At the heart of Metro Vancouver sits the beautiful urban community of Coquitlam British Columbia. It is home to shopping centres, theme parks and other picturesque attractions loved and admired by tourists and locals alike. 

 

Coquitlam is considered as Metro Vancouver's sixth largest municipality with a total population of 140,000. With neighboring cities Port Moody and Port Coquitlam, this awe-inspiring haven is known as one of the Tri-Cities. 

 

If you're planning to move to this area anytime soon, you should discover everything that this place encompasses. For sure, you're pretty much aware of IKEA, Vancouver Hard Rock Casino and even the Westwood Plateau, but there's more to Coquitlam than its interesting sights, parks and festivals. 

 

Facts about Coquitlam 

 

If you're fond of taking part in any type of outdoor adventures like trail running, fishing, hiking and biking, Coquitlam will never disappoint. It's a vibrant city that has a lot of things to offer whether you are into sampling food, shopping or entertainment. 

 

Easily accessible to vehicles, Coquitlam gives you a full view of urban amenities and recreation opportunities to keep you busy and occupied. Coquitlam, won't be a tourist magnet without its rich history. 

 

The city, with abundant flora and fauna, is filled with historic properties worthy of exploration. 

 

If this place sounds like a perfect base for building a new home, here's everything you should know about it. 

 

Pros

 

1. Great Community

 

If you're new in your neighborhood, you'll appreciate Coquitlam's welcoming ambiance because outdoor spaces, courtyards and greenways are mostly family friendly and quiet.

 

West Coquitlam for instance, has an extensive collection of one or two bedroom homes with ample space to grow. 

 

These residential properties can also accommodate big families. You get more than just 28,000 sq. ft. of both outdoor and indoor private amenities and schools for all ages are just a few meters away from most residential areas.

 

2. More dining options

 

Coquitlam is a busy city that keeps everyone moving. The good news is that residents who prefer to take a night off from cooking can have great access to delectable dishes as the city provides plenty of options. 

 

From family-friendly restaurants like JOEY, My Greek Taverna and The Wild Fig to the best micro-brews like Twin Sails Brewing, Yellow Dog Brewing Co and The Parkside Brewery, the city gets you covered. 

 

 

3. Great for outdoors

 

Staying active is not a problem if you're a Coquitlam resident because the city's famous Town Centre is just a few minutes away. You can also explore the trails on the Burnaby Mountain Trailhead, whichever you think suits your lifestyle. 

 

Without doubt, Coquitlam promotes an active lifestyle because of its endless outdoor adventure options. Mundy Park, Rocky Point Park or Burnaby Mountain are also great choices for people who want to stay active. 

 

4. Easy transportation options 

 

You don't need to drive your own car to get around Coquitlam because there are four skytrain stations to consider. 

 

Taxis and rental cars are also available.

 

 

Cons 

 

1. High cost of living 

 

While Coquitlam gives you unlimited access to everything you need to live a comfortable life, all of the great things come at a high price.

 

The city isn't for minimum wage earners, but that doesn't mean you can't have your cake and eat it too. Just do the number crunching and with everything you can get from this amazing city, all the sacrifices are absolutely worth it. 

 

Before you move here, be sure you have a solid plan and savings.

 

2. The inevitable traffic

 

Touted as one of the progressive cities in Vancouver where roads are constantly repaired and more high-rise buildings are surfacing, your daily commute will not be complete without surviving Coquitlam's traffic. 

 

The long commute and the traffic right then and there will give you a love/hate relationship with Coquitlam. 

 

You can beat the traffic jam if you’re an early bird though.

 

 

3. Expensive housing prices

 

With access to Coquitlam’s sights, sounds and tastes, moving to this city should involve careful planning. It is not just about changing your environment, but embracing a new lifestyle as most housing prices in this area are more expensive compared to its neighboring cities. 

 

However, Coquitlam is a dream come true for residents who want a relaxing ambiance. Every penny you spend on making Coquitlam your long-term haven will never be wasted. 

 

4. Very hilly

 

While still drivable, Coquitlam also has one of the steepest hills in Vancouver. Take extra precaution, especially when driving on hilly terrain. 

 

5. Rains a lot

 

Since it's closer to the mountains, Coquitlam is known for its damp reputation and it is considered as one of the rainiest cities in Vancouver with January as its coldest month.

 

Conclusion 

 

With endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, day trips and fine dining, Coquitlam is one of the best places to stay for good. It gives you the best of both worlds. 

 

You can stay isolated by taking a trip to the mountains, rivers and other outdoor attractions or you can also visit the mall, restaurants, parks and museums.