Moving To and Living in Kamloops, B.C.

The beautiful city of Kamloops, B.C. is located within the Thompson-Nicola Regional District where the North and South Thompson Rivers meet. The second largest city in the B.C. interior, Kamloops is a place where nature converges with modern living to provide the best of both worlds. 

Currently, the population of the city is roughly 100,000 and Kamloops has been dubbed the “Tournament Capital of Canada” as it plays host to over 100 tournaments annually. Residents have been drawn to the area for its safe and quiet neighborhoods, ample outdoor recreation areas, and thriving and diverse economic landscape. 

This guide serves to provide an overview of what life looks like living in the city of Kamloops. From fun outdoor activities to highly-rated schools and everything in between, Kamloops is a family-friendly city with plenty of things to keep one busy.

What is the history of Kamloops, B.C.?

The area saw its first European settlers arrive during the early 1800s. The community remained a small settlement until the Gold Rush of the 1860s, which, when combined with the creation of the Canadian Pacific Railway, brought a new population to the area. 

The City of Kamloops was officially incorporated in 1885 with a population of only 500 people. The area saw small but steady growth over the next century, until about 1970 when the lumber industry attracted an influx of residents. 

Today, Kamloops sits steadily at approximately 100,000 residents. With a strong economy, diverse population, well-rated school system, and plenty of outdoor recreation, Kamloops remains an attractive city for those relocating around interior B.C. 

What is the Real Estate Market like in Kamloops, B.C.?

Kamloops, B.C. offers buyers a diverse real estate landscape. Though primarily single-family homes make up the real estate market, there is a selection of townhomes, condominiums, and mobile home communities throughout the city. 

The average price of real estate for homes for sale in Kamloops falls around $500,000 point. Townhomes, condos, and mobile homes can be found under that point, whereas large, single-family homes can climb to the multi-million dollar range. 

There are a handful of neighborhoods throughout the city that offer unique benefits. Depending on your wants and needs, suburban and urban housing is available. Kamloops’ wide range of housing styles and prices ensures that the city caters to all sorts of buyers, whether first-timers, upgraders, or downgraders!

What are the Neighbourhoods in Kamloops, B.C.?

There are over 25 officially recognized neighborhoods in Kamloops. Each area of the town offers residents access to recreation facilities, amenities, schools, and more. Regardless of what you are looking for, there is sure to be a Kamloops neighborhood that suits your needs. 

Aberdeen

The neighborhood of Aberdeen is set along Highway 5A and overlooks the city of Kamloops and the surrounding Thompson River Valley. Its higher altitude makes for slightly cooler weather during the summer and winter months, however, residents enjoy the beautiful, panoramic views. 

A primarily residential area, Aberdeen is one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in the city. The real estate offered within the community is a mix of single-family homes and condominium or townhouse buildings. Residents continue to be attracted to the area due to its walkability and access to public transportation. 

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Juniper Ridge

Nestled along the hillside just south of the South Thompson River is the community of Juniper Ridge. The project began its initial stages of development in the early 1970s as a response to the housing shortage found in the city. Development continued over the next few decades and provided residents of the area with a quiet and scenic neighborhood option. 

There is only one road that provides access to Juniper Ridge, which is commonly subdivided into areas such as Juniper West and Bechland by homeowners. The community features mainly single-family detached homes that range in size and style depending on when they were constructed. Juniper Ridge offers residents the use of community amenities such as a lit ice rink, tennis courts, and a dog park. There is also an elementary school that is located within the area as well as a convenience store at the community's entrance. 

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Pineview Valley 

The neighborhood of Pineview Valley consists of roughly 160 acres of land along the Aberdeen Hills. The new-ish neighborhood has been under development for the last decade or so and provides buyers with a choice of housing styles and sizes. Ideally located just 15 minutes southwest of Kamloops city center, Pineview Valley is a great option for those who work in the downtown core or enjoy being close to the heart of the city. Though centrally located the area is still a quiet and family-friendly community that attracts buyers from all walks of life. The housing diversity, single-family detached homes, townhouses, and condos, make Pineview Valley suitable for all. 

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Westsyde

The Westsyde neighborhood of Kamloops is set just over 10 minutes north of the downtown district. Residents of the community are attracted to the quiet and safe streets as well as the stunning views and natural settings found surrounding the area. Located near the expansive Lac Du Bois Grassland Park, residents of Westsyde have prime access to a number of recreation opportunities such as mountain biking, hiking, and more. Homes for sale in Westsyde are generally townhouses, condominiums, or single-family homes ranging in size and style. The area is not only close to necessary amenities and services, but it is also close to the amazing natural beauty that surrounds the city of Kamloops. 

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What are the Amenities of Kamloops, B.C.?

Kamloops, B.C.’s largest employer is the Royal Inland Hospital. The city residents have access to this exceptional healthcare facility whose services include core physician specialties, 24-hour emergency and trauma services, diagnostic services, and ambulatory and outpatient services. 

The city of Kamloops is also a transportation hub as it is located where highways Yellowhead Hwy, Coquihalla Hwy, and the Trans-Canada Hwy come to crossroads. Service for travel around the city is provided by way of a local bus company and 14 routes provide ideal drop-off and pick-up points for riders. For access to neighboring towns and cities, Greyhound Bus provided transportation options until 2018, at which time Ebus and Rider Express stepped in and continued rides to Vancouver and surrounding areas. 

Kamloops is home to the Kamloops Airport (YKA) where a multitude of airlines fly in and out. Air Canada Express, WestJet Encore, Canadian North and Central Mountain Air along with a number of cargo companies routinely make use of the airport. 

Both the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Canadian National Railway make stops in Kamloops, B.C.connecting residents of the city with the rest of Canada. 

Education 

Students who reside in the city of Kamloops are provided an education that is administered by School District 73 Kamloops/Thompson. The district was created in 1996 when School District 24 Kamloops and School District 25 Thompson merged together. 

Currently, School District 73 manages and operates a total of 51 schools throughout the city as well as surrounding areas such as Chase, Barriere, Clearwater, Logan Lake, Blue River, Brennan Creek, and more. There are approximately 15,000 students who are enrolled in schools governed by School District 73 which provides public school education for students from kindergarten through grade 12. 

Within the city, there are also a handful of private school options. Kamloops Christian School, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, and St. Ann’s Academy provide private, faith-based education for interested parents. There is also one french language school in Kamloops, ècole Collins-d’Or is a primary school that is administered by the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique School District. 

The Thompson River University is located in Kamloops and offers its many students a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, diploma, and certificate programs. There are a handful of satellite campuses throughout the area in places such as Barrier, Clearwater, Ashcroft, Williams Lake, and more. 

Thompson River University has an open-learning division which is the largest distance and online education provider in the Province and one of the largest in the entire country. 

Other post-secondary options in the city include Sprott Shaw College and Thompson Career College, which are private schools with campuses in Kamloops. 

What is there to do in Kamloops, B.C.?

One thing is for sure, there is no shortage of things to do and see within and surrounding Kamloops. The city is routinely abuzz with community events and activities, celebrating everything from holidays to cultural events, arts and music, and much more. Named the “Tournament Capital of Canada”, Kamloops always seems to have something going on for enthusiasts of all kinds. 

Some popular events hosted throughout the city include:

Kamloops Wine Festival - an annual fundraiser for the Kamloops Art Gallery, wine and art enthusiasts come together to enjoy a time of fun, celebration, and support for local artists. 

Kamloops Film Festival - Held every March at the Paramount Theater the 10-day festival celebrates both local and international film. 

River Beaver Classic - A yearly mountain bike festival that seconds as a fundraiser to support efforts to maintain local trails. 

Kamloops Rotary Ribfest - Western Canada’s largest RibFest held every year in August at Riverside Park. A day of family fun and great food raises money for local charities around the city. 

Kamloops is an outdoor enthusiast's dream with the extensive trail networks, nearby lakes, parks, and more found throughout the area. There are 100 lakes within an hour's drive of Kamloops which act as ideal locations for various water sports and fishing. Each year the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. stock the lakes with nearly 1 million fish such as salmon and trout. 

Mountain biking is another popular outdoor activity in Kamloops and thanks to its desert-like climate and terrain there are plenty of ideal paths and trails that are enjoyed by riders throughout the year. Some of the most visited parks include Kamloops Bike Ranch, Pineview Valley, and Lac Du Bois Grassland. 

Golfers rejoice! Kamloops is home to the highest number of golf courses per capita in Canada. There is a wide selection of courses dotted throughout the city that provides both recreational and avid golfers with beautiful rolling terrain, well-kept greens, and challenging holes. With the number of courses available, there is always a chance to hit the links! Some of the area's popular courses include Rivershore Estates, Talking Rock Golf Course, BigHorn Golf and Country Club, and Pineridge Golf Course. 

Along with these exciting recreation opportunities provided to the residents of Kamloops, the city is also home to an impressive 82 parks! Frequently visited parks include Riverside Park, Peterson Creek Park, McArthur Island Park, and Kenna Cartwright Park which is the largest municipal park in British Columbia. 

Best Eats in the City

Kamloops' dining scene goes so far beyond just restaurants - though the city is home to some excellent ones! There are unique dining and drinking opportunities throughout the city, from farm-to-table experiences to exceptional wines from local wineries. Here is a glimpse into the dining experience available in Kamloops. 

1. Hello Toast - Located in the heart of the city, Hello Toast is a unique and eclectic brunch spot that provides made-from-scratch dishes. The tasty menu has options for vegetarians, vegans, and those who are gluten-free.

2. Brownstone Restaurant - Called the best restaurant in Kamloops by many reviewers, Brownstone offers guests exceptional meals that are crafted from the freshest, seasonal ingredients. Along with the delectable meals, visitors' experiences are enhanced by the ambiance of the restaurant being located in a historic heritage building. 

3. Monte Creek Ranch Winery - Awarded the title of “Best Winery and Wedding Venue” in 2020, Monte Creek Ranch Winery is a must for wine aficionados or those who simply appreciate a well-crafted glass. The city’s largest winery, Monte Creek provides visitors a chance to relax on the patio, do some shopping and take in the beautiful rolling terrain. 

4. Alchemy Brewing - Alchemy is a microbrewery located in the downtown area of Kamloops. Guests of the brewery enjoy sitting on the patio and sipping the 12 rotating beers available on tap. Along with the ice-cold brews, there is a selection of food options such as street tacos, BBQ meats and fire-cooked pizzas.  

5. A & D Dog - Kamloops food trucks are quickly becoming a staple feature among the restaurant and dining scene in the city. A & D Dog is a popular option offering guests the best hot dogs and homemade burgers in the city. Home of the famous Nathan’s footlong, A & D Dog is a great option for a quick lunch or a late night bite! 

6. Westsyder Pub - Kamloops’ friendliest neighborhood pub! In this video, we are showcasing the Westsyde Pub located at 3369 Westsyde Rd, Kamloops, BC. Their hours are 7 days a week 11 AM to 10 PM offering mouth-watering food, and a drink for everyone, and it's always the funniest place in the Westsyde. Free Pool All Day Sunday & 2 for 1 Rice Bowls! 

Kamloops: A Place to Call Home

Kamloops, B.C. is a highly desirable city in the interior portion of B.C. Its ideal climate, location, and more attract buyers from all over the province and country. A mix of family-friendly neighborhoods, amenities, well-rated schools, and a slew of outdoor activities perfectly blends lifestyles in Kamloops. Its strong economy and exciting events and activities are further proof that the city not only works hard but plays hard! 

Offering something for everyone, Kamloops is an outdoor mecca of fun and recreation, while balancing the need for everyday amenities and services. The city is rich in history, diversity, and culture welcoming anyone who wishes to call it home. 

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