Which part of Burnaby is the best?

Exploring Burnaby’s Best Neighbourhoods

Planning a move to Burnaby, or simply looking to learn more about this vibrant city? It can be hard to know where to settle. Each neighbourhood has its own distinct advantages, from bustling town centres to peaceful parks, cultural amenities, and well-connected transit lines. This guide explores the best parts of Burnaby, highlighting what makes each area unique. You’ll discover what to expect in terms of lifestyle, convenience, and the overall sense of community. Whether you’re searching for a new home or just curious about the city’s different pockets, read on for an in-depth look at some of Burnaby’s most livable neighbourhoods.

Understanding Burnaby’s Geography

Burnaby is located in the Metro Vancouver region, nestled between Vancouver to the west and Coquitlam / New Westminster to the east. It’s composed of numerous districts, each possessing its own identity. When exploring housing choices or simply scouting for the perfect place to live, it helps to familiarize yourself with these main zones:

• Metrotown: Home to British Columbia’s largest shopping complex, high-rise developments, and extensive transit connections.
• Brentwood: A rapidly evolving town centre known for towering new developments and a growing set of shops and entertainment options around Brentwood Mall.
• Lougheed and Burnaby Mountain: A major transit hub near Lougheed Town Centre, with Simon Fraser University (SFU) perched on Burnaby Mountain.
• Edmonds: A community in the southeast portion of Burnaby offering quick access to multiple city centres and abundant green spaces.
• Burnaby Heights area: Lined along Hastings Street, featuring a commercial corridor, a strong sense of neighbourhood pride, and vibrant local shops.
• Deer Lake: Notable for its vast parklands, recreational trails, and the historic Burnaby Village Museum.

These neighbourhoods converge into a city that balances modern high-rise living with suburban charm. While each sector has its own appeal, the choice really depends on your lifestyle priorities and daily needs. Below, we dive deeper into these popular areas, explaining what they offer in terms of livability, character, and connectivity.

1. Metrotown: Urban Convenience

If you love an urban pace with countless amenities at your doorstep, Metrotown is a fantastic place to start examining. It’s anchored by Metropolis at Metrotown, a massive shopping centre that caters to just about any retail or culinary interest. Beyond the mall, you’ll find a growing cluster of condominium towers and modern purpose-built rental buildings. Residents enjoy:

• Transit Access: SkyTrain’s Expo Line stations and multiple bus routes connect you directly to downtown Vancouver and other parts of Metro Vancouver.
• Shopping & Dining: Whether you crave popular retail brands or international cuisine, you’ll find them within walking distance.
• Lifestyle Amenities: The area includes community centres, gyms, movie theatres, and a full range of everyday services.

Metrotown is best for those who thrive on hustle and bustle, appreciate vertical living, and prefer quick access to a busy commercial hub. However, it can be more congested than other Burnaby areas—something to keep in mind if you’re seeking a quieter atmosphere. Still, for easy commutes and city convenience in a well-connected neighbourhood, Metrotown stands out as an always-popular choice.

2. Brentwood: Evolving Town Centre

Brentwood has undergone dramatic transformation in recent years. Once a modest shopping mall district, it’s now a burgeoning urban hub anchored by The Amazing Brentwood, an upscale retail and entertainment redevelopment. Modern architecture, high-rise towers, and pedestrian-friendly walkways define the new face of Brentwood. Highlights of this area include:

• SkyTrain Connectivity: The Brentwood Station on the Millennium Line provides frequent and efficient service throughout Burnaby and beyond.
• Walkable Layout: Mixed-use developments offer grocery stores, fitness centres, and restaurants, all accessible on foot.
• Local Attractions: The new town centre is designed for events, gatherings, and a sense of community engagement.

Brentwood consistently attracts people looking for modern residences and easy commutes. Purpose-built rentals here are often designed for long-term value and everyday convenience, with many buildings featuring thoughtfully planned layouts and curated amenity spaces. This area is also well-suited for individuals who want a taste of urban sophistication without situating themselves in the busiest corners of Burnaby or Downtown Vancouver.

3. Lougheed & Burnaby Mountain: Academic and Transit-Focused

Heading east, you’ll come upon Lougheed Town Centre, another major transit hub where the SkyTrain’s Expo and Millennium lines intersect. In addition, Burnaby Mountain is home to SFU, giving the surrounding regions a youthful energy. Some key advantages to living in Lougheed or Burnaby Mountain include:

• Proximity to SFU: This is ideal for students, faculty, and staff right near campus.
• Recreation Opportunities: Burnaby Mountain has parkland and scenic trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Redevelopment Projects: Lougheed is undergoing its own wave of new construction, bringing fresh retail spaces and updated community amenities.

Though dominated by the university and student life, Burnaby Mountain also appeals to families and professionals who value natural surroundings and a quiet, studious ambiance. Meanwhile, Lougheed’s convenience and ongoing revitalization appeal to those seeking growth opportunities and vibrant city living. If being near both nature and a transit hub appeals to you, then this area should be high on your list of possibilities.

4. The Edmonds Neighbourhood: Evolving and Accessible

Edmonds lies in southeast Burnaby, neatly positioned near New Westminster. It’s an area currently undergoing revitalization, with new development adding fresh life to a traditional neighbourhood. Many appreciate Edmonds for its:

• Affordability: Compared to some other popular sections of Burnaby, Edmonds can be a bit more cost-effective.
• Community Amenities: Access to Edmonds Community Centre, libraries, and local recreation services fosters a strong sense of belonging.
• Green Spaces: Significant parkland and trails nearby allow residents to enjoy calm settings while still being connected to the city.

Edmonds has momentarily flown under the radar, but it’s quickly picking up attention from those looking for comfortable, inclusive living. The neighbourhood’s diversity feeds into local shops and restaurants catering to a variety of tastes. This combination of accessibility, cultural richness, and redevelopment momentum makes Edmonds one of Burnaby’s most intriguing areas to explore.

If you’re interested in browsing available rentals here, you can check out Edmonds Heights for thoughtfully planned spaces that fit well with the neighbourhood’s overall spirit.

5. Burnaby Heights: A Historic Urban Village

Often referred to simply as “The Heights,” this neighbourhood stretches along Hastings Street in North Burnaby. Known for its long-standing small businesses, eclectic eateries, and a close-knit feel, Burnaby Heights has a distinct identity rooted in community connections. A few reasons this area stands out:

• A Traditional Main Street: From bakeries to family-run restaurants, the commercial strip along Hastings is full of life.
• Year-Round Events: Festivals and celebrations—like Hats Off Day—draw residents out onto the sidewalks for food, music, and a collective sense of belonging.
• Proximity to Downtown Vancouver: Quickly jump on Hastings Street to get into the city, or use a network of bus routes that link with SkyTrain stations.

Residents often cite strong heritage, a pedestrian-friendly feel, and easy connections as reasons to put Burnaby Heights at the top of their list. For those looking for purpose-built rental housing in this part of town, you could consider 4059 Hastings or 4711 Hastings, both of which showcase modern design, while remaining immersed in a beloved neighbourhood that prides itself on unity and character.

6. Deer Lake and Surrounding Parks: Quiet and Scenic

Deer Lake Park is a gem in the middle of the city, offering expansive green space, walking trails, and cultural facilities like the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts. This area is ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a balance between city access and a peaceful environment. In Deer Lake and its surrounding areas, you’ll discover:

• Recreation Facilities: Row boats, picnic sites, and an extensive trail network attract many outdoor enthusiasts.
• Historic and Cultural Sites: Burnaby Village Museum, where you can walk through nostalgic streets and heritage buildings.
• Suburban Charm: Tree-lined streets, single-family homes, and a tranquil atmosphere characterize much of this locale.

Although major shopping centres are not right around the corner in the Deer Lake vicinity, Metrotown and other city centres remain just a short drive or bus ride away. Thus, residents enjoy the benefits of a slower pace while staying connected to Burnaby’s thriving urban hubs.

Choosing the Right Neighbourhood for You

Identifying the “best” part of Burnaby depends heavily on your lifestyle, daily routine, and personal preferences. Each local pocket holds a distinct advantage:

• If you value immediate access to retail, restaurants, and transportation, Metrotown or Brentwood might fit the bill.
• Lougheed and Burnaby Mountain make sense for those who prefer a balanced mix of city and academic life, with ample outdoor recreation.
• For a community that’s quiet and evolving with an inclusive spirit, the Edmonds area could become your new home base.
• Burnaby Heights features a historic commercial strip along Hastings, making it a top contender for anyone who wants a friendly local atmosphere situated near Vancouver.
• Deer Lake and the nearby parks cater to nature lovers and families wanting green space and community cultural events.

Given Burnaby’s proximity to downtown Vancouver, strong transit framework, and mix of established areas and newer developments, your final choice may come down to your daily commute and personal priorities. Some prefer the social scene of a lively neighbourhood like Metrotown or Brentwood. Others desire the colonial charm and accessibility of Burnaby Heights or the introspective calm found around Edmonds. Taking an afternoon to explore each area in person is a great way to confirm which one truly resonates with you.

Finding Purpose-Built Rentals Across Burnaby

Whenever you have your shortlist of favourite neighbourhoods, you might be wondering about property choices. If you’re seeking quality rental housing that meets modern standards, you can explore various purpose-built options. These are typically designed for long-term rental living, offering more durability and consistent management compared to certain private rental condos. In Brentwood or along the Hastings corridor, you’ll see high-rise options close to convenient shops and dining. Meanwhile, in the Edmonds area, you can find developments that combine comfortable living spaces with access to community centres and leisure opportunities.

For an overview of all available rentals, you can browse Rentals pages to see different addresses, building features, and locations, or simply to learn more about purpose-built developments. You may discover that certain complexes place more emphasis on walkability and proximity to transit, while others incorporate thoughtful design elements like communal areas or flexible floor plans. In any case, a thorough approach to reviewing your options will help ensure you find a living space that reflects your needs and values.

Cultural and Community Factors

As you finalize where in Burnaby you’d like to live, pay attention to local amenities that align with your personal interests. If you can see yourself strolling through farmers’ markets or attending open-air festivals, somewhere like Burnaby Heights or Deer Lake might appeal. Those who value direct transit lines and being near energetic hotspots might lean toward Metrotown or Brentwood. In many locations, you’ll find a blend of cultures and age demographics, making Burnaby one of the most diverse cities in the region.

The city’s longstanding commitment to social programs, recreation centres, and green spaces means you rarely have to travel far for a much-needed break, whether that’s a family outing to the park or meeting friends at a local cafe. Even as more high-rises appear throughout the skyline, Burnaby strives to preserve its sense of community. Engaging with local associations, attending city-sponsored events, and visiting recreational facilities are all tangible ways to set down roots and feel at home.

Summing It Up

Ultimately, “Which part of Burnaby is the best?” will depend on your definition of the perfect lifestyle. If you crave an urban pace, Metrotown offers unmatched convenience. Brentwood delivers a fresh, modern vibe with new architectural landmarks rising steadily in the heart of the neighbourhood. Lougheed is a student-friendly and transit-rich environment popular among those who value quick commuting. Edmonds is steadily growing, offering a less hurried community environment, while Burnaby Heights fosters a close-knit local spirit, complete with historic charm and community events. Finally, areas around Deer Lake entice nature lovers and anyone desiring a more tranquil daily routine.

No matter where you decide to live in Burnaby, you’ll witness the city’s unwavering drive to blend purposeful development with a commitment to community and green space. Burnaby manages to be simultaneously cosmopolitan and down-to-earth, giving residents a well-connected lifestyle without ever losing sight of what makes each neighbourhood special. If you’re still exploring options, take a look at different areas in person, or explore local listings to see how each part of Burnaby might complement your vision of home.

When you’re ready to see more about specific projects or rental opportunities, feel free to Explore Our Projects or View Available Rentals. Each neighbourhood carries its own appeal, and there’s almost certainly a spot in Burnaby that will feel just right for you.