Located on the Southwest corner of British Columbia, Vancouver is one of Canada’s major urban hubs. Surrounded by the ocean, the city has incredible views, a mild climate, and is a hot spot for those looking to relocate. It’s home to many tourist attractions, exceptional amenities and is considered one of the best places to live. It is incredibly diverse and over half the population has a first language other than English. The city is expansive and has many great neighbourhoods to choose from. Here are some of the best communities in the city.
Downtown (West End, Coal Harbour, Gastown, Yaletown)
If you’re looking for the ultimate in downtown living, Vancouver offers it in spades. Downtown Vancouver includes the West End, Coal Harbour, Gastown, and Yaletown. If you are looking to live Downtown, you can expect to live in a condo or high-rise building. The Vancouver real estate market is very competitive and has some of Canada’s highest prices, next to Toronto. If you’re looking to buy or rent in Downtown Vancouver, you should expect expensive prices but fabulous amenities.
West End: West End is the most affordable of the Downtown area, and it’s located close to Stanley Park and the ocean. West End is a dreamy place to live, and it’s the most diverse area in Downtown. It boasts a great mix of international residents, immigrants, and Canadians of all ages, creating a vibrant community and popular place to call home. There are a variety of home styles in this area, including townhomes and high-rise condos. West End has always been a popular place for the LGBT community within the city.
Coal Harbour: The northern part of the Downtown area, Coal Harbour, is one of the most affluent communities in Vancouver. Many retirees and older professionals call Coal Harbour home, and it has mostly high-rise condo living.
Gastown: The eastern part of the downtown area is Gastown. Gastown is as old as Canada, as it was established in 1867, the same year Canada was recognized as a nation. While it’s close to the impoverished area of the city, East Hastings, the community is experiencing growth. It has an eclectic mix of real estate options, historic charm, fantastic restaurants, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. It’s relatively affordable for the area.
Yaletown: Located in the southeastern part of Downtown, Yaletown is one of the most well-known districts in Vancouver. It was previously a rail yard, and the railway loading docks have been converted into trendy businesses and restaurants. Warehouses have been converted into lofts. It has an upscale atmosphere as there are many fine-dining spots, boutiques, popular night clubs, and direct access to the False Creek Marina. It’s the ultimate place for an elite lifestyle. Renting and purchasing in Yaletown is admittedly expensive and is mostly condo-living.
Real Estate
Downtown Vancouver’s real estate is mostly comprised of condos and apartments with the occasional single-family home. Condos can cost between $300,000 and can cost over $10 million. There are many new buildings currently being developed for more housing options. Single-family homes can cost up to $33 million.
Schools
Public elementary schools that serve the Downtown area include Lord Roberts Annex and Crosstown Elementary School. Private elementary schools include Madrona School, The Westside School, and Anchor Point Montessori School. King George Secondary School is the only public high school in the area. Private high schools include Pattison School, Columbia Academy, Alexander Academy, Pattison High School, and Lowell High School.
What’s Nearby
Part of what makes Vancouver’s Downtown area so desirable is its walkability, excellent and trendy businesses, and attractions. Minutes away is the shopping district of Robson Street and the Pacific Centre Mall, the entertainment district of Granville Street, the business district, world-class dining options, the sea wall, and the treasured Stanley Park. It’s a bit easier to walk around, bike, or take transit around the downtown area versus driving, but everything you need is within minutes away.
Commutes
Residents who live Downtown typically opt for walking to work, biking if the weather permits, or taking public transit. Driving is not ideal in the Downtown area due to traffic and congestion, but it’s not impossible. Since many people live in neighbouring cities and commute into Vancouver, Downtown is the hub for traffic.
Travel to Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 31.6 km or 43 minutes
Surrey: 33.8 km or 45 minutes
Maple Ridge: 44 km or 50 minutes
Langley: 49.7 km or 54 minutes
Kitsilano, Vancouver, BC
Kitsilano, or Kits, is located west of the downtown area and is a family-friendly community and a perfect place for students to call home. It’s a very popular community because it has the best beaches, incredible views and is the quintessential Vancouver hot spot. Kitsilano Beach and Jericho Beach are some of the most beautiful places in the city. During the summer, there’s always something to do in the community. For those who like to stay active, there are numerous outdoor activities to partake in, but there are also many fitness and yoga studios and organic markets. It’s also near Vancouver’s Greektown. Interested buyers can expect higher real estate prices closer to the water and lower prices the further westbound towards the university.
Real Estate
Kitsilano’s real estate market is on par with the rest of Vancouver and has homes ranging from $300,000 to over $30 million. The typical home type is high-rise condos, but there are many luxury single-family home properties available as well.
Schools
Public schools that serve Kitsilano include Bayview Elementary, Gordon Elementary (French Immersion), Henry Hudson Elementary (French Immersion), Tennyson Elementary (French Immersion), and Kitsilano Secondary. Independent schools include Fraser Academy, St. Augustine’s School, St. John’s International School, and St. John’s School.
What’s Nearby
Kitsilano is extraordinarily walkable and pedestrian-friendly, and there are excellent amenities nearby. With great shopping options, fantastic restaurants, cozy coffee shops, beautiful green parks, and grocery stores all within walking distance, it’s no surprise residents love the area.
Commutes
Kitsilano is about 5 km or 15 minutes from Downtown Vancouver, so it’s an excellent option for those who work Downtown.
Travel to Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 34.8 km or 46 minutes
Surrey: 39 km or 45 minutes
Maple Ridge: 47.3 km or 56 minutes
Langley: 52.9 km or 56 minutes
East Vancouver, Vancouver, BC
Residents call it East Van, but this section of the city is the community east of Main Street. Immediately east of Main Street is the East Hastings area. East Hastings is notoriously known for poverty and addiction, but going further east, you’ll find a popular Vancouver neighbourhood that has more affordable housing options. East Van has a laid back atmosphere and is home to many families, young professionals, and students choose to call home. Renting and purchasing in East Van is more affordable than it’s downtown counterparts and is made up of beautiful architecture and Edwardian heritage buildings. There are many trendy businesses, great local coffee shops, bars, breweries, and restaurants scattered among the community. If you want a larger home with a yard, East Van is the community to check out.
Real Estate
Homes in East Vancouver cost between $350,000 and $7 million. There are many condos, townhomes, and single-family homes to choose from, including luxury estate homes.
Schools
Public elementary schools serving East Vancouver include Lord Selkirk Elementary School, Tyee Elementary School, and Lord Selkirk Annex. Private Elementary Schools include St. Joseph’s School and Stratford Hall School. Public High Schools include Gladstone Secondary School, Vancouver Technical Secondary School, Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School, and the private Stratford Hall School.
What’s Nearby
The two main roads in East Van include Main Street and Commercial Drive. Main Streets connects East Van to Gastown and runs through Chinatown. It offers all things fashion, designer boutiques, art, restaurants, and cafes. Grocery stores are within walking distance as well. This community is the spot for local artists and designers to gather and create. Supporting local business is huge in this area as there are many makers, creators, and local restaurants and businesses. Commercial Drive is known as “The Drive.” It’s closer to the downtown area, but it has a close-knit community atmosphere with affordable prices and excellent access to transit. There are many artists in this area as well. There are many patios to frequent in the summertime, a diverse mix of cuisines and businesses, and a wide range of people from all different backgrounds.
Commutes
East Vancouver is about 6.5 km or 13 minutes from Downtown Vancouver. East Vancouver is transit-friendly, so for those who don’t drive, it’s easy to get around the are
Travel to Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 26.8 km or 27 minutes
Surrey: 29 km or 30 minutes
Maple Ridge: 39.2 km or 39 minutes
Langley: 44.9 km or 40 minutes
South Granville, Vancouver, BC
Located across the Granville Bridge, South Granville is a very popular Vancouver community. It’s located close to public transit, the University of British Columbia, the airport, and so much more. It’s slightly more affordable than downtown Vancouver with access to great amenities. It’s a very popular community because of its proximity to Downtown, a diverse range of accommodation styles, and a number of great businesses and restaurants.
Real Estate
Properties in South Granville start around $450,000 and can cost up to $5.6 million.
Schools
South Granville public schools include False Creek Elementary School, Emily Carr Elementary School, Edith Cavell Elementary School, and South Granville High School. Private schools in South Granville include Blessed Sacrament School, Westside Montessori, St. John’s International, Century High School, St.Patrick Regional Secondary School, St. John’s School, and Lowell High School.
What’s Nearby
There are many attractive amenities in South Granville. The Vancouver General Hospital is located in this community. Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most famous spots. Located just over the bridge from South Granville, the island has so much to offer. The infamous Granville Island Public Market is home to a farmers market, art gallery, waterfront restaurants, small vendors, boutiques, gift shops, and history to explore. There are so many local artists, indigenous artists, small creators, and makers to support. Grab a locally brewed coffee, some delicious gelato, or freshly baked goodies and explore the area. South Granville is bordered by West 16th Ave, West 41st Ave, Oak Street, and Arbutus Street. Running through the middle of these streets is Granville Street. The area is home to some of the best high-end shopping and some of the most popular restaurants in Vancouver. There’s so much to do and see in South Granville, and residents will never be bored.
Commutes
South Granville is only about 6 minutes from the downtown area, just over the Granville Bridge. The area is especially transit-friendly, which is great for residents who don’t drive or don’t want to purchase a car.
Travel to Nearby Cities
Coquitlam: 33 km or 35 minutes
Surrey: 35.2 km or 38 minutes
Maple Ridge: 45.4 km or 45 minutes
Langley: 51.1 km or 46 minutes
