If you’re looking for a family-friendly community with a balance of nature, convenience, and affordability, Chase River is a fantastic choice. Located just 10 minutes south of downtown Nanaimo, this growing neighbourhood offers peaceful suburban living while keeping you close to schools, parks, shopping, and highway access.

Known for its mix of newer developments, established homes, and surrounding green spaces, Chase River is a place where life moves at a comfortable pace. Whether you’re searching for a family home, a quiet retirement retreat, or a suburban property with room to grow, Chase River provides value and convenience just minutes from the city.

Why People Are Moving to Chase River

With a population of just over 6,000, Chase River offers a welcoming suburban lifestyle where neighbours know each other and community events help bring people together. It’s perfect for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

• Safe, family-friendly streets with playgrounds, trails, and nearby schools
  
  

• Peaceful suburban living within city limits
  
  

• Easy access to shopping, dining, and the Nanaimo Parkway
  
  

• More affordable home prices compared to north-end Nanaimo
  
  

• Proximity to downtown Nanaimo and nearby neighborhoods for work, recreation, and cultural amenities
  
  

Real Estate in Chase River

Modern Suburban Living Surrounded by Nature

Homes in Chase River include a mix of single-family properties, newer developments, and townhomes. Many back onto green spaces or offer views of Mount Benson and the surrounding valley.

• Single-Family Homes: The most common type in Chase River, including ranchers, family homes, and custom builds. Prices generally range from $750,000 to $1.1M, depending on age and lot size.
  
  

• Newer Developments: Subdivisions like Cinnabar Valley and Country Hills feature modern designs, open layouts, and mountain or valley views. Ideal for families seeking newer builds close to schools.
  
  

• Townhomes & Condos: Limited in number but growing with new developments. Perfect for first-time buyers or downsizers, typically priced from $450,000–$650,000.
  
  

Over 80% of homes in Chase River are detached single-family properties, many with generous yards, quiet cul-de-sacs, and valley or mountain views.

Outdoor Lifestyle & Local Activities

Chase River is ideal for those who love the outdoors and an active, family-friendly lifestyle.

• Colliery Dam Park: Local favorite for swimming, walking, and picnics
  
  

• Morrell Nature Sanctuary: Forested trails and wildlife spotting
  
  

• Richard’s Marsh Park: Boardwalks and peaceful walking paths
  
  

• Chase River Estuary: Serene natural area perfect for birdwatching
  
  

• Mount Benson Regional Park: Hiking trails with panoramic views
  
  
  

• Boating & Recreation: Just 15 minutes from Nanaimo Harbour for kayaking and sailing; Westwood Lake for swimming and paddleboarding
  
  

• Golfing: Cottonwood Golf Course and Nanaimo Golf Club nearby
  
  

Local Culture, Arts & Community

While Chase River itself is mostly residential, it’s just minutes from Nanaimo’s cultural richness. Residents enjoy a mix of urban amenities, arts, and community events.

• Downtown Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter: Shopping and dining options
  
  

• Port Theatre: Live performances and community events
  
  

• Nanaimo Museum and Bastion: Local history exhibits
  
  

• Farmers markets and seasonal events throughout the year
  
  

Cafés, Restaurants & Markets

Chase River and nearby Nanaimo offer plenty of dining and coffee options.

• Country Grocer Chase River: Local grocery and bakery
  
  

• Southgate Plaza: Restaurants, shops, and services
  
  

• Coco Café (Cedar): Locally made meals and desserts
  
  

• Local Markets: Cedar Farmers Market on Sundays
  
  

• Dining Nearby: Downtown Nanaimo features boutiques, artisan shops, and waterfront dining
  
  

Nearby Communities Worth Exploring

• Cedar: Minutes away, rural charm and farm markets
  
  

• Extension: Quiet acreage properties and forest trails
  
  

• South Nanaimo: Popular for first-time buyers and investors
  
  

• Cinnabar Valley: Family-oriented area with newer homes and parks
  
  

Education in Chase River

Chase River is served by School District 68 (Nanaimo-Ladysmith), offering excellent public education nearby.

• Chase River Elementary (K–7)
  
  

• Cinnabar Valley Elementary (K–7)
  
  

• John Barsby Secondary (8–12)
  
  

• Post-secondary: Vancouver Island University (VIU), just minutes away in Nanaimo
  
  

Why Live in Chase River?

Chase River is ideal for families and professionals seeking Vancouver Island living with convenience, greenery, and community spirit. With spacious yards, access to parks and trails, and proximity to downtown Nanaimo, it’s a neighbourhood that balances suburban comfort with city access. Whether you’re raising a family, downsizing, or investing, Chase River offers a welcoming, well-connected place to call home.