One of the biggest advantages of living in a family-friendly city, Coquitlam, is its accessibility. Imagine stepping out your front door, coffee in hand, and catching a quick SkyTrain ride to work—no sitting in gridlocked traffic, no stress. Meanwhile, your kids can hop on safely to get to school or meet friends, giving them independence while you enjoy a smoother daily routine.

The SkyTrain’s Evergreen Extension seamlessly connects Coquitlam to Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey, with key stations like Lougheed, Burquitlam, Coquitlam Central, and Lafarge Lake-Douglas providing quick and easy access. For those who work in downtown Vancouver, the West Coast Express offers a comfortable and efficient alternative to driving.

Beyond public transit, Coquitlam is well-connected by major highways, including the Trans-Canada Highway and Lougheed Highway, making weekend trips or daily commutes a breeze. The city has also invested in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, ensuring that families can enjoy walkable neighbourhoods and bike-friendly routes.

Coquitlam boasts a diverse range of neighbourhoods that cater to different lifestyles and budgets.  

If you prefer a more urban lifestyle, Burquitlam is a prime choice, featuring transit-oriented developments, shopping centers, and easy access to SkyTrain stations. Central Coquitlam, on the other hand, is a well-established neighbourhood that offers a mix of older-character homes and newer developments. It provides families with access to some of the city's best parks, schools, and recreation centers, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance between modern conveniences and a traditional community feel. For those who want everything within reach, Coquitlam Centre/Town Centre is a lively hub with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment options just a short walk from residential areas. 

Picture this: Your kids playing outside on quiet, tree-lined streets, with the mountains in the background and friendly neighbours who stop to chat on evening walks. That’s life on Burke Mountain—a community where families grow together, just minutes away from parks, great schools, and the fresh mountain air. Meanwhile, Westwood Plateau provides an upscale community with large homes, tree-lined streets, and close proximity to golf courses and hiking trails. 

Education is a top priority for families, and Coquitlam delivers some of the best schools in British Columbia. The city falls under School District 43 (SD43), which is known for its strong academic programs, French immersion options, and extracurricular activities. Some standout schools include École Panorama Heights and Walton Elementary, which offer French immersion and bilingual programs. 

For high school students, Dr. Charles Best Secondary is a top-rated option known for its strong academic record, while Gleneagle Secondary is renowned for its arts programs. Post-secondary education is also within reach, with Douglas College’s Coquitlam campus providing local students with opportunities close to home. Additionally, Simon Fraser University (SFU) is easily accessible via SkyTrain for those pursuing higher education. 

Saturday mornings in Coquitlam might start with a bike ride through Mundy Park, followed by an afternoon picnic by Lafarge Lake as the kids skip stones on the water. And in winter? Bundle up and take in the magical glow of the Lights at Lafarge, a family tradition that brings the community together year after year. 

Mundy Park, one of Metro Vancouver’s largest urban parks, offers scenic walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds for children to explore. Town Centre Park, located near Coquitlam Centre, features Lafarge Lake, where families can enjoy peaceful walks, summer picnics, and vibrant seasonal events like the Lights at Lafarge winter display. 

For more adventurous outings, Minnekhada Regional Park offers breathtaking hiking trails, while Coquitlam River Park provides the perfect setting for fishing, nature walks, and family picnics. In addition, recreation centers like the City Centre Aquatic Complex and Poirier Sports & Leisure Complex offer year-round swimming, ice skating, and fitness programs for children and adults alike. 

Safety is always a top concern for families, and Coquitlam consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Metro Vancouver. The presence of the Coquitlam RCMP and active neighbourhood watch programs contribute to a secure environment. Beyond safety, the city fosters a strong sense of community through its numerous family-friendly events and cultural festivals. 

The Coquitlam Farmers Market is a favourite weekend destination for families, offering fresh produce and artisan goods. Events like Canada Day celebrations at Town Centre Park, the Lights at Lafarge Festival, and the Teddy Bear Picnic provide year-round entertainment for children and parents alike. 

While many residents commute to nearby cities for work, Coquitlam itself is experiencing economic growth, with job opportunities increasing in sectors like retail, healthcare, education, and technology. Coquitlam Centre and Lougheed Town Centre serve as major employment hubs, while local businesses continue to thrive. For those in healthcare, Eagle Ridge Hospital offers employment opportunities close to home. 

As the city continues to expand with transit-oriented development projects, more businesses and startups are setting up shop, creating local job opportunities that allow parents to work closer to home and spend more quality time with their families. 

Coquitlam is a multicultural city that welcomes families from all backgrounds. With a diverse population that includes large communities from China, Korea, Iran, the Philippines, and Ukraine, the city offers a wealth of cultural experiences, from international cuisine to language programs and cultural festivals. 

Multicultural centers, places of worship, and community programs help newcomers integrate and feel at home, while local grocery stores and restaurants reflect the city’s rich diversity. This inclusive atmosphere ensures that children grow up in a globally minded environment where different cultures and traditions are celebrated. 

With its top-rated schools, safe and welcoming neighbourhoods, excellent transit connections, abundant parks and recreation, and thriving economy, Coquitlam offers the perfect balance between city living and natural beauty. Families looking for a place to settle down will find that Coquitlam provides everything they need for a high quality of life. 

Whether you’re drawn to the outdoor lifestyle, the strong sense of community, or the convenience of urban amenities, Coquitlam is one of the best places to raise a family in British Columbia. If you’re considering a move, this hidden gem in Metro Vancouver may just be the perfect place to call home.