Moving to Burnaby, BC in 2025: Your Complete Local Guide 🏠
Elong
July 8, 2025
🌟 Why Burnaby is British Columbia’s Hidden Gem
Moving to Burnaby, BC? You’re making an excellent choice! Located in the heart of Metro Vancouver, Burnaby perfectly balances urban convenience with natural beauty. As BC’s third-largest city, it offers world-class amenities, diverse neighborhoods, and easy access to both Vancouver and the North Shore mountains.
Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or retiree seeking quality of life, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about relocating to Burnaby in 2025.
💰 How Much Does It Cost to Move to Burnaby?
Moving Service Costs in Burnaby
| Service Type | Local Move (Burnaby) | Long-Distance to Burnaby | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Moving Service | $120-$200/hour | $1,500-$4,000+ | 2-3 movers, truck included |
| Full-Service Moving | $180-$300/hour | $2,500-$6,000+ | Packing, unpacking, storage |
| Piano/Specialty Items | $300-$800 | $500-$1,200 | Depends on item complexity |
| Storage (if needed) | $80-$250/month | Same | Climate-controlled recommended |
💡 Pro Tip: Get multiple quotes through BCServiceFinder.ca to compare licensed movers and save up to 30% on your Burnaby move.
First-Month Living Expenses
| Category | Budget Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage | $1,800-$4,500+ | Varies by neighborhood/size |
| Utilities Setup | $200-$400 | Deposits + first month |
| Groceries | $400-$800 | Family of 2-4 |
| Transportation | $130-$400 | Transit passes or car expenses |
| Internet/Phone | $80-$150 | Setup fees included |
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods in Burnaby: Where Should You Live?
For Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Deer Lake
- Top-rated schools nearby
- Family-friendly parks and recreation
- Average rent: $2,800-$4,200/month
- Close to Metrotown for shopping
2. Capitol Hill
- Quiet residential streets
- Swangard Stadium area
- Excellent transit connections
- Average rent: $2,400-$3,800/month
For Young Professionals 💼
1. Metrotown
- Major shopping and dining hub
- Multiple SkyTrain stations
- High-rise living options
- Average rent: $2,000-$3,500/month
2. Brentwood Town Centre
- Rapidly developing area
- Direct SkyTrain to downtown Vancouver
- Modern amenities
- Average rent: $2,200-$3,800/month
For Students 📚
1. Simon Fraser University Area
- On-campus and nearby housing
- Burnaby Mountain location
- Bus connections throughout city
- Average rent: $800-$1,800/month
2. Lougheed
- Affordable housing options
- Good transit links to SFU
- Shopping and services nearby
- Average rent: $1,400-$2,800/month
For Seniors 👵👴
1. Edmonds
- Quiet, established community
- Medical facilities nearby
- Senior-friendly amenities
- Average rent: $1,800-$3,200/month
2. Burnaby Heights
- Heritage neighborhood charm
- Walkable to shops and services
- Community centers with senior programs
- Average rent: $2,000-$3,400/month
🚗 Is Burnaby Easy to Live in Without a Car?
Absolutely! Burnaby has one of BC’s best public transit systems:
Transit Options 🚊
- SkyTrain: 4 stations (Metrotown, Royal Oak, Edmonds, 22nd Street)
- Bus Network: 25+ routes covering all neighborhoods
- Monthly Transit Pass: $130 for adults
- Bike Lanes: Expanding network throughout the city
Walkability Scores by Area
- Metrotown: 88/100 (Very Walkable)
- Brentwood: 75/100 (Very Walkable)
- Burnaby Heights: 82/100 (Very Walkable)
- Capitol Hill: 68/100 (Somewhat Walkable)
Car-Free Living Tips:
- Choose neighborhoods near SkyTrain stations
- Use car-sharing services (Evo, Car2Go) for occasional needs
- Take advantage of grocery delivery services
- Join local cycling groups for recreation
💼 Burnaby Job Market: Opportunities Await
Major Employment Sectors
Technology & Innovation 💻
- Growing tech hub with 300+ companies
- Average salary: $65,000-$120,000
- Major employers: EA Sports, SAP, Telus
Healthcare 🏥
- Burnaby Hospital and numerous clinics
- Average salary: $55,000-$95,000
- High demand for nurses, technicians
Education 📖
- Simon Fraser University, BCIT
- School District 41
- Average salary: $50,000-$85,000
Retail & Hospitality 🛍️
- Metrotown, Brentwood Town Centre
- Average salary: $35,000-$55,000
- Entry-level opportunities available
Job Search Resources
- WorkBC Burnaby
- SFU Career Services
- Local networking events
- Online platforms (Indeed, LinkedIn)
🏫 Schools, Transit & Amenities in Burnaby
Top-Rated Schools
Elementary Schools:
- Montecito Elementary (Rating: 9/10)
- Parkcrest Elementary (Rating: 8.5/10)
- Stride Avenue Community School (Rating: 8/10)
Secondary Schools:
- Burnaby North Secondary (Rating: 8/10)
- Byrnes Creek Community School (Rating: 7.5/10)
- Alpha Secondary (Rating: 7/10)
Post-Secondary:
- Simon Fraser University (World-ranked)
- British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)
Healthcare Facilities 🏥
- Burnaby Hospital (Full-service acute care)
- Multiple walk-in clinics
- Specialized medical centers
- Mental health services
Recreation & Culture 🎨
- Burnaby Village Museum: Local history
- Deer Lake Park: Outdoor activities
- Swangard Stadium: Sports events
- Ron McLean Sapperton Park: Family fun
- Multiple community centers with pools, gyms, programs
🛒 Where to Shop for Essentials After Moving
Major Shopping Centers
Metrotown (Canada’s largest mall)
- 450+ stores and services
- Grocery: Real Canadian Superstore, T&T Supermarket
- Home goods: IKEA, Home Depot
Brentwood Town Centre
- Shopping and dining
- Whole Foods Market
- London Drugs for essentials
Neighborhood Essentials
- Grocery: Save-On-Foods, No Frills, IGA
- Asian Markets: T&T, Osaka Supermarket, H Mart
- Pharmacies: Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall
- Hardware: Canadian Tire, Home Hardware
Online Shopping & Delivery
- Amazon Prime (same-day delivery available)
- Instacart grocery delivery
- Local delivery services through apps
👶 Moving With Kids or Pets to Burnaby?
Family-Friendly Resources 👨👩👧👦
Childcare & Daycares:
- Licensed daycare facilities throughout the city
- Waitlists can be 6-12 months – apply early!
- Average cost: $1,200-$1,800/month
Pediatric Healthcare:
- Children’s Hospital (nearby Vancouver)
- Family doctors accepting new patients
- Walk-in clinics with pediatric services
Family Activities:
- Burnaby Village Museum
- Central Park (duck pond, playground)
- Multiple spray parks and pools
- Youth sports leagues
Pet-Friendly Burnaby 🐕🐱
Veterinary Services:
- Multiple full-service animal hospitals
- Emergency pet care available 24/7
- Average vet visit: $80-$150
Pet Services:
- Dog parks: Ron McLean, Central Park, Hume Park
- Pet stores: PetSmart, local independents
- Grooming services throughout the city
- Dog walking/pet sitting services
Pet Registration:
- Required for all dogs and cats
- Annual fee: $20-$40
- Available online or at City Hall
✅ Your First 30 Days in Burnaby: Essential Checklist
Week 1: Immediate Priorities
- [ ] Register utilities (BC Hydro, gas, water)
- [ ] Set up internet/phone (Telus, Shaw, Rogers)
- [ ] Open bank account (local branch visits recommended)
- [ ] Get BC Services Card (MSP, driver’s license)
- [ ] Register to vote (Elections BC)
Week 2: Getting Settled
- [ ] Find family doctor (College of Physicians directory)
- [ ] Explore your neighborhood (grocery stores, services)
- [ ] Register children for school (if applicable)
- [ ] Set up Canada Post mail forwarding
- [ ] Join local community groups (Facebook, Nextdoor)
Week 3: Building Connections
- [ ] Visit community center (programs, memberships)
- [ ] Explore parks and recreation facilities
- [ ] Find local services (dry cleaning, hair salon, etc.)
- [ ] Connect with neighbors
- [ ] Research local events and activities
Week 4: Long-term Planning
- [ ] Budget review based on actual costs
- [ ] Explore job opportunities (if job searching)
- [ ] Plan weekend activities and local exploration
- [ ] Review insurance needs (home, auto, health)
- [ ] Set up local professional services (dentist, optometrist)
🚚 Choosing Moving Services in Burnaby
When to Hire Professional Movers
Full-Service Moving is Best For:
- Long-distance moves to Burnaby
- Families with children
- Valuable or fragile items
- Tight timelines
- Physical limitations
DIY Moving Works When:
- Local moves within Metro Vancouver
- Minimal furniture/belongings
- Flexible timeline
- Limited budget
- Young, physically able individuals
Questions to Ask Burnaby Movers
- Are you licensed and insured in BC?
- What’s included in your hourly rate?
- Do you provide packing materials and services?
- What’s your policy on damaged items?
- Can you provide references from recent Burnaby moves?
💡 Smart Moving Tip: Use BCServiceFinder.ca to get quotes from pre-screened, licensed movers in Burnaby. Compare prices, read reviews, and book with confidence!
🛡️ Safe Neighborhoods: Burnaby’s Security Overview
Crime Statistics by Area (2024 Data)
| Neighborhood | Safety Rating | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Deer Lake | 9/10 | Family-oriented, well-lit streets |
| Capitol Hill | 8.5/10 | Residential, regular patrols |
| Burnaby Heights | 8/10 | Community watch programs |
| Metrotown | 7/10 | Busy area, good lighting |
| Edmonds | 8.5/10 | Quiet, established community |
Safety Tips for New Residents 🔒
- Join neighborhood watch groups
- Install security systems (many local providers)
- Stay aware in transit areas after dark
- Use well-lit parking areas
- Keep emergency contacts handy
Emergency Services
- Police: RCMP Burnaby Detachment
- Fire: Burnaby Fire Department (4 stations)
- Medical: Burnaby Hospital, multiple clinics
- Emergency Number: 911
💡 Hidden Costs & Money-Saving Tips
Unexpected Expenses to Budget For
Government Fees & Registrations:
- BC Services Card replacement: $25
- Vehicle registration transfer: $32
- Driver’s license replacement: $17
- Pet registration: $20-$40 annually
Home Setup Costs:
- Utility deposits: $100-$300
- Internet installation: $50-$100
- Cable/satellite setup: $75-$150
- Home insurance: $150-$400/month
Money-Saving Strategies 💰
Transportation:
- Buy annual transit pass for savings
- Use bike-share programs
- Carpool with coworkers
- Take advantage of student/senior discounts
Housing:
- Consider basement suites for savings
- Look for inclusive rent (utilities included)
- Negotiate longer lease terms for better rates
- House-sit or sublet to save on deposits
Daily Living:
- Shop at ethnic markets for fresh produce
- Use library services (free WiFi, events, resources)
- Take advantage of community center programs
- Join warehouse clubs for bulk savings
🎯 Final Thoughts: Making Burnaby Home
Moving to Burnaby, BC offers an incredible opportunity to enjoy West Coast living with urban conveniences. From its diverse neighborhoods and excellent transit system to world-class amenities and natural beauty, Burnaby truly has something for everyone.
Key Takeaways for Your Move:
- Budget $3,000-$8,000 for moving costs and initial setup
- Choose neighborhoods based on your lifestyle priorities
- Book moving services early through trusted platforms like BCServiceFinder.ca
- Take advantage of excellent public transit
- Get involved in community activities to build connections quickly
❓ FAQs About Moving to Burnaby
Q: What’s the average cost to hire movers in Burnaby?
A: Local moves in Burnaby typically cost $120-$200 per hour for 2-3 movers with a truck. Long-distance moves to Burnaby range from $1,500-$4,000+ depending on distance and services. Get accurate quotes from licensed movers at BCServiceFinder.ca.
Q: Is Burnaby expensive to live in?
A: Burnaby’s cost of living is moderate for Metro Vancouver. Rent ranges from $1,400-$4,500+ monthly depending on neighborhood and housing type. Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are comparable to other BC cities, with good value for the amenities offered.
Q: What’s the best neighborhood in Burnaby for families?
A: Deer Lake and Capitol Hill are top choices for families, offering excellent schools, parks, safe streets, and community amenities. These areas have easy access to recreation facilities and are well-connected by transit.
Q: Can I live in Burnaby without a car?
A: Yes! Burnaby has excellent public transit with 4 SkyTrain stations and 25+ bus routes. Neighborhoods like Metrotown (88/100 walkability) and Brentwood (75/100 walkability) are very car-friendly. Monthly transit passes cost $130.
Q: How long does it take to commute from Burnaby to downtown Vancouver?
A: SkyTrain from Metrotown to downtown Vancouver takes about 15-20 minutes. From other Burnaby stations, expect 20-30 minutes total travel time. Bus connections add 10-20 minutes depending on your location.
Q: What should I do first when moving to Burnaby?
A: Priority tasks include: registering utilities (BC Hydro, gas), setting up internet, getting your BC Services Card, opening a local bank account, and registering to vote. Our 30-day checklist above covers everything step-by-step.
Q: Are there good schools in Burnaby?
A: Burnaby has excellent schools including top-rated Montecito Elementary (9/10) and Burnaby North Secondary (8/10). The city is also home to Simon Fraser University and BCIT for post-secondary education.
Q: How do I find a family doctor in Burnaby?
A: Check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website for doctors accepting new patients. You can also ask for referrals at walk-in clinics or contact Burnaby Hospital for recommendations.
Q: Is Burnaby safe to live in?
A: Yes, Burnaby is considered very safe with crime rates below the national average. Neighborhoods like Deer Lake (9/10 safety rating) and Capitol Hill (8.5/10) are particularly secure with active community watch programs.
Q: When is the best time to move to Burnaby?
A: Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer the best weather and moving conditions. Summer is peak moving season with higher costs and limited availability. Book movers 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during peak times.
Q: What utilities do I need to set up in Burnaby?
A: Essential utilities include BC Hydro (electricity), FortisBC (natural gas), City of Burnaby (water/sewer), internet/phone (Telus, Shaw, Rogers), and garbage/recycling (included with property taxes for most residences).
Q: How much should I budget for my first month in Burnaby?
A: Budget $4,000-$8,000 for your first month including moving costs, utility deposits, rent/mortgage, groceries, and essential setup expenses. This varies significantly based on housing choice and lifestyle.
Q: Are there good veterinarians in Burnaby for my pets?
A: Burnaby has numerous veterinary clinics and full-service animal hospitals. Popular options include VCA Canada Animal Hospitals and local independent practices. Emergency pet care is available 24/7 at nearby facilities.
Q: What’s the weather like in Burnaby year-round?
A: Burnaby enjoys a mild coastal climate with wet winters (5-15°C) and warm, dry summers (18-25°C). Expect rain October through March, with beautiful sunny weather May through September. Perfect for year-round outdoor activities!
Ready to Make Your Move? Start by getting quotes from licensed Burnaby movers on BCServiceFinder.ca. Compare prices, read reviews, and book the perfect moving team for your transition to beautiful Burnaby!
Have questions about moving to Burnaby? Connect with local service providers and get personalized advice through BCServiceFinder.ca – your trusted source for all moving and home services in British Columbia.
