Introduction
Arbutus Ridge is bordered by 16th Avenue in the north, 41st Avenue in the south, Mackenzie Street in the west and East Boulevard in the east. This affluent neighbourhood has mature-tree-lined streets and unusually large lot sizes for Vancouver that are occupied by large homes. People populated this area because of the Vancouver-Steveston Interurban route of the British Columbia Electric Railway (or Lulu Island Railway), which ran between 1905 and 1958.
Lifestyle
This type of close-knit community that supports local business is a rarity these days, and in this aspect, living in Arbutus feels like living in a time when things were simpler. At the same time, this neighbourhood is centrally located in a thriving metropolis. In this sense, it’s the best of all worlds.
Dollars & Sense
The kind of convenience that comes with living in Arbutus doesn’t come cheap. There are some great amenities here, but, for the most part, they are of the highbrow variety: you can get a superb espresso and pastry at Butter in Mackenzie Heights, for example, but you most certainly get what you pay for.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Arbutus is an affluent neighbourhood, and it is certainly a comfortable place to raise a family. It’s central location makes it an easy place to commute from just about anywhere in the lower mainland. Although there are many beautiful homes in this area, there are also some dreadful eyesores that have little going for them other than size: apparently, you can’t buy taste.
3.8 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Not only is Arbutus a hop, skip and a jump away from downtown, but it is also close to the major arteries that lead elsewhere in the lower mainland. On top of this, the area boasts excellent public transit. Getting to and from Arbutus is a breeze, whether you’re driving or taking public transit.
In the Area
This is a largely residential area, with mostly independently owned, local businesses in pockets of the neighbourhood. The area also features many parks, as well as Dunbar and Kerrisdale’s community centres just past its boundaries. Trafalgar Elementary lies within the borders of Arbutus, and Carnarvon Elementary and Kitchener Elementary are just outside. Teenagers who live here attend Prince of Wales Secondary School.
Meet the Neighbours
It’s no wonder that with so many good schools nearby and the strong sense of community in Arbutus, the majority of families here have children who live at home. According to the 2011 census, the median age of the population is 44, and there is a large Chinese population in Arbutus.
The Vibe
There’s a charming, old-world feeling in Arbutus that’s difficult to come by these days. It arises from the tight-knit sense of community, and the little retail pockets that nest amidst the residential areas. Little blocks lined with sweet shops where business owners know their customers personally and conversations about the wellbeing of each other’s children often occur over the course of a purchase.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
La Buca
Fresh. Italian. Yum. That’s about all you need to know about this local favourite. Handmade pasta and a menu that changes with the season keep locals coming back.
more infoMacgillicuddy’s Children’s Consignment
Parents in the know realize that second hand is the way to go for kids’ clothes. Especially in a neighbourhood where second hand often means designer duds that may have been worn once.
more infoLooking to spruce up your décor with some truly orginal pieces and a touch of history? This store on MacDonald St. has the well-curated timeless pieces that infuse a space with character.
more infoGlory Juice Co. has three locations now, but this was the first. Come and see what the buzz is about. Great organic fresh-pressed juice, nut milks and cleanses that will put a spring in your step.
more infoSeveral neighbourhoods can fight over who this bakehouse, and who In Mackenzie Heights in general, belongs too. Whatever way you slice it, though, this place makes excellent bread, and so much more.
more info