May 13, 2025
Moving to Port Coquitlam, BC – A Complete Guide for New Residents
Looking for a great place to live near Vancouver? Port Coquitlam is one of Metro Vancouver’s most family-friendly and affordable cities. With beautiful parks, excellent schools, and a welcoming community, it’s easy to see why more people are moving to Port Coquitlam.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about living in Port Coquitlam—also known as “PoCo.”
Where is Port Coquitlam?
Port Coquitlam is part of the Tri-Cities, along with Coquitlam and Port Moody. It’s located about 30 kilometres east of downtown Vancouver, just south of the Fraser River. The city has a population of just over 60,000 people and offers a quiet, suburban lifestyle with access to urban conveniences.
Why Move to Port Coquitlam?
1. More Affordable Than Vancouver
Compared to Vancouver or even Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam offers more reasonable home prices. You’ll find a mix of detached houses, townhomes, and condos at prices that are often 10–20% lower than in nearby cities. This makes it ideal for first-time buyers, young families, or those looking to downsize.
2. Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods
PoCo is known for being safe and peaceful. It has great schools, playgrounds, libraries, and recreation centres. The city invests heavily in community programs and local events, which helps foster a strong sense of community.
3. Access to Nature
The city is surrounded by natural beauty. The 25-kilometre Traboulay PoCo Trail loops around the city and connects to parks, forests, and riverfronts. You’re also close to the mountains for weekend hikes or skiing in the winter.
4. Convenient for Commuters
Port Coquitlam is served by the West Coast Express, a commuter train that takes you to downtown Vancouver in about 40 minutes. There are also bus connections and easy access to major routes like Lougheed Highway and the Mary Hill Bypass.
Best Neighbourhoods in Port Coquitlam
Each neighbourhood in PoCo offers something different. Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular areas:
1. Citadel Heights
Located on a hill, Citadel offers stunning views of the Fraser River and the mountains. It’s a quiet residential area with large homes and townhouses. There are parks, top-rated schools, and quick access to highways.
2. Central Port Coquitlam
This is the city’s downtown area. It has a mix of condos, small homes, and heritage buildings. It’s walkable, with coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and the Port Coquitlam Community Centre—a hub for swimming, skating, and sports.
3. Mary Hill
Mary Hill is known for its quiet, family-oriented vibe. Most homes are detached, and the area has several schools and parks. It’s also very close to the Mary Hill Bypass, which makes commuting easy.
4. Glenwood
Glenwood is a mix of older character homes and newer developments. It’s popular with young families and first-time buyers. This area offers easy access to shopping and transit.
5. Riverwood
Riverwood is one of the newer neighbourhoods in Port Coquitlam. You’ll find modern townhomes and newer single-family homes. It’s close to big-box stores like Costco and Walmart, as well as schools and parks. It’s perfect for families who want convenience and space.
Things to Do in Port Coquitlam
1. Explore the Traboulay PoCo Trail
This scenic multi-use trail is a local favourite. It runs through forests, farmlands, and along the Coquitlam and Fraser Rivers. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
2. Visit Gates Park
This large central park is home to sports fields, a playground, walking trails, and the Coquitlam River. It’s a great spot for a weekend picnic or soccer game.
3. Enjoy the Port Coquitlam Farmers Market
Held every summer from June to September, this market is a great place to pick up fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. It also features live music and food trucks.
4. Attend Community Events
PoCo hosts many community events throughout the year. Popular events include:
- May Day Festival
- Canada Day celebrations
- Christmas in Leigh Square
These events are fun for all ages and show the city’s community spirit.
Schools and Education
Port Coquitlam is part of School District 43 (Coquitlam), which is one of the largest and most respected school districts in BC. Families can choose from:
- 46 elementary schools
- 14 middle schools
- 11 secondary schools
Popular schools include Riverside Secondary School, Terry Fox Secondary School, and Citadel Middle School.
There are also several private and French immersion options, as well as nearby post-secondary institutions like Douglas College in Coquitlam and Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby.
Shopping and Dining
You’ll find plenty of shopping and dining options in Port Coquitlam:
Fremont Village: A modern shopping area with big brands like Walmart, Canadian Tire, and Save-On-Foods.
Shaughnessy Station: More local shops and services.
Downtown PoCo: Independent cafés, bakeries, and restaurants.
There’s also easy access to Coquitlam Centre, a major shopping mall just 10 minutes away.
Local restaurants offer a wide range of cuisine, from sushi and pho to Italian and Indian. A few local favourites include:
- Patina Brewing Co.
- Me-N-Ed’s Pizza
- Samz Neighbourhood Pub
Work Opportunities in and around Port Coquitlam
Port Coquitlam offers a diverse range of employment opportunities across various sectors. Key industries include manufacturing, retail trade, healthcare, and public administration. The City of Port Coquitlam itself is a significant employer, offering roles in areas such as recreation, public works, and community safety . Additionally, the city supports small businesses and entrepreneurs through various initiatives, fostering a vibrant local economy. For those seeking employment assistance, the WorkBC Centre in Port Coquitlam provides resources like job search support, career planning, and skills training . With its growing economy and supportive community, Port Coquitlam presents ample opportunities for job seekers and professionals alike. For those seeking employment beyond Port Coquitlam, the city’s strategic location provides convenient access to job markets in Coquitlam, Port Moody, and Vancouver.
Transportation and Commuting
Port Coquitlam is well-connected by transit. While it doesn’t have a SkyTrain station, it does offer:
- West Coast Express (to downtown Vancouver in 40 min)
- TransLink buses that connect to Coquitlam Central Station (SkyTrain)
- Major highways: Lougheed Hwy, Mary Hill Bypass, and Highway 1
Whether you drive or take public transit, commuting is relatively easy compared to more central Metro Vancouver neighbourhoods.
Real Estate and Rental Market in Port Coquitlam
As of 2025, here’s what you can expect on average:
- Detached homes: $1.4M
- Townhomes: $1M
- Condos: $700,000
Rental prices are also more affordable than in Vancouver:
- 1-bedroom apartment: ~$2,100/month
- 2-bedroom apartment: ~$2,500/month
Many furnished rental options are available for corporate stays, relocations, or long-term visits.
Healthcare and Services
Port Coquitlam is close to several healthcare providers and hospitals, including:
- Eagle Ridge Hospital in Port Moody
- Ridge Meadows Hospital in Maple Ridge
- Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster
There are also plenty of dental clinics, walk-in clinics, physiotherapists, and other services throughout the city.
Final Thoughts – Is Port Coquitlam Right for You?
If you’re looking for a more peaceful, affordable, and family-friendly lifestyle—but still want access to Vancouver—Port Coquitlam is a smart choice. The city offers the best of both worlds: green space and a small-town feel, with all the services and transit connections you need.
Whether you’re relocating for work, downsizing, or looking for a great place to raise a family, PoCo is worth a closer look.
Need a temporary furnished rental in Port Coquitlam?
At Highstreet Accommodations, we provide fully serviced accommodations for families, professionals, and relocators—complete with kitchens, internet, and all the comforts of home. Contact us today to learn more.
