Burnaby isn't just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Strategically located in the center of Metro Vancouver, it offers an unmatched lifestyle where modern skyscrapers sit alongside 200-year-old Douglas firs. It is a city that celebrates culture, community, and the great outdoors in equal measure.
Where to Live: The Neighborhoods
Burnaby is divided into several unique hubs, each offering a different pace of life:
• Metrotown: The urban heartbeat. Ideal for those who want instant access to BC's largest shopping center, trendy high-rise living, and seamless transit connections.
• The Heights: A charming, walkable community in North Burnaby with a historic "Main Street" feel, local Italian delis, and stunning views of the Burrard Inlet.
• Brentwood: The "new" downtown. A sophisticated, rapidly evolving area with luxury shopping, open-air plazas, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
• Edmonds/Highgate: A multicultural family favorite featuring the state-of-the-art Edmonds Community Centre and diverse culinary options.
• Lochdale & Government Road: Known for spacious lots, quiet streets, and proximity to Burnaby Lake—perfect for those seeking a more suburban, peaceful retreat.
A Recreation Lover's Paradise
One of the best parts about living here is the City of Burnaby Recreation system. Whether you’re an athlete, a hobbyist, or just looking to relax, the facilities are world-class:
• The Big Three Lakes: Burnaby Lake (rowing and birdwatching), Deer Lake (kayaking and arts), and the hidden gem, Barnet Marine Park (oceanfront beach and picnics).
• Community Hubs: Facilities like Bonsor Recreation Complex and Christine Sinclair Community Centre offer everything from Olympic-sized pools and NHL-sized rinks to yoga studios and pottery classes.
• The Great Outdoors: Over 25% of Burnaby’s land is dedicated to parks. You can hike the Velodrome Trail (Burnaby’s "mini Grouse Grind"), play a round at the Riverway Golf Course, or explore the 86 hectares of Central Park.
Top 5 Things to Do for Residents
1. Sunset at Burnaby Mountain: Grab a coffee and head to the Kamui Mintara (Playground of the Gods) sculptures for the best sunset view in the Lower Mainland.
2. Step Back in Time: Visit the Burnaby Village Museum, a 1920s open-air village that is a local favorite during the Christmas and Halloween seasons.
3. Explore the Arts: Catch an outdoor concert at the Deer Lake Festival Lawn or browse the latest exhibit at the Burnaby Art Gallery.
4. The Amazing Brentwood: Spend an evening at the Rec Room for games, food, and live music in one of the city’s most modern social spaces.
5. Ride the Rails: Take the kids (or just your inner child) to the Burnaby Central Railway to ride miniature steam trains through Confederation Park.
Education & Schools
Burnaby is home to a top-tier public school system and two world-class post-secondary institutions: Simon Fraser University (SFU) and BCIT.
• Public School Information: Check catchments and programs at the Burnaby School District (SD41).
Why Choose Burnaby?
It’s a city that doesn't force you to choose between a career and a lifestyle. With a 15-minute commute to Vancouver and a 5-minute walk to a park, Burnaby is the ultimate West Coast home.