North Vancouver, BC
About
North Vancouver, often referred to as "North Van," is a vibrant community nestled between the coastal mountains and Burrard Inlet, just across the water from downtown Vancouver. The area is composed of two municipalities: the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver. The city is more urban and centered around Lonsdale Avenue, while the district is predominantly suburban, stretching into the lush, mountainous terrain of the North Shore.
Founded in the 1860s as a sawmill settlement, North Vancouver quickly became the largest community on Burrard Inlet, with Moodyville as its early hub. The area’s growth accelerated with the arrival of ferry services and later, the construction of the Lions Gate and Second Narrows bridges, connecting North Vancouver to the rest of Metro Vancouver. Today, North Van is renowned for its green lifestyle, strong business community, and exceptional access to outdoor recreation, offering residents a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty
Market Statistics
Benchmark Detached Home Price: $3,112,625 CAD (+1.1% YoY)
Benchmark Townhouse Price: $1,821,308 CAD (–2.9% YoY YoY)
Benchmark Condo Price: $1,134,420 CAD (–0.5% YoY)
Average Detached Home Sold Price: $3,613,193 CAD (+12% YoY)
Average Days on Market: 8 (-60% from December)
Sales-to-Listing Ratio: 22% (S)
Homes Sold (Jan 2025): 148 (+26.5% YoY)
Total Listings (Jan 2025): 572 (+28% YoY)
Average Rent (all types): $4,837/month CAD (+$680% Cad YoY)
History & Culture
North Vancouver sits on the unceded territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations. For millennia, these Coast Salish peoples thrived by harvesting seafood and plants from Burrard Inlet and hunting game in the surrounding forests. Their enduring presence and cultural influence are evident in local place names, art, and ongoing stewardship initiatives.
European settlement began in the 1860s with the establishment of sawmills, notably Moodyville. The District of North Vancouver was incorporated in 1891, followed by the City of North Vancouver in 1907. The area’s growth was shaped by its waterfront industries, shipbuilding, and the construction of key transportation links. Today, North Vancouver is a diverse, multicultural community that honors its Indigenous and settler heritage through museums, public art, and reconciliation efforts.
North Vancouver’s culture is shaped by its outdoor lifestyle, strong Indigenous presence, and a mix of Canadian and international influences. The Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA) and local Indigenous-led tours offer immersive experiences in local history and culture
Climate
North Vancouver experiences a temperate, oceanic climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, relatively dry summers. Due to its proximity to the mountains, the area receives more precipitation than Vancouver proper, averaging around 1,699 mm of rainfall and 26 cm of snowfall annually. Winters are typically coldest in December, with average lows around 0.8°C, and are marked by frequent rainfall and occasional snow.
Summers, on the other hand, are warmest in July, with average highs reaching 22.2°C, offering dry and sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities. The annual mean temperature hovers around 10.5°C (51°F), and humidity levels remain fairly consistent throughout the year at approximately 80%. Compared to most Canadian cities, North Vancouver is both warmer and wetter, boasting a longer growing season but fewer sunny days than the national average.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in North Vancouver for a single renter averages around $4,322 CAD per month, amounting to approximately $51,864 CAD annually. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs about $2,557 CAD per month, while a similar unit outside the city centre is slightly more affordable at $2,250 CAD.
For families or those needing more space, a three-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $4,750 CAD per month. Monthly grocery expenses range from $600 to $900 CAD, with an estimated annual cost of $16,834 CAD for a family of four. Basic utilities, including water, sewer, and garbage services, generally fall between $190 and $220 CAD per month.
Public transit passes cost around $107 to $112 CAD monthly, and gasoline is priced at approximately $1.85 CAD per litre. Dining at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs between $28 and $30 CAD per person, and combined internet and cell phone services range from $115 to $145 CAD per month.
Commute Time
Commuting in North Vancouver is relatively efficient, with the average one-way commute time ranging from 26 to 27 minutes. The area is well-served by an extensive bus network and the SeaBus ferry, which offers a quick 12-minute ride to downtown Vancouver and connects easily to the SkyTrain system.
Major commuting routes include the Lions Gate Bridge, the Second Narrows (Ironworkers Memorial) Bridge, and Highway 1. Public transit fares are $4.43 CAD for one zone and $6.46 CAD for two zones, with a monthly transit pass costing around $148.97 CAD.
While traffic on the bridges can be heavy during peak hours, alternatives such as cycling and express buses help alleviate congestion. In comparison, the average total transit time across Metro Vancouver, including waiting periods, is approximately 60 minutes.
Schools
North Vancouver is home to a range of highly regarded educational institutions. Among the top public high schools are Handsworth Secondary, Windsor Secondary, Seycove Secondary, Argyle Secondary, and Sutherland Secondary, all serving students from grades 8 to 12.
The area also offers several reputable private schools, including St. Thomas Aquinas (grades 8–12), which holds an impressive 8.5/10 rating from the Fraser Institute, as well as Bodwell High School, known for its international focus.
For younger students and those seeking a full K–12 education, options include Brockton Preparatory School, Lions Gate Christian Academy, and St. Alcuin College for the Liberal Arts. North Vancouver also hosts Capilano University, providing post-secondary education within the community.
Activities
Cost of Living Comparison
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Report Card
Hear from our clients
“Buying your first home can be a very daunting task especially in today's market. But with Richard's help it was easy. I work approx. 50-60 hours a week and my wife was working 2 jobs and he worked around our busy schedule and met with us where ever was easiest for us. Richard is very knowledgeable. He had an answer for every question we had and was very quick to respond to messages/emails. You can tell that he's passionate about what he does.
We were in the market for a few months and with a little luck mixed with Richard quick work we were able to secure a beautiful home somehow for just under for just under asking. I am very thankful for him helping us start this new chapter in our lives”
“Had an amazing experience having Richard as my realtor. He provided me with an experience that felt personal and helped me get something that best suited my needs. He was very professional and thorough with his research. I highly recommend him.”
“if you want an honest and extremely hard working realtor, definitely choose Richard. We started looking months before we were ready, advised by him which I think also helped encourage us to get more ready, and then when we were ready we knew what we were looking for and how to get it!
Also my partner and I closed on our place in the most inconvenient time, which was during Richard’s honeymoon. Ideally we didn’t have any issues but of course that is never the case and something came up with the seller and Richard was still able to get everything sorted from a different country! I don’t know how many realtors would do that or just pass you to someone else!”
“Richard helped us find our first home!! We were able to get everything we were looking for in a presale townhouse in the Port Moody area. Richard was prompt, professional, and proactive, walking us through every step of the process.”
Do you have any question?
Is North Vancouver a good place for families?
Yes, it offers excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor activities.
How do I get to Downtown Vancouver from North Vancouver?
Take the SeaBus ferry (12 minutes) or drive via Lions Gate or Ironworkers Memorial bridges.
What is the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment?
Around $2,557 CAD per month in the city centre.
Does it snow in North Vancouver?
Yes, especially in higher elevations, but most snow falls between December and February.
Are there good hiking trails nearby?
Absolutely—Lynn Canyon, Grouse Mountain, and the North Shore Spirit Trail are local favorites.
