agricultural societies, livestock associations, and farming organizations. Local events like rodeos, agricultural fairs, and auctions are common and provide opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests.

Ready to Find Your Wheatland County Acreage?

We work with buyers throughout Wheatland County and understand what to look for when evaluating acreage properties in this area. Whether you're moving from Calgary, relocating from another province, or looking to upsize from a smaller property, we'll help you 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 Wheatland County Acreages

How much does an acreage cost in Wheatland County?

Acreages in Wheatland County typically range from $400,000 to $800,000, depending on size, condition, and location. Smaller properties (2-5 acres) near Strathmore start around $500,000-$650,000, while larger acreages (10-40 acres) with older homes can be found in the $400,000-$550,000 range. Premium properties with newer builds and extensive amenities can exceed $800,000, but are less common than in counties closer to Calgary.

How far is Wheatland County from Calgary?

Wheatland County begins approximately 30 kilometers east of Calgary, with most properties offering commute times of 30-50 minutes to the city via Highway 1. Properties near Strathmore are closest to Calgary, while acreages in the eastern parts of the county add 10-20 minutes to the drive. The commute is straightforward year-round with minimal traffic congestion.

Is Wheatland County cheaper than Rocky View County?

Yes, Wheatland County is significantly more affordable than Rocky View County. You'll typically get larger properties at lower prices in Wheatland compared to Rocky View, and property taxes are also lower. The tradeoff is a slightly longer commute to Calgary and less proximity to the foothills and mountains, but for buyers prioritizing affordability and space, Wheatland offers better value.

What utilities are available on acreages in Wheatland County?

Most acreages in Wheatland County operate on well water and septic systems rather than municipal services. Electricity is standard across all properties, and internet availability has improved with fixed wireless and satellite options, though speeds may be slower than in urban areas. Natural gas availability varies by property location, with some acreages connected to lines and others using propane for heating.

Can you have horses on an acreage in Wheatland County?

Yes, horses are permitted on most acreages in Wheatland County. The county's agricultural zoning supports equestrian use, and many properties include pasture, barns, and fencing suitable for horses. Wheatland's flatter terrain and lower property costs make it attractive for horse owners who need significant grazing land at affordable prices.

Can you farm in Wheatland County?

Yes, Wheatland County has a strong agricultural economy and supports farming operations of all sizes. Whether you're interested in hobby farming, raising livestock, or larger-scale agricultural production, the county's zoning and infrastructure accommodate these activities. Many properties come with existing barns, outbuildings, and fenced pasture suitable for farming or ranching.

What is Strathmore known for?

Strathmore is known as the main service center for Wheatland County and has a strong agricultural heritage. The town has grown steadily and offers schools, healthcare, shopping, and recreational facilities. Strathmore is home to the annual Strathmore Stampede, one of the largest rodeos in the region, and maintains a small-town atmosphere while providing modern amenities.

What is the commute like from Strathmore to Calgary?

The commute from Strathmore to Calgary takes approximately 30-40 minutes via Highway 1, depending on where you work in the city. The drive is straightforward with minimal traffic compared to routes into Calgary from other directions. Many people who work in Calgary choose to live in Strathmore or the surrounding area for the lower cost of living and larger properties.

Are property taxes lower in Wheatland County?

Yes, property taxes in Wheatland County are generally lower than those in Rocky View County and other surrounding counties near Calgary. The county provides essential services, including road maintenance, fire protection, and emergency response, but at lower premium tax rates compared to more densely populated areas. Lower taxes combined with affordable property prices make Wheatland attractive for buyers on a budget.

What are the pros and cons of living in Wheatland County?

Pros include significantly lower property costs than counties near Calgary, larger acreages available, lower property taxes, a strong agricultural community and support services, wide-open prairie views, less competition for properties, and access to Calgary when needed. Cons include longer commute times to Calgary compared to Rocky View or Foothills counties, fewer immediate amenities outside of Strathmore, flatter terrain with less scenic variety, and potentially slower internet speeds in some areas.


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