Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada. Many people choose Vancouver as their home because of the beautiful scenery, the endless number of things to do, and the strong economy. Vancouver spans about 115 square kilometres, and many surrounding cities make up the Greater Vancouver Area. There are plenty of great communities in the city that are ideal for families and raising children.
Dunbar
Overlooking Vancouver, the Dunbar community often tops most family-friendly community lists. Also considered Dunbar-Southlands, the established community is ideal for parents and children. Even the restaurants are mostly kid-friendly, including popular spots like Jethro’s Fine Grub and Kokopello Cafe. The Dunbar Community Centre is an excellent place for dance lessons, fitness classes, and ping pong. There are daycare services and learning at Dunbar Memorial Preschool inside the centre. The quiet, tree-lined streets make living in the big city feel like a suburban oasis.
Schools
Dunbar is next to the community of Point Grey, so they are served by the same schools. The areas are served by Queen Elizabeth Elementary, Queen Mary Elementary, Kitchener Elementary School, Jules Quesnel Elementary (French Immersion), Lord Byng Secondary School, and Prince of Wales Secondary School. Private school West Point Grey Academy is in the area and considered one of the best private schools in the entire province.
What’s Nearby
The mature community of Dunbar-Southlands has everything residents need at their fingertips. There are plenty of parks to visit and enjoy with kids, the Dunbar Village Shopping area, and the McCleery Golf Course. Residents have everyday needs covered with grocery stores, pharmacies, and retailers nearby. Parents of high school students are close to the University of British Columbia when it comes time for post-secondary education.
Commutes
It takes about 20 minutes to get to downtown Vancouver from Dunbar by car. There are plenty of public transit options in the area, as well.
Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 36.1 km or 40 minutes
Surrey: 38.1 km or 45 minutes
Maple Ridge: 48.4 km or 60 minutes
Langley: 53.5 km or 65 minutes
The West End
The West End is located in the heart of Vancouver’s city centre, but it hardly feels that way. There are quiet tree-lined streets that are pedestrian-only, tall condo buildings and beautiful Victorian-style homes. The real estate market in this area of the city is a huge draw for families. With proximity to The Vancouver Aquatic Centre, Second Beach Pool, English Bay Beach, and Stanley Park, there’s an endless number of family-friendly activities to do at all times. The charming part of town welcomes everyone from families to young professionals, and it offers the amenities and lifestyles that fit a variety of homeowners. For parents who work downtown, the community is minimal, and there’s ample public transit if needed.
Schools
Schools that serve the West End include Lord Roberts Elementary and King George Secondary School. King George offers an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme for grade six to ten students.
What’s Nearby
Bounded by water on three sides, the West End is a beautiful spot in Vancouver. With views of English Bay, Coal Harbour, and Lost Lagoon, residents have a lot to enjoy. World-famous Stanley Park is at your disposal anytime. The high-density area has plenty of recreational activities to enjoy. It is home to Davie Village, known for its large LGBT+ community and Denman Street for shopping and restaurants. The luxury retailers on Robson and Alberni Street are minutes away for those who love retail therapy. You’ll always see people out and about, going for a jog, walking their dogs, or taking in the scenery. Some of Vancouver’s best restaurants call the West End home. As one of the oldest communities in the city, it has some local gems that residents love.
Commutes
Being located in the downtown core, for those who work downtown, the commute is short. There is plenty of transit to get to other areas of the city.
Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 33.3 km or 40 minutes
Surrey: 37.8 km or 55 minutes
Maple Ridge: 54.9 km or 60 minutes
Langley: 60.7 km or 100 minutes
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is an ideal community among first-time buyers, young professionals, and families. With many real estate options that provide a white-picket-fence lifestyle with a yard for the kids, Mount Pleasant is the place to look in Vancouver. Mount Pleasant lives up to its name, and it’s one of the most pleasant communities in the city. On top of the beautiful homes, there are plenty of amenities nearby that make living in Mount Pleasant a breeze. The community is situated between the food and arts scene by Main Street and Cambie Village. It has community centres, parks, restaurants, local businesses, and so much more. The community is a popular place for students and up-and-coming artists, but more families are moving in. Around 60% of residents are under 40. The welcoming community may be part of a bustling city, but it has a tight-knit group of residents who are laid back and neighbourly.
Schools
Mount Pleasant has access to excellent schools for students. The public schools that serve the area include Mount Pleasant Elementary, David Livingstone Elementary, Florence Nightingale Elementary School, Simon Fraser Elementary School, and Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School. Sir Charles has an extensive mini school program for advanced students.
What’s Nearby
Mount Pleasant has so much to offer residents. Main Street is minutes away, and it’s the best spot in the city to find amazing eats from various cuisines. There are fantastic options around the city for vegetarians, vegans, and health-conscious folks, but especially in this community. Restaurants like The Acorn, Chickpea, and MeeT on Main have plenty of options for those who want to live a healthier lifestyle. One of the trendiest spots is Burdock & Co. It’s one of the original farm-to-table experiences, and it’s the best place for a date night. It’s considered a must-try for tourists and residents alike. If you’re a coffee-lover, some of the best local cafes are located in Mount Pleasant. Check out Modus, 49th Parallel Café & Lucky’s Donuts and Elysian Coffee as your starting point, but there are so many others that are fantastic as well. One of the most popular draws to the neighbourhood is the craft brewery scene. While the brewery trend is continuing to grow worldwide, it’s no surprise that Vancouver would be home to some of the best. There are several tasting rooms from East 2nd Avenue to East 8th Avenue. Some of the best include 33 Acres Brewing, R&B Brewing, and Main Street Brewing Company. Since Mount Pleasant is mostly residential, residents love grabbing a coffee, having picnics in the park, and supporting local businesses. Dude Chilling Park is located two blocks east of 8th Avenue. Locals appointed the name because of the wooden sculpture in the park. In the summer, you’ll find it packed with people having picnics, doing yoga and fitness classes, and attending the farmer’s market on Sundays. For sports lovers, Nat Bailey Stadium, which is home to the Vancouver Canadians minor baseball team, often has games, complete with beer and hotdogs. Across from the stadium is Queen Elizabeth Park, which has some of the best views because it’s the highest point in the city.
Commutes
Mount Pleasant is about 5 to 12 minutes from the downtown core.
Nearby Cities
Surrey: 25.2 km or 35 minutes
Coquitlam: 30 km or 40 minutes
Maple Ridge: 42.3 km or 50 minutes
Langley: 48.1 km or 55 minutes
West Point Grey
One of the oldest communities in the city, West Point Grey is the picture-perfect family community. Nestled on the tip of the peninsula on the west side, there’s plenty of scenery to admire. The community is between an abundance of nature and the University of British Columbia. Spanish Banks Beach and Pacific Spirit Park are great places to spend the day with kids without spending any money. West Point Grey has a strong sense of community. There are plenty of events held annually for neighbours to get to know one another, like Point Grey Fiesta at Trimble Park. The weekend-long carnival is full of fun attractions and rides. West Point Grey neighbours Dunbar, which is another safe, family-friendly community, and it’s a peaceful area. It’s a slice of suburbia among the hustle and bustle of busy Vancouver.
Schools
West Point Grey beside the Dunbar-Southlands community, so they are served by the same schools. The areas are served by Queen Mary Elementary, Kitchener Elementary School, Queen Elizabeth Elementary, Jules Quesnel Elementary (French Immersion), Lord Byng Secondary School, and Prince of Wales Secondary School. The prestigious private school West Point Grey Academy is considered one of the best private schools in the entire province.
What’s Nearby
Two of the cities most popular beaches are located in West Point Grey. Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks are the perfect spots to play in the water or watch the sunset. With views of English Bay and the mountains, it’s a great spot to admire the beauty of the lower mainland. Point Grey Village is a shopping district minutes away, which provides residents with access to trendy businesses and locally-owned shops. There are plenty of excellent dining options, including casual and fine dining, sushi, Mexican, and a long list of other cuisines. The West Point Grey community centre offers plenty of social programs for all ages, including preschool, fitness classes for adults and seniors, and sports for children and teens.
Commutes
It typically takes between 12 and 20 minutes to get to downtown Vancouver from West Point Grey. There are plenty of public transit options available if needed.
Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 36.1 km or 40 minutes
Surrey: 40.4 km or 45 minutes
Maple Ridge: 48.4 km or 60 minutes
Langley: 54.2 km or 70 minutes
North Vancouver
Finding a family-friendly property is very easy in North Van as the community is filled with large lots and spacious homes. It’s a more affordable community by Vancouver’s standards, and it continues to attract many families to the area. It doesn’t hurt that there’s plenty of nature to admire. Take a stroll along Lonsdale Quay or hike through Lynn Canyon Park. Residents are spoiled when it comes to day trips and family outings. The community is family-oriented and has plenty to offer children and parents alike.
Schools
North Vancouver is served by Westview Elementary, Larson Elementary, Ridgeway Elementary, Queen Mary Community Elementary, Queensbury Elementary, Carson Secondary, Sutherland Secondary, Alcuin College, St Edmunds Elementary, Holy Trinity School, Bodwell High School and St. Thomas Aquinas School. It’s also home to the Vancouver Waldorf School, which is a private school that offers a curriculum for students in preschool to grade twelve. It’s one of the best private schools in the province.
What’s Nearby
North Van offers a lifestyle that residents would be hardpressed to find elsewhere. For those who love the outdoors, there’s so much to explore. The Capilano and Lynn Valley Suspension Bridges, Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Seymour Mountain are all sites that are must-see adventures. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy going boating any time, water sports like wake-boarding, skiing and snowboarding all on the same day. After all the activity, dining at one of the best restaurants in the city while listening to live music is next on the list. No matter what you enjoy, you’ll find a community in North Van. Hobbies like sports, culture, arts, beer, food, or wine are all widely accepted and loved in the area.
Commutes
It takes about 15 to 30 minutes to get to downtown Vancouver from North Van, depending on traffic. Transit options are plentiful in North Van, including bus lines and the sky train.
Nearby Cities
Surrey: 32.3 km or 40 minutes
Coquitlam: 33.8 km or 40 minutes
Maple Ridge: 46.1 km or 50 minutes
Langley: 51.9 km or 55 minutes
