Introduction
Marpole is a mostly residential neighbourhood on the southern edge of the City of Vancouver. Its borders are Angus Drive to the west, 57th Avenue to the north, Ontario Street to the east and the Fraser to the south. It has seen much change over the years, largely due to the construction of the Oak Street Bridge and the Arthur Laing Bridge, leading to the southern suburbs via Highway 99 and Vancouver International Airport, respectively.
Lifestyle
This neighbourhood has a strong sense of history, particularly within its aging population. Archaeologists have found evidence that Marpole was inhabited as far back as 3500 B.C. This is also one of Vancouver’s oldest settlements, which was called “Eburne Station” in 1860. The area received another boost when the Lulu railway and the BC Electric interurban train were built in 1908, increasing its accessibility to and from other areas of the Lower Mainland.
The Vibe
Marpole is a juxtaposition of contradictions: not only does the combination of young students and senior citizens contribute to this feeling, but there so does the pairing of quiet residential areas dotted with ample greenspace with the major arterials that run through the city. Plans to bridge the areas that feel somewhat cut off from each other due to being bisected by busy streets are in the works.
Meet the Neighbours
The 2011 census recorded Marpole’s population as 23,832 and the median age as 41.6. Because this neighbourhood is a high-traffic area, it’s less expensive than most areas of the city, and students and seniors are taking advantage of the prices here, as well as many new Canadian. There are also several seniors’ homes in the neighbourhood. The area appeals to the “day trippers” and “night owls” who enjoy the proximity to not only the downtown core but also the vibrancy of nearby Richmond. Marpole is an eclectic mix of residents that have come together to form a real community.
In the Area
The shopping in Marpole is along the Granville corridor, and although it is mostly smaller, independently owned shops, they are also some larger chains stores here. The lower mainland’s oldest community centre, Marpole Oakridge Community Centre, is located in this neighbourhood, too. There is also plenty of greenspace in Marpole: Winona Park has three three terraced fields for football, Ebisu Park boasts a climbing rock and Oak Park featuress basketball courts and water park.
6.5 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Marpole is very well served by public transit, since many of the buses that serve the Lower Mainland’s suburbs pass through here. Although there are major arteries leading out of Marpole, these tend to get congested at rush hour, so it might be best to take TransLink if you will be travelling at that time. Since it is also directly across from the Vancouver International Airport, it’s easy to catch a flight from here.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Here’s both the good and the bad about Marpole: Marpole is well served by major arteries and public transit. Although this means it’s easy to get around from here, it also means that it’s a bit busy. What’s more, these major arterials have a somewhat divisive effect within the community. That, however, is one concern that city plans for this neighbourhood aim to address.
Dollars & Sense
Given its central location, Marpole is relatively inexpensive. There’s a real mix of retail stores and restaurants here, but finding some reasonably priced goods or food shouldn’t be too much of a challenge.
Featured Homes for Sale in Marpole
A hand-picked selection of new home and condos for sale in Marpole. For those who love the thrill of anticipation of getting into a brand new home or condo.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
1) Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre
Activities abound for all ages at this neighbourhood institution. Whether you’re into physical activity, visual or performance arts, or you’re looking for a social outlet, there’s something for you here.
more infoArmadillo Boutique
Some serious saving on some serious fashion are available at this high-end discount boutique. Get brand name clothing, for much, much less, and it will be your little secret.
more infoRide On Bike Shop
Every great downtown neighbourhood needs a great bike shop. For Marpole, this is it. Ride On sells new and used bikes, and does a great tune up. Check it out.
more infoMarpole Midden
This an ancient Musqueam village and burial site was once inhabited by Coast Salish people from at least 4,000 years ago until about 200 years ago, when smallpox arrived on the Northwest Coast.
more infoOff the beaten path, on Richmond Island, this place is worth coming to on a sunny day, when you can the sailboats at nearby Milltown Marina while enjoying a burger and a craft beer.
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