Top 5 Reasons to Move to Surrey BC
Top 5 Reasons to Live in Surrey, BC
Surrey, BC, is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in British Columbia, with more than 700,000 people (BC Stats estimated 733,760, as published by the City of Surrey). But what makes Surrey such a desirable place to live? In this guide, we’ll explore the top five reasons why people are choosing to move to Surrey and why it might be the perfect place for you.
1. Central Location & Accessibility
About 40 minutes from downtown Vancouver on the Expo Line (King George Station to Waterfront), Surrey offers the perfect balance between big-city amenities and a quieter suburban lifestyle. It’s well-connected to the Lower Mainland through major highways and public transit options, making commuting a breeze.
Key Transportation Links:
- Highway 99 Runs north from South Surrey through the George Massey Tunnel toward Richmond and Vancouver. Highway 91 and the Alex Fraser Bridge are the other crossing west.
- Highway 1: Leads to the Port Mann Bridge for those in Central and North Surrey.
- King George Boulevard Leads north to the Pattullo crossing into New Westminster.
- Surrey-Langley SkyTrain A 16 km extension with 8 new stations from King George Station through Fleetwood to Langley City Centre, expected to open in late 2029. There is no Cloverdale station; Clayton is the closest stop.
With its central location and excellent transit options, Surrey is one of the best-connected cities in the Lower Mainland.
2. More Affordable Housing Options
Vancouver’s real estate market is one of the most expensive in the world, driving homebuyers and renters to seek more affordable alternatives. Surrey offers a significant cost advantage while still being close to Vancouver.
Surrey Benchmark Prices (August 2026):
| Property Type | City of Surrey Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Detached Home | $1,407,800 |
| Townhome | $764,900 |
| Condo | $450,800 |
Source: Fraser Valley Real Estate Board MLS® Home Price Index, August 2026.
How that compares with Vancouver: in August 2026, Surrey townhomes and condos were about 35% below the average of Vancouver East and Vancouver West, and Surrey detached homes ran from about 13% below Vancouver East to about 52% below Vancouver West (Greater Vancouver REALTORS® August 2026 Benchmarks).
For homebuyers and renters alike, Surrey offers better affordability while maintaining proximity to Vancouver.
3. Excellent Community Resources & Amenities
Surrey is home to six major communities, each offering diverse services, shopping, healthcare, and recreational facilities. With ongoing investments in infrastructure and amenities, Surrey is an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees.
Key Community Highlights:
- Shopping Centers: Guildford Town Centre, Central City Mall
- Healthcare: Surrey Memorial Hospital, Jim Pattison Outpatient Care
- Recreation Newton Wave Pool, Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex, Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre
- Future Development The new Cloverdale hospital and BC Cancer Centre, expected to open in 2030
With a blend of urban conveniences and suburban charm, Surrey provides everything you need in one place.
4. Outdoor Activities & Green Spaces
Often referred to as the City of Parks, Surrey has more than 800 parks and more than 650 km of trails and paths. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, or beach outings, Surrey has it all.
Top Outdoor Attractions:
- Parks: Tynehead Park, Bear Creek Park, Fleetwood Park
- Beaches Crescent Beach and Blackie Spit in Surrey, with White Rock’s beach and pier next door
- Golf Courses: Morgan Creek Golf Course, Northview Golf & Country Club
- Dog Parks: Off-leash parks across Surrey’s communities
With an abundance of green spaces and recreation, Surrey is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Mild & Comfortable Climate
Surrey enjoys a mild Pacific Northwest climate, making it an attractive option for those looking to avoid extreme weather conditions found in other parts of Canada.
Surrey Weather Overview:
- Spring (March to May) Mild temperatures, occasional rain
- Summer (June to August) Warm, mostly dry, sunny days
- Fall (September to November) Crisp air, vibrant foliage
- Winter (December to February) Mild and wet, with snow that rarely lasts
Despite occasional rain, Surrey’s climate is one of the most moderate in Canada, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
Bonus: Diverse & Friendly Community
Surrey is one of Canada’s most diverse cities, with a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The city’s large South Asian, Chinese, and Filipino populations contribute to a rich cultural landscape, including festivals, restaurants, and community events.
Major Annual Events:
- Surrey Canada Day A large free celebration every July 1
- Surrey Fusion Festival: Showcasing multicultural food and entertainment
- Cloverdale Rodeo Billed by its organisers as Canada’s second-largest community rodeo, held every May long weekend
- Vaisakhi Parade One of the largest Vaisakhi celebrations in the world, drawing hundreds of thousands of people each April
With its multicultural vibrancy and strong community spirit, Surrey is an inclusive city where everyone can feel at home.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Surrey offers affordable housing, excellent amenities, great accessibility, and a mild climate, making it a top destination for homebuyers and renters. If you’re considering moving to Surrey, I’d love to help you find the perfect home!
Alex Dunbar Personal Real Estate Corporation
REAL Broker BC Ltd. | Living in the Lower Mainland
Buying, selling or investing in Surrey and the surrounding cities? Whether you're new to the area or a longtime local, I'll help you make the right move. Book a 30-minute no-pressure call with me and we'll figure out what works best for you.
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