Vancouver Real Estate News Blog

Does where you live affect how long you live?  Researchers indicate there are many factors that affect health, but location is a prime factor.  There are lists of best places to live that include multiple factors but significant in the method is the location.  Vancouver seems to climb to the top of the lists both for Canada and the world.  It is in the top 5 healthiest cities list for both Canada (Prevention, Canada) and the world (MSN Real Estate). 

Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia and the third largest city in Canada.  While it ranks as one of the most expensive cities to live in Canada; it seems to also benefit the residents in terms of healthy, wealthy and wise. 

For the healthy this city seems to consistently rank toward the top.  It may not be in the first place slot, but year on year it is in the top five.  This green, active city has plenty of opportunities for active living and exercise; a strong factor in the health ranking.  Walking and hiking trails, mountain biking and of course, the skiing and coast recreational options.  The town seems to be designed for fitness and physical activity with support in terms of miles of trails and plenty of open space to hike, walk and ride. 

The Economist has ranked Vancouver the number one most livable city in the world, two years running with a 98 out of a 100.  In a recent update on most Prosperous cities to live it ranked 29^th in Canadian cities.  The scale uses 30 factors in five segments including healthcare, stability, education, infrastructure and culture.  Very similar in factors to the Prevention scale which also focused on healthcare and access to exercise. 

Many believe the quality of light, coastal access and natural beauty of the area also contribute to a feeling of health and well-being.  The green and sustainability focus of the city can also benefit health, as there is more focus on quality of air, water and natural resources.

In terms wealthy, Vancouver is at the top of the list in terms of expensive average real estate listings with the average listing according to the British Columbia Real Estate Association topping $1.5 million in 2011.  The condo market in Vancouver has been in a constant growth market for ages; with little sign of slowing. Investors looking for holiday homes or rental properties favor condos in Vancouver. 

Thriving industries in Vancouver including Finance, Technology and Film Production help with the “wealthy” ranking.  The work force is well educated and available; making it a popular location for corporate headquarters.  The location, uniquely positioned between Canada, the US and Asia makes it favorite for World Corporate centers. 

In terms of wise, Vancouver manages to top lists here as well.  The Intelligent Community Forum ranked Vancouver as one of the smartest cities in the world in 2008[1]. More than 60% of the Vancouver population has a university or college education. 

So if you are looking to be healthy, wealthy and wise; the lists all add up to moving to Vancouver.