Burnaby Neighbourhoods: Get to Know the City

Making the move to study in Burnaby means a whole new way of life in an ethnically-diverse, thriving city. Burnaby has a population of over 220,000 people, making it the third largest city in BC. Celebrating its 125^th birthday this fall, Burnaby has a rich history, and diverse neighbourhoods – each offering unique amenities, geographical features, parks, and housing options.

Burnaby is roughly divided into three major areas: North Burnaby, South Burnaby, and East Burnaby, with North and South Burnaby divided by the Trans-Canada Highway. Within those large areas are many smaller residential neighbourhoods.

North Burnaby Has Great Views and Authentic Neighbourhoods

North Burnaby is comprised of ocean-view neighbourhoods, and the bustling shopping district of The Heights. Neighbourhoods north of Hastings Street offer the advantage of proximity to the Burrard Inlet; you can head down to Barnet Marine Park and take in spectacular ocean views from downtown Vancouver to the west, Indian Arm to the east, and enjoy activities such as swimming and kayaking. There are fantastic amenities in North Burnaby, from the Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool, to the McGill branch of the Burnaby Public Library. Housing options include low-rise condominiums along Hastings Street, and dense condo towers, located along the Millennium Line Skytrain artery, and Brentwood Mall. There are many opportunities for single-family home living in neighbourhoods such as Capitol Hill, Vancouver Heights, and many others.

Central Burnaby is a Sports Lover’s Dream

Central Burnaby (part of North Burnaby) features Burnaby 8 Rinks, a sports facility comprised of 6 NHL-sized rinks, an indoor soccer field, and a dedicated figure skating rink. The Government Road neighbourhood of North Burnaby gives you close proximity to the wonderful sports and recreational amenities of Burnaby Lake Park – an exquisite wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the city.

East Burnaby

East Burnaby is an ethnically-diverse area that has a wide range of housing options, and offers the acclaimed new Edmonds Community Centre, with swimming, fitness, and youth programming. The Tommy Douglas Library is also located here.

South Burnaby Offers a Diverse Array of Housing and Amenities

South Burnaby has seen much development and densification in the past 20 years. Take advantage of high rise, urban living and the many great parks and recreational amenities in the area, including Deer Lake Park – the cultural hub of Burnaby.

Not Far from Bustling Metrotown, Enjoy the Sights of the Mighty Fraser River

Another advantage of South Burnaby is its proximity to the Fraser River and the fantastic Fraser Foreshore Park, featuring bike and walking paths, and ever-changing views of marine activity.

Bonsor Recreation Complex is smack in the middle of Metrotown, offering swimming, squash, yoga and more. Central Park offers tennis courts, pitch and putt golf, and an outdoor swimming pool. Enjoy the services of Burnaby Public Library’s Bob Prittie Metrotown Branch. Extensive shopping options await at Metrotown, Canada’s second largest shopping centre.

Wherever you choose to live in Burnaby, you will enjoy its neighbourhoods, green spaces, and many opportunities for healthy living.