Neighbourhood Profile: Kitsilano, Vancouver

Kitsilano – often called “Kits” – is one of Vancouver’s most iconic beachfront neighbourhoods. Famous for its laid-back West Coast lifestyle, lively commercial streets, and stunning views of English Bay and the North Shore Mountains, Kitsilano has long been a coveted spot for both locals and newcomers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer in search of a welcoming community or a seasoned investor looking for a stable market, Kitsilano’s mix of historical charm, outdoor beauty, and modern convenience continues to attract people year after year.

Location & Character

Kitsilano sits on Vancouver’s West Side along the shores of English Bay. Bounded approximately by Burrard Street on the east, Alma Street on the west, West 16th Avenue on the south, and the waterfront to the north, Kits provides quick access to downtown via the Burrard Bridge. This prime location makes it easy for residents to enjoy the best of Vancouver’s urban and natural attractions. Historically, Kitsilano was a streetcar suburb in the early 20th century, later becoming a hub for counterculture movements in the 1960s. Over the decades, it evolved into an upscale yet relaxed community known for its beaches, leafy avenues, and an atmosphere that’s both energetic and family-friendly. Today, Kits strikes a balance between its free-spirited past and a polished, modern vibe – the kind of place where heritage craftsman homes sit near contemporary low-rise condos, and where beach volleyball players and yoga enthusiasts share the same sandy shore at sunset.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Kitsilano’s appeal lies in its diverse amenities and the active, outdoor-centric lifestyle it promotes. From tranquil parks to a thriving commercial scene, the neighbourhood has plenty to offer.

Parks & Recreation

Kits Beach & Pool: The showpiece of Kitsilano is Kitsilano Beach, one of the city’s most beloved waterfront spots. It offers sandy shores for sunbathing, volleyball courts for the energetic, and a breezy picnic area with mountain views. Adjacent to the beach, Kitsilano Pool is a giant outdoor saltwater pool – perfect for laps or family fun during summer.
Vanier Park: Located near the Burrard Bridge, Vanier Park hosts rolling lawns, a pond, and scenic views of downtown across False Creek. It’s also home to several cultural institutions (the Museum of Vancouver, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and the Maritime Museum) and the annual Bard on the Beach Shakespeare festival.
Local Green Spaces: Smaller parks like Connaught Park, Tatlow Park, and the many community gardens scattered throughout Kits offer peaceful retreats for dog-walks, casual sports, and neighborhood events.

Shopping & Dining

West 4th Avenue: A vibrant commercial strip lined with everything from fashion boutiques and fitness studios to cafes and restaurants. Whole Foods Market sits alongside local shops, making daily errands convenient.
West Broadway: Another main corridor offering diverse dining, grocery stores, and practical services. It has a “local” vibe, with plenty of international cuisine options, plus a stretch affectionately called “Greek Town” celebrating the area’s Hellenic heritage.
Cafes & Culinary Scene: Kits is a foodie’s paradise. Brunch favorites, sushi bars, Middle Eastern eateries, and late-night vegetarian spots abound. Classic establishments like The Naam reflect the area’s historic counterculture roots, while newer bistros and craft breweries showcase evolving tastes.

Community Amenities

Schools & Community Centres: Kitsilano Secondary, elementary schools (like General Gordon and Henry Hudson), and multiple private options serve families. The Kitsilano Community Centre (near Connaught Park) offers sports, classes, and programs for all ages.
Libraries & Healthcare: The Kitsilano Public Library on Macdonald Street is popular for reading, studying, or community talks. Healthcare clinics, pharmacies, and wellness practitioners are plentiful, while Vancouver General Hospital is a short drive away.
Local Involvement: Organizations like the Kitsilano Neighbourhood House and the farmers market (held seasonally at the community centre) foster a strong community spirit.

Culture & Inclusivity

Kitsilano has a long history of welcoming diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. It was once Vancouver’s counterculture hotspot, and while gentrification has changed the area, a progressive, inclusive ethos remains. Community events like Greek Day on Broadway and the Khatsahlano Street Party bring residents together for music, food, and festivities. Kits is also LGBTQ+ friendly and known for its socially conscious streak – from environmental initiatives like beach clean-ups to volunteer-run gardens and local art studios showcasing emerging talent. The result is a neighbourhood that manages to feel both upscale and down-to-earth, embracing newcomers and celebrating its unique heritage.

Transit & Accessibility

Kitsilano’s location offers multiple travel options:

Bus Routes: Major lines along West Broadway (including the 99 B-Line) connect residents to the SkyTrain at Cambie Street, the University of British Columbia (westward), and downtown. West 4th Avenue and Macdonald Street also have bus routes for local and crosstown travel.
Future SkyTrain: The Broadway Subway extension, currently under construction, will have a terminus near Arbutus Street by 2026-2027. A further extension to UBC may bring a station closer to the heart of Kitsilano.
Walkability & Cycling: Kits is highly walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and services accessible on foot. Bike routes like the Seawall, the 10th Avenue bikeway, and the Arbutus Greenway provide safe, scenic cycling routes around the neighbourhood and beyond.
Driving: Burrard Street and Granville Street offer quick access to downtown via their respective bridges, with typical rush-hour congestion. Parking in residential areas mostly requires permits, while commercial streets have meter or time-limited spots.

Overall, Kitsilano’s transit and active transportation infrastructure make it easy to live car-free. Many residents simply walk or bike to work, school, or local errands, appreciating the convenience and health benefits of a car-lite lifestyle.

Real Estate Overview

Kitsilano stands out for its diverse housing options and premium property values. Historically a mix of heritage homes and modest rentals, the area has evolved into a sought-after West Side market with strong buyer demand. Housing types include:

Character Houses: Charming Craftsman- and Edwardian-style homes, many with heritage features. Over the years, some have been converted into duplexes or triplexes, offering a blend of classic and modern living.
Townhomes & Low-Rise Condos: Boutique developments, laneway homes, and multiplex conversions help fill the gap between condos and pricier single-family houses. These middle-ground options appeal to young families and downsizers alike.
Apartments & Contemporary Condos: Scattered along main corridors like West 4th and Broadway, these range from older 1970s buildings to sleek, newer mid-rise projects. Interiors often feature open layouts, big windows, and modern finishes.

As of early 2025, Kitsilano’s real estate pricing remains on the higher side, reflecting strong demand and limited land supply. Detached houses typically sell in the $2 million+ range, while condos start in the $600k–$700k bracket for smaller units and easily surpass $1 million for larger, newer suites. Townhomes often sit around the $1 million mark or higher, though some have dipped slightly in price due to increased inventory. Investors value Kitsilano’s steady rental market, fueled by university students, professionals, and families keen on the beachside lifestyle. Overall, Kitsilano is considered a stable, long-term bet – despite periodic market fluctuations, its intrinsic appeal keeps buyer interest high.

Notable Projects or Presales

Despite limited large-scale development opportunities, Kitsilano continues to see a few notable new projects. As of March 2025, these presales are shaping the area’s future:

Kitsilano Block (Hathstauwk Holdings)
- A 4-storey boutique condo at West 4th & Macdonald, offering 59 units above street-level retail.
- Modern design with Miele appliances, air-conditioned interiors, and a rooftop lounge.
- Now completing; buyers expect move-in by early 2025.
The Arbutus (Origin Properties)
- A luxury 4-storey condo at 2888 Arbutus Street near the Arbutus Greenway.
- Upscale finishes, spacious floorplans, and ground-floor retail for added convenience.
- Nearly sold out, with completion slated for mid-2025.
Zeo Kits Townhomes (Domus Homes)
- A 5-unit townhouse development on West Broadway between Larch and Balsam.
- Family-sized 3-4 bedroom layouts, each with private patio or yard.
- Sales ongoing; possession scheduled for late 2025.
Monument Kitsilano (Epta Development Corp.)
- A recently finished 4-storey building at 2485 Larch, featuring 22 upscale residences.
- Large windows, rooftop amenity space, and ground-floor retail.
- Completed in 2022; occasional resale listings arise at premium prices.

Ready to Explore Kitsilano?

Kitsilano blends coastal beauty, historic charm, and urban comfort like no other Vancouver neighbourhood. Whether you’re sipping a latte on West 4th, diving into Kits Pool on a hot summer day, or meandering through quiet tree-lined streets, Kits embraces you with a casual warmth. Its strong community ties, top-notch amenities, and ongoing evolution in transit and housing make it highly appealing for both living and long-term investment. If you’re ready to make the leap, Kitsilano awaits with open arms – from the beach to the farmers market, this West Side gem invites you to enjoy an enviable and authentic Vancouver lifestyle.