Pros And Cons Of Living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, 2023

Are you planning a move to Canada but looking for a peaceful rural location away from the big cities? If so, you may be interested in living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, just one of the many attractive small towns in Saskatchewan.

Swift Current is a small attractive city with excellent amenities and a great community. The surrounding countryside is beautiful and, unlike much of Saskatchewan, has rolling hills.

This article will give you all the key information you need, and we will provide you with an unbiased view of the pros and cons of living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Living In Swift Current, Saskatchewan – The Facts

Here are a few key facts about this small town for anyone interested in living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

Where Is Swift Current?

Swift Current lies in rural southwest Saskatchewan on Highway 1, almost mid-way between Medicine Hat (in Alberta) and Regina. Regina, the provincial capital, lies around 250 kilometres to the east and is close to a 3-hour drive.

This small city is also relatively close to the US border. The closest border crossing is at Monchy, which is around 150 kilometres directly south.

What Is The Population Of Swift Current in 2023?

The population of Swift Current in 2023 is around 16,800. The city has seen some growth in population in recent years, albeit at a modest rate, which aligns with the growth trend observed in many other Canadian cities and towns.

The latest federal census data (released in 2022) showed a population of 16,750, representing a slight increase in the population of Swift Current of 0.9% between 2016 and 2021.

The average age of the population is 43.1, slightly above the national average of 41.9, and the population of Swift Current is predominantly white and English-speaking.

According to the latest census data, visible minorities account for around 14.3% of the population. The largest minority group living in Swift Current is Filipino, and this group makes up around 8% of the total population.

What Is The Weather In Swift Current Like?

Most of Canada experiences cold, harsh winters with moderately hot summers, and Saskatchewan is no different. However, its location in central Canada, away from any major bodies of water, means that temperatures tend to be more extreme than in other parts of the country.

Saskatchewan has very harsh winters, where temperatures will likely remain below zero for several months. In the south of the province, summers are hot, and high humidity can make these months uncomfortable.

However, the good news is that Saskatchewan competes with Alberta for the title of the sunniest province in Canada.

Swift Current has an average July high of 25°C and an average January low of -15°C. The area is quite dry, with total annual precipitation of just 393mm and high sunshine hours, which are typical of the province.

What Is The Cost of Living Like In Swift Current?

Most immigrants find the cost of living high in Canada. However, Saskatchewan is one of the cheaper provinces. One of the main reasons for this is that the cost of housing is very low. The average price of a property in Saskatchewan is around 50% lower than the average for Canada.

Housing prices in Swift Current are even a little lower than the average for Saskatchewan, which helps to keep the cost of living low. Overall Swift Current provides a good standard of living at a low cost, and this is a major benefit for people living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

What Is The Swift Current Economy Based On?

Swift Current has a diverse and thriving economy, with industries ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to oil and gas, tourism, and services. Agriculture is the primary economic driver in the area, with related businesses such as equipment dealerships, processing facilities, and grain elevators contributing to the economy.

The city’s strategic location along the Trans Canada Highway also makes it an ideal hub for transportation and logistics. Despite low oil prices, Swift Current’s economy has remained steady, with strong investment in the city.

Is Swift Current A Safe Place To Live?

Canada is one of the safest countries in the world to live in. Crime rates are low, and the country always features near the top of the annual Global Peace Index rankings.

Within Canada, Quebec, Ontario and the Maritime provinces have the lowest crime rates, while rates are highest in the territories. Crime rates in Saskatchewan are around twice the national average.

However, Swift Current is a safe place to live. Crime rates (including violent crime rates) are significantly lower than provincial averages.

What Are The Schools In Swift Current Like?

Canada has a strong and publicly-funded education system, which consistently ranks as one of the best in the world. Education is administered at a provincial level, so there are differences between provinces, for example, in the curriculums.

Swift Current has five public elementary schools (one of which is a Christian school), and Swift Current Comprehensive High School is the main high school in the city. In addition, Maverick School is a distance learning facility for grades 10 to 12. Dual-track French immersion is available for those that are interested.

The city also has a campus of Great Plains College, a post-secondary education institution providing numerous training options. This includes grade 12 courses, first-year university programs and business-related training.

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What Is The Healthcare In Swift Current Like?

Canada has an excellent publicly-funded healthcare system which covers “medically necessary” care. Generally, hospital and doctor visits are covered, while other types of care, such as dental, optical and prescriptions, are funded for certain groups of people.

In Canada, healthcare is administered at a provincial level, so anyone living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, would be covered through the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

You should be aware that there is currently a shortage of family doctors in much of Canada, and it can be difficult to find clinics taking on new patients. This is especially true of the smaller towns and cities. However, you can use the government’s Saskatchewan Health Authority list to find doctors in the area that are taking on new patients.

Swift Current is home to a regional hospital which provides services to local residents and also supports the smaller community hospitals in the region. Cypress Regional Hospital offers emergency and diagnostic services and a range of inpatient and outpatient facilities.

Pros And Cons Of Living in Swift Current Saskatchewan

The pros and cons of living in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, will vary from person to person, but whatever you are looking for, these are key factors for you to consider.

FAQ – Living in Swift Current Saskatchewan