About Coquitlam
Coquitlam is the largest of Metro Vancouver's Tri-Cities (with Port Coquitlam and Port Moody) and one of the region's fastest-growing municipalities. The 2016 opening of the Evergreen Extension of the Millennium SkyTrain Line transformed Coquitlam — connecting it to downtown Vancouver via SkyTrain in approximately 45 minutes and spurring major condo development around Lincoln, Coquitlam Central, and Lafarge Lake-Douglas stations. Burke Mountain, rising directly behind the city's northern residential areas, provides world-class trail access: 350km of hiking and mountain biking trails accessible from many backyard gates. At $920K average, Coquitlam is meaningfully cheaper than Vancouver and Burnaby while offering SkyTrain access.
Coquitlam at a Glance
Cost of Living in Coquitlam
Coquitlam is meaningfully cheaper than Vancouver or Burnaby while offering Evergreen SkyTrain access. At $920K average — $430K less than Vancouver — Coquitlam is one of the better Metro Vancouver value options for families wanting SkyTrain connectivity. Detached homes average $1.2M; condos near SkyTrain stations start from $550K–$800K. Rent at $2,100/month for 1BR reflects the SkyTrain premium but remains below Vancouver and Burnaby rates. Development around SkyTrain stations is rapid with new condo towers continuing to add supply.
Pros & Cons of Living in Coquitlam
- 🚇 Evergreen SkyTrain (Millennium Line) — multiple stations, 45 min to downtown Vancouver
- ⛰️ Burke Mountain — 350km of trails accessible directly from residential streets
- 💰 $920K average — $430K less than Vancouver with SkyTrain access
- 🏞️ Mundy Park and Lafarge Lake — major urban parks for families
- 🏗️ Major condo development — new supply continuously improving walkability near stations
- 📚 Douglas College — academic employment and education access
- 💸 $920K average still requires $160K+ household income to buy comfortably
- 🚗 Most areas outside SkyTrain corridor remain car-dependent
- 🌧️ Metro Vancouver rain — 1,600mm annually in higher-elevation Coquitlam areas
- 🏗️ Construction zones around SkyTrain stations are significant and ongoing
- 📊 Less urban character than Burnaby or Vancouver — still primarily suburban
Best Neighbourhoods in Coquitlam
Coquitlam's most coveted family neighbourhood — backs directly onto 350km trail network, newer planned community, large homes, excellent schools. $1.3M–$2.5M detached. Premium for trail access lifestyle.
Most urban Coquitlam — Lincoln SkyTrain station, Coquitlam Centre Mall, condos, restaurants. Condos $550K–$850K. Most walkable and transit-connected area. Rapidly densifying.
Coquitlam's historic Francophone village — Canada's oldest French-Canadian community west of the Rockies, heritage character, Mackin Park. Older homes $900K–$1.3M. Unique cultural identity.
Elevated western Coquitlam — panoramic views, larger lots, quieter suburban character, established trees. $1.0M–$1.6M. Popular with established families.
Who Coquitlam Is Best For
Coquitlam is best for: Metro Vancouver families wanting SkyTrain access with Burke Mountain trail lifestyle at lower cost than Vancouver; outdoor enthusiasts for whom direct trail access from home is a non-negotiable; Douglas College employees; and buyers who want the largest new-build homes in Metro Vancouver at the lowest price with SkyTrain connectivity. Not right for those wanting maximum walkability or urban character — Burnaby's Metrotown area delivers more urban density for similar pricing.