A rapidly growing population in the Calgary area will impact surrounding communities now and in the future.

From families to businesses, decision-making around infrastructure investment, economic well-being and environmentally responsible land use is a big deal. That's why the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board (CMRB) is prioritizing public input as it plans for the area's future.

Does the relaxing tranquility of acreage living have to mean losing the energy and convenience of city life? Not at Aventerra Estates, Rocky View County's newest acreage-living community.

When Dream Development rolled out Vista Crossing, it didn't just bring new housing options to the town of Crossfield – it completely changed expectations of what residential development could look like in the town.

Proximity to Calgary, affordable home prices and a variety of nearby amenities are making two towns in Mountain View County enticing options for house hunters willing to commute.

At about 40 minutes and 30 minutes from Calgary, respectively, Didsbury and Carstairs have helped some homebuyers balance a job in the city with the benefits of rural life.

Lowell Harder and Lee Edwards are longtime residents of the Bragg Creek area, and both men are quick to list the many benefits of living in this scenic, tight-knit community.

If you're a city dweller who has dismissed the small-town lifestyle due to outdated ideas about commute times and amenities, it might be time for a second look at life in Beiseker and Irricana. Recent years have seen progressive changes to these small towns' populations, services and accessibility.

With its roots in southern Alberta's agriculture and ranching history, Claresholm is a town with plenty of old-world charm. It's also a place that embraces a strong sense of connection and community – just ask anyone who lives there.

One of Rocky View County's best-kept secrets, the picturesque hamlet of Langdon is starting to turn heads, as its wide-open spaces and country charm place it firmly in the spotlight.

As home of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and world-class equestrian hub Spruce Meadows, it's no wonder many Calgary-area homebuyers have horses on the brain.

For horse lovers of all breeds – including pleasure riders, cowboys and competitive show jumpers – the region offers a premium selection of properties for those looking to enjoy the best of the horse world right in their own backyards.

Where can you take in mountain views, watch wildlife and enjoy a peaceful acreage lifestyle, all while still being able to access downtown Calgary in under half an hour? According to residents, the answer is the communities of Springbank and Bearspaw on Calgary's northwestern fringe.