B.C. was just named the second most popular province to move to in the country, far ahead of Ontario (which came in at last place) and right behind its neighbour of Alberta.
Five charming B.C. cities ranked among the top 25 growth cities in the country, and it’s clear why they draw people in. Many are opting for charming seaside communities, small-town vibes and mountain escapes, as opposed to the hustle and bustle of Vancouver life.
U-Haul just released its annual list of the top 25 Canadian growth cities for 2024, highlighting the most appealing parts of Canada to live in. The company’s growth index is based on the net gains of one-way rentals, tracked through over 2.5 million transactions annually.
B.C.’s biggest cities were absent from the list, while small cities showed up and showed out. Offering a cheaper cost of living than Vancouver, these B.C. cities are where people are going.
Chilliwack
This scenic spot in the Fraser Valley — just an hour and a half outside of Vancouver — is the perfect balance of city and nature. The beauty of the surroundings means after-work adventures like hiking or kayaking, and then there’s a vibrant downtown area and tight-knit communities throughout the city.
It’s easy to see why people are moving here. You get city perks balanced with the laid-back lifestyle of a small town and unbeatable nature to boot.
Sidney
It seems like many people are looking for a slower-paced lifestyle, and that’s what you’ll get in this small seaside town set on Vancouver Island.
It’s an idyllic community with a picturesque main street filled with local businesses. One stroll along the waterfront will likely convince you to move here, just to soak up the peaceful calm that comes with it. It’s also just 30 minutes outside of Victoria, so you won’t miss out on the city perks.
Trail
Trail is a small city in B.C.’s Kootenay region, and while it’s beautiful the real intrigue here is the cost of living. According to Living Wage BC the living wage here – which is basically what a person needs to earn hourly to meet basic expenses – is just $22.85. For reference, Metro Vancouver’s is a steep $27.05.
Then you also have the river and mountain views, outdoor activities, and a quaint community vibe.
Kelowna
This is the main city in the stunning Okanagan Valley region of the province. It’s a go-to vacation spot in the summer months with hillside vineyards, sandy beaches, and sparkling lakes.
Kelowna is the perfect base if you want to explore the area, which has a distinct landscape you won’t find elsewhere in Canada. In the nearby town of Osoyoos, you’ll find Canada’s only desert and the warmest freshwater lake in the country.
The city itself is packed with restaurants, shops and businesses, and is pretty magical all year round. Winters are about skiing and skating, and summers are all about getting out onto the lake.
Nanaimo
Vancouver Island is home to some of the most spectacular beauty in the province, with hidden wonders all around, adorable small towns, and nature at your doorstep. While Victoria is a well-known city here, Nanaimo is the other main hub on the island.
It has its own great food scene, local businesses, cool shops and a small-city vibe. The living wage here is just $23.79, and clearly, people are taking notice of what a deal the city is.
If you’re looking to make a move in the new year, it might be worth looking into one of these top cities!
Source: Narcity – Read More
