Seven best places to retire in BC

British Columbia's most senior-friendly spots



Where are the best places to retire in British Columbia? Every year, a number of sources provide lists of best places to invest, live and retire in BC. Here is our take.

We look at what are your best choices, based on a variety of sources, as well as comments from BC residents themselves to bring you, our take on the best places to retire in the province of British Columbia.

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  1. West Vancouver, BC

    West Van is the highest ranking BC city on the list of best places to live, according to MoneySense.1 It qualifies as a small town, while standout qualities that drove up its ranking are low taxes, low crime and excellent walking and biking paths, along with higher than average public transit. West Vancouver also has low unemployment and a median household income of $82,000 annually.2 The price of living here is very expensive but those who live there are happy to call it home, thanks to the annual Home Arts Festival. 

    Mary is one retirement home resident who loves the full life at her retirement home. "Life is so full," she says. The great thing about living here, she tells us, is that "you can always keep active here… and you can always see the fun in life."

    Check out a full list of West Vancouver retirement communities.

  2. Victoria, BC

    Victoria is listed #5 on MoneySense's list of best places to retire in Canada, the highest placing city in all BC. Why? The average property tax in the city of Victoria is $1026 per year. There are 3.73 doctors per 1000 people and the city has 319 days of the year above freezing. All that healthy sea air and temperate climate also makes it one of the healthiest places to live in all of Canada. Nearby towns include Saanich, also listed as #13 on Canada's Best Places to Live1.

    Low property tax rates make it easy for Victoria seniors to travel more than people from some other BC cities. Scotty Day, resident in a Pacific coastal retirement home, says it best: "We’re always excited to go away. But without exception, when we return, we always say, ‘It’s so good to be home!'"  Read Scotty's story here

    Find our complete list of Victoria retirement living suites

  3. Nelson, BC

    Nestled deep in the interior of British Columbia, Nelson offers some of the best living conditions in the province, according to MoneySense, who called it the tenth best place to retire in all of Canada. Some of the notable features of living in Nelson are low average property taxes of $1600 per annum and 262 days per year of temperature above freezing. Nelson also features the beauty of the interior mountains and nearby Kootenay Lake.

    Check out retirement living in nearby Kelowna.

  4. Vancouver

    Vancouver was listed by The Economist as the #3 most liveable city in the world in 2016, a position it held as early as 2014. The contiguous city, The District of North Vancouver is listed #8 on the list of Canada's Best Places to Live in 2016. There's little doubt that Vancouver is a world-class destination for living and investing. Vancouver's free and easy lifestyle, spectacular scenery and superb natural environment are all legendary, as are its real estate costs, of course. What about actually living and retiring there?  The Economist ranks it so highly based on categories including stability, health care, culture, environment, education and infrastructure.

    Find the best places to retire in Vancouver.

  5. Duncan and Arbutus Ridge

    The northerly end of Vancouver Island is full of legendary places to live including Comox Valley (highlighted by the Financial Post in 2013 as a small BC town with big savings3 and ranked #71 overall among best places to live1) and other places. Not far away is Parksville, BC, "Canada's retirement capital" which is the community with the highest percentage of seniors in all of Canada4

    Further south (so, just a bit warmer), there is Duncan and area, another highly sought-out destination. . Duncan itself is listed as #183 on Canada's Best Places to Live. Beatrice tells us about life here: "You live here, you know, and there's so much beauty around you - the Strait, with its amazing ocean wildlife -- we've seen whales regularly since moving here... that aspect of life here is amazing. But then there's so much to do! There are daily sports activities on the water, there's golf, there are other activities... and the people are all so wonderful. They really are the best people, here, in our community." Beatrice is an owner of a home in a Duncan-area active adult lifestyle community.

    Find some great places to retire near Duncan and Arbutus Ridge.

  6. Burnaby, BC

    Ranked 59th overall on Best Places to Live for 20161.  The third largest city in British Columbia, Burnaby was also listed in survey by Maclean’s magazine (albeit in 2009), as Canada’s best run city based on factors including efficiency and effectiveness of city services. The population of Burnaby is only 244,000 (as of 2016) and the median household income in the average household net worth in the city is $650,000. The prosperity of people in the city is a product of people's energy and confidence, as exemplified by Dorothy, a senior resident of Mulberry Parc. As she says, "We keep very busy… When people say they’re bored, it’s because they’re not doing anything. Here, there’s always something to do."

    Find a complete list of the best Burnaby retirement homes.

  7. Surrey, B.C

    Listed #104 on the Best Places to Live in all of Canada (for 2016), Surrey is a large city with a growing population. Surrey is a great place to retire because of its relatively low crime rate, its temperate weather (as found throughout BC).  Surrey is a relatively green and progressive city, with over 7% of the population traveling to work by public transit and 6.5 % of the population working in health care. It has a somewhat lower annual rainfall than other BC cities. 

    Pam Bricker says her mom loves her retirement in Surrey. "She always want to come 'home' to BC but she lived in Seattle. When she finally retired here and she loves her home in Surrey… There are many shops and conveniences within walking distance of where she lives with and there are a wealth of other people her age with whom to socialize." 

    Find the very best retirement homes in Surrey, BC.

In the end, who can decide for sure what is the best place to live or retire? You may have your own ideas that run completely contrary to that of the "authorities." Most people, when they consider their own needs, they want to be close to family or other things important to them.

We also urge you to consider things like the availability of home health care services and other health care, in any town or city you are considering. There are many things to think about, and really, the best place to live is anywhere where you have good friends and loved ones nearby and you enjoy life to the fullest. It may not, in the end, be a place, so much as a state of mind. In any case... happy searching!

Sources and further resources

1moneysense.ca/canadas-best-places-to-live-2016-full-ranking/
2moneysense.ca/../the-best-place-to-live-in-british-columbia/. MoneySense magazine bases its annual list on access to healthcare and amenities, crime rates, weather and other factors.
3business.financialpost.com/../small-towns-can-offer-big-savings-for-retirees: Comox Valley is noted for an average housing price below $400,000 as well as winter temperatures averaging about 7 degrees Celsius. The Financial Post and others list the best places to retire in Canada, based on other criteria.
4theglobeandmail.com/…/how-moving-to-a-small-town-can-fund-your-retirement/
The Global Retirement Index, developed by Natixis Global Asset Management and CoreData Research, looks at the best places in the world to retire; in 2016, it lists Canada 10th, ahead of the United States but behind others including Norway (#1), Switzerland (#2) and others, mainly European countries. 
The Economist tracks the world's most liveable cities. E.g. economist.com/blogs/graphicdetail/2015/08/daily-chart-5.
See also moneysense.ca/save/retirement/canadas-best-places-to-retire-2016/.

BC's best retirement communities, as chosen by Comfort Life

Shannon Oaks - Vancouver

Shannon Oaks - Vancouver

2526 Waverley Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5S 4W1
Shannon Oaks offers amenity spaces that will delight: gardens, lounges, library, country kitchen, games room, exercise room, courtyard patios - even a golf putting green. Meet new friends and live life to the fullest!
Tapestry at Victoria Harbour

Tapestry at Victoria Harbour

777 Belleville St., Victoria, British Columbia, V8V OB6
Tapestry is an active aging seniors community promoting an active and vibrant lifestyle in a safe and supportive environment. Enjoy the wellness offerings and Restaurant and pub at your leisure.
Sunstone Apartments

Sunstone Apartments

10775 Delsom Crescent, Delta, British Columbia, V4C 0A8
Sunstone Rentals is the newest retirement community located in North Delta. A 70 unit independent living facility for those 55+, offers retirement community living for those downsizing.
Tapestry at Wesbrook Village

Tapestry at Wesbrook Village

3338 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6S 0A6
Tapestry at Wesbrook VIllage is an active aging community that offers residents unlimited opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle and improve their physical, mental and social well-being.
Chelsea Park

Chelsea Park

1968 East 19th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5N 5K3
A boutique residence with a homelike ambience where you can enjoy your independence while receiving quality hospitality services. Offering intimate, well designed, comfortable and affordable living for Seniors.
Tapestry at Arbutus Walk

Tapestry at Arbutus Walk

2799 Yew Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6K 4W2
Tapestry at Arbutus Walk is an active aging community that offers residents unlimited opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle and improve their physical, mental and social well-being.
Wisteria Place

Wisteria Place

4388 Garry Street, Richmond, British Columbia, V7E 2V2
Wisteria Place, beckons to active seniors seeking vibrant and satisfying daily life. Majestic views, park greenery, a Zen garden and Koi pond, bring nature, beauty, and peace. Let us welcome you home to life in harmony.
OPAL by Element

OPAL by Element

438 West King Edward Ave, Vancouver, British Columbia, V5Y 05M
438 West King Edward Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Y 0M5 Opal offers a full continuum of support from Independent Living, Assisted living all the way to Complex Care, allowing the opportunity for aging in place.
Orchard Gardens Seniors Community

Orchard Gardens Seniors Community

295 Gerstmar Road, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1X 7W9
Formerly Fernbrae Manor, Orchard Gardens Seniors Community offers quality services and a variety of amenities for Kelowna’s seniors. Choose from a studio or one-bedroom suite with independent living monthly packages.
Pacific Carlton Seniors Community

Pacific Carlton Seniors Community

15366 17th Avenue, Surrey, British Columbia, V4A 1T9
Pacific Carlton features the largest senior suites in South Surrey and White Rock - perfect for couples! With a vibrant lifestyle, homestyle cooking, and 24/7 support, Pacific Carlton is the perfect place to call home.
Chartwell Ridgepointe Retirement Residence

Chartwell Ridgepointe Retirement Residence

1789 Primrose Court, Kamloops, British Columbia, V1S 0B7
Enjoy a flexible, independent retirement lifestyle surrounded by nature with the convenience of Downtown Kamloops."
Thornebridge Gardens

Thornebridge Gardens

649 8th Avenue, New Westminster, British Columbia, V3M 2R2
Thornebridge Gardens is one of New Westminster’s finest retirement residences, providing luxurious, worry-free surroundings with life enriching services that inspire healthy senior living. Many options are available!
Sunridge Gardens

Sunridge Gardens

22301 Fraser Highway, Langley, British Columbia, V3A 4H5
An upscale and contemporary senior living community in the historic Murrayville neighbourhood of Langley. Featuring spacious open-concept suites, a beautiful courtyard garden and a wide variety of amenities.
Arbourside Court

Arbourside Court

13751 - 74th Avenue, Surrey, British Columbia, V3W 1A8
Welcome to Arbourside Court, a retirement home in the heart of Surrey, BC. Proudly serving our senior residents since 2001. Many activities to enjoy and new friendships to be made, we are always bustling with laughter.
Berwick On The Lake

Berwick On The Lake

3201 Ross Road, Nanaimo, British Columbia, V9T 6L9
At Berwick on the Lake, residents enjoy red seal chef prepared meals in their choice of 3 dining rooms. Beyond our beautiful amenities, our residents also enjoy a full wellness program. Resort style living at it's best!
The Village Langley

The Village Langley

3920 198th Street, Langley, British Columbia, V3A1E1
We believe that the desire for fulfillment and living a life with purpose does not diminish with a diagnosis of dementia. We focus on the possibilities of each person, supporting each to live with laughter, love and joy.
Summerhill PARC

Summerhill PARC

135 West 15th Street, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7M 1R7
Summerhill PARC near the heart of Lonsdale and 15th Avenue in beautiful North Vancouver offers a highly social retirement community living experience. 1- and 2-bedroom suites available.
Magnolia Gardens

Magnolia Gardens

5840 Glover Rd, Langley, British Columbia, V3A 9K3
An oasis in the heart of Langley City, Magnolia Gardens features bright, spacious suites and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Two choices in senior living: 115 independent living suites, and a 40-suite licensed Care Centre.
The Residence at Orchards Walk

The Residence at Orchards Walk

#100 - 3300 Valleyview Drive, Kamloops, British Columbia, V2C 0G9
The Residence offers service-oriented living at its finest. With a shopping plaza and stunning views, Orchards Walk is Kamloops’ premier new neighbourhood. Choose between spacious studios and one or two bedroom suites.
Berwick On The Park

Berwick On The Park

60 Whiteshield Crescent, South Kamloops, British Columbia, V2E 2S9
Nestled on the hillside, Berwick on the Park offers stunning panoramic mountain, valley and river views and flexible retirement lifestyles, including independent living and assisted living.
Sherwood House

Sherwood House

280 Government Street, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 0B5
At Sherwood House we offer active adult independent retirement living, pet friendly, featuring delicious homemade meals, daily activities, weekly housekeeping, safely connected in the heart of Duncan, Vancouver Island
Westerleigh PARC

Westerleigh PARC

725 - 22nd Street, West Vancouver, British Columbia, V7V 0B3
Westerleigh PARC offers refined independent living in one of West Vancouver's most sought after addresses. Studio, 1- and 2-bedroom suites available.
Courtyard Gardens

Courtyard Gardens

7051 Moffat Road, Richmond, British Columbia, V6Y 3W2
Courtyard Gardens offers an enriching community, with quality staff & friendly & caring environment. 107 Private & Subsidized suites in Assisted Living, 31 Private Pay Extended Care studio suites & 1 Respite Suite.
The Waterford

The Waterford

1345 56th Street, Tsawwassen, British Columbia, V4L 2P9
Featuring bright suites surrounded by pedestrian pathways, and a two-acre water feature in Tsawwassen town-centre. Two choices in all-inclusive senior housing: independent living and a licensed Care Centre suites.
Granville Gardens

Granville Gardens

1550 West 49th Avenue,, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6M 0B3
Located in Vancouver’s Kerrisdale neighbourhood, Granville Gardens offers residents the opportunity to stay active and live in a well-appointed urban community, surrounded by shopping centres, parks, community centres.
Berwick Royal Oak

Berwick Royal Oak

4680 Elk Lake Drive, Victoria, British Columbia, V8Z 0B4
Luxurious, Resort-Style Retirement Living where you can age in place; You’re Home at Last at Berwick Royal Oak on Vancouver Island in beautiful Victoria, BC.
Greystone Manor Retirement Residence

Greystone Manor Retirement Residence

11657 Ritchie Avenue, Maple Ridge, British Columbia, V2X 8X3
Named one of the top 3 retirement communities in Maple Ridge, Greystone is a premier Park Place residence, with the comfort and services you need to maintain your active lifestyle in a warm and welcoming community.
Mahogany Platinum

Mahogany Platinum

#100 - 2180 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford, British Columbia, V2S 0H4
A spectacular new residential tower in Abbotsford, Mahogany Platinum combines convenience, livability and luxury for seniors looking for an independent lifestyle community. Only a few suites left.
Berwick by the Sea

Berwick by the Sea

Berwick by the Sea 1353 16th Ave., Campbell River,, British Columbia, V9W 0C4
Berwick by the Sea offers you the freedom to spend your time doing the things you love most. Every area of the community has been carefully designed to offer something for everyone. Come join us on your next adventure!
Berwick Comox Valley

Berwick Comox Valley

1700 Comox Avenue, Comox, British Columbia, V9M 4H4
Berwick Comox Valley offers a resort-style retirement residence in a convenient downtown setting. This is West Coast living at its finest, truly affordable luxury.
Wedgwood House

Wedgwood House

256 Government Street, Duncan, British Columbia, V9L 1A4
Very wonderful group of friendly residents who love to do things together. Residents Group arrange entertainment, winemaking and wine & cheese parties each month. They are helpful and welcoming. Wedgwood feels like home!
Oceana PARC

Oceana PARC

1575 George St, White Rock, British Columbia, V4B 0B6
At Oceana PARC, our residents thrive with access to physical and mental fitness programming, social activities, chef-prepared meals, transportation and more. Come discover why life is better at our new residence.
The Concorde Retirement Residence

The Concorde Retirement Residence

3235 Skaha Lake Road, Penticton, British Columbia, V2A 6G5
The Concorde has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with comfortable dining & excellent views of the mountains, along with extensive program activities; The Concorde is perfect for an active living & entertaining lifestyle.
Mulberry PARC

Mulberry PARC

7230 Acorn Avenue, Burnaby, British Columbia, V5E 4N9
Mulberry PARC is a welcoming home and community in the heart of Burnaby, BC with the largest 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom retirement home suites available.
The Heritage

The Heritage

3630 Brown Rd, West Kelowna, British Columbia, V4T7Y9
The Heritage Retirement Residence encompasses an active living & entertaining lifestyle with supportive & assisted living measures, Our highly skilled registered health care team will provide assistance when you need it.
Gilmore Gardens

Gilmore Gardens

4088 Blundell Road, Richmond, British Columbia, V7C 5V1
Like a condominium, you furnish your suite with the comforts from your home, including pets. At Gilmore Gardens, it's the people, residents and staff alike, that make this independent senior living community so special.
Cedar Springs PARC

Cedar Springs PARC

3633 Mount Seymour Pkwy, North Vancouver, British Columbia, V7H 0A9
Located near Mt. Seymour in Vancouver's North Shore, Cedar Springs PARC offers retirement living within a beautiful natural environment. 1- and 2-bedroom suites available.
Berwick House

Berwick House

4062 Shelbourne Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8N 3E6
Berwick House offers comfort, security and our usual high standard of affordable luxury. Steps away from a mall, cinema and other conveniences, you’ll find everything you need for an independent and active lifestyle.
Berwick Qualicum Beach

Berwick Qualicum Beach

120 First Ave W, Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, V9K 0B4
Berwick Qualicum Beach offers an array of amenities and engaging programs in our beautifully appointed community. Join our vibrant community today and enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle with some new friends.
The Camelot

The Camelot

455 Kingston Street, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1V8
At The Camelot we offer Boutique Independent Retirement Living with Supportive Services. In the heart of quiet, downtown James Bay near the Inner Harbour, we offer Dinner daily, Housekeeping, security & companionship!
Berwick Parksville

Berwick Parksville

180 Jensen Ave East, Parksville, British Columbia, V9P 0G9
At Berwick Parksville, we strive to change the perception of retirement living by empowering our Residents to live their best life with us. We think of it as inspired retirement living.
Hawthorn Park Retirement Community

Hawthorn Park Retirement Community

867 KLO Road, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9G5
Living at Hawthorn Park Retirement Residence means you have choices & can customize the services you need, as you need them. We offer three lifestyle opportunities; supportive living, assisted living & complex care.
The Wexford

The Wexford

1737 56 Street, Tsawwassen BC, British Columbia, V4L 0A5
The Wexford offers all-inclusive, independent senior living one km from Tsawwassen town centre. Bright and spacious suites and costal-inspired living areas are beautifully accented by a rooftop garden and courtyard.
The Vineyards Residence

The Vineyards Residence

726 Valley Road, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 0E9
The Vineyards approach to assisted living & memory care allows people to go about life as they always have, despite health changes. Beautiful suites & homemade meals. Discover for yourself why we say Life’s Better Here


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