Vancouver is consistently ranked one of North America’s most liveable cities, and people of all ages flock to the city for its mild weather and natural beauty.
If you’re planning to move your family to Vancouver, B.C. you’re probably wondering which neighbourhoods are safe, clean, and quiet. You’ll probably also be looking for neighbourhoods with great schools and convenient amenities.
Fortunately, the city of Vancouver has plenty of safe, family-friendly areas which are great communities to support a growing family.
Here’s an overview of some of the best Vancouver, B.C. neighbourhoods to raise a family.
Dunbar
Dunbar is close to plenty of natural amenities, including family-friendly beaches and Pacific Spirit Regional Park. The neighbourhood often lands at the top family-friendly neighbourhood lists for its cleanliness, safety, and incredible schools.
With tree-lined streets offering an elevated view of Vancouver, Dunbar is a quiet residential area away from the hustle and bustle of city life and near to the UBC campus.
On Dunbar street, you’ll find the convenience of grocery stores, restaurants, and retail, along with the Dunbar Community Centre, which offers plenty of classes for residents of all ages. Families with young children will find play-based learning and daycare services at the Dunbar Memorial Preschool.
Public elementary schools in the Dunbar area include Kitchener and Queen Elizabeth. Secondary schools like Prince of Wales offer specialized programs such as the popular TREK Outdoor Education program for grade 10 students. There are several private schools in the Dunbar area as well.
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is home to plenty of second-hand shops, arts venues, and restaurants. Although it draws people from all walks of life, its tree-lined roads and proximity to amenities make it a top choice for families, too.
The nearby Hillcrest Community Center boasts an impressive range of facilities, including an indoor aquatic center and ice skating rink.
Primary schools in the area include Mount Pleasant Elementary and David Livingstone Elementary. Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School offers a curriculum for academically advanced students.
West Point Grey
Situated between the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Dunbar / Kitsilano, West Point Grey offers incredible views of the beach and mountains.
The residential community offers access to all the required amenities, and is host to yearly events like the Point Grey Fiesta, a weekend-long festival filled with rides, music, and crafts.
Primary schools within the community include Queen Elizabeth Elementary and Queen Mary Elementary. There’s also Jules Quesnel Elementary which offers an excellent French Immersion program if you want your children to learn both of Canada’s national languages.
Local secondary schools include West Point Grey Academy, one of British Columbia’s leading private schools.
The West End
The West End is a residential neighbourhood situated between the downtown core and Stanley Park, a 405-hectare family-friendly attraction that includes a forest, a water park, a miniature train ride, lots of playgrounds, and the Vancouver Aquarium.
It features pedestrian-only streets, tree-lined thoroughfares, Victorian-style houses, and modern condo buildings. The main schools in this small neighbourhood are Lord Roberts Elementary and King George Secondary School.
This is a great place to live if you’re looking to start your time in Vancouver in an apartment or condo. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Second Beach Pool, English Bay Beach, and the Vancouver Aquatic Centre.
Edgemont (North Vancouver)
Edgemont is a neighbourhood in North Vancouver featuring large homes with spacious yards. Its proximity to nature is just one reason why many families are drawn to the area.
If you love exploring, you can take a family-friendly stroll along Lonsdale Quay or hike through nearby Lynn Canyon Park.
Shaughnessy
Shaughnessy, a tranquil haven in the geographic heart of Vancouver, is nearly entirely residential. It is known for its high-end real estate, exceptional schools (both private and public), and beautiful parks.
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