The west coast of Canada is a famous landing place for new immigrants. If you wish to move to Surrey, this blog is for you. In it, we have discussed what you need to know about living in Surrey, British Columbia. 

Surrey is an excellent destination for newcomers. It is popular with immigrants from the Asia-Pacific Region. While majorly suburban, it is a beautiful part of the nation with a mild climate and is close to Vancouver. Also, you are never too far from the water and mountains in British Columbia. However, it is an expensive city compared to other parts of Canada. 

So, without digressing much, let us begin our discussion. 

About Surrey, British Columbia 

Living in Surrey, British Columbia, enables residents to enjoy picturesque urban forests, clean beaches, golf courses, and great eco-tourism opportunities. 

Moreover, Surrey is the second-largest city by population in British Columbia. Also, it is only 23 km from Vancouver Center. Housing is more affordable in Surrey than in Vancouver, so many people choose to reside in Surrey and commute to Vancouver for work if necessary. 

Surrey has seven major neighborhoods: Guildford, Newton, Fleetwood, Cloverdale, South Surrey, and the City Center encompassed by Whalley. 

The city was established in 1879. Well, it was named after Surrey, England because it had land that exactly looked like the region. The Pattullo Bridge was completed in 1937. This allowed the city to expand. In addition, Surrey was granted city status in 1993 after significant population growth in the 198s and through the 1990s. 

How Many People Reside In Surrey, British Columbia? 

There is a population of over 568,322 people as of the 2021 Census. This is an increase of 9.7% and over 50,000 residents in five years. And it continues to grow! 

Surrey’s Local Economy 

Another thing to know about living in Surrey, British Columbia, is its local economy. 

The economy is deeply rooted in agriculture. Today, about one-third of the land is only dedicated to farming. Excellent business opportunities exist for international trade with Asia and the United States. Because of the city’s Pacific Rim location, combined with its growing and multicultural population, it is a strong city for business immigration/ immigrants. 

Because of population growth, Surrey became one of the best places in British Columbia to invest in real estate. Over the last five years, more than $6 billion of building permits were issued and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation reported a significant increase in the number of housing starts. 

The strongest growth industry is health. This is because of the increasing need for medical aid for Surrey’s aging population. 

The top industries are: 

  • Supply Chain
  • Clean Energy
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Agriculture 

Career Pathways In Surrey 

You can browse for jobs in Surrey by using a recruitment agency to seek work. The top recruiters in Vancouver are Randstad Canada, Recruiting in Motion, Robert Half, etc. 

Is Housing Expensive In Surrey? 

Housing in Surrey is more expensive than most major cities in Canada, including Calgary, Toronto, and Ottawa. But when you compare it to Vancouver, it is much more affordable. This is the primary reason why people move to Surrey and then commute to Metro Vancouver to work. 

Finding A Place To Rent In Surrey 

Renting is a common step for newcomers to Surrey. The average rent for an apartment in Surrey is $1,400 for a Bachelor, $1,463 for one bedroom, $1,770 for a two-bedroom, and $2065 for a three-bedroom. 

You can also use Rentals for newcomers to search for available rental units in Surrey and find current rental prices. 

When renting a home or apartment, it is also integral to consider buying renter’s insurance to protect your family, finances, as well as belongings. While renter’s insurance is optional, many property owners might require that you have it as part of your lease agreement. 

Buying A Home In Surrey 

Buying/ Getting a home in this city can be quite expensive. Prices have increased substantially over the last few years. According to a study, Surrey ranks as the seventh most expensive city in British Columbia, with an average home price of 1.2 million. The average cost of a detached house is $2 million. In addition, a townhouse is $962,000 and a condo is $577,000. 

Driving In Surrey 

Another thing to know about living in Surrey, British Columbia, is public transit. 

It’s common for residents to commute to work in different parts of Metro Vancouver. Surrey has a grid road system and numerous highways. Highway 1 is the primary route to Vancouver and various other cities in the east. Residents can also make use of Highway 15, Highway 17, Highway 99, as well as Fraser Highway to get around town. 

Moreover, the Province of British Columbia Motor Vehicle Act regulates driving and parking on all Surrey streets. 

Community Support For Newcomers 

Surrey offers support to newcomers through several immigrant support agencies. They include: 

  • DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society
  • MOSAIC
  • Options Community Services Society
  • Pacific Community Resources Society
  • Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS)
  • Sources Community Resources Society
  • S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
  • Surrey Libraries

Newcomers to British Columbia might also be eligible for the Introduction to British Columbia program via the Immigrant Services Association of British Columbia. 

Language Support In Surrey

Newcomers can receive language support and take classes through community settlement agencies like Fraser Health Authority, DIVERSEcity, Options Community Services Society, etc. 

Personal Finance and  Banking 

Getting your finances in order once you come to Canada is an integral step you cannot overlook. You can also open a bank account at any local bank or credit union. Most banks offer programs specifically for newcomers/ immigrants to open a bank account, qualify for a mortgage, and obtain a credit card.  

Conclusion 

Surrey, British Columbia, is a vibrant and rapidly growing city that offers a diverse and dynamic lifestyle. Known for its picturesque parks, cultural festivals, and family-friendly neighborhoods, the city is an excellent place to live for people of all ages. Surrey’s strong economy and excellent public transportation system make commuting as well as job opportunities accessible. Moreover, with excellent educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities, long-term residents enjoy a high quality of life. Surrey’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement ensures a thriving, inclusive environment, thus making it an enticing destination for both newcomers and long-time residents. 

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].