Discover Nanaimo Real Estate Neighbourhoods with The Shanon Kelley Realty Group

Introduction

Nestled on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a harbor city with incredible diversity. From its historic downtown to modern suburban developments, Nanaimo offers unique neighbourhoods to suit every lifestyle.

Whether you prefer an urban vibe, scenic water views, or rural acreage, you’ll find your perfect fit within Nanaimo’s varied communities. This guide explores the highlights many of Nanaimo’s neighbourhoods with some brief information that will hopefully help you have a better idea of what each neighbourhood might be like, and what to generally expect within the housing market for those neighbourhoods.

We’ll outline key features like housing types, price ranges, and lifestyle for neighbourhoods across the city. Get to know the peaceful coastal village feel of Lantzville, the intellectual energy of the University District, and the luxury hilltop homes of The Foothills.

Discover the Diversity of Nanaimo’s Neighbourhoods

One of Nanaimo’s greatest assets is the incredible variety of its neighbourhoods. From quaint island communities to master-planned suburban developments, Nanaimo offers diverse lifestyle options.

Seaside neighbourhoods like Departure Bay and Hammond Bay cater to those who relish beachfront living. Meanwhile, areas like Harewood, University District, North Nanaimo and Wellington satisfy urban desires with their vibrancy and convenience.

Historic neighbourhoods like Old City and Downtown provide a vibrant urban feel even in a small city with a small town vibe like Nanaimo.

In addition, neighbourhoods like Cedar, Extension, and South Jingle Pot appeal to those seeking acreage and rural charm just outside the city. And areas like Fairwinds, Glen Oaks, and The Foothills offer high-end luxury living at its finest.

Nanaimo’s neighbourhoods provide options for families, professionals, students, retirees, and everyone in between.

Explore Nanaimo’s Unique Neighbourhoods & Their Real Estate Highlights

Nanaimo offers a diverse array of neighbourhoods, each with its own distinctive character and real estate opportunities. From scenic coastal areas to quaint residential enclaves, Nanaimo has something for everyone.

Get to know the many unique communities that make up this vibrant city on Vancouver Island. We’ll explore key highlights of each area to help you find the perfect neighbourhood to call home.

Discover average home prices, housing types, lifestyle amenities, and recent developments shaping Nanaimo’s most popular areas. Our deep knowledge of the local real estate market makes finding your ideal home a breeze.

Ready to explore Nanaimo, neighbourhood by neighbourhood? Let’s dive in!

Brechin Hill: A Blend of History and Natural Beauty

Nestled between the Nanaimo River and the coastline, Brechin Hill is a tranquil residential neighbourhood with deep roots.Majestic old growth trees line the winding streets, leading to heritage homes and newer builds alike. Located at the southern edge of Nanaimo, it feels like a quiet country setting, yet it sits minutes from downtown.

Historic sites like the Brechin Boat Ramp and the Nanaimo River Bridge add character. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with connections to hiking and biking trails. The views of the river valley and coastal inlet create a constant connection to the natural beauty surrounding Brechin Hill.

Central Nanaimo: Heart of the City

As the original nucleus of Nanaimo, Central Nanaimo remains the vibrant heartbeat of the city. This downtown area blends heritage charm with modern amenities, creating an urban lifestyle marked by walkability and convenience.

Historic buildings house trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants along picturesque pedestrian streets. The central harbor bustles with activity, framed by the iconic Nanaimo Bastion. New residential and commercial developments are revitalizing the area while retaining its heritage.

Chase River / Cinnabar: Suburban Living at its Best

Located in central Nanaimo, the Chase River and Cinnabar neighbourhoods offer a quintessential suburban lifestyle. These family-oriented communities provide quiet streets, parks, and easy access to schools and shopping.

The housing stock consists largely of mid-century homes on tree-lined streets, along with some newer infill developments. The Southgate Centre shopping plaza provides major conveniences close to home.

College Heights: A Vibrant Student Community

Located just north of VIU’s Nanaimo campus, College Heights is a youthful community revolving around student life. It offers convenient off-campus housing options combined with amenities catering to students.

The housing consists of everything from older apartment buildings to rental homes and condos. Budget-friendly dining, coffee shops, pubs and grocery stores line the main corridors. The neighbourhood comes alive when school is in session.

Departure Bay: Scenic Beaches and Thriving Community

Departure Bay is a scenic coastal neighbourhood located north of downtown Nanaimo, overlooking the Strait of Georgia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, recreational opportunities and thriving local businesses.

Some highlights of Departure Bay real estate include:

Diver Lake: A Natural Paradise

Nestled around the serene Diver Lake just south of downtown Nanaimo, this neighbourhood offers a tranquil setting amid nature. Outdoor recreation like hiking, biking and kayaking draws many active individuals and families.

Properties range from lakefront cabins to larger homes tucked into the trees. The area has retained its natural vibe, with minimal development beyond single family homes. Residents cherish the peace and seclusion, while still being a quick drive to amenities.

Extension: A Rural Haven

Tucked south of Nanaimo’s city centre, Extension charms with its peaceful rural atmosphere. Originally an unincorporated area, it retains its small town farming roots today. Large rural properties, greenery, and gravel roads evoke a laidback countryside vibe.

Homes range from quaint cottages on acreages to more updated family homes. Residents enjoy the privacy and elbow room. At the same time, shops and services are just a short drive up the highway to central Nanaimo.

Fairwinds: A Luxurious Coastal Community

Located along Nanaimo’s scenic coastal bluffs, Fairwinds is an exclusive community that blends natural beauty with upscale living. Sweeping ocean views and top-tier amenities create a resort-like atmosphere.

Multimillion dollar homes designed by renowned architects draw luxury buyers to the area. The Gary Oak-studded landscape provides privacy and seclusion, while amenities like tennis courts and walking trails foster community.

Hammond Bay: Stunning Ocean Views

Perched along the scenic coastline just north of Departure Bay, Hammond Bay is prized for its spectacular ocean vistas. The area overlooks the Strait of Georgia, with panoramic views of the water and distant mountains.

Luxury homes and upscale condos capitalize on the views with floor-to-ceiling windows and oceanside patios. The seaside setting also includes parks, trails, and beach access for enjoying the beautiful environment.

Lantzville: Coastal Village Charm

Nestled just north of Nanaimo along the shoreline, Lantzville offers a peaceful seaside lifestyle. Quaint shops and eateries line Lantzville Road, creating a cozy small town vibe near the waterfront.

Housing ranges from modest mid-century homes to new large luxury developments. The area retains its quiet coastal charm while growing as a bedroom community for commuters.

North Jingle Pot: A Perfect Family Neighbourhood

Tucked into a peaceful enclave between the ocean and Mount Benson, North Jingle Pot is a family-friendly Nanaimo community. It provides quiet streets lined with mid-century homes, along with parks and amenities.

Properties range from modest 1950s dwellings to newly renovated houses. Proximity to schools, recreation centers, and shopping makes it highly convenient for households. At the same time, it retains a quiet suburban charm.

North Nanaimo: Urban Amenities amidst Nature

Located between the downtown core and nature reserves, North Nanaimo marries urban living with natural beauty. It provides easy access to city amenities along with acres of parks and trails to explore.

Housing ranges from affordable apartments to luxurious hilltop homes overlooking the ocean. Proximity to shopping, entertainment, and outdoor recreation provides the best of all worlds for residents.

Old City Quarter: Experience Nanaimo’s Historic Charm

Centered around the iconic Nanaimo Bastion, the Old City Quarter captures the heart of the city’s 19th century beginnings. Heritage buildings, antique shops, and historic sites like the Bastion and the Nanaimo Courthouse exude old-world character.

Classic Victorian homes built by coal barons still stand today alongside newer infill developments. The neighbourhood seamlessly blends its rich history with modern vibrancy to create a charming lifestyle experience.

Pleasant Valley: True to its Name

Nestled south of Nanaimo’s downtown core, Pleasant Valley lives up to its idyllic name. Peaceful tree-lined streets, parks, and amenities create a comfortable suburban community.

Properties range from modest mid-century homes to spacious new family developments. Proximity to schools, shopping, and recreation makes Pleasant Valley highly convenient while retaining its quiet vibe.

Protection Island: Island Living in the Heart of the City

Accessible by ferry just minutes from downtown Nanaimo, Protection Island feels worlds away. The sleepy, car-free island provides a tranquil escape with gorgeous ocean views.

Properties range from charming cottages to luxury oceanfront homes. The island community comes alive in summer with just over 100 full-time residents the rest of the year. Natural beauty and seclusion attract those seeking an island lifestyle.

South Jingle Pot: Rural Living with City Convenience

Nestled between the ocean and Mount Benson foothills, South Jingle Pot blends country charm with urban accessibility. Large rural-style properties retain a peaceful, private vibe.

Homes range from rambling ranches to grand hilltop estates with acreage. At the same time, shopping, schools and other amenities are just a short drive away in central Nanaimo.

South Nanaimo: Rapidly Evolving and Diverse

South Nanaimo encompasses a diverse range of communities located south of the city center. It includes established neighbourhoods alongside new master-planned developments.

Housing ranges from modest postwar homes to luxurious new constructions. Amenities are expanding to serve the growing population, while retaining each area’s distinct charm.

The Foothills: Luxury Living with Mountain Views

Perched on a plateau overlooking Nanaimo, The Foothills offers luxurious living with stunning vistas. Custom estate homes dot the hillside landscape, capitalizing on views of the city, ocean, and Mount Benson.

Properties range from multimillion dollar mansions to high-end condos. The neighbourhood caters to upscale buyers with its top-tier amenities like walking trails, a clubhouse, and 24/7 security.

Uplands: A Community with a View

Situated on a sloped hillside overlooking the city, Uplands is aptly named for its elevated views. The area provides stunning vistas of surrounding lakes, the ocean, and Mount Benson.

Mid-century homes dot the hills along with new custom luxury builds taking advantage of the scenery. Close proximity to amenities combines with the peaceful setting for an ideal family lifestyle.

University District: Intellectual Hub with Vibrant Energy

Centered around Vancouver Island University, the University District is Nanaimo’s academic and cultural core. Students and academics fill the coffee shops and galleries, creating an energetic intellectual vibe.

Housing ranges from affordable student rentals to single family homes near campus. Proximity to the downtown core provides urban amenities in an engaged community setting.

Wellington: Family-Friendly with a Strong Community Spirit

Tucked into the slopes of Mount Benson, Wellington is a peaceful Nanaimo community with a friendly small-town feel. Tree-lined streets, parks, and amenities provide a comfortable family-oriented lifestyle.

Properties range from classic mid-century homes to spacious new developments. An active community center and events bring residents together regularly to enjoy the family-friendly vibe.

Conclusion

With its scenic coastal setting and lively urban core, Nanaimo offers diverse neighbourhoods to suit every lifestyle. From the quaint island community of Protection Island to the luxurious estates of The Foothills, there is something for all tastes and budgets.

Each Nanaimo neighbourhood reveals its own unique character and appeal. Together they form a vibrant and varied city with natural splendor, heritage, and progress on display. The diversity provides homebuyers an ideal opportunity to find their perfect fit in this scenic harbor city.

Nanaimo is increasing in population, and fast! With the prices in the mainland continuing to sore and the traffic getting worse for people living out of Vancouver, Nanaimo is getting more and more attention every year with people wanting to move to Nanaimo.

Whether you seek a peaceful retreat, family comfort, urban culture, or natural grandeur, Nanaimo has a neighbourhood to match your lifestyle, and you will find a unique improvement of outdoor luxuries to explore that might not be as easily accessible in the mainland with all it’s traffic and congestion.

If you’re looking for an expert realtor that knows Nanaimo like the back of her hand, let’s get started and contact us – The Shanon Kelley Realty Group will help shine a light on your ideal home amidst the city’s many charming and exciting communities.