10 Reasons NOT to Move to Langley BC

Moving to a new city is a big decision, and if you're considering Langley, BC, there are some important things you need to know first. While Langley has plenty of great attributes, it also comes with its challenges. In this guide, I'm breaking down the top 10 reasons why you might not want to move to Langley, BC.

1. It's Too Far from Vancouver

Langley is about a 40 to 60-minute drive to downtown Vancouver, depending on traffic and time of day. During rush hour or if there's a crash on the bridge, your commute could be even longer. If you're relying on public transit, expect an additional 15-30 minutes of travel time.

If you need to work in Vancouver, be prepared for long commutes. While Langley offers a quieter lifestyle, it comes at the cost of proximity to Vancouver's job market, nightlife, and diverse dining options.

2. Traffic Congestion

Traffic is a daily challenge in Langley, especially:

• Crossing the city via 200th Street and 208th Street.
• During rush hours in Willoughby and Fort Langley.
• Heading towards Abbotsford or Chilliwack.

Ongoing construction projects only add to the congestion. Like all growing cities, it's a common challenge, but it can be frustrating if you have a daily commute.

3. Limited Public Transit

Currently, Langley does not have rapid transit options like SkyTrain or light rail. The primary public transportation is the bus system, with the Carvolth Bus Exchange acting as a central hub.

Good news: a SkyTrain extension from Surrey to Langley is underway, with completion expected by 2028. Until then, if you're relying on transit for your commute, prepare for long travel times.

4. Poor Walkability

Langley is generally car-dependent, especially in the more rural and eastern areas. While central neighborhoods like Langley City, Willoughby, and Walnut Grove offer better walkability, you'll still likely need a car for errands.

However, most amenities in Langley are only a 5-10 minute drive away, so while it's not walkable, it's still conveniently accessible.

5. High Home Maintenance

Many homes in Langley come with large lot sizes, especially in older communities. This means:

• More yard work and maintenance.
• Potential investment in gardening tools or hiring landscapers.
• Larger homes requiring more upkeep.

If you're not a fan of home maintenance or don't have the budget for it, this could be a downside. However, if you love gardening or enjoy big outdoor spaces, this could be a bonus.

6. Unpredictable Weather

Langley experiences:

• Rainy, wet winters with little snow but lots of wind.
• Short, hot summers, with the hottest months being July and August.

Heatwaves have become more common, so air conditioning is a must-have. While the weather is milder than most of Canada, it can still be a challenge if you're not used to wet, cold winters.

7. Higher Property Taxes

Langley has higher property tax rates compared to cities like Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey. However, overall housing prices are more affordable, which helps balance the higher tax rates. You'll also save on some day-to-day expenses compared to living in Vancouver.

8. Expensive Housing Market

Langley's housing prices are high compared to the rest of Canada but still cheaper than Vancouver. Current benchmark prices:

• Detached Homes: $1.72 million
• Townhomes: $925,000
• Condos: $622,000

Note that prices may fluctuate over time, so be sure to check updated listings. While expensive, Langley offers more affordable options than nearby cities like Burnaby or Coquitlam.

9. Lack of Nightlife

Langley's nightlife is almost non-existent. Most nightclubs have shut down, including:

• Jimmy Licks
• Gabby's Country Cabaret

The only remaining options are the Cascades Casino or heading into Vancouver for a night out. There are still great pubs and breweries, but if you love clubbing and vibrant nightlife, Langley might not be for you.

10. Crime and Homelessness

When talking about crime in Langley, it's important to distinguish between:

• Langley City (higher crime rates)
• Langley Township (lower crime rates)

Most crime and homelessness issues are contained to downtown Langley City. While the township is safer, it's still essential to know which neighborhoods to avoid. Having a local expert can be invaluable for choosing the right area.

Final Thoughts: Is Langley Right for You?

While Langley, BC, has plenty to offer, it's crucial to consider these downsides before making your move. However, if you can see past these challenges, Langley can be a fantastic place to call home.

If you’re considering moving to Langley and want to explore which neighbourhoods would suit you best, I’d be happy to help!

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