Return To Live

The Alberta Special Areas are populated with vibrant communities with your major amenities provided.

  • Housing
  • Education
  • Health Services
  • Rural Charm and more!

Keep it Rural.
Live your Dream Life!

Alberta’s overall cost of living including housing, entertainment and taxes is one of the lowest in Canada, giving you more disposable income to enjoy.

Average Annual Income

$88,000 median household income

Housing

The average residential home value is $150,000. Average acreage is $550,000

Utilities

The monthly average household utilities $450.00

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Distinct Seasons
Semi-Arid to Continental Climate
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Days of Sunshine
WINTER: October – March

Winter temperatures can vary widely but often range from about -20°C to 0°C. Extreme cold snaps can see temperatures dropping below -30°C, especially at night.  Snow is common in winter, contributing to beautiful white landscapes.

SUMMER: June – September
Summer is crucial for crop producers as it serves as the main growing season. Temperatures during this period usually range from 15°C to 30°C
SPRING & FALL
During these transitional seasons, temperatures can be quite variable. In spring and fall, daytime temperatures might range from 5°C to 20°C, with cooler temperatures in the early parts of spring and later parts of fall. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, especially in late fall and early spring.
PRECIPITATION & SUNSHINE
While temperature is a key aspect of the climate, the semi-arid characteristics mean precipitation is limited, and the area enjoys high levels of sunshine throughout the year. This contributes to the potential for significant diurnal temperature variations, particularly in summer when the difference between daytime highs and nighttime lows can be quite pronounced.

Current Temperature

Oyen, CA
-9°
Cloudy
8:08 am4:17 pm MST
Feels like: -15°C
Wind: 13km/h N
Humidity: 89%
Pressure: 1021mbar
UV index: 0
10 am11 am12 pm1 pm2 pm
-9°C
-10°C
-10°C
-10°C
-10°C
SatSunMonTueWed
-15°C / -19°C
-10°C / -13°C
-4°C / -6°C
-2°C / -18°C
-11°C / -16°C
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School Divisions
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Academies & Special Programs

Education in the Special Areas (2, 3, and 4) of Alberta is characterized by a strong commitment to providing a well-rounded and comprehensive educational experience. School divisions such as Prairie Rose, serving students in Oyen, Acadia Valley, New Brigden, Jenner, and communities within Special Areas 2, 3, and 4, alongside Prairieland School Division catering to Hanna, Youngstown, Cessford, Consort, Veteran, and Altario, and the Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools with a K-6 institution in Oyen, emphasize not only academic excellence but also the importance of extracurricular activities.

Many schools within these divisions offer themed schools of excellence, providing specialized instruction to foster both academic and extracurricular talents. Notably, sports academies, including ball academies that attract students from across Canada, demonstrate a commitment to developing athletic skills alongside academic growth. In these rural communities, small schools serve as incubators for exceptional talent, with individuals achieving world champion recognition in their respective sports—highlighting the potential of these communities to nurture athletes who compete on the global stage.

Beyond athletics, small class sizes and innovative learning programs create a unique educational experience. Programs like rodeo/equine academies in the north, agricultural academies, health care aide training, makerspaces, archery, greenhouses, and courses focused on innovation and technology allow students to pursue their passions and develop skills tailored to their interests. These programs offer students a comprehensive learning environment that prepares them for diverse career paths.

By following the Alberta curriculum and integrating these additional programs, schools in the Special Areas ensure students not only meet academic standards but also have opportunities to explore and excel in sports and other areas of personal interest, enriching their educational journey.

Prairie Rose School Division

Oyen & Area

New Brigden School
(K-5)
New Brigden, AB

Jenner School
(K-9)
Jenner, AB

Oyen Public School
(K-6)
Oyen, AB

Warren Peers School
(K-9)
Acadia Valley, AB

South Central High School
(7-12)
Oyen, AB

Prairie Land Public School

Veteran School
Consort School
Altario School
Youngstown School
Berry Creek Community School
J.C. Charyk School

Christ the Redeemer School Division

Assumption School
Kindergarten to Grade 6
Oyen, AB

Specialty Programs & Academies

Did you know?

Sean Murphy from Altario School, Vance Laughlin from Youngstown School and Holly & Natalie Karg from JCC School in Hanna competed in Africa Genesis Archery World Tournament. Sean Murphy earned world championship in Archery.

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Hospitals

In the Special Areas (2, 3, and 4) of Alberta, the health and safety of our residents stand as a testament to the community’s commitment to ensuring a high quality of life for everyone. We take immense pride in the comprehensive healthcare services provided by Alberta Health Services, which operates hospitals in Consort, Hanna, and Oyen. These facilities are staffed by dedicated healthcare professionals who deliver a wide range of medical services, from emergency care to routine health check-ups, ensuring that residents have access to essential healthcare close to home.

Within the region, three hospitals are available to serve your healthcare needs.

The Big Country Primary Care Network operates medical clinics in Hanna, and Consort and provides access to health care providers.

The Palliser Primary Care Network operates the Oyen Medical Clinic in Oyen and provides access to three full-time family physicians.

Dentists

Optometrist

Did you know?

Consort once had two esteemed physicians, Dr. Day and Dr. Knight, providing residents with dedicated care around the clock, truly living up to their names with ‘day and night’ care.

Whether you’re in the market for a brand-new detached home, or prefer the charm of an older house, finding the perfect place in one of our communities is achievable.  Similar to the rest of the country, housing is in high demand in our area. However, there are still properties available for those looking to move to our region. If you’re considering building, you have the opportunity to construct your dream home at a fraction of the cost compared to the urban jungle. In our region, housing lots start as low as $5,000, making it an incredibly affordable option for prospective homeowners.

Navigating around is a breeze, too, thanks to minimal traffic and essential amenities being just a short journey away. Without a driver’s license? No problem—our communities are designed with walkability in mind, making daily errands accessible on foot. However, for traveling between communities or venturing into the city, having a driver’s license and vehicle becomes necessary, as public transportation options are currently unavailable, and bus services have ceased.

Real Estate

Oyen, Alberta

Real Estate

Hanna, Alberta

Real Estate

Youngstown, Alberta

Real Estate

Veteran, Alberta

Real Estate

Consort, Alberta

Real Estate

Empress, Alberta

Senior Living

Acadia Foundation Seniors Housing

Assisted living for seniors is available through Acadia Foundation Seniors Housing. They provide affordable room & board for senior citizens who are functionally independent with the assistance available through existing community-based services. Facilities in Consort, Hanna, and Oyen.

Learn More