Langley BC: What You NEED to Know Before Moving Here

by Alex Dunbar

Everything You Need to Know Before Moving to Langley, BC

Are you considering a move to Langley, BC, or simply want to learn more about this vibrant city? As someone who has made the move myself, I’m here to share everything you need to know—from housing options and schools to transportation, lifestyle, and even some challenges you might face.

Whether you're relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, this guide will give you a well-rounded understanding of what to expect.

Why Move to Langley, BC?

Langley, situated in the eastern part of Metro Vancouver, is where old meets new. Known for its beautiful green spaces, family-friendly vibe, and cultural richness, it offers the perfect blend of city conveniences and rural charm. You can enjoy:

A small-town feel with big-city amenities.
Mild weather, ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
A dynamic community with festivals, events, and plenty of dining options.

Weather in Langley: What to Expect

Langley's weather is milder compared to most of Canada, but there are still key points to note:

Rainy Winters: Expect cooler, wetter months, but less rain than neighboring Vancouver.
Warm Summers: July and August are typically the hottest months, with occasional heat waves.
More Snow Than Vancouver: While not heavy, Langley sees slightly more snow during the winter.

Overall, Langley's weather is one of its biggest attractions for people moving from other parts of Canada.

Housing Options in Langley

Langley offers diverse housing options catering to a range of budgets and lifestyles:

Types of Homes

Condos and Townhomes: Ideal for first-time buyers and young professionals.
Detached Homes: Available in suburban neighborhoods and rural acreages.
Rental Properties: Various options are available, but prices can be high compared to the rest of Canada.

Housing Prices

More affordable than Vancouver, Burnaby, or Richmond but higher than many other Canadian cities.
Prices depend on factors like neighborhood, home size, and amenities.

Best Neighborhoods Based on Lifestyle

Families: Prefer suburban areas with access to parks and schools.
Young Professionals: Gravitate towards neighborhoods with urban amenities.
Retirees: Opt for quieter neighborhoods with healthcare access.

Need more specific guidance? Reach out to me directly for personalized insights.

Employment Opportunities in Langley

Langley offers a robust job market across various sectors:

Agriculture: A cornerstone of Langley's economy.
Technology: A growing sector with opportunities in IT and software development.
Retail and Services: Numerous roles in customer service and management.
Remote Work: More jobs are becoming remote or hybrid, offering greater flexibility.

For job seekers, check out platforms like ZipRecruiter, Indeed, and BCJobs.ca.

Proximity to nearby cities like Surrey and Vancouver also expands employment opportunities.

Education in Langley

Langley offers a diverse range of educational options for all age groups:

Public School System

Split into elementary (K-5), middle (6-8), and secondary (9-12).
Over 30 elementary, 6 middle, and 10 secondary schools.

Private and Post-Secondary Options

Private institutions like Credo Christian and Kalsa School of the Fraser Valley.
Two major post-secondary options:
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University
- Trinity Western University (one of BC’s top universities)

Langley’s education system is robust, offering options for various academic needs and lifestyles.

Transportation in Langley

Getting around Langley and the Lower Mainland is straightforward but comes with some caveats:

Driving

Main Roads: 200th and 208th Street can get congested during rush hour.
Parking: Free and abundant, unlike major cities like Vancouver.
Access: Quick access to major highways like Highway 1.

Public Transit

Managed by TransLink with an extensive bus network.
Carvolth Exchange is the primary transit hub.
SkyTrain Extension: Currently under construction, connecting Langley to Surrey by 2028.

Langley is very car-friendly, but public transport options are growing.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Langley offers a vibrant mix of indoor and outdoor activities:

Outdoor Activities

Campbell Valley Regional Park: Ideal for hiking and biking.
Fort to Fort Trail: Along the Fraser River for scenic walks and runs.

Cultural and Community Life

Museums and Galleries: Showcasing local history and art.
Local Events: Fort Langley Beer Festival, food truck festivals, and farmer’s markets.

Sports and Entertainment

Home to professional teams like the Vancouver Giants (WHL), Langley Thunder (Lacrosse), and Vancouver FC (Soccer).
Multiple recreational sports leagues for all ages.

Shopping and Dining

Willowbrook Mall and Willoughby Town Center: Retail hubs for shopping and dining.
Diverse restaurant scene offering everything from local favorites to international cuisine.
Wineries and Breweries: Langley is known as the wine country of the Lower Mainland and is also home to several craft breweries.

Healthcare and Essential Services

Langley is well-equipped with healthcare services and essential amenities:

Langley Memorial Hospital: Located in Murrayville, offering comprehensive services.
Numerous walk-in clinics, family practices, and specialists.
Community Centers: Offer fitness, art programs, and social activities.
Public Libraries: For reading, learning, and community events.

Note: Rural properties may rely on well water and septic systems, while urban properties connect to city utilities.

Safety in Langley

Langley is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it has its challenges:

Higher crime rates are mostly concentrated in the downtown core and certain industrial areas.
RCMP presence is strong, and crime prevention programs are active.
Homelessness is a challenge but is being addressed through community initiatives and affordable housing programs.

Challenges of Living in Langley

While Langley offers a great quality of life, here are some challenges to consider:

Cost of Living: Higher than the Canadian average but more affordable than Vancouver.
Traffic: Can be heavy, especially on main roads like 200th Street.
Lack of Rapid Transit: Until 2028, commuting options are limited.
Homelessness and Crime: Mostly localized to specific areas.

Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision about moving to Langley.