Welcome to Canmore

People from all over the world flock to Canmore for world-class skiing, outdoor adventures, and relaxing in the charming town with soaring mountains in the backdrop. However, Canmore is far more than a tourist destination. It’s also a great place to live. With a population that includes youth, families, and seniors; with schools and recreational facilities; and an enviable climate that makes it a playground all year round, more and more people are discovering the joy of living in Canmore.

Don’t be deceived by the small town, laid back, atmosphere! While you can relax here every day, there is so much to do, see, and experience. From some of the most picturesque geography in Canada to the award-winning festivals, from schools and places of worship to arts and culture, every day in Canmore is fulfilling in mind, body, and soul.

The information below discusses the many advantages of living in Canmore. There is something for everyone in this town that welcomes all. Check it out in real time with Canmore’s live webcams.

Climate

Canmore’s climate is influenced by its high altitude and mountain topography. While northern Alberta is known for reaching extreme lows during the winter, Canmore’s January averages a low of just -14.9°C, and highs of -5.3°C. A balmy spring with averages of -2.8°C low to 9.0°C high gives way to a blissful summer and fall where temperatures in the 10s and 20s make being outside a breeze, without the sweltering heat that prevents you from enjoying the great outdoors. An average of 158 frost free days keeps your gardens and flower beds beautiful, as does the average of 281 mm of rain. Of most interest to those relocating is the snowfall. An average of 244 cm annually ensures plenty of snow for skiing, ice skating, dog sledding, and other winter sports.

Notable Historic Dates

Canmore has a rich and varied history, with each year becoming part of a legacy that continues to this day:

1884: Canmore is named by Donald A. Smith, an employee of the Canadian Pacific Railway

1886: Queen Victoria grants Canmore it’s first mining charter (coal)

1890: North West Mounted Police build barracks in Canmore

1965: Canmore is incorporated as a town

1979: Canmore Mines Ltd. closes

1988: Olympic Winter Games are held in Calgary, with some sports taking place in Canmore

2020: COVID-19 impacts the region; a fast and balanced response keeps transmission rates low and allows the town to reopen in lockstep with Alberta’s Relaunch Strategy

2021: Canmore Real Estate reaches an all time high, with little inventory and high volumes of qualified buyers entering the market, monthly sales are booming

Statistics

Permanent Residents: 13,922 – non-permanent residents 3,890

Businesses: 1,482 – business growth rate between 2017-2018, was 190 new businesses

Business Taxation: an annual licence fee is charged in lieu of business tax

Residential Taxation Total Mill Rate: residential 4.97, non-residential 11.0, tourist home 9.45, vacant lot serviced 4.97

Public School: Canadian Rockies Public Schools encompasses Banff, Canmore, and Exshaw, and includes a mix of elementary, middle, and high schools

Distance to Major Centres: Canmore is 25.6 km (20 min) from Banff and 103.2 km (1 h 7 min) from Calgary when travelling on major highways

Downsizing & Mountain-Focused Living

Many people choose Canmore as a place to live a more balanced, downsized, nature-focused life. There are many luxury condos in Canmore, as well as a variety of townhomes and duplexes at all price points, to support this lifestyle. Condo living means not having to focus on home maintenance and high housing costs while still enjoying square footage that is on par with a small single-family home. There are many condos in Canmore that allow residents to either live right in town, or closer to the mountains. New developments and mature properties allow you to choose your level of luxury, or a place you can renovate to match your style. Whatever property you choose in Canmore, you are assured of a good market in a region where nature is protected, ensuring that you’ll always have access to the nature-filled life you love.

Canmore: Your Own Mountain Playground

Canmore is the perfect choice for everyone. The moderate climate allows for plenty of time outdoors during every season. The population is diverse with youth, young adults, families, and seniors represented. A bustling business climate attracts entrepreneurs.

The mix of housing provides plenty of options for everyone; young families with children, those looking to downsize, and those seeking summer vacation homes. Throughout town their are plenty of amenities including boutique shops and local restaurants alongside national chain brands and professional/medical services.

A rich history solidifies the foundation of the town as a resilient, resourceful, enduring place to call home. The mountain region grows more beautiful with each passing year.