Oakwyn Realty Ltd.
Oakwyn Realty Ltd.

Your Complete Guide to Moving to the Fraser Valley

Discover the lifestyle, activities, and unique benefits, along with some things to consider before making the Fraser Valley your home.

Whether you’re moving from Vancouver, other provinces, or across the border from the USA, the Fraser Valley offers a mix of city convenience, small-town charm, and stunning natural surroundings. From affordable housing compared to Metro Vancouver, to access to mountains, lakes, and trails, the Fraser Valley is one of BC’s fastest-growing regions.

This guide covers everything you need to know about living in the Fraser Valley; from the best cities to call home, to lifestyle pros and cons, schools, commuting, and activities.

Living in Langley

Langley is a vibrant mix of urban and suburban living with excellent schools, shopping, and family-friendly neighborhoods.
It’s also a hub for wineries, equestrian culture, and quick access to Vancouver.

Population

In 2024, the combined population of both the Township of Langley, and the City of Langley was estimated to be 197,585.

Average Price

As of July 30th, 2025.

Detached: $1,598,600
Townhouse: $852,300
Condo: $590,900

City Commute

Well-connected by TransLink, and express buses available. Roughly 40 minutes by car to the City of Vancouver.

Overall Vibe

Suburban-urban blend; growing fast, family-friendly, strong schools, shopping, and a planned SkyTrain extension.

Pros:

  • Great mix of modern shopping (Willowbrook Mall) and charming historic downtown
  • Excellent schools and family-friendly communities
  • Close to Vancouver without Vancouver prices
  • Thriving arts, culture, and food scene


Cons:

  • Traffic congestion, especially near Highway 1 and 200th Street
  • Higher housing prices compared to Abbotsford, Mission, or Chilliwack


The Langley Vibe?

Activities & Lifestyle

Langley offers something for everyone, from exploring local wineries and craft breweries to enjoying scenic walks at Campbell Valley Regional Park. You can catch exciting sports games and concerts at the Langley Events Centre, or experience the charm of the countryside with horseback riding and authentic farm adventures.

Living in Abbotsford

Known as the “City in the Country,” Abbotsford blends urban living with strong agricultural roots.
It’s one of the largest cities in the Fraser Valley and offers a wide variety of housing, from condos to acreages.

Population

In 2024, the population in Abbotsford was estimated to be around 157,569.

Average Price

As of July 30th, 2025.

Detached: $1,180,200
Townhouse: $653,400
Condo: $424,400

City Commute

Within the Abbotsford, about 15% of commuters travel one hour or longer to the City, one of the highest rates in Canada.

Overall Vibe

Known as a family-friendly city with a “city in the country” feel; combining urban amenities with agricultural surroundings.

Pros:

  • Central location with easy access to Vancouver and Chilliwack
  • International airport (YXX) for travel convenience
  • Mix of affordable and luxury homes
  • Diverse cultural community



Cons:

  • Traffic can be heavy during peak commuting hours
  • Property taxes can be higher than smaller towns


The Abbotsford Vibe?

Activities & Lifestyle

Abbotsford is full of experiences to enjoy, from hiking the trails of Sumas Mountain or the scenic Discovery Trail to catching live concerts and events at the Abbotsford Centre. Cheer on the Abbotsford Canucks AHL hockey team, or take part in community traditions like the annual Agrifair and world-renowned Airshow that bring the city to life every year.

Living in Mission

Mission offers a quieter lifestyle with more affordable homes, especially for those looking for acreage or larger lots.
Surrounded by forest, lakes, and mountains, it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Population

In 2024, the population in Mission was estimated to be around 41,519.

Average Price

As of July 30th, 2025.

Detached: $1,033,100
Townhouse: $663,000
Condo: $441,500

City Commute

Mission is about an hour from Vancouver by Highway 1, or Lougheed. The West Coast Express is another great option.

Overall Vibe

Quiet, nature-focused, affordable, ideal for those seeking space and outdoor access and activities.

Pros:

  • More affordable housing compared to Abbotsford and Langley
  • Great access to outdoor recreation (Stave Lake, Rolley Lake, hiking trails)
  • Small-town feel with growing amenities
  • West Coast Express train for commuters to Vancouver



Cons:

  • Fewer shopping and dining options than Langley or Abbotsford
  • Longer commute times if working in Vancouver
  • Smaller job market locally


The Mission Vibe?

Activities & Lifestyle

Mission offers more affordable housing than nearby Abbotsford and Langley, making it an attractive option for families and commuters. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation at Stave Lake, Rolley Lake, and nearby hiking trails, all while enjoying a small-town feel with growing local amenities. For those working in Vancouver, the West Coast Express makes commuting convenient and stress-free.

Living in Chilliwack

Once considered a farming town, Chilliwack has become a booming city with affordable homes,
new developments, and some of the best outdoor recreation in BC.

Population

In 2024, the population in Mission was estimated to be around 93,203.

Average Price

As of July 30th, 2025.

Detached: $926,600
Townhouse: $627,000
Condo: $419,300

City Commute

The commute from Chilliwack to Vancouver usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic.

Overall Vibe

Small-town feel, relaxed pace, great outdoor lifestyle. Some would say “like Langley used to be”.

Pros:

  • Lower cost of housing compared to Langley and Abbotsford
  • Incredible outdoor access (Cultus Lake, Chilliwack River, hiking trails)
  • Rapidly growing city with new shopping and dining options
  • Strong community feel



Cons:

  • Further from Vancouver, longer commute times
  • More rural feel may not suit everyone
  • Weather can be wetter due to its location in the valley


The Chilliwack Vibe?

Activities & Lifestyle

Chilliwack offers a mix of outdoor adventure and community charm. You can spend summer days at Cultus Lake enjoying water sports and camping, or head out for scenic hikes at Bridal Falls and Elk Mountain. The city also has a strong local spirit with the Chilliwack Chiefs junior hockey team, and its markets, breweries, and growing food scene bring people together year-round.

Moving to the Fraser Valley – FAQ

THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS ASKED

Is it cheaper to live in the Fraser Valley than Vancouver?

Yes. Housing in Abbotsford, Mission, and Chilliwack is significantly more affordable than Metro Vancouver. Langley is closer in price but still offers better value.

What is the best city in the Fraser Valley for families?

Langley and Abbotsford are popular for families due to excellent schools, amenities, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Mission and Chilliwack are great if you want more space and affordability.

How long is the commute from the Fraser Valley to Vancouver?

  • Langley: 45–60 minutes by car (longer in rush hour)
  • Abbotsford: 1–1.5 hours
  • Mission: 1.5 hours by car, or 75 minutes by West Coast Express train
  • Chilliwack: 1.5–2 hours by car

Is the Fraser Valley a good place to retire?

Yes. With a mild climate, affordable housing compared to Vancouver, and access to healthcare and recreation, the Fraser Valley is a popular choice for retirees.

What jobs are available in the Fraser Valley?

Top industries include healthcare, education, construction, agriculture, and small business. Many residents also commute to Vancouver or work remotely.

Where are the most affordable homes in the Fraser Valley?

Mission and Chilliwack typically offer the most affordable housing options. Abbotsford and Langley are higher but still less expensive than Vancouver.

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