Moving to Burnaby — Everything You Need to Know

Burnaby is the geographic heart of Metro Vancouver, a city of 250,000 that sits directly between Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. With two SkyTrain lines running through it, some of the region’s best parks, and housing that is more affordable than Vancouver proper, Burnaby has become one of the most desirable places to live in the Lower Mainland. Whether you are a student heading to Simon Fraser University, a young professional looking for a transit-connected condo, or a family searching for green space and good schools, this guide covers everything you need to know about moving to Burnaby, BC.

Why People Move to Burnaby

Burnaby consistently ranks among the best places to live in Metro Vancouver, and for good reason. The city offers what Vancouver cannot: comparable transit access at a lower price point. With 10 SkyTrain stations spanning the Expo and Millennium lines, you can reach downtown Vancouver in 20 minutes from Metrotown or Brentwood. Burnaby also has over 200 parks covering nearly 25 percent of the city’s land area, including Burnaby Lake Regional Park, Deer Lake Park, and Central Park. Add in Metropolis at Metrotown (one of BC’s largest shopping centres), The Amazing Brentwood, and a rapidly modernizing urban core, and Burnaby delivers a lifestyle that rivals Vancouver without the premium price tag.

For families, Burnaby’s schools consistently perform well in provincial rankings. For young professionals, the condo developments near SkyTrain stations in Metrotown and Brentwood offer urban living with direct rapid transit to downtown. For retirees, quieter neighbourhoods like Burnaby Heights and Edmonds provide walkability, community charm, and easy access to medical facilities at Burnaby Hospital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Burnaby

Metrotown

Metrotown is Burnaby’s urban core and the undisputed centre of activity. Anchored by Metropolis at Metrotown, one of the largest shopping centres in British Columbia, this neighbourhood has transformed into a dense, walkable urban hub with high-rise condos, restaurants, and services within steps of the Metrotown SkyTrain station. Condos in Metrotown typically range from $450,000 to $750,000 for one to two-bedroom units, with newer luxury towers pushing higher. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $2,200 to $2,600 per month. Metrotown is ideal for people who want everything at their doorstep: transit, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Brentwood

Brentwood has undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in Metro Vancouver. Once a quiet residential area, it is now a booming urban centre anchored by The Amazing Brentwood, a mixed-use development with high-end retail, restaurants, and residential towers. The Brentwood Town Centre SkyTrain station puts downtown Vancouver just 22 minutes away on the Millennium Line. Condos range from $500,000 to $900,000, with new presale developments regularly launching. Brentwood attracts young professionals and couples who want modern living with top-tier transit access. The area also has excellent restaurants, particularly along the Willingdon corridor.

Burnaby Heights

Burnaby Heights is one of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods, known for its tree-lined streets, heritage homes, and walkable commercial strip along Hastings Street. The Hastings corridor has independent coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, and boutique stores that give the neighbourhood a village feel. Detached homes in Burnaby Heights range from $1.5M to $2.5M, reflecting the neighbourhood’s desirability and limited new development. It is slightly further from SkyTrain, but well-served by bus routes along Hastings. Burnaby Heights appeals to buyers who want character, community, and a quieter pace while still being minutes from downtown.

Edmonds

Edmonds is a family-friendly neighbourhood in south Burnaby, anchored by the Edmonds SkyTrain station and the Highgate Village shopping area. The neighbourhood is known for its proximity to Deer Lake Park, one of Burnaby’s crown jewels, and Byrne Creek Ravine Park. Housing here is diverse: condos start around $400,000, townhomes range from $700,000 to $950,000, and detached homes run $1.3M to $1.8M. Edmonds is popular with families who want green space, transit access, and prices that are more moderate than Metrotown or Brentwood. The Edmonds Community Centre offers excellent programs for children and seniors.

Lougheed

The Lougheed area, centred around the Lougheed Town Centre SkyTrain station, is positioned at the intersection of the Expo and Millennium lines, making it one of the best-connected transit hubs in Metro Vancouver. The Lougheed Town Centre mall provides everyday shopping, and the neighbourhood has a mix of older apartments and newer condo developments. Condos range from $400,000 to $650,000, making it one of Burnaby’s more affordable transit-connected options. Lougheed appeals to commuters who value transit access above all else, as you can reach Coquitlam, Vancouver, or New Westminster without transferring.

Capitol Hill and Willingdon Heights

Capitol Hill and the adjacent Willingdon Heights area offer some of the most affordable detached housing in Burnaby. These established neighbourhoods have older homes from the 1950s through 1970s on generous lots, with prices ranging from $1.2M to $1.7M. The areas are well-served by bus routes and close to the Gilmore and Brentwood SkyTrain stations. Capitol Hill is popular with buyers who want a detached home in Burnaby at a price point below the Heights or Metrotown areas. Some lots are being redeveloped with newer homes and laneway houses.

SFU and Burnaby Mountain

Simon Fraser University sits atop Burnaby Mountain, and the surrounding area is home to UniverCity, a purpose-built residential community for students, faculty, and staff. UniverCity has condos and townhomes ranging from $400,000 to $700,000, with strong rental demand from the university community. The neighbourhood is connected to the rest of Burnaby by frequent bus service to Production Way-University SkyTrain station. If you are affiliated with SFU or simply want mountain-top living with stunning views of the inlet and the city below, Burnaby Mountain is a unique option.

Best Neighbourhoods by Lifestyle

• Families: Edmonds and Burnaby Heights for parks, schools, and community feel
• Young professionals: Brentwood and Metrotown for SkyTrain access and urban amenities
• Retirees: Burnaby Heights for walkability and charm, or Edmonds for Deer Lake access
• First-time buyers: Lougheed or Capitol Hill for the most affordable entry points
• Students: SFU and Burnaby Mountain for proximity to campus and community

Cost of Living in Burnaby

Burnaby is positioned in the middle tier of Metro Vancouver’s cost spectrum. It is 10 to 20 percent cheaper than Vancouver for housing, while offering comparable transit access and amenities. Here is what to expect:

• Rent (1-bedroom apartment): $2,200 – $2,600/month
• Rent (2-bedroom apartment): $2,800 – $3,400/month
• Condo purchase price: Starting around $400,000
• Townhome purchase price: $700,000 – $950,000
• Detached house: $1,200,000 – $2,500,000+
• Groceries: $350 – $500/month for a couple
• Transit pass (1-2 zones): $110.20 – $141.05/month
• Utilities (electricity, heat, water): $150 – $250/month for a 2-bedroom
• Childcare: $800 – $1,200/month ($10/day BC program available at some centres)

Burnaby residents who live near SkyTrain often save significantly on vehicle costs. Many households in Metrotown and Brentwood operate with one car or none, saving $500 to $800 per month on car payments, insurance, gas, and parking compared to car-dependent suburbs.

Housing Market Overview

Burnaby’s housing market is one of the most active in Metro Vancouver, driven by strong demand for transit-connected homes and steady new development. The condo market around Metrotown and Brentwood sees consistent new supply, with presale developments launching regularly. Townhomes in Edmonds and the Lougheed corridor sell quickly, often with multiple offers. Detached homes in Burnaby Heights and the north slope command premium prices for their views, character, and established neighbourhoods.

The rental market in Burnaby is competitive, especially for units near SkyTrain stations. If you are renting, start your search six to eight weeks before your move date and be prepared to act quickly on good listings. Burnaby has a healthy supply of purpose-built rental buildings, secondary suites, and newer rental towers, but demand consistently outpaces supply near transit hubs. Vacancy rates hover around 1 to 2 percent citywide.

Transportation and Commuting

Burnaby is one of the best-connected cities in Metro Vancouver for public transit. The Expo Line runs through the south side of the city with stations at Patterson, Metrotown, Royal Oak, and Edmonds. The Millennium Line runs through the north with stations at Brentwood Town Centre, Holdom, Sperling-Burnaby Lake, Lake City Way, Production Way-University, and Lougheed Town Centre. This gives Burnaby residents direct SkyTrain access to downtown Vancouver (20 minutes from Metrotown), New Westminster, Surrey, Coquitlam, and beyond.

Let’s get you moved! Reach our full-service moving team at (604) 670-6050 or request a free moving quote now.

Bus service is extensive, with frequent routes along Hastings, Kingsway, and the major north-south corridors. The R5 Hastings rapid bus provides high-frequency service along the northern edge of the city. For drivers, Highway 1 (Trans-Canada) runs through Burnaby, and Kingsway and Hastings Street provide arterial access to Vancouver and New Westminster. Commuting to downtown Vancouver by car takes 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic and time of day.

Burnaby also has a growing network of bike lanes and multi-use paths, including the BC Parkway that connects Metrotown to New Westminster and the Central Valley Greenway that runs from Vancouver through Burnaby to New Westminster along a converted rail corridor.

Schools and Education

Burnaby is served by the Burnaby School District (SD41), which operates 41 elementary schools and 8 secondary schools. Several Burnaby schools consistently rank well in provincial assessments, particularly in the Burnaby Heights and Edmonds areas. Notable secondary schools include Burnaby North Secondary, Burnaby Central Secondary, and Burnaby South Secondary (the alma mater of Michael J. Fox).

For post-secondary education, Simon Fraser University on Burnaby Mountain is one of Canada’s top-ranked universities. BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) also has its main campus in Burnaby, offering technical and trades programs. The city also has several independent schools, French immersion programs, and early learning centres throughout all neighbourhoods.

Parks, Recreation, and Amenities

Burnaby has over 200 parks covering more than 25 percent of the city’s total land area, making it one of the greenest cities in Metro Vancouver. Highlights include:

• Burnaby Lake Regional Park: A 300-hectare park with walking and rowing trails circling the lake, home to diverse bird species and wildlife
• Deer Lake Park: Home to the Burnaby Art Gallery, Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, and the Burnaby Village Museum, with walking trails and lakeside picnic areas
• Central Park: A 90-hectare urban park shared with Vancouver, featuring forest trails, a pitch-and-putt golf course, tennis courts, and outdoor pool
• Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area: Trails leading up to SFU with panoramic views of Burrard Inlet, the North Shore Mountains, and Indian Arm
• Barnet Marine Park: A waterfront park on Burrard Inlet with beach access, picnic areas, and views of the North Shore

Burnaby operates several community recreation centres, including the Burnaby Lake Arena, Edmonds Community Centre, Cameron Recreation Centre, and the Bonsor Recreation Complex. These facilities offer swimming pools, fitness centres, ice rinks, and programming for all ages. The city also has excellent library branches, with the Bob Prittie Metrotown branch being one of the busiest in the region.

6 Tips for Moving to Burnaby

1. Prioritize SkyTrain proximity: Burnaby’s value proposition is transit access. Living within walking distance of a SkyTrain station can save you thousands annually on vehicle costs and dramatically improve your commute. Metrotown, Brentwood, Edmonds, and Lougheed all offer walkable station access.
2. Book building elevators early: Many of Burnaby’s high-rise buildings require elevator reservations for move-in, sometimes weeks in advance. Check with your building’s strata or property management as soon as you have your move date confirmed.
3. Watch for parking restrictions: Street parking in Metrotown and Brentwood is heavily regulated, with time limits and permit zones. If you are moving to a condo, confirm what parking is included and what visitor parking is available for moving day.
4. Consider the north-south divide: Burnaby’s north side (Heights, Brentwood, Capitol Hill) has a different character than the south side (Metrotown, Edmonds). Visit both areas before deciding. The Millennium Line serves the north; the Expo Line serves the south.
5. Move mid-week if possible: Burnaby’s high-density neighbourhoods like Metrotown and Brentwood have busy loading docks and elevators. Tuesday through Thursday moves are typically smoother with fewer conflicts and shorter wait times for elevator access.
6. Explore beyond Metrotown: Many newcomers default to Metrotown because it is the most well-known area. But neighbourhoods like Edmonds, Lougheed, and Burnaby Heights often offer better value, more space, and a quieter lifestyle while still being connected by transit.

How Simple Moves Can Help with Your Burnaby Move

Simple Moves is a locally owned and operated Metro Vancouver moving company with extensive experience in Burnaby. We have moved hundreds of customers into and out of Burnaby’s high-rise buildings, townhome complexes, and residential neighbourhoods. Our team knows the elevator booking requirements at buildings across Metrotown, Brentwood, and Edmonds. We know which buildings have tight loading docks, which streets have parking restrictions, and how to navigate move-day logistics in Burnaby’s densest areas.

We are rated 4.8 stars on Google with hundreds of five-star reviews from customers across Metro Vancouver. Every move comes with a free, transparent flat-rate quote with no hidden fees. Whether you are moving from a studio apartment in Brentwood or a detached home in Burnaby Heights, our team will handle your belongings with care and get you settled quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Burnaby

Is Burnaby a good place to live?

Burnaby is one of the best places to live in Metro Vancouver. It offers excellent transit access with 10 SkyTrain stations, over 200 parks, strong schools, and housing that is 10 to 20 percent more affordable than Vancouver. The city has a diverse population, excellent restaurants, and a growing urban core while maintaining green space and community character.

How far is Burnaby from downtown Vancouver?

Burnaby is directly adjacent to Vancouver. By SkyTrain, Metrotown to Waterfront station takes about 20 minutes. Brentwood to Commercial-Broadway is about 8 minutes. By car, the drive to downtown Vancouver takes 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic and which part of Burnaby you are starting from.

What is the average rent in Burnaby?

As of 2026, average rent in Burnaby is approximately $2,200 to $2,600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and $2,800 to $3,400 for a two-bedroom. Units near SkyTrain stations and in newer buildings tend to be at the higher end of the range. Basement suites and older buildings in Capitol Hill or Willingdon Heights can be found for less.

Is Burnaby good for families?

Burnaby is excellent for families. The Burnaby School District operates well-regarded elementary and secondary schools across the city. Neighbourhoods like Edmonds and Burnaby Heights offer parks, community centres, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The city has numerous recreation programs for children and youth, and the abundance of parks and green space provides outdoor play opportunities year-round.

What are the best neighbourhoods in Burnaby for transit?

Metrotown, Brentwood, Edmonds, and Lougheed are the best neighbourhoods for transit access, as each has a SkyTrain station within walking distance. Metrotown and Brentwood are particularly well-connected, with frequent SkyTrain service on both the Expo and Millennium lines running from early morning to after midnight.

How much does it cost to move to Burnaby?

The cost of a local move to Burnaby depends on the size of your home, distance, and time of year. A one-bedroom apartment move within Metro Vancouver typically costs $400 to $800, while a three-bedroom house move can range from $1,500 to $3,000+. Simple Moves provides free flat-rate quotes so you know the exact cost upfront with no surprises. Call us at (604) 670-6050 for a quote.

Insider’s Neighbourhood Guide: What Locals Know About Burnaby

If you are researching where to live in Burnaby, the neighbourhood descriptions above give you the basics. But there are details that only residents discover after living here. Here is the insider knowledge that will help you choose the right area and settle in faster.

Hidden Gems by Neighbourhood

• Metrotown: Skip the food court crowds and walk south to Marlborough Street for authentic Korean restaurants like Sura Korean Royal Cuisine and Kook Korean BBQ. The Maywood neighbourhood just west of Metrotown has quiet residential streets with rental apartments that are significantly cheaper than the towers, often $200-$300 less per month for comparable units.
• Brentwood: The Willingdon Linear Park runs behind the new towers and connects to Still Creek, one of Burnaby’s only remaining urban salmon streams. Locals walk this greenway daily but it never appears in neighbourhood guides. The Holdom area just east of Brentwood offers townhomes at 15-20% less than Brentwood proper with the same SkyTrain access.
• Burnaby Heights: Saturday mornings on Hastings between Gamma and Kensington are when the neighbourhood comes alive. Caffe Artigiano, Chez Christophe Chocolaterie, and the Heights Grocery anchor a strip that feels more like a European village than a suburb. The secret is that properties on the north side of Hastings often sell for $100,000-$200,000 less than south-side homes because they face the street rather than the mountain views.
• Edmonds: Byrne Creek Ravine Park is one of Metro Vancouver’s best-kept urban trails — a forested ravine with a salmon-bearing creek running through a residential area. Edmonds Community Centre has one of the best public swimming pools in Burnaby, and the Wednesday afternoon lane swim is almost always empty.
• Lougheed: The Lougheed Town Centre redevelopment is transforming this area rapidly. Current renters benefit from older purpose-built rental buildings along Cameron Street that charge $1,800-$2,200 for two-bedroom units — well below the citywide average. The area also has the best access to the Trans-Canada Highway for commuters heading east to the Fraser Valley.

Commute Times From Burnaby Neighbourhoods

• Metrotown to Downtown Vancouver (Waterfront Station): 22 minutes by SkyTrain, 25-45 minutes by car depending on time of day
• Brentwood to Commercial-Broadway: 8 minutes by SkyTrain, connecting to the Expo Line or Broadway Subway
• Edmonds to New Westminster: 4 minutes by SkyTrain, making cross-city commutes simple
• Burnaby Heights to Downtown Vancouver: 25 minutes via the R5 Hastings RapidBus or 20-35 minutes by car via the Second Narrows on-ramp
• SFU to Metrotown: 20 minutes by the 144 bus, which runs every 6-8 minutes during peak hours
• Lougheed to Surrey Central: 30 minutes by SkyTrain via the Expo Line

What Locals Wish They Knew Before Moving

• The north-south bus gap: Burnaby’s SkyTrain lines run east-west, but north-south bus service between them can be slow. If you work along one line but live near the other, factor in a 15-20 minute bus transfer.
• Building strata fees vary wildly: Newer towers in Brentwood and Metrotown charge $350-$500/month in strata fees, while older buildings in Edmonds or Capitol Hill may charge $200-$300. Always ask about upcoming special levies before purchasing.
• Street parking during events: When Deer Lake hosts summer concerts (the Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival draws thousands), surrounding streets fill up completely. If you live near Deer Lake, plan accordingly from June through August.
• The Burnaby weather pocket: Burnaby Mountain and the Heights receive noticeably more rain than Metrotown or Edmonds due to elevation. If you are weather-sensitive, stick to the southern half of the city.
• Grocery savings tip: The T&T Supermarket at Metrotown and the H-Mart at Lougheed offer significantly better produce prices than conventional grocery chains. Crystal Mall’s food court beneath Metrotown is where locals eat lunch for $8-$12.

Whether you are narrowing down neighbourhoods or ready to book your move, our Burnaby moving team knows every building, elevator restriction, and loading dock in the city. Simple Moves is a full service moving company — we provide the labour, trucks, and equipment so you do not have to coordinate anything. Call (604) 670-6050 to get a free flat-rate quote for your Burnaby move.

Ready to Move to Burnaby?

Burnaby offers the best of Metro Vancouver: transit access, green space, diverse neighbourhoods, and housing that does not carry the Vancouver price premium. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, Simple Moves will make your move to Burnaby smooth and stress-free. Get a free flat-rate quote online or call us at (604) 670-6050 to get started.

Book your move today! Call our friendly team at (604) 670-6050 or request your free quote — we handle everything from start to finish.

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