There’s a reason so many people are moving to Squamish lately.
Some come here for the mountains. Some for the slower pace of life. Others are simply looking for more space, more nature, and a stronger sense of community than they’ve been able to find in larger cities.
But if you’ve been thinking about relocating to Squamish, you’ve probably already realized something important:
Living here is different than just visiting for the weekend.
And honestly, that’s what makes Squamish so special.
As someone who was born and raised in Squamish, Evelyn Schellenberg has watched this community grow and evolve over the years while still holding onto the things people love most about it - the outdoor lifestyle, the local connections, and the feeling of being surrounded by nature every day.
If you're considering moving to the Sea to Sky region, here are a few things worth knowing before making the move.
Squamish Offers a Lifestyle Shift - Not Just a New Address
One of the biggest things people notice after moving to Squamish is how much their day-to-day lifestyle changes.
Life here tends to feel a little slower, more connected, and far more outdoors-oriented than in larger urban centres.
People spend weekends:
hiking,
biking,
paddleboarding,
skiing,
climbing,
or simply enjoying time outside with family and friends.
Even after years of living here, it’s still hard not to appreciate the mountain views during an ordinary grocery run or evening walk.
For many buyers relocating from Vancouver, the move is less about escaping the city and more about creating a different kind of balance.
Every Squamish Neighbourhood Has a Different Feel
One thing many buyers don’t realize at first is how different Squamish neighbourhoods can feel from one another.
Some communities are more walkable and central, while others offer quieter residential streets, larger lots, or easier access to trails and outdoor recreation.
For example:
Downtown Squamish offers restaurants, cafés, walkability, and a more active community atmosphere.
Brackendale is known for its peaceful setting, riverside surroundings, and outdoor lifestyle.
Garibaldi Highlands is popular with families looking for larger homes and mountain views.
Valleycliffe attracts outdoor enthusiasts who love being close to hiking and climbing access.
There’s no “best” neighbourhood - it really depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and what you want daily life to look like.
That’s why local knowledge matters so much when buying a home in Squamish.
The Squamish Real Estate Market Moves Differently
The Squamish real estate market has grown significantly over the years, and demand for homes in Squamish continues to remain strong.
But unlike larger cities, inventory here can sometimes feel more limited depending on the season and property type.
That’s why preparation matters.
If you’re planning on relocating to Squamish, it helps to:
get pre-approved early,
understand your budget,
learn the neighbourhoods,
and have a clear sense of your priorities before seriously starting your search.
The process becomes much easier when you understand not just the listings, but also the local market dynamics behind them.
Outdoor Living Becomes Part of Everyday Life
People often move to Squamish because they love the outdoors - but many don’t realize just how much outdoor living becomes part of everyday routine once they’re here.
Morning trail runs before work.
Evening walks by the water.
Weekend hikes becoming normal instead of occasional.
The lifestyle naturally shifts.
That’s one of the biggest reasons people end up staying long term.
Squamish offers a rare combination of:
outdoor recreation,
community connection,
and accessibility to Vancouver and Whistler.
It’s difficult to fully understand until you actually live here.
Squamish Is Still Growing
While Squamish still maintains its community feel, there’s no question the area continues to grow.
New developments, businesses, restaurants, and amenities continue to shape the region.
For buyers, this growth creates both opportunity and important considerations.
Some people are looking for:
long-term investment potential,
family-friendly communities,
or homes with room to grow into.
Others are focused more on lifestyle and finding a home that better aligns with how they want to live day to day.
The key is understanding what matters most to you before making the move.
Why Working With a Local Squamish Realtor Matters
Relocating is about more than buying property.
It’s about understanding:
commute realities,
community atmosphere,
schools,
lifestyle differences,
and what daily life actually feels like in different areas.
That’s why working with a trusted Squamish realtor can make the process feel much less overwhelming.
Having lived in Squamish most of her life, Evelyn Schellenberg has had the chance to watch these neighbourhoods evolve over time while still keeping the qualities that make people fall in love with this area in the first place.
As a local Sea to Sky real estate expert, Evelyn helps buyers better understand not only the market, but also the communities and lifestyle behind it.
Final Thoughts on Moving to Squamish
Moving to Squamish isn’t simply a real estate decision - for many people, it becomes a lifestyle decision too.
The combination of mountains, ocean, outdoor recreation, and strong community connection creates something that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in British Columbia.
And while the market, neighbourhoods, and opportunities continue to evolve, the heart of Squamish still feels grounded in nature and community.
If you’re thinking about relocating and want honest local insight into different neighbourhoods, communities, or the buying process, Evelyn Schellenberg would be happy to help.
Thinking About Moving to Squamish?
Whether you’re just starting to explore the area or actively planning your move, Evelyn Schellenberg can help you better understand the local market, homes in Squamish, neighbourhoods, and lifestyle opportunities throughout the Sea to Sky region.
Get in touch anytime to start the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Squamish
Is Squamish a good place to live?
Squamish is popular for its outdoor lifestyle, mountain scenery, strong community atmosphere, and convenient location between Vancouver and Whistler.
What are the best neighbourhoods in Squamish?
Popular Squamish neighbourhoods include Downtown Squamish, Brackendale, Garibaldi Highlands, and Valleycliffe, depending on your lifestyle and priorities.
Is Squamish expensive to live in?
Housing prices can vary depending on the neighbourhood and property type, but many buyers feel the lifestyle and outdoor access make Squamish a worthwhile long-term investment.
How far is Squamish from Vancouver?
Squamish is approximately one hour from Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway.
Why are so many people moving to Squamish?
Many people are relocating to Squamish for the balance between outdoor living, community connection, and access to both Vancouver and Whistler.
The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.