Found amongst the Alberta prairies where the big, blue sky meets the perfectly, planted fields, Brooks offers tons of amenities but maintains a small-town feel. Did you know that the first property we ever acquired was right here in the city of Brooks? 24 townhomes bought in 2006 was the beginning of Avenue Living Communities. But we're not the only ones who love this city.
Brooks' population has been steadily increasing year after year, a total of 5.9 per cent over the past five years. In 2019, 15,671 people called this city home. This area also has plenty of work in a variety of industries. Half of the Brooks workforce is employed by sales and service; trades, transport and equipment-related operators; as well as utilities and manufacturing occupations. As the population grows, so will the job opportunities and local services.
Why You Should Live in Brooks
Known for its convenient location on the Trans-Canada Highway between Calgary and Medicine Hat, Brooks is a common pit stop for people travelling through southern Alberta. However, it is so much more than that. Amongst its geographical location and close proximity to world-renowned Dinosaur Provincial Park — just 30 minutes away — Brooks has so much to offer in terms of attractions, amenities, activities, accommodation and employment.
Still on the fence? Here we've highlighted some of Brooks' most attractive amenities, and believe us when we say there are many, many more.
Things To Do in Brooks
Lake Newell and Kinbrook Island Provincial Park
A short 15-minute drive from this small city, you can find sandy beaches, campgrounds, sailing and other water sports — no, we're not joking. Kinbrook Island Provincial Park covers 11 square kilometres with Lake Newell running 14 kilometres long. Explore this local mirage found within moments of your new home.
One of Brooks' largest parks, Duke of Sutherland is a large green space home to an outdoor waterpark, soccer field and two baseball diamonds. Here you'll find people gathering and celebrating all times of the year, particularly on Canada Day, but at a safe distance, of course.
For your quieter types, Brooks has a large library to hook you up with a good book so you can get lost in your imagination. With a wide selection of genres paired with modern design, the Brooks Public Library is a cool hideout to lounge in during the summer and a warm nook to get cozy in during the winter. Better yet, take out your books to read in and around town, try out coffee shops, park benches or your new comfortable apartment.
Top Spots to Shop in Brooks
Whether you are looking for new clothes, household items or groceries, there are ample options for you to choose from in this small city. Here are some proud Brooks establishments that you could frequent when you live here:
Brooks Home Hardware: Everything you need for all your future home improvements.
Bare Essentials: Women's clothing store with exceptional service.
Country Cupboard: Quaint gift shop with knick-knacks for everyone.
Brooks Grocery: Food for everyday use from around the world.
Work N Play: Clothing store for all your work needs.
And this is just the tip of the Brooks shopping iceberg! Stroll down the wide streets here to find a new shop around every corner.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Brooks
When it comes to filling up the tank, you can find almost any cuisine your stomach desires within a short distance. As the town continues to grow, so does its food scene. Here are some of our favourites:
Beers, burgers, wings and 6-packs, this local brewery has a big menu guaranteed to have something for everyone. Piston Broke is currently open for dine-in and take-out, so enjoy the brewery vibe with your eats or take out to indulge wherever you please.
It's taco Tuesday, so where do you go? Don Chava, of course! This family restaurant serves up fresh tacos, guac and all the Mexican eats you can imagine made from scratch on the daily. Quality tacos at your immediate disposal alone is a good enough of a reason to move to Brooks — right?
Get ready for an explosion of authentic Thai cuisine, because this hot spot really knocks it out of the park with its flavourful dishes. Pad Thai, mouth-watering fried rice, green curry and fresh salad rolls are a few ways to satisfy your appetite when dining at Wasana Restaurant.
A-1 Pizza
A local pizza joint is a must wherever you decide to live, and Brooks has this covered. A-1 Pizza is said to have one of the best pizza recipes around, with raving reviews from countless customers about their affordable prices and scrumptious taste. Good pizza in the neighbourhood? Check!
Best Apartments in Brooks
Now that you've seen all that Brooks has to offer, it's time to find your next home. Avenue Living Communities has been providing dependable, affordable housing here in Brooks for over 15 years, and we continually update and improve our properties, allowing us to better serve our residents. Here are four of our local spots that you can call home (and yes, they're all pet-friendly!):
These two-bedroom suites feature a balcony, dishwasher, air conditioning, and so much more.
At this Brooks location, find in-suite laundry, a sun deck, walk-in closets and nearby attractions within walking distance.
Find three-bedroom suites at this Avenue Living Communities property, complete with in-suite laundry, storage and dishwasher availability.
Here you'll see both one- and two-bedroom apartments up for grabs, close to schools and parks.
And wait, there's more! See all our Brooks rental property listings here so that you don't find just a rental, you find a home.