Moving to Richmond, BC | A Local Guide
Thinking about moving to Richmond? Whether you're relocating from elsewhere in Metro Vancouver, another part of Canada or another country, Richmond offers a unique combination of urban convenience, established neighbourhoods, waterfront communities, diverse housing and easy access to Vancouver and YVR.
This guide covers the practical things to consider before making Richmond home—from choosing a neighbourhood and understanding housing to schools, transportation, everyday amenities and getting settled.
Planning Your Move
Is Richmond, BC a Good Place to Live?
Richmond is a popular choice for people who want to live close to Vancouver while having access to established residential neighbourhoods, extensive parks and trails, major shopping and dining areas, and convenient transportation connections. Its location also puts residents close to Vancouver International Airport, while the Canada Line provides rapid transit between Richmond, YVR and downtown Vancouver.
But Richmond isn't one single type of community. Living in Steveston feels very different from living in Richmond City Centre, Broadmoor, Terra Nova or East Richmond—which is why choosing the right neighbourhood is an important part of planning a move.
Why People Choose Richmond
Waterfront & Trails
Richmond’s extensive dyke and trail network offers kilometres of waterfront walking and cycling.
Diverse Neighbourhoods
From vibrant urban centres to quiet residential streets and waterfront communities, Richmond offers a variety of places to call home.
Canada Line Connections
Rapid transit connects Richmond City Centre with Vancouver, YVR and destinations throughout the region.
Everyday Convenience
Shopping, groceries, services and community amenities are easily accessible throughout Richmond.
Easy Access to YVR
Richmond is home to Vancouver International Airport, making travel especially convenient.
Parks & Recreation
Parks, community centres, sports facilities and outdoor spaces make it easy to stay active year-round.
Exceptional Dining
Richmond is known for its diverse food scene, with everything from local favourites to internationally acclaimed restaurants.
Close to Vancouver
Richmond offers its own distinct lifestyle while keeping Downtown Vancouver and the rest of Metro Vancouver within easy reach.
Which Richmond lifestyle sounds like you?
I want a walkable urban lifestyle
→ Richmond City Centre / Brighouse
I want a village & waterfront feel
→ Steveston
I want established residential neighbourhoods
→ Broadmoor / Saunders / Lackner
I want parks, trails & outdoor space
→ Terra Nova / Thompson
I want convenient shopping & central access
→ West Cambie / Brighouse / Lansdowne
I want more space and a quieter setting
→ East Richmond / Hamilton / other appropriate areas
Understanding Richmond Housing
Detached Homes
From established family homes to newer custom builds, Richmond offers detached properties in a variety of neighbourhoods, with different lot sizes, home styles and community settings.
Townhomes
Townhomes offer a balance of space and convenience, often providing multiple levels and private outdoor areas with less exterior maintenance than a typical detached home.
Condos
Richmond has a wide selection of condos, from established low-rise buildings to modern high-rises, particularly around City Centre and the Canada Line.
Unique Properties
Richmond also offers waterfront homes, duplexes, rural properties and other less typical housing options, each with its own location and property-specific considerations.
Schools in Richmond
The Richmond School District currently lists 39 elementary schools and 10 secondary schools.
Public school placement is generally based on the residential address and its designated school catchment. Families considering a move can use the Richmond School District's School Locator to check the catchment associated with a particular address. Placement can still depend on available space, so families should verify current information directly with the district.
Getting Around Richmond
Connected to Vancouver, YVR and communities across Metro Vancouver
Richmond is well connected, making it easy to get around the city and throughout Metro Vancouver. With Canada Line service to Vancouver and YVR, an extensive bus network, major road connections, and plenty of walking and cycling routes, there are a variety of ways to travel depending on where you live and where you're headed.
By Transit
The Canada Line connects Richmond with downtown Vancouver and YVR, while local bus routes provide service throughout the city. With several rapid transit stations and connections to surrounding communities, public transit can be a convenient option for both daily commuting and getting around Richmond.
By Car
Richmond is well connected to Vancouver, Delta and surrounding communities through major roads, highways and bridges. Highway 99 and Highway 91 provide important regional connections, while several bridges offer direct routes into Vancouver and other parts of Metro Vancouver.
Walking & Cycling
Richmond’s relatively flat landscape makes walking and cycling an enjoyable way to get around. An extensive network of trails, recreational pathways and waterfront dyke routes connects many neighbourhoods, parks and community spaces, with plenty of opportunities to explore Richmond away from the road.
Shopping & Everyday Essentials
From major shopping centres to neighbourhood plazas, markets and specialty stores, Richmond offers convenient access to everyday essentials. Grocery stores, pharmacies, services and shopping are spread throughout the city, while areas such as City Centre provide an especially large concentration of amenities.
Food & Dining
Richmond is known throughout Metro Vancouver for its diverse food scene. From Chinese and other Asian cuisines to seafood in Steveston, cafés, bakeries and neighbourhood favourites, there is an enormous variety of places to discover—whether you're grabbing something casual or heading out for dinner.
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor and recreational opportunities are woven throughout Richmond. Residents have access to community centres, sports facilities, neighbourhood parks, waterfront trails and the city's extensive dyke network, making it easy to stay active or simply spend some time outside close to home.
Healthcare & Community Services
Richmond is home to Richmond Hospital along with medical clinics, pharmacies and a range of health and community services. Libraries, community centres and local programs also provide resources and activities for residents at different ages and stages of life.
Explore Things to Do in Richmond →
Moving to Richmond With Kids
A community with plenty for families to explore.
For families moving to Richmond, choosing the right neighbourhood often means looking beyond the home itself. Schools, parks, recreation, childcare, transportation and access to everyday amenities can all play a role in finding a community that works well for your family.
Schools & Catchments
Richmond has a broad network of public schools serving neighbourhoods throughout the city. Because school catchments are address-based, families may want to consider school locations and current catchment information when deciding where to live.
Parks, Recreation & Activities
From playgrounds and community centres to sports programs, pools, trails and waterfront parks, Richmond offers plenty of opportunities for kids to stay active, try something new and enjoy time outdoors.
Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods
Different Richmond neighbourhoods offer different advantages for families, whether you're looking for a quiet residential street, nearby schools and parks, walkable amenities or more room to grow. Exploring neighbourhoods based on your family's day-to-day needs can help narrow the search.
Moving to Richmond from Outside BC
Getting Settled in BC
✓ BC Driver's Licence
New BC residents generally need to exchange their existing driver's licence within 90 days of moving to the province.
✓ Vehicle Registration & Insurance
If you're bringing a vehicle with you, you'll need to look into BC registration, licensing and insurance requirements through ICBC.
✓ BC Health Coverage
New residents should apply for British Columbia's Medical Services Plan (MSP) as soon as possible after arriving and establishing residency. A waiting period may apply before coverage begins.
✓ Update Your Address
Remember to update your address with government agencies, financial institutions, insurance providers, subscriptions and other important accounts.
Getting Settled in Richmond
✓ Register for School
Families with school-aged children can review Richmond School District registration requirements and determine the appropriate school and catchment.
✓ Set Up Your Home
Arrange electricity, natural gas if applicable, internet, home or tenant insurance and any other services needed for your new property.
✓ Learn Your Collection Schedule
Check the City of Richmond's garbage, recycling and Green Cart schedules for your new address.
✓ Explore Local Resources
Libraries, community centres, recreation programs and newcomer resources are a great way to start getting familiar with your new community.
New to Richmond?
The City of Richmond provides newcomer information and resources to help new residents access local services and get settled in the community.
BC Hydro provides electricity throughout Richmond, while homes with natural gas service are generally supplied by FortisBC. Depending on the property, you'll need to open, transfer or update the appropriate accounts.
For most Richmond properties, water and sewer services are handled through the City. How these costs are billed can vary depending on the property, so homeowners should review the utility information associated with their new home.
Richmond provides residential garbage, recycling and Green Cart services, with collection schedules varying by location and housing type. Once you move in, check the collection information for your specific address.
Internet, television, phone, security and other household services can be arranged based on your needs and what's available at the property. If you're moving into a strata, it's also worth checking whether any services are included in your monthly fees.
Moving Into a Strata?
Condos and townhomes may have additional move-in procedures, including elevator reservations, move-in fees, parking arrangements and building access requirements. Check with the strata or property manager well before moving day.
Your Moving to Richmond Checklist
There’s a lot to think about when moving to a new city. Use this checklist as a starting point for planning your move to Richmond, from choosing the right neighbourhood to getting settled into your new home.
01
Before You Choose a Home
☐ Explore Richmond neighbourhoods
☐ Consider your commute and transportation needs
☐ Research schools and catchments if needed
☐ Compare housing types and price ranges
☐ Think about the amenities you want nearby
☐ Get pre-approved if you're planning to buy
02
Before Moving Day
☐ Arrange electricity, gas and internet
☐ Update your address
☐ Arrange home or tenant insurance
☐ Confirm your moving company or moving plans
☐ Register children for school if applicable
☐ Check strata move-in requirements if applicable
03
After You Arrive
☐ Check garbage and recycling schedules
☐ Update your driver's licence and vehicle information if required
☐ Apply for BC health coverage if you're new to the province
☐ Find your nearest community centre and library
☐ Explore local parks, trails and amenities
☐ Start getting to know your new neighbourhood
Still looking for the right Richmond neighbourhood?
Explore Richmond's neighbourhoods to compare different areas, housing options and lifestyles before deciding where you'd like to call home.
Explore Richmond Neighbourhoods→
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Richmond, BC
Is Richmond, BC a good place to live?
Richmond offers a mix of residential neighbourhoods, urban amenities, waterfront spaces, parks and convenient connections to Vancouver and YVR. The best fit depends on your lifestyle, housing needs, commute and the type of neighbourhood you’re looking for.
What are the best neighbourhoods in Richmond, BC?
There isn’t one Richmond neighbourhood that suits everyone. Steveston offers a village and waterfront lifestyle, City Centre provides greater walkability and transit access, while areas such as Broadmoor, Terra Nova and other established residential neighbourhoods offer different combinations of homes, parks, schools and amenities.
How far is Richmond from Vancouver?
Richmond borders Vancouver directly to the south, although travel times vary considerably depending on where you live and where you’re going. Richmond is connected to Vancouver by several bridges as well as the Canada Line, which provides rapid transit between Richmond, Vancouver and YVR.
Can you live in Richmond without a car?
Yes, particularly in areas close to Canada Line stations and major transit routes. City Centre is generally the easiest area for a more transit-oriented lifestyle. In other Richmond neighbourhoods, having a vehicle may be more convenient depending on your commute and daily routine.
What types of homes are available in Richmond?
Richmond has a diverse housing market that includes detached homes, townhomes and condos, along with duplexes, waterfront properties and some rural and acreage properties. Housing styles and availability vary considerably between neighbourhoods.
How do school catchments work in Richmond?
Richmond public schools use defined catchment areas based on a student’s residential address. Families considering a particular home should check the current school catchment and registration information directly with the Richmond School District, as boundaries and enrolment circumstances can change.
Is Richmond close to Vancouver International Airport?
Yes. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is located in Richmond on Sea Island. The airport is accessible by road and by the Canada Line, making Richmond particularly convenient for people who travel frequently or work at or near YVR.
What should I know before buying a home in Richmond?
In addition to price and property type, buyers may want to consider the neighbourhood, commute, school catchment, strata information where applicable, and property-specific factors. Richmond also has unique geographic and property considerations that should be investigated as part of the buying process.
What should I do first if I’m planning to move to Richmond?
Start by identifying the parts of Richmond that fit your day-to-day needs. Consider your budget, preferred housing type, commute, schools if applicable, transit needs and the amenities you use most. From there, you can narrow your home search to neighbourhoods that make sense for your lifestyle.
Thinking About Making Richmond Home?
Finding the right home starts with finding the right part of Richmond. Whether you're just beginning to explore the city or you're ready to start your home search, we're here to help you understand the neighbourhoods, housing options and local market.
