If you’re looking to live in a place surrounded by ocean views, parks, and an active community, Nanaimo is one of Vancouver Island’s most dynamic cities. Just 90 minutes north of Victoria and a short ferry ride from Vancouver, Nanaimo offers a balanced lifestyle with everything from waterfront homes to forested trails.

Known for its stunning harbourfront, island-hopping adventures, and welcoming atmosphere, Nanaimo is a place where city life meets the great outdoors. Whether you’re seeking a family home with ocean views, a modern downtown condo, or a peaceful retreat close to nature, Nanaimo delivers a mix of opportunity, recreation, and west coast charm.

Why People Are Moving to Nanaimo

With a population of around 105,000, Nanaimo is Vancouver Island’s second-largest city and one of its fastest-growing. It’s a hub for families, retirees, students, and professionals looking for oceanfront living without sacrificing amenities or access.

• Coastal city lifestyle with a strong sense of community
  
  

• Access to beaches, parks, and island trails right at your doorstep
  
  

• A range of real estate options — from heritage homes to new developments
  
  

• Excellent schools, healthcare, and shopping within the city
  
  

• Easy access to ferries, floatplanes, and highways for island or mainland travel
  
  

• A balanced pace of life that blends convenience and adventure
  
  

Real Estate in Nanaimo

Oceanfront Living with Urban Convenience

Homes in Nanaimo range from affordable condos and family homes to luxury oceanfront estates. Each neighbourhood offers its own charm, from heritage streets downtown to quiet ocean-view communities along the north end.

• Oceanfront Homes: Premium properties with private beach access, docks, and panoramic water views. Prices often range from $1.5M to $3M+.
  
  

• Family Homes: Found in central and north Nanaimo, typically between $750,000 and $1.2M.
  
  

• Condos & Townhomes: Popular downtown and near the waterfront, often between $450,000 and $800,000.
  
  

• Acreages & Rural Properties: Located in areas like Jingle Pot and Extension, ideal for privacy and hobby farms.
  
  

Outdoor Lifestyle & Local Activities

Nanaimo is an outdoor playground — surrounded by ocean, mountains, and endless green spaces.

• Newcastle Island: A short ferry ride from downtown for hiking, biking, and beach picnics.
  
  

• Westwood Lake: Perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or trail walks.
  
  

• Neck Point Park: A stunning oceanfront park ideal for photography and wildlife spotting.
  
  

• Mount Benson: A local favourite for hiking with panoramic views of the city and ocean.
  
  

• Kayaking & Diving: Nanaimo is a world-renowned scuba diving destination with shipwrecks and marine life just offshore.
  
  

Local Culture, Arts & Community

Nanaimo combines creative energy with small-city friendliness. From harbour festivals to art galleries and live music, there’s always something happening.

• Harbourfront events, music festivals, and the famous Bathtub Races
  
  

• The Port Theatre, featuring live music, dance, and performances year-round
  
  

• Art galleries, craft markets, and local artisans throughout downtown
  
  

• A thriving food and brewery scene that celebrates Island ingredients
  
  

Cafés, Restaurants & Markets

Nanaimo’s dining scene offers everything from cozy cafés to oceanfront dining and farm-to-table experiences.

• Asteras Greek Taverna: Known for authentic Mediterranean dishes
  
  

• Drip Coffee | Social: A stylish downtown café with ocean views
  
  

• White Sails Brewing & Longwood Brewery: Local craft beer favourites
  
  

• Nanaimo Farmers Market: A year-round market for fresh produce and handmade goods
  
  

Nearby Communities Worth Exploring

• Lantzville: 10 minutes north, a seaside village with upscale homes and rural charm.
  
  

• Cedar: 15 minutes south, known for its farmland, trails, and family-friendly feel.
  
  

• Gabriola Island: 20 minutes by ferry, offering artsy island life and stunning beaches.
  
  

• Parksville & Qualicum Beach: 30–45 minutes north, with sandy beaches and resort-style living.
  
  

Education in Nanaimo

Families in Nanaimo are served by School District 68 (Nanaimo–Ladysmith), offering a full range of public and private education options.

• Elementary Schools: Many neighbourhood schools across the city
  
  

• Secondary Schools: Including Dover Bay, John Barsby, and Nanaimo District Secondary
  
  

• Post-Secondary: Vancouver Island University (VIU), a leading educational and research institution
  
  

• Childcare centres and early learning programs are widely available
  
  

Why Live in Nanaimo?

Nanaimo offers the best of both worlds: oceanfront city life and outdoor island adventure. With its vibrant community, strong economy, and breathtaking natural surroundings, it’s a place to build, explore, and thrive. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a business, or enjoying retirement, Nanaimo is where opportunity meets coastal beauty.