Updated for 2026: This guide has been refreshed to reflect current planning considerations, utilities, and lifestyle factors when building a home in Three Hills, Alberta.
Do you love rural Alberta living, surrounded by open prairie skies and a slower pace of life? Three Hills is a welcoming central Alberta town located about 90 minutes northeast of Calgary. With small-town charm and practical amenities, it is an appealing option for families and homeowners looking for more space and a more grounded lifestyle.
Three Hills is part of Kneehill County, and if you are considering building here, there are a few location-specific factors you will want to understand before you start planning your new home.
Things to Know Before Building a Home in Three Hills, Alberta
There are always many things to consider before building a custom home. Here are five that are especially relevant to Three Hills and nearby rural areas.
1) Understand zoning, land use, and site considerations early
The first big decision is where your home will be built, whether that is within the town itself or on a nearby rural parcel. Your building location impacts setbacks, land use rules, utility access, and the overall approval process.
Before finalizing plans, review local bylaws, zoning categories, and planning requirements through the Municipal Planning Committee and the town’s bylaws. Doing this early helps prevent avoidable delays once design work is underway.
2) Think through commuting and employment needs
Three Hills offers a small-town economy and a tight-knit business community. For many homeowners, this is a positive change from big-city congestion and long commutes across town.
That said, if you or family members expect to change jobs, employment options can be more limited locally than in larger centres. Many residents plan for this by working remotely, commuting, or building in Three Hills with easy access to nearby hubs such as Airdrie. If you are comparing locations, you may also find it helpful to read about building a home in Airdrie.
3) Confirm utilities and service access on your exact building site
Utility availability in smaller communities can vary significantly depending on whether you build within town limits or on a rural property outside the town’s service area.
Before choosing a site, review the town’s utility billing information and utility providers. If services are not already in place, you may need to plan for additional costs such as running lines, drilling a well, or installing a septic system. Confirming these details early helps protect your timeline and budget.
4) Make sure the community lifestyle fits your family
Building a home is also about building a life. Three Hills offers everyday amenities that matter to families, including schools, healthcare services, community support programs, and recreation and social clubs.
If you have children, it is worth looking into activities, sports, and community events early, so your home design can match how your family wants to live, entertain, and spend time outdoors.
5) Plan for long-term comfort, value, and peace of mind
Many homeowners choose towns like Three Hills for the calm pace of life, the sense of safety, and the ability to build something that truly fits their needs. Smaller communities can also offer a lower cost of living and a stronger sense of connection with neighbours.
If you like the wider central Alberta lifestyle but are still comparing communities, you may also want to explore nearby areas such as Olds or the rural benefits discussed in Mountain View County.
If you’re still comparing communities, our Central Alberta home location guide outlines other towns worth considering.
Custom Home Building in Three Hills, Alberta
Building a home in a smaller community requires clear planning around site selection, utilities, approvals, and long-term construction quality. Working with an experienced builder helps ensure the process stays organized and that the finished home is built to last.
At Thomas Built Homes, we design and build homes throughout central Alberta, including smaller towns and rural properties. Whether you are planning a fully custom build or exploring a thoughtfully planned “Move-In Ready” option, every home we build is backed by our New Home Warranties.
If you are considering building a home in Three Hills, contact us today to start planning your next home.
