Overview
Foothills County is a sprawling rural municipality spanning approximately 3,600 square kilometres in southern Alberta, situated immediately south of Calgary. According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, the county is home to 23,199 residents, representing a stable 2.6 percent growth from the previous 2016 census. The region uniquely balances agricultural traditions with easy access to modern urban amenities, surrounding key communities such as Okotoks, High River, and the Town of Diamond Valley. Buyers seeking expansive properties are drawn to the area, where the current market features a and properties typically see before closing. The county offers a peaceful country atmosphere defined by majestic landscapes and vibrant local hamlets. With extensive administrative services coordinated through the municipal office in High River, residents benefit from dedicated fire protection, road maintenance, and agricultural support. Foothills County stands out as an attractive option for those desiring a rural lifestyle with the economic and infrastructural support of the surrounding metropolitan region.
Notable neighbourhoods
Foothills County encompasses several highly sought-after hamlets and rural subdivisions, each offering a distinct lifestyle. Heritage Pointe is an upscale, master-planned residential community located just south of Calgary, renowned for its luxury estate homes and the acclaimed Heritage Pointe Golf Course. To the west, the hamlet of Priddis and the adjoining Priddis Greens provide a secluded, heavily forested environment that appeals to buyers seeking premier country club living alongside pristine natural beauty. Millarville is celebrated for its deep equestrian roots, active community hall, and the famous Millarville Farmers' Market, making it a hub for those who cherish a traditional rural atmosphere. De Winton offers a blend of historical charm and expansive luxury acreages, presenting a highly attractive option for commuters desiring a quick drive to Calgary. Finally, the Aldersyde area combines residential opportunities with significant industrial corridors, serving as an important employment node and practical residential choice within the county.
Schools
Public education within Foothills County is primarily administered by the Foothills School Division (FSD), which serves approximately 8,000 students across twenty-five schools in the surrounding towns and rural areas. Key schools accessible to county residents include Red Deer Lake School and Heritage Heights School, along with major high schools in nearby Okotoks and High River, such as École Secondaire Highwood High School. The separate school system is managed by Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools, providing faith-based education alternatives throughout the region. The county is also recognized for innovative agricultural education; for example, the Vertical Farm Initiative at Oilfields School in Diamond Valley recently earned a School Board Innovation and Excellence Award. Students benefit from dual-credit programs developed in partnership with Olds College of Agriculture and Technology, allowing them to earn post-secondary credits. Further post-secondary opportunities are accessible via local committees advocating for expanded higher education, alongside swift commuting access to Bow Valley College and institutions located in Calgary.
Transit
As a sprawling rural municipality, Foothills County relies extensively on major provincial highways rather than conventional municipal bus networks. The transportation framework is anchored by Highway 2 (QEII Highway), a critical north-south corridor linking the county directly to Calgary and the United States border. To the west, Highway 22—famously known as the Cowboy Trail—connects the hamlets and provides a scenic route through the foothills. Highway 2A serves as an essential commuter and industrial artery running parallel to Highway 2, connecting De Winton, Okotoks, and High River. For public transit, residents can utilize the "On-It" Regional Transit system, a commuter service that operates routes connecting the Town of Okotoks with the Somerset LRT station in downtown Calgary. Additionally, the county manages the Foothills Regional Airport, having become the sole owner in early 2024, which supports local aviation needs. Active transportation is continually expanding, with multi-use pathways developed at facilities like the Seaman Sports Park.
Lifestyle
The lifestyle in Foothills County is intrinsically linked to the outdoors, equestrian culture, and a relaxed rural pace. Residents have unparalleled access to the Rocky Mountains and Kananaskis Country, offering endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and camping. Equestrian events are a cornerstone of the community; the world-renowned Spruce Meadows show-jumping facility sits just north of the county line, drawing international attention. Local heritage is celebrated through events like the North American Chuckwagon Races in High River and the historic Millarville Horse Races. Community recreation is strongly supported by local agricultural societies and the Northwest Foothills Recreation Board, which oversees amenities like the Cavalry FC Regional Fieldhouse and Scott Seaman Sports Rink. Buyers looking at properties here appreciate a market with 28 available options. The county’s commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage ensures a lifestyle where residents can enjoy expansive open spaces, observe local wildlife, and actively participate in a closely-knit rural community.
