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Chatham and Area

​​Chatham is the urban hub and geographic center of Chatham-Kent, with a population of 45,171. The Thames River flows through the city, providing a beautiful backdrop for the historic downtown area.

Locals enjoy an attractive lifestyle that is not possible in many larger urban centers. With reasonable house prices, urban amenities, and proximity to natural attractions, Chatham is the perfect base for young families, professionals, and retirees. Home to the Chatham Campus of the St Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology and the main campus of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham also welcomes large numbers of college students and medical residents every autumn. Families have the most choice of education options in Chatham with private and public school options across the community.

Chatham has become an attractive place for businesses of all sizes. Companies such as Enbridge Gas, Corteva Agriscience​, and the internet and telecommunications provider Teksavvy​ have established a significant presence in the community. From major corporate operations to thriving local enterprises, Chatham offers diverse employment opportunities across multiple sectors.​

Chatham's historic downtown is easily accessible from any location in the city. The main street is home to beautiful boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, many located in carefully restored turn-of-the-century buildings. The Retro Suites Hotel is a must-see for visitors and is a popular choice for wedding parties. Locals head to the hotel for dinner at the Suite 46​, grab a coffee and a quick bite next door at Crow City Coffee, or head down the street to Sons of Kent for locally brewed beer.

Downtown Chatham is also home to the Chatham Capitol Theatre and the Cultural Centre  which host art exhibits and theatrical productions from local artists to world renowned shows. The Cultural Centre also offers workshops and classes, the Thames Art Gallery, and the Imagination Station for families to enjoy. Numerous festivals and special events take place in historic downtown Chatham, including Retrofest, a popular classic car festival, and Crowfest, a multi-day event in October offering something for everyone in the family.

Chatham offers a wide range of recreational and entertainment options. Residents enjoy evenings out at Galaxy Cinema and Cascades Casino for fun nights out, as well as various diverse restaurants, cafes, and shops. TFamilies have access to indoor attractions such as  Magic Land and Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park as well as a modern YMCA facility  offering affordable recreation for all ages. The Chatham-Kent Racquet Centre​ and CK Flex Plex​ further enhance the community's active lifestyle, providing high-quality facilities for racquet sports, fitness, tournaments, and year-round recreation. During the summer months, Chatham residents have access to three outdoor public swimming pools and an impressive splash pad at Kingston Park. a 17 acre park. merous recreational clubs and sports teams operate throughout the city, offering opportunities for both recreational and competitive play for children and adults.​

Choose Chatham. Choose Chatham-Kent.