Sep 25, 2024
Langley, BC: Your Essential Guide to Living, Exploring, and Settling In
Langley, BC, sits in the Fraser Valley, southeast of Vancouver. Known for its blend of urban amenities and rural landscapes, it offers a mix of small-town charm, outdoor space, and modern convenience. Whether you want family-friendly suburbs, historic villages, or fast-growing new communities, Langley has a lot to offer.
This guide looks at Langley’s history, key neighbourhoods, lifestyle, and why it is a popular place to live, work, and explore.
A Bit of Langley’s History
Langley’s story stretches back thousands of years. The area is on the traditional territory of the Kwantlen First Nation, who used the Fraser River as an important travel, fishing, and trading route.
European settlers arrived in the early 1800s. Fort Langley was established in 1827 by the Hudson’s Bay Company as a fur trading post. The fort later became a major centre for trade and played a key role in British Columbia’s early development. In 1858, the Colony of British Columbia was officially proclaimed at Fort Langley.
Over time, Langley shifted from a trading hub to a farming community. Today it is known for its agricultural roots, historic sites such as Fort Langley Village, and its growing suburban and urban neighbourhoods.
Overview of Langley’s Two Main Areas
Langley is divided into two main areas: the City of Langley and the Township of Langley. The City of Langley is a small urban area with a population of around 35,000. The Township of Langley is larger and more rural, with a population of nearly 162,000. Together, they offer a mix of urban amenities and countryside charm.
City of Langley
The City of Langley is compact and urban, with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for young professionals and families who want to be close to amenities. Here’s a quick overview of some of the neighbourhoods in the City of Langley, each offering its own unique character and lifestyle options.
Douglas (City Center): Douglas is the heart of the City of Langley. It includes much of the downtown core, with small local shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. New mid-rise developments sit alongside older buildings, creating a mix of historic character and modern living. Additionally, parks, schools, and community facilities are nearby, which makes Douglas attractive for residents who want an urban feel with everything close by.
Nicomekl: Located west of the downtown core, Nicomekl is a fast-growing residential area with apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. It has some of the highest numbers of young adults in the city and appeals to first-time buyers and renters who want to stay near central amenities but in newer housing. As development continues, more local shops and services are appearing, which adds to the convenience of living here.
Blacklock: Blacklock is a quieter neighbourhood south of downtown. It has tree-lined streets, established homes, and access to parks and schools, including Blacklock Fine Arts Elementary. The area feels very residential and family-oriented, while still being just a short drive or bus ride to downtown shopping and services.
Township of Langley
The Township of Langley covers a much larger area and offers a mix of rural and suburban living. It’s known for its scenic farmlands, wineries, and equestrian culture, as well as its family-friendly communities. Here’s a quick overview of some of the neighbourhoods in the Township of Langley, each providing a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences.
Walnut Grove: Walnut Grove is in the northwest corner of the Township, close to Highway 1. It is known for strong schools, recreation facilities, community centres, and established single-family homes. Families like Walnut Grove since it is safe, residential, and has easy highway access for commuting to Surrey, Burnaby, or Vancouver.
Fort Langley: Fort Langley is one of the most historic and picturesque neighbourhoods in the region. It’s home to the Fort Langley National Historic Site, where you can explore the restored trading post and learn about the region’s history. The village itself is full of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. It also has a vibrant arts and culture scene.
Murrayville: Murrayville is a quiet, family-oriented community located in the southern part of the Township. It has a more rural feel, with larger homes, spacious lots, and plenty of parks. Murrayville is also home to the Langley Memorial Hospital and several schools, making it a great choice for families.
Willoughby: Lastly, Willoughby is a rapidly growing neighbourhood that combines suburban living with urban convenience. It’s known for its new housing developments, shopping centers, and schools. The area is perfect for young families looking for modern homes in a community that’s close to Langley’s urban centers.
Demographics of Langley
Langley is a growing and diverse community. The City of Langley is more urban and has a higher population density, while the Township of Langley offers a mix of suburban and rural living. Together, the City and Township have a combined population of around 195,000 people.
Langley is a multicultural area, with many families, professionals, and retirees choosing to call it home. The population is relatively young, with many families attracted by the city’s excellent schools, parks, and affordable housing options compared to other parts of Metro Vancouver.
The median household income in Langley is in line with the provincial average, and housing prices vary depending on whether you’re in the City or Township. In areas like Willoughby and Walnut Grove, you’ll find newer homes and townhouses, while neighbourhoods like Fort Langley and Murrayville offer larger homes with spacious yards.
Best Areas to Live in Langley
Langley offers a wide range of living options to suit different lifestyles.
For Young Professionals: City of Langley (Douglas, Nicomekl), and Willoughby are ideal for young professionals, due to the walkability and transit. These areas offer modern condos and townhouses, close proximity to shopping, dining, and public transit, and easy access to major highways.
For Families: Walnut Grove and Murrayville are excellent choices for families. These neighbourhoods have great schools, parks, and community centers, making them perfect for raising children. The abundance of green spaces and recreational facilities also adds to their appeal. Murrayville is another great choice, offering a quieter, more rural feel with good access to services
For History and Nature Lovers: Fort Langley is perfect for those who love history and nature. With its historic charm, access to the Fraser River, and proximity to hiking trails, it’s a great place to enjoy a peaceful and scenic lifestyle.
Schools and Education
Langley is known for its strong education system, offering a mix of public and private schools. The Langley School District (District 35) operates several highly rated elementary and secondary schools. This includes Walnut Grove Secondary, Langley Secondary, and R.E. Mountain Secondary, which offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Additionally, for post-secondary education, Kwantlen Polytechnic University has a campus in Langley, offering programs in trades, business, health, and horticulture. There are several private schools and special education programs, making it a supportive environment for all types of learners.
Parks, Recreation, and Lifestyle
Langley is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with its wide-open spaces, parks, and recreational areas. Campbell Valley Regional Park is a favourite spot for hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking, with its beautiful forested trails and open meadows.
Fort Langley National Historic Site offers both historical education and scenic riverfront walks. Visitors can explore the fort, take part in seasonal events, and stroll along the river’s edge. Aldergrove Regional Park is another popular destination for hiking and birdwatching, offering a mix of forest, farmland, and wetland landscapes.
Langley is also part of the Fraser Valley’s wine country, with several local wineries offering tastings and events. Equestrian centres, farms, and u-pick operations add to the semi-rural lifestyle, especially in the Township. For those looking for entertainment, Langley offers shopping centers, movie theatres, and plenty of dining options.
Transportation and Connectivity
While Langley currently doesn’t have a rapid transit service, exciting changes are on the horizon. An extension of the SkyTrain Expo Line is planned, which will stretch all the way to the City of Langley. This extension will include one station in Langley, which will improve connectivity to the rest of Metro Vancouver. The SkyTrain extension is projected to be ready for service in 2029.
In the meantime, Langley remains well-connected to Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley via Highway 1. Both options provide easy access to Vancouver, Abbotsford, and beyond. Public transit is available through TransLink, with regular bus services running throughout the City and Township. The Carvolth Exchange in Walnut Grove offers a park-and-ride service, with buses connecting to SkyTrain stations in Surrey and New Westminster.
Conclusion
Langley offers a rare mix of historic charm, rural landscapes, and fast-growing urban communities. Whether you picture yourself in a walkable downtown condo, a family-friendly townhouse, or a home on a quieter street with more space, there is likely a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle.
With strong schools, expanding housing options, parks and trails, a growing food and wine scene, and a future SkyTrain connection on the way, Langley is an appealing place to put down roots.
Whether you’re planning to move to Langley or just visiting, take the time to explore its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant neighbourhoods. If you need temporary accommodations in Langley or the surrounding area, reach out to us at Highstreet Accommodations. We offer fully furnished, equipped, and serviced housing throughout the Fraser Valley and Greater Vancouver area. Let us help you find the perfect place to stay!
