Best neighbourhoods for families in Vancouver

Vancouver offers families a rare combination of urban convenience, excellent schools, and immediate access to nature. From quiet, tree-lined streets on the west side to diverse, community-oriented neighbourhoods in East Vancouver, families can find a strong fit across a broad range of areas and price points. This guide covers eight of Vancouver's most family-friendly neighbourhoods.

For current average rent figures by neighbourhood, see the Vancouver Rent Report.

Dunbar-Southlands

On Vancouver's far west side near UBC, Dunbar-Southlands is a lush, densely wooded area with a quiet, village-like character. Single-family homes and basement suites are the most common rental types, and the neighbourhood is surrounded by parks and trails including Pacific Spirit Regional Park and Jericho Beach. Dunbar Village along Dunbar Street provides local shops, grocery stores, and restaurants. Southlands Elementary, St. George's School, and Lord Kitchener Elementary are among the schools nearby. Downtown is about 15 to 20 minutes by car or 30 to 35 minutes by the 7 bus.

West Point Grey

North of Dunbar-Southlands along the city's far west end, West Point Grey has some of Vancouver's most distinguished addresses and stunning views of the North Shore mountains. Families appreciate the easy access to Jericho and Spanish Banks beaches and the quiet, walkable streets. West Point Grey Academy (K-12) and several public schools serve the area. Shopping and dining are available along West 10th and West 4th Avenues. Downtown is about 15 to 20 minutes by car or 35 to 40 minutes by the 4, 7, or 14 buses.

Mount Pleasant

A quintessentially Vancouver neighbourhood, Mount Pleasant combines an active Main Street corridor of breweries, restaurants, and independent shops with quiet residential pockets ideal for families. Jonathan Rogers Park, Mount Pleasant Park, and the Olympic Village seawall are all close by. Mount Pleasant Elementary serves younger children, and Sir Charles Tupper Secondary is a short drive in neighbouring Riley Park. Downtown is about 10 minutes by car or 15 to 25 minutes by bus.

Riley Park-Little Mountain

Directly south of Mount Pleasant, Riley Park-Little Mountain has a more suburban feel while remaining close to the city's core. Queen Elizabeth Park sits at its centre with picnic areas, sports facilities, disc golf, and the Hillcrest Aquatic Centre nearby. David Livingstone Elementary and Sir Charles Tupper Secondary serve the neighbourhood. The Vancouver Canadians play at nearby Nat Bailey Stadium in summer. Downtown is about 15 minutes by car or 20 to 25 minutes by bus and SkyTrain.

Kensington-Cedar Cottage

One of East Vancouver's most diverse and family-oriented neighbourhoods, Kensington-Cedar Cottage stretches from Broadway to East 41st Avenue between Fraser Street and Nanaimo Street. Kingsway runs through the area with a wide range of global dining, markets, and shops. Trout Lake is within the neighbourhood, with fishing, a community centre, trails, and an off-leash dog area. Cedar Cottage Elementary and Gladstone Secondary serve local students. Downtown is about 15 to 20 minutes by car or 25 to 35 minutes by the 19 or 22 buses or the Expo Line from Nanaimo Station.

West End

Bordered by English Bay to the south, Stanley Park to the west, and Burrard Street to the east, the West End has an unmatched combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. Seawall access, English Bay Beach, and Stanley Park are all steps away for families. Lord Roberts Elementary feeds into the nearby King George Secondary. The neighbourhood is extremely walkable and well served by buses along Robson, Davie, Denman, and Georgia Streets. Downtown and Vancouver City Centre SkyTrain Station are easily accessible.

Shaughnessy

A primarily residential neighbourhood spanning a large area of Vancouver's west side, Shaughnessy is characterised by grand heritage homes, expansive lots, and tree-lined streets that make it one of the city's most peaceful family environments. Parks including Shaughnessy Park, Angus Park, and the Van Dusen Botanical Garden are close by. Quilchena Elementary, Shaughnessy Elementary, and Point Grey Secondary serve local students, alongside several prestigious private schools. Downtown is about 10 to 20 minutes by car or 20 to 30 minutes by the 10, 16, 17, or 25 buses.

Renfrew-Collingwood

On Vancouver's far east side bordering Burnaby, Renfrew-Collingwood is a large, predominantly residential neighbourhood with an outsized family population. Kingsway provides shopping, dining, and services, and Renfrew Ravine Park and the Still Creek watershed offer nature access. Renfrew Elementary and Collingwood Neighbourhood School serve younger children, and Windermere Secondary is nearby for high school students. The Expo Line from 29th Avenue Station reaches downtown in 15 to 20 minutes, and driving takes about 20 to 25 minutes.

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