Discovering a Wonderful New Life: Relocating from the City to the West Kootenays

Make relocating from the city to the West Kootenays as smooth as possible – a few helpful tips! 

Relocating from the city to the peaceful tranquillity of the West Kootenay is nothing short of a life-changing experience. The West Kootenay region, located in southeastern British Columbia, offers stunning natural landscapes, a vibrant arts scene, and an inviting and welcoming regional community. 

But making such a big move requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some tips to help you make the move:

Research the area

Before you make any decisions, it’s essential to research the area you’re interested in moving to. Consider factors such as the cost of living, the job market, and the availability of amenities such as healthcare and schools. The West Kootenays are known for their high quality of life and laid-back lifestyle, but it’s important to make sure it’s the right fit for you and your family.

Visit the area

It’s always a good idea to visit the area before you make a move. Exploring the different towns offers you a chance to explore the local community and get a feel for the lifestyle. This region includes a range of incredible communities to choose from, each with its own unique character and charm. In addition to the larger, more well-known towns of Nelson and Castlegar: 

Trail

Trail is a city with a rich industrial history, known for its large smelter that has been in operation since 1895. The city has a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, as well as a number of parks and recreational facilities. Trail is also home to the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital and is located along the scenic Columbia River.

Rossland

Rossland is a small mountain town located just north of the US border. The town is surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Monashee Mountains and is known for its world-class skiing, mountain biking, trails network and golfing. Rossland has a thriving arts community and a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, making it a popular destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.

Fruitvale

Fruitvale is a charming village located just south of Trail. The village is home to a variety of shops and services, parks and recreational facilities. Located near the scenic Kootenay River, Fruitvale is known for its friendly community and small-town charm.

Christina Lake

Christina Lake is a small community located in a picturesque valley between the Monashee Mountains and the Selkirk Mountains. The community’s namesake is the pristine Christina Lake, which is known for its beautiful, crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. Christina Lake has a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, as well as access to hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and other recreational activities. It’s a popular destination for both vacationers and those seeking a peaceful, lakeside lifestyle.

Relocating from the city? Find a reputable real estate agent!

A good real estate agent can help you navigate the local housing market and find a home that meets your needs and budget. Century 21 Kootenay Homes is a full service real estate office covering the West Kootenays. We offer expert guidance on buying, selling or renting in the region and have a range of properties to choose from.

Looking for a home in the West Kootenay? READ our 6 Tips!

Consider your lifestyle needs

Moving to the West Kootenays can offer a significant, transformative lifestyle change. But, you should still carefully consider your lifestyle needs and the impacts of such a move. For example, if you’re used to the hustle and bustle of city life, it may take some time to adjust to a more relaxed pace. On the other hand, if you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, or mountain biking, the West Kootenays offer endless opportunities.

Budget carefully

The cost of living in the West Kootenays can be lower than in larger cities, but it’s still important to budget carefully. Consider factors such as housing costs, transportation, and utilities. 

Relocating to the West Kootenays can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With stunning natural landscapes, a vibrant arts scene, and a welcoming community, it’s no wonder why so many people are choosing to make the move. With these tips, you can make a smooth transition and start enjoying all that the West Kootenays have to offer.

If you’re interested in buying a house in the Kootenays, we can help! Our expert team can guide you through the buying process and help you find the perfect property for your needs and budget. 

Talk to us about relocating from the city to the West Kootenay!