Why Surrey is attracting first-time renters and homebuyers in BC

As the cost of living rises across British Columbia, many people are looking for cities that offer more value, space, and long-term opportunity. For first-time renters and homebuyers, Surrey has emerged as one of the most popular destinations in the province.

But why is Surrey attracting so much attention lately? In this post, we’ll break down the reasons behind Surrey’s growing appeal, including housing affordability, rental trends, livability, and how to plan a smooth move with trusted Surrey moving services.

 

Surrey is growing - and for good reason

Surrey is no longer just a suburb of Vancouver. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, with new infrastructure, schools, and business developments shaping its future.

What makes it especially attractive is how it balances urban and suburban living. You’ll find high-rise condos in the city centre, quiet residential neighborhoods in Fleetwood or Clayton Heights, and lots of green space in between.

With plans to become the region’s next major downtown core, Surrey continues to invest in SkyTrain expansion, hospitals, and innovation hubs. That means more jobs, better access, and stronger services for residents – especially those just starting out.

Housing is still more affordable than in Vancouver

For many people, affordability is the top reason they consider Surrey. Compared to Vancouver, Burnaby, or North Vancouver, Surrey offers much more space at a lower price.

Here’s what renters can expect in 2025:

• One-bedroom apartment: $1,800 to $2,200 per month

• Two-bedroom unit or basement suite: $2,300 to $2,700

• Three-bedroom townhome: $2,900 and up

Surrey’s rental market has expanded significantly in recent years. Areas like City Centre, Guildford, and Clayton Heights offer modern condos and purpose-built rentals near transit and amenities. Surrey apartment movers can help you transition easily, especially in busy high-rise or multi-unit buildings.

If you're looking to buy, Surrey offers one of the few remaining footholds in the Lower Mainland where first-time homebuyers can still enter the market.

Here’s a rough breakdown of prices for 2025:

• One-bedroom condo: from $480,000

• Two-bedroom condo or townhome: $650,000 to $800,000

• Entry-level detached home: $1M to $1.2M

While prices have increased in recent years, they’re still significantly more accessible than in Vancouver proper.

Neighborhoods that appeal to newcomers

Surrey is a large and diverse city, so where you choose to live depends on your priorities. Here are a few areas popular with first-time renters and buyers:

City Centre
Surrey’s urban hub with SkyTrain access, high-rise condos, Simon Fraser University, and proximity to shopping and restaurants. Ideal for young professionals and students.

Clayton Heights
A newer, family-friendly neighborhood with townhomes, local parks, and a growing number of services. Great for couples or young families.

Fleetwood
A quiet, established residential area that’s seeing new growth due to the SkyTrain extension. Excellent for long-term living.

Guildford
Home to Guildford Town Centre, this neighborhood has strong rental options, lots of amenities, and quick highway access.

South Surrey
Closer to the US border and the beach, this area offers upscale condos, townhomes, and a more relaxed lifestyle.

Why lifestyle matters for first-timers

First-time renters and buyers are not just looking at price – they also care about lifestyle. Surrey delivers on that too. The city has over 200 parks, a large number of recreation centers, and a growing arts and culture scene.

It’s also a multicultural community, with events, shops, and restaurants that reflect its global diversity. This makes it a welcoming place for newcomers from different backgrounds.

Public schools are strong, healthcare facilities are improving, and walkability is increasing in many neighborhoods. Whether you’re single, newly married, or starting a family, Surrey offers the space and services you need to grow.

Tips for moving to Surrey

Planning your move properly can make all the difference. Here are a few suggestions to get started:

• Research neighborhoods to find one that fits your lifestyle and commute

• Compare rental listings early and understand what's included in your lease

• Ask landlords or building managers about move-in procedures, especially for condos

• Use movers Surrey through Tingsapp to compare pricing and availability

• Avoid peak moving dates (like month-end) if you want better scheduling and lower stress

With Tingsapp, you can get quotes from verified Surrey moving services and make sure your transition is as simple and transparent as possible.

Final thoughts

Surrey is one of the few cities in BC where first-time renters and homebuyers can still find affordability, opportunity, and quality of life all in one place. Its growing infrastructure, cultural diversity, and housing availability make it a top choice for people ready to take the next step.

Whether you’re renting your first apartment or buying your first home, Surrey has the space and support to help you start strong. And with the right movers by your side, getting settled can be just as easy.