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The Harbour City!

Nanaimo Real Estate

Dubbed "The Hub City", "The Harbour City", and "Bathtub City", Nanaimo is a community of many names with a unique, exuberant spirit all of its own. For many, Nanaimo serves as the first taste of the wonders that Vancouver Island has offer once they arrive via the BC Ferry Terminal from the lower mainland. Nanaimo real estate allows buyers a chance to become part of a dynamic city on the rise with limitless opportunities on the horizon. Contact Carly Carey today to start your home search, or click to learn more about Nanaimo real estate.

Waterfront
Great Parks
Diverse Neighbourhoods

Nanaimo
Real Estate Stats

Average Home Price $861K
Lowest Priced Home $115K
Highest Listing Price $11M
Total Property Listings 567
Avg. Days On Market 55
Avg. Price/SQFT $477

Property Types (active listings)

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Life In The City

Nanaimo Real Estate Highlights

  • 01
    An abundance of outdoor activities
  • 02
    Homes for every lifestyle
  • 03
    Shops, restaurants, and entertainment
  • 04
    Rich culture and welcoming atmosphere
Life In NanaimoEnjoy fast-paced city life with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of things to do.
Enterting Nanaimo, BC harbour from boatCamera Icon
Homes For All Buyers

Nanaimo Real Estate

With a population of just under 100,000, the city of Nanaimo is the second-largest urban center on Vancouver Island. The largest, Victoria, is located roughly 110 kilometers south of Nanaimo.

The homes in Nanaimo are built in a wide range of styles. Bungalows are typically characteristic of older, more traditional homes, while newer properties are often designed in contemporary styles with multiple storeys. While many homes have stunning views, the most desirable homes for sale in Nanaimo are located on the waterfront, and this includes the gorgeous condos available. Although each Nanaimo property is spectacular, the luxury homes in the area offer buyers modern upgrades, exclusive amenities, and a private lifestyle.

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Traditional Meets Modern
Luxurious Upgrades
River, mountain, and forest views at nature park in Nanaimo, BCCamera Icon
Harbour City Way Of Life

Life in Nanaimo

Surrounded by a series of smaller islands, Nanaimo real estate offers access to one of the west coast's most stunning harbours. Grab an ice cream and walk along the waterfront, watching the float planes take off, or visit one of the nearby beaches.

You can also have lunch at Penny's Palapa on the water while watching the yachts and fishing boats dock. View the exciting cannon firing re-enactment ceremony, listen to the bagpipes and tour Nanaimo Bastion, or just enjoy a family bike ride along the waterfront, Protection Island, or Newcastle Island. The options are truly endless! Most homes for sale in Nanaimo are also as affordable as they are beautiful. The mix of family-friendly detached houses as well as the convenient townhomes and condos are great for many types of buyers.

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Welcoming Atmosphere
Parks And Trails

Top Nanaimo Attractions & Amenities

Nanaimo real estate is fantastic for those who love being surrounded by nature, and with over 200 parks nearby, properties in Nanaimo offer access to the the city's natural beauty. Some of the most popular spots are Neck Point and Pipers Lagoon—here, the sunsets and sunrises are breathtaking!

For children's parks, many kids like Maffeo Sutton, because it's so big and because it offers extra waterfront activities like fishing and crabbing, not to mention that they love the outdoor concerts. Beban Park is also a family favourite, as there's always something exciting going on. Check out a Clippers game at the arena, ride the indoor pool's lazy river and waterslides, play golf or tennis, or take your kids ice skating after a long day at the park.

Nanaimo's vibrant downtown has changed a lot over just the past few years. Aside from hosting several festivals such as the Bathtub Race, Silly Boat Regatta, the Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival, and Summertime Blues, the city center offers a wide variety of funky shops, art galleries, museums, a theatre, and even the ever-so-popular Downtown Farmer's Market in the summertime!

Aside from what has already been mentioned, here's why you should make Nanaimo your new home:

  • 4.2% unemployment rate is the lowest in BC
  • 60% lower commercial lease rates than Vancouver
  • 21% increase in passengers at Nanaimo airport
  • Over 25 flights per day and over 15 ferry routes per day
  • 20 minute flight to downtown Vancouver
  • Average Single Family New Construction Home is 43% lower than Vancouver
  • Top 5 Sectors are Technology, Construction, Healthcare, Retail and Tourism
  • Most affordable real estate in South West BC
  • Limited vehicle traffic

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Upwards view of Nanaimo, BC waterfront condo
Rocky forested shoreline with condo poking through trees in Nanaimo, BC

Nanaimo Real Estate Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Nanaimo, BC best known for?

A: Nanaimo, with its stunning location right on the waterfront, is perhaps best known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. There are many beaches, parks, and hiking trails for residents and visitors to enjoy. Nanaimo is also known for its high quality of living and friendly residents.

Q: Are there whales in Nanaimo?

A: Although not the best place on the island, yes, you are sometimes able to see whales around Nanaimo, BC. Whales often pass through the Nanaimo area in the month of April and then again around October/November. There are plenty of tours available (in Nanaimo and elsewhere) with a high chance of seeing whales during your time on the water.

Q: How far is Nanaimo from Victoria?

A: If you take the highway, then Victoria, BC is about an hour and forty-minute drive south of Nanaimo.

Carly Carey
Get In Touch

Start the conversation

If you would like to discuss your central Vancouver Island real estate questions from Lake Cowichan through Qualicum and everywhere in between, please reach out. I love talking about Naniamo real estate and I can’t wait to meet you to discuss your next home with you.