When you’re raising a family in Vancouver, you’ll have a number of considerations before buying a home. We did the research for you with factors such as schools, activities, safety and sense of community are incredibly important to consider.

Vancouver has a variety of family-friendly neighbourhoods. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods in Vancouver for raising a family: 

1. West Point Grey 

West Point Grey is known for its calming atmosphere and a true sense of community. The neighbourhood hosts many family-friendly events throughout the year like carnivals and musical performances. 

Nature lovers will feel at home with the variety of parks and beaches surrounding the neighbourhood. You can easily take your kids on a walk through Pacific Spirit Park and watch the sunset at Spanish Banks or Jericho Beach.

The park and beaches feature lots of amenities, like public washrooms and areas for family BBQs. There are even tennis courts, volleyball courts and bike paths. 

West Point Grey is also known for its great elementary schools including Queen Elizabeth Elementary, Queen Mary Elementary and Jules Quesnel Elementary which offers a top French Immersion program. 

2. Dunbar

Dunbar is known as one of the most family-focused cities in Vancouver. 

A popular attraction is the Dunbar Community Centre, which features kids day camps, dance and fitness classes and even ping pong tournaments.

Even restaurants in this community are catered to children, with features like play areas and kid-friendly food. As for schools, many of the kids in Dunbar attend Kitchener Elementary School and Prince of Wales Secondary School which is known for its incredible enrichment programs.

3. Oakridge

Oakridge is a mix of residential homes and commercial areas. If your family enjoys activities, this bustling neighbourhood is where you would want to be! It’s even close to popular spots such as the Langara Golf Course and VanDusen Botanical Gardens. 

As for schools, younger students usually attend Annie B. Jamieson Elementary School and Vancouver Montessori School. Secondary school students often attend Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School and King David High School. 

4. West End  

The West End has stunning buildings with beautiful tree-lined streets and plenty of pedestrian-only roads. This family-friendly paradise is nestled right in the heart of Vancouver city centre.

There is no shortage of kid-friendly activities, from English Bay Beach, Second Beach Pool to the Vancouver Aquatic Centre. Spend the day at Stanley Park biking the seawall or head to the Vancouver Aquarium for educational family fun.

Schools in the West End include Lord Roberts Elementary and King George Secondary School, which offers an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. 

5. Kitsilano 

Kitsilano is a great laid-back environment to raise kids. 

With its many parks, beaches and green spaces, children will always have a spot to explore. This neighbourhood is also perfect for families who enjoy water sports, volleyball and spending time outdoors. If you want an indoor activity, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is also close by – a great outing the whole family will enjoy! 

If you’re looking for a safe place to swim in the summer, bring your kids to the Kitsilano saltwater pool right by the beach, also known as Canada’s longest swimming pool. 

A few of Kitsilano’s elementary schools offer French Immersion programs, including Gordon Elementary, Henry Hudson Elementary and Tennyson Elementary. 

Vancouver is an incredible place with their family-friendly neighbourhoods. With its safe communities, kid-friendly indoor and outdoor activities and great schools, young families can find their needs met in a variety of neighbourhoods. 

Are you planning on moving to Vancouver soon and need a hand? Contact us today and our team of Vancouver movers can give you an estimate!

To learn more about moving to Vancouver, take a look at our guides for moving to Westside Vancouver and East Vancouver.