5 Pros and Cons of Moving to Kelowna, BC in 2025

Kelowna, BC, is no longer just a hidden gem in the Okanagan Valley; it has become one of Canada’s most talked-about cities for relocation.

Known for its stunning Okanagan Lake views, thriving wineries, and outdoor lifestyle, this city attracts people who want a mix of natural beauty and modern conveniences.

But moving to Kelowna isn’t without its challenges. From a rising cost of living to wildfire risks during the summer, life here comes with both opportunities and trade-offs.

That’s why it’s important to look at the real advantages and disadvantages of moving to Kelowna in 2025 before making your decision.

Whether you’re planning a residential moving experience, require specialty moving services, or want the peace of mind that comes with hiring professional movers, being prepared can make a big difference in your transition.

This guide will walk you through those pros and cons so you can decide if Kelowna is the right fit for you and your family. 

5 Interesting Facts About Kelowna, BC

Before diving into the advantages and disadvantages, let’s explore some fun and surprising facts about Kelowna, BC, that make it such a unique place to live.

1. Kelowna Means “Grizzly Bear”

The name Kelowna comes from the Okanagan (Syilx) language and translates to “grizzly bear.” It reflects the area’s deep indigenous roots and the close relationship its early inhabitants had with nature.

Today, Kelowna still honours its Syilx Okanagan Nation heritage, with cultural landmarks, arts, and traditions preserved throughout the city.

2. Home to Over 40 Wineries

Kelowna sits at the heart of British Columbia’s wine country. With over 40 wineries in and around the city, it’s a paradise for wine lovers.

From boutique family-owned vineyards to internationally recognised estates, the region is known for producing award-winning wines.

Many wineries also host events, tastings, and farm-to-table dining experiences, making wine culture part of everyday life in Kelowna.

3. The Syilx Were the First People of Kelowna

Long before modern development, the Syilx Okanagan people inhabited Kelowna. They lived along Okanagan Lake, relying on fishing, hunting, and agriculture.

Their deep respect for the land continues to influence the community today, with ongoing efforts to celebrate and protect indigenous culture.

4. Home of Canada’s Only Floating Bridge

One of Kelowna’s most iconic landmarks is the William R. Bennet Bridge. Spanning Okanagan Lake, it connects Kelowna to West Kelowna and Westbank on Highway 97. 

What makes it unique is that it’s the only floating bridge in Canada and one of only eight in the entire world. It features five lanes and a navigation channel, replacing the older three-lane bridge that had a lift span.

5. Ogopogo: The Legendary Creature of Okanagan Lake

Move over, Loch Ness Monster — Kelowna has its own lake legend. According to local folklore, Ogopogo is a serpent-like creature said to inhabit the depths of Okanagan Lake. 

While no scientific evidence confirms its existence, the story has become an essential part of Kelowna’s culture and tourism. Statues, souvenirs, and festivals celebrate this mythical lake resident.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving to Kelowna, BC

To make things easier, here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of living in Kelowna- 

Advantages of Moving to Kelowna, BC

If you’re considering moving to Kelowna in 2025, these are some of the biggest advantages of living in Kelowna.

Each benefit contributes to the city’s growing reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in Canada.

1. Outdoor Recreation

Kelowna is widely considered an outdoor paradise, thanks to its unique location in the Okanagan Valley. 

With Okanagan Lake, surrounding mountains, and regional parks, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy nature.

Beach Hopping and Water Sports Along Okanagan Lake

Kelowna is home to over 30 sandy beaches, each with its own unique charm. Popular spots like Gyro Beach, Rotary Beach, and Hot Sands Beach attract swimmers, paddleboarders, and families during the summer. 

The shallow, warm waters of the valley’s signature lake make it one of the best places in Canada to enjoy water-based recreation like kayaking, sailing, fishing, or wakeboarding.

Hiking Knox Mountain Park

Just minutes from downtown, Knox Mountain Park provides locals with some of the most breathtaking city and lake views.

Hiking trails vary in difficulty, making them accessible for beginners and rewarding for experienced hikers. The Paul’s Tomb Trail and the Apex Trail are favourites among locals. 

Living in Kelowna means being able to escape into the mountains without ever leaving the city.

Kettle Valley Rail Trail and Camping

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, is famous for its historic wooden trestles and tunnels. 

Cyclists and hikers enjoy scenic views of canyons, vineyards, and orchards. 

For those who prefer overnight trips, the Okanagan Valley has dozens of campgrounds and provincial parks, offering everything from rustic tent camping to full-service RV sites.

2. Job Opportunities

Kelowna’s economy has transformed from its agricultural roots into one of the most dynamic and fast-growing job markets in BC. Today, it serves as a hub for technology, healthcare, education, and tourism.

Growing Tech Industry

Kelowna has earned the nickname “Silicon Valley of the North” because of its thriving technology sector. Startups and established companies in software development, gaming, and digital media are creating high-paying jobs and attracting talent from across Canada. 

Here are some of the notable names in the Kelowna tech scene:

• Hyper Hippo – known for its popular game development
• Yeti Farm (Artist Animation Studio) – a leading animation studio
• Minga – provides campus management tools for schools and universities

These companies highlight the city’s growing reputation as a centre for innovation and opportunity.

Tourism and Hospitality

Tourism remains a cornerstone of Kelowna’s job market. With ski resorts, vineyards, golf courses, and festivals, the hospitality industry provides year-round opportunities. 

Local employers range from large destinations like Big White Ski Resort, Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, and Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort, to boutique hotels, restaurants, and event companies.

Jobs can range from seasonal work in hotels and restaurants to long-term careers in tourism management.

Healthcare

Kelowna is home to Kelowna General Hospital, one of the largest and best healthcare facilities in British Columbia. It’s also the only hospital outside of Vancouver where you can receive specialised procedures, such as cardiac surgery or angioplasty.  

The Okanagan Valley, where Kelowna is located, is also renowned for its extensive network of complementary care providers, including massage therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, naturopaths, and mental health professionals.

Education 

Education plays a big role in Kelowna’s community and economy, making it a solid industry for job seekers. At the centre is the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO), a top-ranked university that employs thousands of faculty, staff, and researchers.

Beyond the university, Kelowna also has a wide network of public and private schools that consistently hire teachers, counselors, and support staff, such as Kelowna Secondary School, Okanagan Mission Secondary, and Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School.

3. Good Weather

For many Canadians tired of long, harsh winters, Kelowna’s weather is a major attraction. The city enjoys a balance of four distinct seasons without the extremes found in much of the country.

Hot, Dry Summers

Summers in Kelowna are famously warm, with average highs of 30°C (86°F). The dry climate means lower humidity, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. This is the prime season for beach trips, wine tours, and festivals.

Mild Winters Compared to Most of Canada

While winters still bring snow, especially in the surrounding mountains, Kelowna’s temperatures are more moderate than in cities like Calgary or Winnipeg. Average winter temperature hovers between 23°F and 32°F, which is mild by Canadian standards.

Plenty of Sunshine

Kelowna gets over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually. Tourism Kelowna reports that the Okanagan Valley experiences more than 300 days of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest regions in Canada. This consistent sunshine keeps outdoor recreation alive year-round.

4. Wine and Culinary Scene

Kelowna is at the heart of British Columbia’s wine country, offering world-class vineyards and an increasingly sophisticated culinary landscape.

Award-Winning Wineries

The Okanagan Valley boasts over 40 wineries in Kelowna and more than 200 in the region overall. Local vineyards produce internationally recognised wines, from crisp whites like Riesling and Chardonnay to bold reds like Merlot and Syrah. 

Some of the city’s most famous wineries include Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, Quails’ Gate, Sandhill Wines, CedarCreek Estate, Calona Vineyards, and The Vibrant Vine Winery, known for its artistic wine bottle. 

In the 2020s, Kelowna has also embraced a new wave of organic wineries that focus on natural ingredients and biodynamic production methods.

Fine Dining and Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Kelowna’s culinary scene emphasises fresh, local ingredients. Restaurants often partner with nearby farms, ensuring seasonal menus. Farm-to-table dining experiences highlight the region’s orchards, vineyards, and artisanal producers.

Food Festivals and Farmers’ Markets

Events like the Okanagan Wine Festival and the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market showcase the city’s food culture. Visitors and residents alike enjoy fresh produce, artisan goods, and culinary events that celebrate local talent.

5. Great Educational Institutions

Education and lifelong learning are highly valued in Kelowna, making it an ideal place for families, students, and professionals.

University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO)

The University of British Columbia Okanagan is a major presence in Kelowna. As part of one of Canada’s leading universities, it offers degrees in engineering, health sciences, business, and the arts. It also attracts students globally, creating a youthful and vibrant community.

Excellent Public and Private Schools Options

Kelowna has a wide range of public, private, and specialty schools. Some of the top public school institutions are Okanagan Mission Secondary and Kelowna Secondary School, while top private schools are Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School and Kelowna Christian School. This institution’s focus is on integrating academics with extracurricular activities like sports, music, and outdoor education. Parents often praise the balance of strong academics with holistic development.

Disadvantages of Moving to Kelowna, BC

While moving to Kelowna, BC, has numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider the challenges as well. Every city has drawbacks, and Kelowna is no exception.

Here are the most significant cons of living in Kelowna in 2025 that newcomers should keep in mind.

1. Cost of Living

The cost of living in Kelowna is one of the biggest barriers for new residents. The city’s popularity, limited housing supply, and high demand have resulted in significantly higher everyday expenses compared to other mid-sized Canadian cities.

Expensive Housing Market

Kelowna’s housing market is one of the priciest in Canada. Once more affordable than major cities, it now surpasses Calgary and Ottawa in home prices. In 2025, the average home price in Kelowna sits well above $1,000,000, putting homeownership out of reach for many young families and first-time buyers. With an average home price like that, they say the required income to own that average home is $234,000. 

High Rent Cost

Renting isn’t much easier. Even outside the city centre, rents remain high due to limited availability. For students at UBC Okanagan or seasonal workers in the tourism sector, finding affordable housing can be a constant struggle. 

Here’s the breakdown of the average monthly rent in Kelowna, along with the estimated minimum and maximum range for each bedroom type:

Note: 

The rent range is calculated using a ±15% variation around the average. Price may fluctuate due to market changes, and this data reflects conditions as of September 2025.

2. Homelessness

Kelowna, like many Canadian cities, struggles with homelessness and housing insecurity. While the community and government are working toward solutions, the issue remains visible and affects the city’s overall environment.

Visible Presence in the Downtown Area

In the neighbourhood near downtown avenue, homelessness is more noticeable. Newcomers may find it surprising to see tents, makeshift shelters, or individuals sleeping in public spaces. For some, this creates concerns about safety, even if most homeless individuals are not dangerous.

Community Impact

While residents are empathetic, homelessness can affect the city’s image and daily life. Businesses in central Kelowna sometimes face challenges with loitering or property damage, and some public spaces may feel less inviting.

Ongoing Solutions

On a positive note, Kelowna has multiple outreach programs, shelters, and community-driven initiatives that work to support individuals experiencing homelessness. However, this remains a visible and ongoing challenge that potential residents should be aware of.

3. Traffic Congestion

For a city of its size, traffic in Kelowna can be surprisingly frustrating. Rapid growth has put pressure on infrastructure that wasn’t originally designed for such a large population.

Bottlenecks at the William R. Bennet Bridge

The William R. Bennet Bridge, the only crossing between Kelowna and West Kelowna, often becomes a choke point. During rush hour, traffic slows to a crawl, adding significant time to commutes. This bridge is essential, but with limited alternatives, it causes daily frustration for residents.

Long Commutes During Peak Hours

Morning and evening rush hours can be particularly slow, especially for those travelling between downtown Kelowna, West Kelowna, or the airport. What should be a 15-minute drive can easily double during busy times.

Seasonal Traffic Spikes

Tourism also contributes to traffic issues. In the summer, when thousands of visitors flock to beaches, wineries, and festivals, roadways become congested. Parking downtown or near popular beaches can feel nearly impossible.

4. Limited Public Transportation

Kelowna’s public transit system hasn’t kept pace with the city’s growth. For most residents, owning a car is the only reliable way to get around, which adds to both personal expenses and citywide traffic congestion.

Bus Services

Unlike larger cities such as Vancouver or Toronto, Kelowna’s public transit system is limited. While buses do serve major routes, they may not meet the needs of all residents, especially those living outside central neighbourhoods. This makes daily commuting by bus inconvenient for many.

Challenges for Suburban Residents

In Suburban areas like Lake Country, West Kelowna, and Peachland, buses are infrequent and less reliable. Without a personal vehicle, commuting to work, school, or running errands becomes difficult. 

5. Wildfires

The Okanagan Valley, including Kelowna, faces annual wildlife risks. While beautiful summers are part of the city’s charm, they also come with the downside of dry conditions that fuel wildfires.

Evacuation Risks

Some neighbourhoods in Kelowna’s outskirts have faced evacuation orders or alerts in past wildfire seasons. While not every resident is directly affected, the possibility of having to leave home suddenly is stressful and disruptive.

Air Quality Concerns

Even when fires are not close to the city, smoke from regional wildfires often drifts into Kelowna. This can reduce air quality for days or even weeks, creating challenges for people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.

Are You Planning To Move To Kelowna, BC?

If you’re considering a move to Kelowna in 2025, you need to balance the city’s perks with its challenges. 

Kelowna offers unbeatable outdoor recreation, a strong job market, and a vibrant cultural scene, but it also comes with a higher cost of living, wildfire risks, and limited public transit.

This city also has growing opportunities in tech, tourism, healthcare, and construction. If your field fits into these industries, relocating can open new doors.

Now, if you’re planning your move to this city, whether it’s a local or long-distance move, deciding between a DIY move and hiring professional movers can make all the difference. 

While a DIY move might save you money, it often adds stress and heavy lifting. On the other hand, hiring professional movers ensures efficiency and peace of mind. 

But so much for that, the best choice depends on your priorities and what works best for you.

Final Thoughts

Kelowna, BC, is one of Canada’s most desirable destinations, and for good reason. With sunshine, wine country, and endless outdoor adventures, it offers a lifestyle that feels like a permanent vacation.

However, it’s not without its challenges. 

If you’re ready to embrace the pros while managing the cons, Kelowna can be a fantastic place to build your future.

And when it comes time to relocate, consider working with expert movers who can handle the heavy lifting and help make your transition to Kelowna as stress-free as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Kelowna, BC, a good place to live?

Yes, Kelowna is a highly desirable city, thanks to its good weather, wineries, and endless outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s especially popular with families, retirees, and remote workers who want a balance of city conveniences and nature. However, newcomers should prepare for the high cost of living.

2. How much should I earn to live comfortably in Kelowna?

With an average rent ranging from $1,400 for studios to nearly $4,500 for 4-bedroom homes, a household income of at least $105,300 per year for a single person is often recommended for a comfortable lifestyle. 

3. What is the job market like in Kelowna?

Kelowna’s job market is growing steadily, particularly in the tech, tourism, healthcare, and education sectors. Startups, UBC Okanagan, and Kelowna General Hospital are major employers.  Seasonal jobs in wineries, ski resorts, and hospitality are also abundant.

4. What should I know and do before moving to Kelowna?

Before moving to Kelowna, take time to research key factors of living in this city and weigh the pros and cons. Once you’ve decided the city is right for you, the next step is planning the move itself.

Choosing between a DIY move and hiring professional movers will play a big role in how smooth your transition is. To make the best choice, check some moving resources like DIY vs hiring professional movers, or questions to ask before hiring a moving company, to better understand and get a glimpse of the moving process. Being financially and logistically prepared ensures you can settle into Kelowna’s lifestyle with less stress.