Not only is walking to work a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, it also allows you to cut down on transportation expenses and get to know your city. For renters in Metro Vancouver, finding a place to rent near work is always a bonus. If you’re new to the city though, you might be wondering which neighbourhoods you should be looking at if you’re hoping to walk to work. In this article, liv.rent will break down our top picks for the most walkable neighbourhoods in Vancouver and beyond, looking at key features and major companies that are nearby.
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What to consider when choosing a neighbourhood to rent in
As with any city, renters thinking about living in Vancouver first have to decide on which neighbourhood they’ll live in. Different areas of the city offer a completely different experience for renters, ranging from quaint, tree-lined streets in quiet, residential neighbourhoods to bustling urban centres with trendy shopping and dining destinations as far as the eye can see.
When choosing a neighbourhood to rent in Vancouver, renters should consider several factors to ensure that they find the best fit for their lifestyle and needs. While being able to walk to work in Vancouver is a nice luxury, there are some other things to consider when choosing a neighbourhood to rent in:
- Budget: Vancouver is notorious across Canada for its high cost of living, so renters should consider their budget when choosing a neighbourhood. Some neighbourhoods, like Downtown and Kitsilano, are more expensive than others, so it’s essential to choose a neighbourhood that fits within your budget.
- Recreation & Amenities: Of course, there’s more to life than work! Renters should consider what amenities are important to them, such as grocery stores, cafes, parks, and public transportation. Some neighbourhoods, like Downtown and Mount Pleasant, have more amenities within walking distance, while others, like the West End, have more green spaces.
- Transportation: Even if you’re planning on walking to work most of the time, you’ll still need to have a plan for when you need to travel elsewhere. Renters should consider how they will get to other areas of the city and how long it will take. Some neighbourhoods, like Lower Lonsdale and Downtown, have access to pretty much everything renters would need within walking distance, including plenty of transit stations, while other areas may require a bit more walking or bussing.
The best neighbourhoods to walk to work in Vancouver
1. Lower Lonsdale
Lower Lonsdale is a neighbourhood located in North Vancouver, just across the Burrard Inlet from downtown Vancouver. The neighbourhood has undergone significant development in recent years, making it a popular destination for young professionals and tourists alike. With a fairly even mix of residential and commercial spaces, Lower Lonsdale is an excellent neighbourhood for those looking to walk to work. Throughout its bustling streets, the neighbourhood has plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a vibrant place to live and work – especially due to its seaside location and excellent views across the water.
Types of rentals in Lower Lonsdale:
- Studio apartments for rent: Lower Lonsdale
- One-bedroom apartments for rent: North Vancouver
- Two-bedroom apartments for rent: Lower Lonsdale
Major companies in Lower Lonsdale:
Average rent in Lower Lonsdale:
As of our April 2023 Metro Vancouver Rent Report, the average rent for an unfurnished, one-bedroom unit in North Vancouver is $2,476. This is slightly below the average rent for the city of Vancouver, which is currently $2,523 for the same type of rental unit according to our latest rent report.
Recreation & Amenities in Lower Lonsdale:
Lower Lonsdale has plenty to do for renters of all ages. The Lonsdale Quay attracts locals and tourists alike to stroll along the waterfront or grab a coffee and read a book at one of the many seating areas. There are also plenty of amazing restaurants nearby such as Anatoli Souvlaki, Buddha-Full, Earnest Ice Cream and Farina a Legna.
Lower Lonsdale is also a nature lover’s dream, with bus service directly from the Quay to popular hiking trails like Lynn Valley, Mount Fromme, and Grouse Mountain.
Other transportation options in Lower Lonsdale:
If you need to get Downtown, Lower Lonsdale is a short 15-minute trip on the SeaBus to Waterfront Station in Vancouver, which has bus connections to most of the city. There are also a number of bus routes that stop at the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal and run both within and to & from North Vancouver.
>> Recommended Reading: Neighbourhood Guide: North Vancouver
2. Downtown Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver is the heart of the city and is home to numerous businesses, restaurants, and shops. As one would expect, this densely-populated area is super easy to walk around as you’re truly in the centre of the action. The busy neighbourhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, however, providing residents with a respite from their urban surroundings.
Types of rentals in Downtown Vancouver:
- Studio apartments for rent: Downtown Vancouver
- One-bedroom apartments for rent: Downtown Vancouver
- Two-bedroom apartments for rent: Downtown Vancouver
Major companies in Downtown Vancouver:
Average rent in Downtown Vancouver:
As of April 2023, the average rent in Downtown Vancouver is $2,830 for an unfurnished, one-bedroom unit according to our latest rent report.
Recreation & Amenities in Downtown Vancouver:
The Seawall is a popular walking route that stretches along the waterfront and offers stunning views of the city and the mountains. There are also several parks in the area, including Stanley Park, which is home to a number of trails, beaches, and other outdoor recreational facilities.
Downtown Vancouver also offers a variety of cultural amenities, such as museums, galleries, and theatres. The Vancouver Art Gallery and the Orpheum Theatre are just a few of the cultural attractions in the area. In addition, there are multiple large shopping centers and restaurants nearby, making it a great destination for those looking to enjoy the best of the city.
Other transportation options in Downtown Vancouver:
Downtown Vancouver has stations for both the Canada and Expo Lines, as well as bus routes to surrounding areas.
3. Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is a hip, trendy neighbourhood located in vibrant East Vancouver. The neighbourhood is home to numerous tech companies, making it a popular destination for young professionals. The neighbourhood has an eclectic mix of residential and commercial development, with tons of amazing coffee shops and restaurants to choose from – plus plenty of boutique shops and clothing stores. Walking to work in Mount Pleasant allows you to experience the neighbourhood’s unique blend of old and new, with a number of large businesses close by or easily accessible by public transit.
Types of rentals in Mount Pleasant:
- Studio apartments for rent: Mount Pleasant
- One-bedroom apartments for rent: Mount Pleasant
- Two-bedroom apartments for rent: Mount Pleasant
Major companies in Mount Pleasant:
Average rent in Mount Pleasant:
As of April 2023, the average rent for an unfurnished, one-bedroom unit in Mount Pleasant is $2,497. This is just slightly below the overall average for the city of Vancouver, which is currently $2,523 according to our latest rent report.
Recreation & Amenities in Mount Pleasant:
While Mount Pleasant is best known as one of Vancouver’s premier cultural hubs, it’s also an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. This popular neighbourhood has plenty of green spaces like Jonathan Rogers Park, Mt. Pleasant Park, Guelph Park, and Robson Park, and the seawall is a short walk away in nearby Olympic Village.
Other transportation options in Mount Pleasant:
Mount Pleasant is nearby a number of bus routes that traverse the city’s main corridors, including the 3 bus which runs along Main Street to Downtown, as well as the 9 and 99 buses which run along Broadway and will take you to the Cambie-City Hall SkyTrain Station in about 10 minutes.
4. Kitsilano
Kitsilano, best known as “Kits” among locals, is a scenic neighbourhood located on the west side of Vancouver. The neighbourhood has a laid-back, active vibe with plenty of beaches close by, making it a popular destination for those who enjoy the outdoors, as well as cyclists and runners in particular. Along its main corridors, Kitsilano has bustling commercial districts and is home to several large offices – making this the perfect place to soak up some sunshine on your way to & from work.
Types of rentals in Kitsilano:
- Studio apartments for rent: Kitsilano
- One-bedroom apartments for rent: Kitsilano
- Two-bedroom apartments for rent: Kitsilano
Major companies in Kitsilano:
Average rent in Kitsilano:
As of April 2023, the average rent for an unfurnished, one-bedroom apartment in Kitsilano is $2,478, according to our latest rent report.
Recreation & Amenities in Kitsilano:
Kitsilano is filled with all sorts of shops, clothes stores, markets, and more along its main streets: 4th Avenue and Broadway. Particularly in the summer months, the area is filled with locals taking advantage of the amazing Kitsilano, Jericho, and Spanish Banks beaches which are all easily accessible from the neighbourhood. Also nearby is Pacific Spirit Park, which has an extensive trail system for escaping to the wilderness without having to leave the city.
Other transportation options in Kitsilano:
The 99 bus runs along Broadway and will take you from Kitsilano to Broadway-City Hall Station in 10-15 minutes depending on which part of the neighbourhood you’re in. Along 4th Ave., there are a number of bus routes such as the 4, 7, and 44 to take you in & out of the neighbourhood.
5. West End
Found on the far western edge of Downtown Vancouver, the West End is one of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods for both living in and visiting. The historic neighbourhood is also known for its brown-stone buildings and tree-lined streets which often conceal local cafes and bakeries, or urban parks. Walking to work in the West End gives renters the freedom to explore the neighbourhood’s unique charm, with tons of offices within walking distance in Downtown Vancouver.
Types of rentals in West End:
- Studio apartments for rent: West End
- One-bedroom apartments for rent: West End
- Two-bedroom apartments for rent: West End
Major Companies in West End
Average rent in West End:
As of April 2023, the average rent in the West End is $2,529 for an unfurnished, one-bedroom unit – just $6 more than the city of Vancouver’s average, according to our latest rent report.
Recreation & Amenities in West End:
The West End is home to Stanley Park – one of Vancouver’s most iconic green spaces. It is home to an extensive trail network, beaches, pools, water parks, an aquarium, majestic totem poles, and more. Wrapped by a 10-kilometre ribbon of seawall, this park is a gem meant for all to enjoy.
There are a number of popular beaches close by as well – between Sunset Beach and Third Beach, you have some of the world’s most beautiful shores in the city.
Other transportation options in West End
Without a doubt, the West End is one of Vancouver’s most walkable neighbourhoods. When you do need to leave though, the West End’s transit options are equally amazing. The neighbourhood is well-serviced by buses running regularly along Robson, Davie, Denman and Georgia. Vancouver City Centre SkyTrain Station is easily accessible, with any of the West End’s bus lines (the 5, 19 or 240, for example) taking you there in about 10-15 minutes.
>> Recommended Reading: Neighbourhood Guide: West End Vancouver
Where is the most walkable neighbourhood in Metro Vancouver
We selected the neighbourhoods on this list for their proximity to large businesses, but each one offers far more than just an easy commute. Vancouver’s diverse neighbourhoods each offer a different set of amenities and lifestyles to suit renters of all different backgrounds.
Whether you’re seeking the convenience of a bustling urban centre like Downtown Vancouver or the relaxed charm and beachy vibes of Kitsilano, this guide should give you a sense of how each of these Vancouver neighbourhoods is suited to your unique lifestyle.
How to find a place to rent in Metro Vancouver
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>> Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Renter’s Guide To Using liv.rent
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