Introduction
Renfrew-Collingwood is a mostly residential area, with plenty of greenspace. People who live here have great access to all the necessary amenities and more, especially along the Collingwood stretch of the Kingsway. This neighbourhood’s borders are Broadway to the north, East 41st Avenue to the south, Nanaimo Street to the west and Boundary Road to the east.
Lifestyle
In 1861, Colonel Richard Moody built a military trail through the thick forest that covered this area. 30 years later, the interurban railway, which ran along Vanness Avenue had brought new interest in the area. By 1913, this community was evolving into a small town. Further north, Renfrew began to see an influx of people in the 1920s. The two areas have grown together and continued to evolve over the years.
The Vibe
Renfrew-Collingwood is a family-oriented, working class neighbourhood. There’s also a large business community here and quite a few big box stores. As one of the fastest growing residential communities in Vancouver, this is very much a developing community and one that will likely see more and more gentrification and development as years progress.
Meet the Neighbours
Renfrew-Collingwood is a diverse community, and more than 50 per cent of residents speak English as a second language, with more than 50 per cent of that number identifying Chinese as their mother tongue. At the time of the 2011 census, the neighbourhood had a population of 50,505, whose median age was 39 years old.
In the Area
There are six public elementary schools in Renfrew-Collingwood (Graham Bruce, Grenfell, Carleton, Norquay, Nootka and Renfrew) and two public high schools (Windermere and Vancouver Technical). There’s also a private high school specifically for new immigrants to Canada. Add on two public library branches (Collingwood and Renfrew), a community centre and a public pool at the Renfrew site, and it’s clear this neighborhood is well-equipped for families.
6.7 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
This neighbourhood is served by major thoroughfares, the Kingsway and Grandview Highway, that grant easy access to most other areas of the lower mainland. Both the Expo Line and the Millenium Line run through Renfrew-Collingwood, as well as several major bus routes, making the area easily accessible by public transit.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
On the plus side, there’s an abundance of schools nearby and plenty of community centres and recreational facilities. There is not a lot of greenspace in the area, though, and it feels a bit industrial in Renfrew-Collingwood. This neighbourhood is also pretty short of things to do for an exciting night out.
Dollars & Sense
Renfrew-Collingwood is still a relatively inexpensive place to shop, eat and play. There are plenty of discount stores in the neighbourhood, and it’s not really much of a fine dining destination. Rent and housing costs are lower here than the Vancouver average, but some downtowners consider this the Far East.
Featured Homes for Sale in Renfrew-Collingwood
A hand-picked selection of new home and condos for sale in Renfrew-Collingwood. For those who love the thrill of anticipation of getting into a brand new home or condo.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Panaderia Latin Bakery
The made-from-scratch Latin baked goods, both sweet and savoury, at Panaderia will keep you coming back. Also an excellent source for hard-to-find Latin canned goods.
more infoChili Pepper House
This hot spot may not be anything fancy to look at, but the Indian-style Chinese food here is delectable, and it’s far from expensive. The Manchurian chicken is a particular specialty.
more infoRenfrew Ravine Park
Named for nearby Renfrew street that also defines this neighbourhood, this park winds along a ravine pathway and offers several community art projects and sweet seating areas along the way.
more infoLa Piazza Dario
A neighbourhood institution that’s been around for over three decades and serves authentic Italian cuisine. La Piazza offers à la carte and prix fixe menus at both lunch and dinner.
more infoCrème de la Crumb Bakeshop and Catering
Fantastic entrées, salads, sandwiches and pastries at this café, which is an offshoot of the Yaletown location of the same name. If you come for breakfast or lunch, make sure you grab some scones to go!
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