Living in Metrotown: High-Rise Convenience and Urban Lifestyle

Metrotown is the bustling commercial and residential hub of Burnaby, combining high-rise condo living with convenient access to shopping, dining, and transit. It’s ideal for young professionals, small families, and investors who want proximity to urban amenities without living directly in Vancouver. The neighborhood is lively, convenient, and modern, but it lacks the suburban serenity found in other parts of Burnaby.

Demographics

Median List Price:

~ $2,383,000

Median List Price:

~ $2,383,000

Median List Price:

~ $2,383,000

Average Income:

~ $83,000

Average Income:

~ $83,000

Average Income:

~ $83,000

Population:

25,500

Population:

25,500

Population:

25,500

Median Age:

39 years

Median Age:

39 years

Median Age:

39 years

Architectural Style

Typical Garage Setup:

0 - 1 cars

Typical Garage Setup:

0 - 1 cars

Typical Garage Setup:

0 - 1 cars

Street Style:

High-rise condo towers, mixed-use developments

Street Style:

High-rise condo towers, mixed-use developments

Street Style:

High-rise condo towers, mixed-use developments

Quirks:

Deep porches, Tapered columns, Shingle siding, Exposed rafters, Mixed materials.

Quirks:

Deep porches, Tapered columns, Shingle siding, Exposed rafters, Mixed materials.

Quirks:

Deep porches, Tapered columns, Shingle siding, Exposed rafters, Mixed materials.

Key Features:

Low-pitched, gabled roofs with wide eaves and exposed rafters. Deep front porches supported by tapered columns or stone bases. Handcrafted wood details — window trim, beams, and built-ins. Earthy, natural materials: cedar shingles, stone, and brick accents. Cozy, functional floor plans with central fireplaces. Emphasis on craftsmanship and organic integration with the landscape.

Key Features:

Low-pitched, gabled roofs with wide eaves and exposed rafters. Deep front porches supported by tapered columns or stone bases. Handcrafted wood details — window trim, beams, and built-ins. Earthy, natural materials: cedar shingles, stone, and brick accents. Cozy, functional floor plans with central fireplaces. Emphasis on craftsmanship and organic integration with the landscape.

Key Features:

Low-pitched, gabled roofs with wide eaves and exposed rafters. Deep front porches supported by tapered columns or stone bases. Handcrafted wood details — window trim, beams, and built-ins. Earthy, natural materials: cedar shingles, stone, and brick accents. Cozy, functional floor plans with central fireplaces. Emphasis on craftsmanship and organic integration with the landscape.

Description:

Beloved for its warmth and detail, the Craftsman style is one of BC’s enduring favorites. It combines hand-crafted appeal with natural materials — cedar shakes, stone accents, and wood trim — giving homes a timeless, “made by hand” look. BC’s West Coast Craftsman variation adds broader eaves and larger windows to suit the coastal light and rain. Expect earthy tones, front porches made for coffee, and interiors with built-in woodwork and fireplaces. Buyers love it for its solid, grounded feel in an era of glass and steel.

Description:

Beloved for its warmth and detail, the Craftsman style is one of BC’s enduring favorites. It combines hand-crafted appeal with natural materials — cedar shakes, stone accents, and wood trim — giving homes a timeless, “made by hand” look. BC’s West Coast Craftsman variation adds broader eaves and larger windows to suit the coastal light and rain. Expect earthy tones, front porches made for coffee, and interiors with built-in woodwork and fireplaces. Buyers love it for its solid, grounded feel in an era of glass and steel.

Description:

Beloved for its warmth and detail, the Craftsman style is one of BC’s enduring favorites. It combines hand-crafted appeal with natural materials — cedar shakes, stone accents, and wood trim — giving homes a timeless, “made by hand” look. BC’s West Coast Craftsman variation adds broader eaves and larger windows to suit the coastal light and rain. Expect earthy tones, front porches made for coffee, and interiors with built-in woodwork and fireplaces. Buyers love it for its solid, grounded feel in an era of glass and steel.

Commute & Transportation

Walk Score:

84/100

Walk Score:

84/100

Walk Score:

84/100

Bike Score:

62/100

Bike Score:

62/100

Bike Score:

62/100

Average Commute:

25 min

Average Commute:

25 min

Average Commute:

25 min

SkyTrain:

✔️

SkyTrain:

✔️

SkyTrain:

✔️

Transit Access:

SkyTrain: Metrotown SkyTrain Station (Expo Line) is centrally located. Transit Score: Very high in the area. Driving/commute: 15–20 minute transit to central Vancouver according to lifestyle profiles.

Transit Access:

SkyTrain: Metrotown SkyTrain Station (Expo Line) is centrally located. Transit Score: Very high in the area. Driving/commute: 15–20 minute transit to central Vancouver according to lifestyle profiles.

Transit Access:

SkyTrain: Metrotown SkyTrain Station (Expo Line) is centrally located. Transit Score: Very high in the area. Driving/commute: 15–20 minute transit to central Vancouver according to lifestyle profiles.

Rush Hour Traffic:

Heavy around Kingsway, Central Boulevard, and mall access points

Rush Hour Traffic:

Heavy around Kingsway, Central Boulevard, and mall access points

Rush Hour Traffic:

Heavy around Kingsway, Central Boulevard, and mall access points

Environmental Comfort

Overall Noise Level:

Moderate

Overall Noise Level:

Moderate

Overall Noise Level:

Moderate

Nighttime Noise:

Moderate

Nighttime Noise:

Moderate

Nighttime Noise:

Moderate

Snow Removal:

Excellent

Snow Removal:

Excellent

Snow Removal:

Excellent

Seasonal Allergen:

Moderate

Seasonal Allergen:

Moderate

Seasonal Allergen:

Moderate

Wildlife:

Raccoons, skunks, squirrels, crows, owls

Wildlife:

Raccoons, skunks, squirrels, crows, owls

Wildlife:

Raccoons, skunks, squirrels, crows, owls

Evening Activity Level:

High

Evening Activity Level:

High

Evening Activity Level:

High

Family & Kids

Family Density Index:

Low

Family Density Index:

Low

Family Density Index:

Low

Average School Rating

⭐⭐⭐

Average School Rating

⭐⭐⭐

Average School Rating

⭐⭐⭐

Schools:

Maywood Community School (K‑7). Burnaby South Secondary (8‑12). Moscrop Secondary (8‑12)

Schools:

Maywood Community School (K‑7). Burnaby South Secondary (8‑12). Moscrop Secondary (8‑12)

Schools:

Maywood Community School (K‑7). Burnaby South Secondary (8‑12). Moscrop Secondary (8‑12)

Playground Accessibility:

Moderate

Playground Accessibility:

Moderate

Playground Accessibility:

Moderate

Traffic-Calming Features

Pedestrian-priority streets, traffic controls

Traffic-Calming Features

Pedestrian-priority streets, traffic controls

Traffic-Calming Features

Pedestrian-priority streets, traffic controls

Lifestyle & Amenities

Parks & Green Spaces

Central Park (Burnaby): An 86 ha major park bordering Metrotown. Numerous smaller neighbourhood parks mentioned in local realtor guides.

Parks & Green Spaces

Central Park (Burnaby): An 86 ha major park bordering Metrotown. Numerous smaller neighbourhood parks mentioned in local realtor guides.

Parks & Green Spaces

Central Park (Burnaby): An 86 ha major park bordering Metrotown. Numerous smaller neighbourhood parks mentioned in local realtor guides.

Community Centres

Bonsor Recreation Complex: Offers pool, sports, fitness. Bonsor Senior Centre: Next door, for older adults in the community.

Community Centres

Bonsor Recreation Complex: Offers pool, sports, fitness. Bonsor Senior Centre: Next door, for older adults in the community.

Community Centres

Bonsor Recreation Complex: Offers pool, sports, fitness. Bonsor Senior Centre: Next door, for older adults in the community.

Healthcare Facilities

Metrotown Urgent & Primary Care Centre, Burnaby Hospital, Panda Clinic Metrotown, Metro Healthcare (Family Practice), Burnaby Primary Care Network (PCN)

Healthcare Facilities

Metrotown Urgent & Primary Care Centre, Burnaby Hospital, Panda Clinic Metrotown, Metro Healthcare (Family Practice), Burnaby Primary Care Network (PCN)

Healthcare Facilities

Metrotown Urgent & Primary Care Centre, Burnaby Hospital, Panda Clinic Metrotown, Metro Healthcare (Family Practice), Burnaby Primary Care Network (PCN)

Shopping & Dining

Metropolis at Metrotown: 450+ stores — one of BC’s largest malls. Crystal Mall: Large Asian-themed shopping centre. Old Orchard Mall and Station Square also serve the area.

Shopping & Dining

Metropolis at Metrotown: 450+ stores — one of BC’s largest malls. Crystal Mall: Large Asian-themed shopping centre. Old Orchard Mall and Station Square also serve the area.

Shopping & Dining

Metropolis at Metrotown: 450+ stores — one of BC’s largest malls. Crystal Mall: Large Asian-themed shopping centre. Old Orchard Mall and Station Square also serve the area.

Cultural Amenities

The Metrotown Downtown Plan envisions the area as a growing urban core.

Cultural Amenities

The Metrotown Downtown Plan envisions the area as a growing urban core.

Cultural Amenities

The Metrotown Downtown Plan envisions the area as a growing urban core.

Community Character & Vibes

Community Engagement:

Low

Community Engagement:

Low

Community Engagement:

Low

Holiday Décor Index:

Low

Holiday Décor Index:

Low

Holiday Décor Index:

Low

Halloween Décor Index:

Low

Halloween Décor Index:

Low

Halloween Décor Index:

Low

Halloween Activity Level:

Low

Halloween Activity Level:

Low

Halloween Activity Level:

Low

Signature Traits:

Dense, transit-oriented, urban-suburban hybrid

Signature Traits:

Dense, transit-oriented, urban-suburban hybrid

Signature Traits:

Dense, transit-oriented, urban-suburban hybrid

Local Markets:

Urban grocers and specialty food stores

Local Markets:

Urban grocers and specialty food stores

Local Markets:

Urban grocers and specialty food stores

Street Parking Availability:

Limited

Street Parking Availability:

Limited

Street Parking Availability:

Limited

Street Life:

Very active daytime and evenings

Street Life:

Very active daytime and evenings

Street Life:

Very active daytime and evenings

Metrotown is the bustling commercial and residential hub of Burnaby, combining high-rise condo living with convenient access to shopping, dining, and transit. It’s ideal for young professionals, small families, and investors who want proximity to urban amenities without living directly in Vancouver. The neighborhood is lively, convenient, and modern, but it lacks the suburban serenity found in other parts of Burnaby.

Overview & Vibe

Metrotown is Burnaby’s urban core, offering high-rise condo living, shopping, and dining all within walking distance. The neighborhood is ideal for young professionals, small families, and investors who value convenience, transit access, and city life.

Lifestyle: Residents enjoy access to Metropolis at Metrotown, the largest shopping mall in BC, offering retail, dining, entertainment, and services. Restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores are abundant, and delivery services are widely available. The neighborhood is walkable, transit-friendly, and urban-focused, with less emphasis on private outdoor space compared to suburban neighborhoods.

Best For: Urban Professionals ✅, Future Dreamers ✅, Convenience Seekers ✅

Commute & Connectivity

  • SkyTrain: 15–20 minutes to downtown Vancouver, with fast access to Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey.

  • Driving: 15–25 minutes to downtown Vancouver; traffic may extend commute.

  • Cycling & Walking: Walkable streets, bike lanes, and close access to parks and amenities.

  • Practical Tip: Excellent for buyers prioritizing urban lifestyle and minimal car reliance.

Housing & Affordability

  • Condos: $550K–$950K; high-rise towers dominate.

  • Townhouses: $850K–$1.3M; low-rise developments near parks.

  • Detached Homes: Rare; most buyers looking for houses move to surrounding Burnaby neighborhoods.

  • Trends: High demand for condos due to convenience and proximity to shopping, transit, and amenities.

  • Market Notes: High demand from first-time buyers, investors, and young professionals. Condos dominate the market, offering convenience and access to shopping and transit.

Schools & Family Infrastructure

  • Public Schools: Local catchments serve families, though space is limited.

  • Childcare: Available but competitive; early planning advised.

  • Recreation: Nearby community centers, small parks, and sports facilities.

Lifestyle & Amenities

  • Dining & Shops: Abundant cafés, restaurants, retail, and entertainment options in Metropolis at Metrotown and along Kingsway.

  • Delivery & Services: Full coverage; groceries, food, and e-commerce items are easily accessible.

  • Cultural Life: Movie theaters, cultural events, and urban entertainment opportunities.

Nature & Recreation

  • Parks & Trails: Central Park is nearby, offering walking trails, sports fields, and green space.

  • Outdoor Lifestyle: Limited private outdoor space; residents rely on public parks and recreation facilities.

  • Family Recreation: Parks and community centers offer organized sports and activities.

Safety & Community

  • Safety: Generally safe, though higher-density areas may experience more urban-related issues than suburban neighborhoods.

  • Community Engagement: Active resident groups and community programs, though less tight-knit than suburban areas.

Future Outlook

  • Development: Continued high-rise development and transit-oriented projects; urban densification remains a priority.

  • Market Outlook: Strong demand from first-time buyers, young professionals, and investors seeking convenience, transit access, and urban lifestyle.

Who This Community is Best For

Metrotown is ideal for Urban Professionals, Future Dreamers, and Convenience Seekers — buyers who prioritize transit access, shopping, dining, and urban amenities over large private outdoor spaces.

Metrotown offers the convenience of urban living in Burnaby, with high-rise condos, shopping, and transit access all within reach. As a realtor, I help clients find homes that match their lifestyle priorities, whether that’s proximity to work, access to amenities, or modern urban living.

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© Victoria Estate Digest 2026. All rights reserved.

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice.

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Real Estate Insights delivered to Your Inbox!

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Victoria Estate Digest

At Victoria Estate Digest, we bring you unbiased, data-driven real estate insights you can trust. Every article is backed by credible sources and features over 50 key data points, ensuring you get the most accurate and in-depth market analysis.

We cut through the noise—no clickbait, no annoying ads—just clear, expert-backed insights to help you navigate the ever-changing real estate landscape with confidence.

© Victoria Estate Digest 2026. All rights reserved.

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice.

Get Exclusive Real Estate Insights delivered to Your Inbox!

Subscribe to Victoria Estate Digest and get the latest BC Real Estate Trends, Market Analysis, and Expert Insights - Completely FREE!

Victoria Estate Digest

At Victoria Estate Digest, we bring you unbiased, data-driven real estate insights you can trust. Every article is backed by credible sources and features over 50 key data points, ensuring you get the most accurate and in-depth market analysis.

We cut through the noise—no clickbait, no annoying ads—just clear, expert-backed insights to help you navigate the ever-changing real estate landscape with confidence.

© Victoria Estate Digest 2026. All rights reserved.

The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice.