When it comes to selecting a place to call home, families look for areas that offer a balance of safety, accessibility, quality schools and family-friendly activities.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best neighborhoods in Vancouver BC for families, and what makes them stand out.
Top 7 Neighborhoods for Families in Vancouver, Canada
If you own a family and are looking for a neighborhood suitable for families, you should consider any of the below:
1. Kitsilano: A Vibrant Coastal Community
Kitsilano, affectionately known as ‘Kits,’ is an ideal neighborhood for families in Vancouver. This area boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and boutiques lining the streets.
One of Kitsilano’s notable features is its abundance of parks. The expansive Kitsilano Beach Park is a local favorite, offering a playground, swimming pool, and beautiful views of the city skyline. There are also several excellent schools in the area, making it a top choice for families with children.
Furthermore, Kitsilano has a diverse housing market, ranging from charming heritage homes to modern condos, catering to a wide range of budgets and preferences.
2. West Point Grey: Where City Meets Nature
West Point Grey is another fantastic neighborhood for families. Located just west of the University of British Columbia, this area offers a peaceful, residential vibe while still being close to downtown.
The area is renowned for its top-tier schools, including Queen Mary Elementary and Lord Byng Secondary, both of which have consistently high rankings. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and beaches, including Jericho Beach and Pacific Spirit Regional Park, providing plenty of outdoor activities for families to enjoy together.
3. Mount Pleasant: Eclectic and Family-Friendly
Mount Pleasant, located in the heart of Vancouver, is an eclectic neighborhood that’s as family-friendly as it is artistically vibrant. The area’s unique blend of historic buildings and modern architecture creates a visually appealing backdrop for the myriad of local boutiques, craft breweries, and trendy eateries that populate its streets.
The neighborhood is known for its artistic flair, housing numerous art studios and galleries. It also hosts the annual Vancouver Mural Festival, transforming city walls into dynamic works of public art. This creative atmosphere makes Mount Pleasant a stimulating place for children to grow and learn.
Mount Pleasant Elementary and Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School are highly regarded educational institutions in the area, further enhancing its appeal for families.
Ample parks and green spaces provide outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages, while the Mount Pleasant Community Centre offers a variety of programs and facilities, including a fitness center, art studio, and childcare.
With its diverse amenities and vibrant cultural scene, Mount Pleasant offers a dynamic, family-friendly living environment that effortlessly melds the traditional with the contemporary.
4. Dunbar-Southlands: Suburban Living in the City
Dunbar-Southlands is a quiet, residential neighborhood that is perfect for families seeking a more suburban feel within the city. The area is characterized by its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and excellent schools, including St. George’s School and Southlands Elementary.
The neighborhood is also home to several parks and recreational areas, such as the Dunbar Community Centre and the Pacific Spirit Regional Park, making it an ideal area for families who love outdoor activities.
5. Kerrisdale: A Blend of Charm and Convenience
Kerrisdale is a delightful neighborhood in Vancouver’s west side, known for its harmonious blend of charm and convenience. This area offers a unique mix of architectural styles, ranging from newer houses to older bungalows, as well as various low and mid-rise rental properties.
The district is renowned for its bustling shopping district, the Kerrisdale Village. With over 200 stores, every age and taste can be accommodated here. From the best couture for baby to an oasis for your urban puppy, all needs are catered to, making it an excellent choice for families.
One of the standout features of Kerrisdale is its sense of community. It’s primarily a residential area with many long-time residents, fostering a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among inhabitants. The residential streets are lined with grand old trees, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the area and creating a serene environment that’s perfect for family living.
In addition to its residential and commercial offerings, Kerrisdale is also home to several recreational facilities. The Kerrisdale Community Centre is a popular spot, featuring an indoor pool, ice rink, and a variety of programs and activities for all ages. The neighborhood is also close to several parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and family outings.
For those interested in real estate, Kerrisdale has a lot to offer. Zillow lists 86 homes for sale in the area, ranging from cozy apartments to spacious family homes. The vibrant real estate market caters to a wide range of budgets and lifestyle preferences, enhancing the appeal of this charming neighborhood.
To sum up, Kerrisdale is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a community that welcomes everyone with its warmth, charm, and convenience. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Kerrisdale offers a lifestyle that’s hard to resist.
6. Oakridge: A Modern, Growing Neighborhood
Oakridge, located in the heart of Vancouver, is a modern, rapidly developing neighborhood. It offers a harmonious combination of residential, commercial, and green spaces, making it an excellent choice for families.
Oakridge Centre, a large shopping mall, provides numerous retail and dining options. The neighborhood is also home to Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver’s horticultural jewel, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Families will appreciate the quality schools in the area, including Dr. Annie B Jamieson Elementary and Sir Winston Churchill Secondary. With its convenient location, diverse amenities, and commitment to growth, Oakridge truly embodies a modern, family-friendly neighborhood.
7. Arbutus Ridge: A Quiet Residential Area
Arbutus Ridge, located in Vancouver’s West Side, is a quiet, affluent residential neighborhood known for its serenity and charm. The area is bordered by 16th Avenue in the north and 41st Avenue in the south, offering striking views of the North Shore.
One of the standout features of Arbutus Ridge is its architectural diversity, boasting some of Vancouver’s oldest and largest craftsman-style homes. These tree-lined streets and restored heritage houses contribute to the neighborhood’s unique character and appeal.
Arbutus Ridge is also home to several green spaces, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The neighborhood’s tranquility, coupled with its proximity to the city, makes it a desirable location for those seeking a peaceful residential setting within reach of urban amenities.
The area also houses an active adult community for those aged 50 and above, offering a variety of sports and over 40 clubs to participate in. This community boasts more than 600 homes, with prices ranging from $270,000 to over $1,000,000, catering to a wide range of lifestyle preferences and budgets.
In summary, Arbutus Ridge offers a blend of tranquility and activity, making it an attractive residential area for individuals and families alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Oakridge a good neighborhood for families?
Oakridge is a modern, rapidly developing neighborhood that offers a harmonious combination of residential, commercial, and green spaces. It's also home to quality schools and a large shopping mall, making it an excellent choice for families.
How is Mount Pleasant suitable for families?
Mount Pleasant is an eclectic and family-friendly neighborhood. It offers a blend of historic buildings and modern architecture, local boutiques, craft breweries, trendy eateries, art studios, and galleries. The area also has highly regarded educational institutions and numerous parks for outdoor recreation.
Why is Arbutus Ridge recommended for families?
Arbutus Ridge is a quiet, affluent residential neighborhood known for its serenity and charm. It features architectural diversity with some of Vancouver's oldest and largest craftsman-style homes. The area also houses several green spaces and an active adult community, making it a desirable location for those seeking peace within reach of urban amenities.
Are there good schools in these neighborhoods?
Yes, all three neighborhoods - Oakridge, Mount Pleasant, and Arbutus Ridge have highly regarded schools. Oakridge is home to Dr. Annie B Jamieson Elementary and Sir Winston Churchill Secondary. Mount Pleasant has Mount Pleasant Elementary and Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School.
What recreational activities are available in these neighborhoods?
These neighborhoods offer a variety of recreational activities. Oakridge has Queen Elizabeth Park for outdoor activities and a shopping mall for retail therapy. Mount Pleasant is known for its artistic flair with numerous art studios and galleries, and an annual Vancouver Mural Festival. Arbutus Ridge has several green spaces for outdoor activities.
What types of properties are available in these neighborhoods?
These neighborhoods offer a variety of properties ranging from modern apartments to craftsman-style homes. Prices vary based on location, size, and amenities.
Conclusion
Vancouver BC offers a variety of neighborhoods that are perfect for families. From the vibrant community of Kitsilano to the peaceful surroundings of West Point Grey, there is a place for every family in this beautiful city. Each neighborhood has its unique charm and amenities, making Vancouver BC a fantastic place to raise a family.
