New Westminster housing snapshot - Is this historic city still affordable?

As housing prices climb across Metro Vancouver, many people are asking the same question: Is New Westminster still an affordable place to live?

Once known as British Columbia’s original capital city, New Westminster has become a unique blend of history and urban growth. It’s filled with charming neighborhoods, beautiful river views, walkable streets, and a lively arts scene. But with demand rising and development on the rise, newcomers are starting to wonder whether the city is still financially accessible.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes New Westminster an appealing place to live, what current housing prices look like, which neighborhoods offer the best value, and how to make your move smooth with reliable New Westminster moving services.

 

Why people continue to move to New Westminster

New Westminster, often called “New West,” stands out for a few important reasons. It’s centrally located between Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey, making it a great choice for commuters and city workers who don’t want to pay the premium costs of living directly in Vancouver.

But location isn’t the only draw. New Westminster offers a charming downtown core along Columbia Street, a riverfront boardwalk, cultural festivals, and excellent transit access via SkyTrain. It manages to balance historical charm with urban convenience, and that’s something many residents appreciate.

The sense of community is strong too. From farmers markets and public art to independent shops and cafes, it’s a place where locals feel connected to their surroundings.

What housing prices look like in New Westminster

While New Westminster used to be one of the most affordable cities in the region, its popularity has brought some price increases in recent years. However, it still remains more affordable than nearby cities like Vancouver, North Vancouver, and even parts of Burnaby.

Let’s break down what you can expect to pay in 2025:

For renters

• One-bedroom apartments: $1,900 to $2,200 per month

• Two-bedroom apartments or basement suites: $2,300 to $2,700

• Three-bedroom townhomes or upper-level suites: $2,800 to $3,300

While these numbers are higher than they were five years ago, they are still competitive compared to cities just 10–15 minutes away by train.

For buyers

• Condos: Starting at $550,000 for one-bedrooms and around $700,000 for two-bedrooms

• Townhomes: From $850,000 and up

• Detached homes: $1.2M and higher, depending on the neighborhood

Affordability is relative, but for many families and first-time buyers, New West remains a reachable entry point into Metro Vancouver’s housing market.

If you're moving into a new apartment or home, Tingsapp connects you with trusted New Westminster apartment movers and provides upfront pricing for an easy relocation experience.

Which neighborhoods offer the best value?

New Westminster offers a mix of character homes, mid-rise condos, new developments, and family neighborhoods. Here are a few areas to consider if you’re looking for value and lifestyle.

Downtown New Westminster
Close to the SkyTrain, shops, restaurants, and the waterfront. This area is walkable and convenient, especially for renters or young professionals. Condos are the most common housing type here.

Sapperton
Located on the eastern side of the city, Sapperton has become popular for its blend of affordability and community feel. It’s near Royal Columbian Hospital and offers quick access to transit.

Queensborough
This is a growing residential zone across the river, with newer developments, retail centers, and lower prices per square foot. It’s great for families or buyers looking for more space.

Brow of the Hill
An older, more residential area with charming houses and rental suites, Brow of the Hill is slightly more affordable than downtown but still well-connected.

Living in New West – What to expect

Daily life in New Westminster offers the convenience of city living with a more relaxed pace. You’ll find that most essentials are within walking distance or a short transit ride away. The city hosts a wide range of local events, including RiverFest, art shows, food truck festivals, and concerts in the park.

For outdoor lovers, there’s the waterfront Esplanade, Queen’s Park, and plenty of trails for biking or jogging. Schools, community centers, libraries, and local gyms are easily accessible and contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle.

Families benefit from good public schools, while seniors enjoy walkable areas and accessible healthcare. It’s also a welcoming place for newcomers from diverse backgrounds.

Tips for moving to New Westminster

If you’re planning to relocate to New Westminster, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Start searching early. Demand for rentals and homes continues to rise, so listings tend to move fast.

Visit the neighborhood before committing, if possible. Different parts of the city offer very different living experiences.

Book your moving service in advance. Tingsapp helps you compare New Westminster moving services based on price, reviews, and availability.

Pack light but efficiently. High-rise apartments often have limited move-in hours, so good planning is essential.

Make a checklist to stay organized, especially if you're switching school districts, healthcare providers, or utilities.

Is New Westminster still affordable?

The short answer is yes – New Westminster still provides a more affordable alternative to other cities in Metro Vancouver, though the gap has narrowed slightly in recent years. Renters and buyers can still find good deals, especially in neighborhoods like Queensborough or Sapperton, and the value increases when you consider location, transit access, and quality of life.

For anyone looking to balance affordability with livability, New West remains a smart choice.

Final thoughts

New Westminster continues to grow, attract new residents, and develop as one of the most livable mid-sized cities in British Columbia. While prices have gone up, they are still more reasonable than many nearby cities, and the benefits of living here – from community feel to central location – make it a worthwhile move.

If you're planning your next step, use Tingsapp to connect with trusted local movers in New Westminster and enjoy a smooth, transparent moving experience from start to finish.