Best Places to Live in Vancouver [2025 Guide]

Vancouver consistently ranks among the best cities in the world for quality of life — but when it comes to where to live in Vancouver, the choices can feel overwhelming.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, a growing family, a professional relocating for work, or a retiree seeking a vibrant community, Vancouver has a neighborhood to match your lifestyle.

Here’s a 2025 guide to the best places to live in Vancouver, based on livability, amenities, housing options, and community.

1. Kitsilano

Lifestyle: Beachside living meets urban convenience.

Who it’s for: Young professionals, families, outdoor enthusiasts.

Kitsilano, affectionately known as "Kits," offers a relaxed, vibrant lifestyle with easy access to Kits Beach, boutique shopping, and some of the best restaurants in the city.

• Walkable and bike-friendly

• Excellent schools like General Gordon Elementary

• Quick access to downtown Vancouver

Average Condo Price (2025): ~$950KAverage Detached Home Price (2025): ~$2.8M

2. Mount Pleasant

Lifestyle: Trendy, artsy, and central.

Who it’s for: Young professionals, creatives, first-time buyers.

Mount Pleasant is one of the fastest-evolving neighborhoods in Vancouver, offering a mix of historic homes, new condos, and an eclectic vibe.

• Hip cafes, breweries, and independent shops

• Proximity to SkyTrain and tech industry hubs

• A blend of urban energy and family-friendly parks

Average Condo Price (2025): ~$850KAverage Townhouse Price (2025): ~$1.3M

3. Dunbar-Southlands

Lifestyle: Quiet, green, prestigious.

Who it’s for: Established families, luxury buyers, nature lovers.

Dunbar offers spacious homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. It's close to some of Vancouver’s best private and public schools.

• Larger lot sizes

• Access to Pacific Spirit Park and UBC

• Traditional west-side charm

Average Detached Home Price (2025): ~$3.5M

4. Commercial Drive ("The Drive")

Lifestyle: Bohemian, culturally rich, and community-focused.

Who it’s for: Artists, young families, multi-generational households.

Commercial Drive is known for its strong Italian roots, vibrant festivals, and a deep sense of neighborhood pride.

• Walkable with strong local businesses

• Close to several elementary and secondary schools

• More affordable than Vancouver’s Westside

Average Townhouse Price (2025): ~$1.2MAverage Condo Price (2025): ~$750K

5. West End

Lifestyle: Urban living by the beach.

Who it’s for: Young professionals, retirees, downsizers.

The West End offers a perfect mix of downtown convenience and outdoor beauty — right next to Stanley Park, English Bay, and Robson Street shopping.

• High-rise condos with ocean views

• Vibrant, diverse community

• Car-free living potential

Average Condo Price (2025): ~$800K

6. Strathcona

Lifestyle: Historic, diverse, up-and-coming.

Who it’s for: Buyers seeking character homes and investment potential.

One of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods, Strathcona has seen significant revitalization and offers a mix of restored heritage homes and new developments.

• Close to downtown and transit

• Strong community organizations

• Unique architecture and character homes

Average Detached Home Price (2025): ~$1.6M

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Place to Live in Vancouver

Vancouver’s diversity is its strength — whether you’re drawn to the beachside calm of Kitsilano, the trendy streets of Mount Pleasant, or the prestige of Dunbar, there’s a perfect neighborhood waiting for you in 2025.

The best place to live in Vancouver depends on your lifestyle goals, housing budget, and future plans. Working with a local real estate expert can help you find the right fit faster — and often uncover hidden opportunities before they hit the market.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Vancouver Home?

Whether you’re relocating, upsizing, downsizing, or investing, I’m here to guide you through every step of the Vancouver real estate journey.

Schedule a Free Discovery Call | Request a Custom Neighborhood Report