It’s a place where commitments to environmental sustainability perfectly complement nature’s boundless beauty.
Where diversity isn’t just a talking point, but a continuous touchpoint shared by everyone in the community.
Where opportunity is afforded to all.
North Vancouverites are acutely aware of the majesty all around them.
And now, so too is the rest of the country, as the City of North Vancouver was ranked No. 1 in the Globe and Mail’s recent “100 Most Livable Cities” rankings.
“Being recognized as Canada’s most livable city is a testament to the people who make the City of North Vancouver what it is — vibrant, connected and resilient,” says City of North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan. “This honour highlights our success in creating a city where life is truly about quality, although we know there’s more work to do. Together, we will continue to build a city that puts people at its heart and sets a standard for livability across the country.”
Published in mid-December 2024, the Globe’s rankings examined 50 variables spanning 10 categories such as transportation, amenities, housing, climate resiliency and long-term livability over the next 25 years.
The rankings looked at close to 450 communities nationwide and includes findings from an online survey with roughly 300 participants.
Numerous distinctions stood out:
- Strong sense of belonging to local community: 73%
- Have a regular health care provider: 89%
- Likelihood of crime higher/lower than Canadian average: -38 %
- Walkable more/less than Canadian average: +39%
- Diversity higher/lower than Canadian average: +34%
“We prioritize what makes people happy and healthy: access to nature, vibrant public spaces and a strong sense of community,” Mayor Buchanan says. “It is the place to be, whether you are a young family, a senior or a newcomer. Whether you are a small business owner or an innovator, there is unparalleled opportunity here. You will belong here.”
Mayor Buchanan recognizes that while the rankings are an opportunity to celebrate the city’s wins, they also present a chance to advance strategic improvements around transportation, traffic and housing needs.
To that end, Mayor Buchanan aims to continue building upon the “Ambitious City” moniker coined by George Bartley, editor of the Express newspaper in 1905, and one the community has adopted. A vision that continually focuses on what is possible, rather than what is not.
“Just because something is challenging, does not mean we should walk away from it,” she adds. “Instead, we should go all in, all together as a community, and double down on finding solutions. Optimism for everything that our city could be is what helped us achieve this ranking as the most livable city in Canada. Together we can continue to set a new standard for livability in Canada and beyond.”
Mayor Buchanan also acknowledges the oft-used sports adage that getting to No. 1 is one thing, but staying there is another feat altogether.
She points to many areas where competitive and cultural advantages abound, perfectly typifying life on the North Shore: seasonal markets, breathtaking views, incredible dining, galleries and museums, live music, and so much more. Being only a 12-minute Sea Bus ride from Vancouver’s downtown core further cements the City of North Vancouver’s public spaces and amenities as some of the region’s most popular destinations.
“The Shipyards and Central Lonsdale each offer something truly unique, and together they showcase the vibrancy and livability that make the City of North Vancouver so special,” Buchanan says. “On behalf of Council, I invite everyone to visit and see what we are all about.”
To stay up to date with with latest North Vancouver developments and initiatives, visit cnv.org
