Every region in Canada has its own unique quirks and perks and the Okanagan is no exception. If you’re considering moving to Kelowna or other nearby cities to buy real estate and enjoy the Okanagan lifestyle, there are some things you should know.
Below are some of the main points to consider before moving to the Okanagan.
Understanding the Real Estate and Okanagan Lifestyle
First things first, you need to understand that the Okanagan is primarily a tourist destination in pretty much every city, especially Kelowna. Because of the 4 seasons of activities and proximity to Okanagan Lake, the city has a constant flow of tourism which directly impacts what it offers.
Being a heavily visited location, there are a ton of things to see and do in the Okanagan no matter the season. From skiing to hiking and everything in between, there’s no shortage of activities and experiences to try out and find what you like.
In terms of work, there are plenty of service-based jobs from all the tourism, but the area is also a hub for tech, construction, and agriculture, just to name a few of the main industries.
Getting Around the Area
The Okanagan is known for having some of the best weather year-round due to its temperate climate and minimal wind. This directly feeds into the Okanagan lifestyle as many people simply bike to work with the many dedicated bike lanes and paths that are all over the region.
For those who can’t bike and don’t have a car, the transit system covers the vast majority of the areas, especially Kelowna. The minimal ride times ensure you’re never waiting long to get where you need to go.
The Food and Wine Culture
Finally, we get to one of the Okanagan’s best features: the food and drink. The Okanagan is well known for being one of the best areas in Canada for wine with the countless award-winning wineries in the area.
That being said, the food is no slouch either, and you’ll have your pick of local restaurants with fresh and exciting cuisine in every city. In fact, you could almost go to a new restaurant every week in Kelowna (in particular).
Overall, the Okanagan lifestyle is relaxed but exciting and rife with things to do that can make living in Kelowna one of the best places in BC.