Our
Communities
Where Mountain Living Meets Career Opportunity
The Kootenay region is home to some of British Columbia’s most vibrant and fastest-growing communities. Nestled between towering mountain ranges and pristine lakes, these towns offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, economic opportunity, and tight-knit community spirit that makes them ideal for Early Childhood Educators and childcare professionals.
Creston by Jeff Banman / CrestonValleyPhotobank.ca.
Creston
Approved for 110 new childcare spaces
Gateway to the Kootenays
Population: 5,583 | Growth: 4.1% (2016-2021)
Nestled between the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, Creston serves as the economic hub of the beautiful Creston Valley. Known for its fruit production and agricultural heritage, this community of 5,500 offers small-town charm with all essential amenities.
Cranbrook
Regional Hub
Population: 20,499 | Growth: 2.3% (2016-2021)
As the largest city in the East Kootenays, Cranbrook serves as a regional centre for healthcare, education, and commerce. With excellent amenities, transportation links, and the College of the Rockies campus, it’s an ideal base for childcare professionals.
Cranbrook by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Invermere by Mitch Winton / KootenayRockies.com.
Invermere
Approved for 148 new childcare spaces
Columbia Valley Jewel
Population: 3,917 | Growth: 15.5% (2016-2021)
Located in the stunning Columbia Valley, Invermere has experienced remarkable growth as people discover its perfect blend of recreation and livability. With world-class skiing, hiking, and lake activities at your doorstep, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fernie
Approved for 100 new childcare spaces
Mountain Adventure Capital
Population: 6,320 | Growth: 17.1% (2016-2021)
This charming mountain town has seen explosive growth as families discover its incredible quality of life. Famous for world-class skiing and summer recreation, Fernie combines outdoor adventure with a strong sense of community.
Fernie by Mitch Winton / KootenayRockies.com.
Nelson by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Nelson
The cultural heart of the West Kootenays
Population: 11,106 | Growth: 5.1% (2016-2021)
Nelson stands as the cultural and artistic soul of the Kootenay region, a vibrant city of over 11,000 residents that perfectly balances small-town charm with cosmopolitan amenities.
Kimberley
Approved for 148 new childcare spaces
BC's Best Small Town
Population: 8,115 | Growth: 9.3% (2016-2021)
Kimberley has earned its reputation as “BC’s Best Small Town” through an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and genuine community spirit.
Kimberley by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Golden by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Golden
Gateway to six national parks
Population: 3,708 | Growth: 7.5% (2016-2021)
Golden is the adventure capital of the Canadian Rockies, a dynamic mountain town perfectly positioned at the confluence of the Columbia River and Kicking Horse River, surrounded by six national parks.
Kaslo
The "Little Switzerland of Canada"
Population: 1,049 | Growth: 8.4% (2016-2021)
Kaslo is a jewel of the West Kootenays, a charming village nestled on the pristine shores of Kootenay Lake. Known as the “Little Switzerland of Canada,” Kaslo combines turn-of-the-century heritage charm with a modern mountain lifestyle, creating an idyllic setting for families seeking a peaceful, connected community.
Kalso by Mitch Winton / KootenayRockies.com.
Grand Forks by Tina Bryan / Boundary Country Tourism
Grand Forks
Gateway to the Boundary Country
Population: 4,112 | Growth: 1.6% (2016-2021)
Located at the confluence of the Granby and Kettle Rivers in the Boundary Country, Grand Forks serves as the region’s economic hub. This agricultural community offers small-town charm with mountain valley living and proximity to Christina Lake recreation.
Nakusp
Hot springs haven of the Arrow Lakes
Population: 1,590 | Stable growth rate
Nestled on Upper Arrow Lake between the Selkirk and Monashee ranges, Nakusp is renowned for its natural hot springs and stunning lakeside setting. This peaceful village offers excellent recreational facilities and strong community spirit.
Nakusp by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
New Denver by Lauren Powers / Arrow Slocan Tourism
New Denver
Jewel of Slocan Lake
Population: 487 | Growth: 3.0% (2016-2021)
Set on pristine Slocan Lake in the Selkirk Mountains, New Denver combines mining heritage with mountain living. Home to the Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre, this intimate village offers spectacular wilderness access and rich cultural history.
Trail
The Silver City
Population: 7,920 | Growth: 2.7% (2016-2021)
Known as the “Silver City,” Trail is an industrial community along the Columbia River with strong Italian heritage. Home to major smelting operations and the Kootenays’ largest hospital, it offers stable employment and distinctive cultural character.
Towards Trail by Kari Medig / KootenayRockies.com.
Castlegar by Mitch Winton / KootenayRockies.com.
Castlegar
Where two rivers meet
Population: 8,338 | Growth: 3.7% (2016-2021)
Positioned at the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers confluence, Castlegar serves as a regional transportation and education hub. Home to Selkirk College’s main campus and regional airport, it offers excellent connectivity and educational opportunities.
Get your community involved
Is your community interested in childcare development support? Do you operate a childcare center elsewhere in the Kootenays? We’d love to explore how we can work together to strengthen childcare services across our entire region.
Why families choose the Kootenays
Exceptional Growth & Opportunity
The region is experiencing unprecedented growth, with communities like Fernie and Invermere leading British Columbia in population increases. This growth creates demand for childcare services and career opportunities for ECEs.
Career Growth Opportunity
With rapid population growth and limited existing childcare capacity, the Kootenays represent an exceptional opportunity for Early Childhood Educators.
Strong Community Values
These communities prioritize family-friendly initiatives, education, and quality of life. Residents consistently report high satisfaction with safety, community engagement, and access to services.
Economic Diversity
While rooted in natural resources, the Kootenay economy is diversifying with growing tourism, technology, agriculture, and service sectors providing stability and opportunity.
Cultural Richness
Despite their rural setting, Kootenay communities feature vibrant arts scenes, cultural events, excellent dining, and unique local businesses that create a cosmopolitan small-town experience.
Unmatched Outdoor Recreation
From world-renowned skiing on the Powder Highway to hiking, biking, and water sports, the Kootenays offer four-season outdoor adventure literally at your doorstep. The region encompasses four national parks, 75 provincial parks, and countless recreational opportunities.
Ready to discover your new home and career in the Kootenays?
Explore our featured communities to learn more about what makes each one special, or contact us to discuss opportunities in your area.