Killarney, BC
Renting Guide
Vancouver’s gateway to the suburbs
About
Named after a city in Ireland, Killarney is right on the far southeastern corner of Vancouver. Let’s face it, it’s basically where the city and the suburbs collide. Life has more of that suburban feel and pace, but there are still big city amenities in the area. There’s also some small-town charm in the way people look out for one another. On top of the general sense of community in the area, there are lots of smaller cultural communities. First time parents or newcomers to Canada? There are a ton of great programs and supports in Killarney.
Rental Options
The market, at a glance
Avg. rent by housing size
Bach/studio: $N/A
1-bedroom: $N/A
2-bedroom: $2,158
3-bedroom: $2,733
Avg. rent compared to other Canadian cities
Killarney is 16% higher than the Canadian average
Killarney Rental Market: Killarney houses for rent are still known for being relatively affordable. Because of that, it gets touted as the place to jump into the city with a first apartment, condo, or home. The only problem is that units get snapped up in a hot minute, especially smaller ones. So you’ve got to do some searching and have all your materials ready to go when you find an apartment you want. If you don’t jump on it, someone else will!
Apartment Hunting in Killarney: Looking for a studio or one-bedroom in Killarney? You’ve got an uphill battle to find it. Most of the Killarney apartments for rent are floors of a house or whole homes. You’re best bet is to check out the high-rises around the Fraser River. Upside is, there are a ton of amenities here sometimes even swimming pools in the apartment buildings. Going for a large, more homey space? You’re in luck! Two-bedrooms, three-bedrooms, and even larger units abound here. You could even find a townhouse for decent rent. You won’t have the same level of amenities as the high-rises offer, but you could probably score a dishwasher and in-suite laundry.
Typical housing type: Single and multi-family homes, as well as a handful of high-rises.
Life & Style
Life in Killarney is on the quieter side. There’s that suburban feel where locals work or go to school, run their errands, then spend evenings with their families. Weekends are generally reserved for catching up on housework or enjoying quality time with loved ones. If you’re thinking that Killarney sounds boring, give this neighbourhood another look. The many cultures represented in the area give it its unique personality.
Neighbourhood
There’s a ton of green space in Killarney, especially in the south end of the neighbourhood. These spaces are made up of both parks and golf courses. Also in the south are the Fraser River, Champlain Heights Community Centre, and a number of housing co-ops. There are a number of major roads in the area, as well as a SkyTrain station. Need schools? You’ll have your choice for elementary and high school. Head up to Kingsway for pharmacies, a Safeway, banks, and some fast food. For more shopping, you can always go to The Crystal Mall and Metropolis at Metrotown, which are just to the east of Killarney.
Who lives here: Looking for one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in the city? You’ll find it in Killarney! Over half the population are immigrants and many locals here prize holding onto their cultures. No matter your background, you’re likely to find other expats here. There are several large Asian communities in the area. At the same time, residents are highly invested in one another and their neighbourhood. There are a lot of efforts to work together to make Killarney the best it can be. Families are drawn to the area, so if you have little ones, you should have no problems finding family-friendly activities for them.
Perfect for: Families looking for a diverse community.
Not-so-perfect for: Anyone who has uttered the words “go back to your country”.
Land Mark
Fraser River
Champlain Heights Community Centre
Champlain Heights Park
Fraserview Golf Course
Everett Crowley Park
Riverfront Park
Fun Fact
For families with kidlets, Killarney is a great choice because of its schools. First, there are a ton of them, so you’ll have no problem finding an option you like near you. But more than that, the schools have a good reputation. There’s even Vancouver Formosa Academy, which is known for its ESL program, and Killarney Secondary, which has one of the best arts programs in the city.