Sep 25, 2024
Langley, BC: Your Essential Guide to Living, Exploring, and Settling In
Langley, BC, is located in the Fraser Valley, southeast of Vancouver. Known for its blend of urban amenities and rural landscapes, Langley offers a unique living experience. Whether you’re looking for a small-town atmosphere, outdoor adventures, or modern conveniences, Langley has something for everyone. This guide will take you through Langley’s neighborhoods, history, and why it’s a great place to live, work, and explore.
A Bit of Langley’s History
Langley’s history spans thousands of years, beginning with the Kwantlen First Nation who used the Fraser River for fishing and trading. European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, and Fort Langley was established in 1827 by the Hudson’s Bay Company as a fur trading post. The fort played a pivotal role in British Columbia’s history, as it was where the colony was officially declared in 1858. Over time, Langley evolved from a trading hub to a farming community. Today it is known for its agricultural roots, historical sites like Fort Langley Village, and its growing urban areas.
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 29,000. The Township of Langley is larger and more rural, with a population of nearly 150,000. 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 neighborhoods in the City of Langley, each offering its own unique character and lifestyle options.
Douglas (City Center): Douglas is the true heart of the City of Langley and serves as the central hub. It’s known for its quaint shops, local restaurants, and cultural attractions. With a blend of new developments and older buildings, Douglas offers a charming mix of modern conveniences and historic character. It’s also close to many parks and schools, making it a great choice for families who want easy access to urban amenities.
Nicomekl: Located west of Downtown Langley, Nicomekl is a rapidly growing neighborhood with a mix of apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. It’s an excellent option for those looking for affordable housing near the city center and key amenities. Nicomekl also has the highest population of young adults in the city, making it a vibrant and dynamic community.
Blacklock: Blacklock is a quiet residential neighborhood located south of Downtown Langley. It’s known for its family-friendly streets, schools, and green spaces, including the nearby Blacklock Fine Arts Elementary School. The area provides a peaceful suburban feel while still being close to the city’s central amenities. This makes Blacklock a popular choice for families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
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 neighborhoods in the Township of Langley, each providing a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences.
Walnut Grove: Walnut Grove is a popular neighborhood in the northwestern part of the Township. It’s a suburban area with excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Families are drawn to Walnut Grove for its safe streets, community centers, and easy access to Highway 1, making commuting to Vancouver convenient.
Fort Langley: Fort Langley is one of the most historic and picturesque neighborhoods 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: Willoughby is a rapidly growing neighborhood 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 180,000 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 neighborhoods 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: Downtown Langley and Willoughby are ideal for young professionals. 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 neighborhoods 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.
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 operates several highly rated elementary and secondary schools, including Walnut Grove Secondary, Langley Secondary, and R.E. Mountain Secondary, which offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
For post-secondary education, Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) has a campus in Langley, offering a variety of programs in trades, business, health, and horticulture. Langley is also home to 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 favorite 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 known for its wineries and equestrian culture. The area hosts several events and competitions throughout the year, drawing visitors from across the region. For those looking for entertainment, Langley offers shopping centers, movie theaters, and plenty of dining options, especially in areas like Downtown Langley and Willowbrook.
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, and it is expected to significantly improve connectivity to the rest of Metro Vancouver. The SkyTrain extension is projected to be completed by 2028, making it easier for residents to commute to surrounding areas.
In the meantime, Langley remains well-connected to Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley via Highway 1, providing 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 is a city that truly offers the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking for a bustling urban lifestyle, a quiet suburban neighborhood, or a scenic rural retreat, Langley’s diverse communities have it all. With excellent schools, parks, historical attractions, and a growing economy, Langley is an ideal place to call home.
Whether you’re planning to move to Langley or just visiting, take the time to explore its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant neighborhoods. 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!
