18 distinct neighborhoods to explore
Average Price
$725,000
Market Trend
Nanaimo stands as Vancouver Island's second-largest city and central hub, offering affordable family living with urban amenities, ocean access, and diverse neighborhoods serving first-time buyers through luxury waterfront purchasers. This vibrant coastal city features everything from prestigious Departure Bay waterfront estates to affordable Chase River family homes, diverse downtown condos, and established neighborhoods throughout the Harbour City. Nanaimo real estate provides exceptional value compared to Victoria and Lower Mainland markets, with properties appealing to buyers seeking Island living, employment opportunities in forestry/healthcare/education sectors, and lifestyle prioritizing ocean recreation and outdoor access. The city benefits from spectacular natural amenities including Newcastle Island Marine Park, Departure Bay beaches for swimming and kayaking, extensive trail systems at Westwood Lake and Neck Point, plus BC Ferries service connecting to Vancouver's Horseshoe Bay.
Entry-level homes from $425K provide Vancouver Island living at 35-50% below Victoria prices. First-time buyers, families, and investors access Harbour City lifestyle, ocean recreation, and urban amenities without sacrificing home ownership dreams or accumulating massive debt.
Car-free island park accessible by passenger ferry offers hiking trails, beaches, camping, and wildlife viewing just minutes from downtown. Unique natural amenity creates outdoor recreation playground unavailable in most cities - kayak, hike, and beach from your doorstep.
Daily ferry service to Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) provides weekend getaways, family visits, and mainland shopping access. Departure Bay terminal location allows Island lifestyle while maintaining Vancouver connections for work, education, or family without permanent mainland living costs.
Scenic Harbourfront Walkway connects waterfront dining, public art, parks, and marina creating vibrant coastal promenade. Downtown revitalization brings urban amenities, cultural venues, and walkable lifestyle missing from smaller Island communities while maintaining authentic working waterfront character.
Freshwater swimming at Westwood Lake, extensive trail networks for hiking/mountain biking, and Neck Point ocean headlands provide daily outdoor recreation. Year-round trail access, swimming beaches, and wilderness within city limits create active lifestyle without expensive resort memberships.
Forestry, healthcare, education, port services, and tourism sectors provide diverse employment opportunities attracting working families. Vancouver Island University campus, Nanaimo Regional Hospital, and growing economy create career opportunities while living in affordable coastal community.
Vancouver Island's second-largest city
Affordable family housing compared to Victoria
Newcastle Island Marine Park and Departure Bay beaches
Harbourfront Walkway and revitalized downtown
BC Ferries service to Vancouver mainland
Westwood Lake trails and Neck Point parks
Discover the unique character and real estate opportunities in each distinct neighborhood within Nanaimo.
Brechin Hill is one of Nanaimo's most historic and sought-after waterfront neighborhoods, offering stunning ocean views, heritage charm, and walkable access to downtown amenities. Perched on elevated terrain overlooking Newcastle Island and the Salish Sea, this established community features character homes from the early 1900s alongside renovated modern residences that capitalize on Nanaimo's spectacular harbor vistas. Brechin Hill real estate attracts professionals, families, and retirees who appreciate the neighborhood's central location just minutes from downtown Nanaimo, proximity to BC Ferries terminal, and strong sense of community history. The area's tree-lined streets wind up the hillside, revealing ocean-view properties ranging from heritage craftsman homes to contemporary West Coast architecture. Many homes feature expansive decks and large windows designed to capture panoramic water views stretching across to the coastal mountains. Residents enjoy exceptional walkability rare in Nanaimo—with coffee shops, restaurants, grocers, and services all within easy reach—while maintaining peaceful residential character. Brechin Hill's proximity to the Harbourfront Walkway provides direct access to waterfront parks, seawall paths perfect for morning jogs, and the bustling downtown core. The neighborhood benefits from established landscaping with mature trees, well-maintained streets, and pride of ownership evident in beautifully kept heritage homes. For buyers seeking Nanaimo waterfront living with heritage character, urban convenience, and investment-grade real estate in the Harbour City's most prestigious hillside location, Brechin Hill delivers timeless island lifestyle.
Chase River is a thriving family-oriented neighborhood in South Nanaimo offering excellent value, modern amenities, and convenient access to schools, parks, and shopping. Named after the Chase River that flows through the area, this diverse community features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and newer developments that attract first-time buyers, growing families, and investors seeking rental opportunities. Chase River real estate provides more affordable entry points compared to Nanaimo's waterfront areas while maintaining quality construction and family-friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood centers around Boxwood Road and the intersection of Cranberry Avenue, providing easy highway access for commuters traveling to Victoria or up-island destinations. Residents benefit from proximity to several elementary schools, community parks with playgrounds and sports fields, and the expanding Woodgrove Centre shopping complex offering big-box retailers, restaurants, and services. Chase River's location near the Island Highway ensures convenient access to Nanaimo's employment centers while maintaining quieter residential streets ideal for raising children. The area features newer subdivision developments with modern homes built in the 2000s and 2010s, alongside older established properties on larger lots. Many families appreciate Chase River's strong sense of community, active neighborhood associations, and abundance of green spaces including nearby Buttertubs Marsh conservation area. For buyers seeking affordable Nanaimo real estate with family amenities, good schools, and room for growth, Chase River offers exceptional value in Central Vancouver Island living.
Departure Bay stands as one of Nanaimo's most desirable waterfront communities, offering pristine beaches, ocean-view properties, and direct access to the BC Ferries terminal connecting to Vancouver. This scenic coastal neighborhood stretches along the protected waters of Departure Bay, featuring a mix of luxury waterfront estates, ocean-view homes on elevated lots, and comfortable family residences within walking distance of sandy beaches. Departure Bay real estate commands premium pricing for its exceptional location, natural beauty, and lifestyle amenities that make it Nanaimo's premier beachfront destination. The neighborhood centers around Departure Bay Beach, a beloved sandy shoreline perfect for summer swimming, paddleboarding, beachcombing, and watching ferries arrive from Horseshoe Bay. Residents enjoy spectacular views across Georgia Strait to the coastal mountains, with many properties featuring expansive decks and floor-to-ceiling windows designed to capture the ocean panoramas. Neck Point Park, one of Vancouver Island's most beautiful waterfront parks, provides kilometers of oceanfront trails, rocky beaches, tide pools, and sunset viewpoints that showcase the quintessential Pacific Northwest coastal experience. The area attracts professionals working in Nanaimo or commuting to Vancouver via the ferry, retirees seeking waterfront lifestyle, and families who prioritize beach access and outdoor recreation. Departure Bay benefits from excellent schools, neighborhood coffee shops, and quick access to Nanaimo's amenities while maintaining peaceful seaside character. For buyers seeking Nanaimo waterfront homes with beach lifestyle, investment-grade real estate, and spectacular ocean views, Departure Bay delivers the ultimate Central Island coastal living experience.
Lower Lantzville offers peaceful coastal living just north of Nanaimo, featuring oceanfront properties, beach access, and small-town island character while maintaining proximity to city amenities. This scenic waterfront community stretches along the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, providing residents with spectacular views across the Strait of Georgia to the mainland mountains and passing marine traffic. Lower Lantzville real estate includes luxury oceanfront estates with private beach access, ocean-view homes on elevated lots, and comfortable family properties within walking distance of community beaches and parks. The neighborhood attracts buyers seeking quieter coastal lifestyle away from Nanaimo's urban density while maintaining convenient access to shopping, services, and employment centers. Residents enjoy miles of oceanfront trails, community beaches perfect for swimming and kayaking, and the relaxed pace of small-town island living. Lower Lantzville benefits from excellent recreational amenities including parks, sports fields, and easy access to hiking trails in the surrounding forests. The area appeals to families prioritizing outdoor recreation and beach lifestyle, retirees seeking peaceful waterfront living, and professionals who appreciate the short commute to Nanaimo's downtown core. Many properties feature spacious lots with mature landscaping, providing privacy and natural beauty alongside ocean vistas. For buyers seeking Nanaimo-area waterfront homes with small-town charm, beach access, and investment potential in one of Central Vancouver Island's most scenic coastal communities, Lower Lantzville delivers exceptional island lifestyle.
North Jingle Pot is a family-friendly neighborhood in North Nanaimo offering affordable housing, excellent schools, and convenient access to shopping and recreation amenities. This well-established residential area features predominantly single-family homes on comfortable lot sizes, attracting first-time buyers, growing families, and investors seeking rental properties in Nanaimo's expanding north end. North Jingle Pot real estate provides excellent value compared to Nanaimo's waterfront areas while maintaining quality construction, neighborhood pride, and proximity to essential services. The neighborhood benefits from its central location along Jingle Pot Road, providing quick access to Woodgrove Centre shopping mall, Country Club Centre retail complex, and numerous restaurants and services. Residents enjoy nearby parks with playgrounds and sports fields, walking trails through forested areas, and community green spaces perfect for children and families. North Jingle Pot's location near several highly-rated elementary and secondary schools makes it particularly attractive to families prioritizing education and child-friendly environment. The area features a mix of homes built from the 1980s through 2010s, including ranchers, split-levels, and two-story family homes on landscaped lots. Many properties offer renovation potential for buyers seeking to add value, while newer developments provide modern open-concept layouts with contemporary finishes. The neighborhood maintains strong community connections through local schools, sports programs, and active neighborhood participation. For buyers seeking affordable Nanaimo homes with family amenities, good schools, and solid investment potential, North Jingle Pot delivers exceptional Central Island value.
North Nanaimo represents the city's dynamic growth area, featuring new developments, modern amenities, and family-oriented neighborhoods with excellent schools and shopping. This expanding region encompasses several sub-neighborhoods from Woodgrove Centre north to Departure Bay, offering diverse housing options including new construction, established family homes, and townhome communities. North Nanaimo real estate appeals to buyers seeking modern homes with contemporary layouts, energy efficiency, and proximity to Nanaimo's best amenities and recreation facilities. The area centers around the Woodgrove Centre shopping district, providing residents with big-box retailers, grocery stores, restaurants, professional services, and entertainment options all within easy reach. North Nanaimo benefits from excellent recreational amenities including the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, multiple community parks, sports fields, and nearby trail systems perfect for hiking and mountain biking. The neighborhood attracts young families who prioritize modern housing and top-rated schools, professionals working in Nanaimo seeking newer construction, and investors purchasing rental properties in a growing market. Many recent developments feature contemporary West Coast architecture, open-concept interiors, and energy-efficient construction appealing to modern buyers. The area provides convenient access to both downtown Nanaimo and the Departure Bay ferry terminal, making it ideal for Vancouver commuters. North Nanaimo maintains strong community connections through active school programs, sports leagues, and neighborhood events. For buyers seeking modern Nanaimo homes with family amenities, new construction quality, and growth potential in Central Vancouver Island's most dynamic neighborhood, North Nanaimo delivers exceptional value and lifestyle.
Pleasant Valley is a peaceful family neighborhood in South Nanaimo offering spacious properties, rural character, and excellent value for buyers seeking more land and privacy. This established area features predominantly single-family homes on larger lots, many with acreage, mature landscaping, and room for gardens, workshops, or recreational vehicles. Pleasant Valley real estate attracts families wanting space for children and pets, hobby farmers, and buyers who appreciate quieter country-style living while maintaining access to Nanaimo amenities. The neighborhood benefits from its location between the Island Highway and Nanaimo Parkway, providing convenient commuting access while maintaining peaceful residential streets away from traffic noise. Residents enjoy nearby parks, walking trails, and quick access to Westwood Lake Park, one of Nanaimo's premier recreation destinations featuring swimming, hiking trails, and year-round outdoor activities. Pleasant Valley's larger lot sizes appeal to buyers seeking room to expand, space for storage, and the ability to enjoy outdoor hobbies without close neighbors. The area features a mix of older established homes offering character and renovation potential alongside newer custom-built residences on landscaped acreage. Many properties provide mountain or valley views, natural forest settings, and the opportunity for semi-rural island lifestyle within city limits. The neighborhood maintains strong community connections through local schools and pride in property maintenance. For buyers seeking affordable Nanaimo real estate with larger lots, privacy, and country character while staying close to city amenities, Pleasant Valley delivers exceptional Central Island value.
South Jingle Pot is a well-established family neighborhood in central Nanaimo offering affordable homes, mature landscaping, and convenient access to schools and shopping. This residential area features predominantly single-family homes built from the 1970s through 1990s, providing comfortable living spaces on good-sized lots with established gardens and trees. South Jingle Pot real estate attracts first-time homebuyers, families seeking value, and investors looking for rental properties in a stable Nanaimo neighborhood with long-term appreciation potential. The area benefits from its central location along Jingle Pot Road, providing quick access to both north and south Nanaimo amenities, shopping centers, and employment districts. Residents enjoy proximity to multiple parks with playgrounds and sports fields, walking distance to elementary schools, and easy access to the Nanaimo Parkway for commuting. South Jingle Pot's established character means mature street trees, well-maintained properties, and strong neighborhood pride evident in beautifully landscaped yards. The neighborhood features a mix of ranchers, split-levels, and two-story homes on comfortable lots, many offering renovation potential for buyers seeking to customize or add value. Many properties provide fenced yards perfect for children and pets, attached garages, and basement development opportunities. The area maintains active community connections through school programs, neighborhood events, and long-term residents who contribute to stable, family-friendly atmosphere. For buyers seeking affordable Nanaimo homes in an established neighborhood with good schools, central location, and solid investment fundamentals, South Jingle Pot delivers exceptional Central Island value.
South Nanaimo encompasses diverse neighborhoods south of downtown, offering a mix of housing options, commercial amenities, and convenient access to Nanaimo's employment centers and Victoria-bound highways. This expansive area includes everything from affordable starter homes and townhome communities to waterfront properties and newer developments, attracting a broad range of buyers from first-timers to established families and retirees. South Nanaimo real estate benefits from proximity to major shopping centers including Woodgrove Centre, Country Grocer, and numerous retail plazas, providing residents with exceptional amenity access. The neighborhood features excellent connectivity via the Island Highway and Nanaimo Parkway, making it ideal for commuters traveling to Victoria or up-island destinations for work. Residents enjoy access to beautiful parks including the renowned Westwood Lake Park with its swimming lake, forested trails, and year-round recreation opportunities. South Nanaimo's diversity means buyers can find everything from budget-friendly condos and townhomes to spacious single-family homes on acreage, waterfront properties, and new construction developments. The area benefits from multiple schools serving all grade levels, community centers, sports facilities, and quick access to healthcare services. South Nanaimo attracts young professionals seeking affordable entry points, families wanting space and amenities, and investors purchasing rental properties in Nanaimo's stable southern sector. The neighborhood maintains strong employment opportunities with nearby commercial and industrial areas providing local jobs. For buyers seeking Nanaimo real estate with diversity, affordability, and excellent amenity access in Central Vancouver Island's hub city, South Nanaimo delivers exceptional value and options.
The University District surrounds Vancouver Island University (VIU) campus, offering a vibrant student-oriented community alongside family neighborhoods, modern developments, and excellent investment opportunities. This dynamic area features a mix of rental-focused condos and townhomes, single-family homes, and purpose-built student housing that attracts both owner-occupiers and investors seeking rental income from VIU's growing student population. University District real estate benefits from consistent rental demand, proximity to campus amenities, and Nanaimo's ongoing growth as a regional education and healthcare hub. The neighborhood centers around VIU's sprawling campus offering not just academic programs but also public amenities including fitness facilities, cultural events, art galleries, and the beautiful natural setting with ocean views across the Strait of Georgia. Residents enjoy access to campus trails, forested green spaces, and the vibrant energy of a university community while maintaining peaceful residential streets. The area attracts student renters seeking off-campus housing, young professionals working at VIU or Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, families wanting proximity to educational opportunities, and investors purchasing rental properties in a stable market. Many recent developments feature modern condos and townhomes with contemporary layouts, energy efficiency, and amenities appealing to student and professional renters. The University District benefits from excellent transit connections, nearby shopping along Departure Bay Road, and quick access to downtown Nanaimo and the BC Ferries terminal. For buyers seeking Nanaimo real estate with strong rental potential, VIU proximity, and investment-grade properties in Central Vancouver Island's education hub, the University District delivers exceptional opportunity.
Uplands is one of Nanaimo's most prestigious neighborhoods, featuring luxury homes, expansive properties, and elevated locations offering spectacular ocean and mountain views. This upscale residential area attracts successful professionals, executives, and affluent buyers seeking premium real estate in Nanaimo's most exclusive hillside setting. Uplands real estate includes executive estates on landscaped acreage, luxury custom homes with panoramic vistas, and sophisticated contemporary residences designed to maximize views and natural beauty. Properties command premium pricing reflecting superior locations, quality construction, privacy, and the prestige associated with this elite Nanaimo address. The neighborhood benefits from its elevated terrain, providing many homes with sweeping views across the city to the Strait of Georgia, mainland mountains, and passing marine traffic. Residents enjoy spacious lots with mature landscaping, quiet cul-de-sac streets ensuring privacy and tranquility, and proximity to Nanaimo's best amenities while maintaining exclusivity. Uplands attracts business owners, medical professionals, and established families who prioritize quality construction, architectural distinction, and investment-grade properties. Many homes feature luxury finishes including gourmet kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, multi-car garages, and professionally landscaped grounds with outdoor entertaining areas. The area maintains strong property values due to limited inventory, high barriers to entry, and consistent demand for Nanaimo's finest homes. For buyers seeking luxury Nanaimo waterfront and view homes with prestige, privacy, and long-term appreciation potential in Central Vancouver Island's premier executive neighborhood, Uplands delivers uncompromising quality and lifestyle.
Cedar is a peaceful rural neighborhood south of Nanaimo offering larger properties, country atmosphere, and proximity to urban amenities. This scenic area features predominantly single-family homes on spacious lots with natural settings, attracting families and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquil lifestyle near Nanaimo. Residents enjoy larger properties perfect for gardens and outdoor living, rural character with forest and farm surroundings, and convenient access to Nanaimo shopping and services. The neighborhood benefits from peaceful atmosphere while maintaining reasonable commuting to Nanaimo. Properties offer excellent value for those seeking Nanaimo area living with space and rural character.
Central Nanaimo represents the vibrant downtown core featuring urban living, walkable access to waterfront and amenities, and active city lifestyle. This dynamic area offers diverse housing from apartments to character homes, attracting young professionals, students, and urban enthusiasts seeking convenient city living. Residents enjoy walking to downtown shops and restaurants, waterfront access and harbourfront pathway, and excellent transit connections. The neighborhood benefits from urban convenience with all city amenities. Properties offer good value for those seeking affordable Nanaimo living with walkability and urban character.
Diver Lake is a family-friendly neighborhood in Nanaimo featuring peaceful residential streets, proximity to schools and parks, and convenient access to amenities. This established area offers predominantly single-family homes on well-maintained lots, attracting families and professionals seeking quality Nanaimo living. Residents enjoy quiet streets perfect for families, excellent schools serving local children, and nearby parks and recreation facilities. The neighborhood benefits from strong family appeal and community connections. Properties offer solid value for those seeking family-oriented Nanaimo living with good schools and suburban character.
Extension is a practical residential neighborhood in Nanaimo offering affordable living with convenient access to shopping, services, and employment centers. This accessible area features predominantly single-family homes and townhouse developments, attracting first-time buyers, families, and working professionals seeking value Nanaimo location. Residents enjoy proximity to shopping and services, good transit connections to employment centers, and nearby parks for recreation. The neighborhood benefits from central Nanaimo location with practical conveniences. Properties offer excellent value for those seeking affordable Nanaimo living with accessibility and convenience.
Hammond Bay is a prestigious waterfront neighborhood in north Nanaimo offering spectacular ocean views, beach access, and luxury coastal living. This exclusive area features diverse housing from waterfront estates to ocean-view homes, attracting affluent buyers and retirees seeking ultimate Nanaimo waterfront lifestyle. Residents enjoy stunning ocean and island views, beach access for recreation, and upscale neighborhood character. The neighborhood benefits from waterfront location while maintaining proximity to Nanaimo amenities. Properties command premium prices for ocean access and spectacular views creating Nanaimo finest coastal community.
Old City is a historic neighborhood in Nanaimo featuring heritage character, established homes, and proximity to downtown and waterfront. This charming area offers predominantly character homes and heritage properties, attracting those seeking authentic Nanaimo character and downtown living. Residents enjoy walking to downtown Nanaimo shops and restaurants, waterfront access for recreation, and heritage neighborhood atmosphere. The area benefits from character homes with period details and central urban location. Properties offer excellent value for those seeking heritage Nanaimo living with downtown convenience and authentic character.
Upper Lantzville is a scenic hillside neighborhood north of Nanaimo offering spectacular ocean views, larger properties, and peaceful rural character. This desirable area features predominantly homes on spacious forested lots with ocean vistas, attracting buyers seeking panoramic views and natural surroundings. Residents enjoy spectacular ocean and island views, larger properties with privacy and forest settings, and peaceful atmosphere. The neighborhood benefits from scenic beauty while maintaining reasonable access to Nanaimo amenities. Properties command premium prices for view lots and natural beauty creating prestigious hillside community.
Common questions about living in Nanaimo and the local real estate market.