Metrotown is the largest of Burnaby’s four town centres and is officially designated as the cityās downtown and a regional city centre for Metro Vancouver. The community is undergoing a massive, multi-decade transformation to become a high-density, mixed-use core where virtually all housing, retail, and services are concentrated within walking distance of rapid transit. For homebuyers, Metrotown offers unparalleled convenience, making it the most central and transit-connected urban environment in the city. The area’s long-term plan is guiding its transformation, aiming to reshape the district with new public amenities, including public plazas and greater school capacity.
Most presales in Metrotown are high-rise condominiums located within walking distance of Metrotown Station and Metropolis. Units typically include one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Mid-rise projects appear farther from the station where density begins to taper. Some developments include podium-level townhomes or townhouse-style units in transition areas. This distribution reflects Burnabyās plan to place higher density near rapid transit.
The Metrotown Buyer
Metrotown suits buyers who want to live in one of the most transit-accessible areas of Burnaby, with highrise and mid-rise strata homes close to shops, civic facilities, and employment. Singles and couples who commute by SkyTrain to Downtown Vancouver, New Westminster, or Surrey may find the neighbourhood well aligned with their travel needs. First-time buyers often consider Metrotown for its broad range of ownership options, while young families may be drawn to nearby schools, childcare, and access to parks such as Central Park and Maywood Park. Downsizers who want smaller homes with walkable access to health services, community amenities, and year-round shopping may also find Metrotown a suitable choice.
Your Guide to Metrotown Living
Shopping & Services
The Metrotown core provides comprehensive shopping, dining, and professional services.
Metropolis at Metrotown: One of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in British Columbia, featuring over 450 shops, major retailers, and a Cineplex cinema.
Crystal Mall: A commercial centre with a focus on Asian retail, restaurants, and a food court.
Station Square: A mixed-use area with restaurants (e.g., Cactus Club Cafe, Earls), essential retailers (PriceSmart Foods), and services.
Parks & Recreation
Burnaby’s primary town centre is surrounded by significant green space with extensive recreational amenities.
Central Park: A 90-hectare forested urban park that borders the neighbourhood. It offers extensive amenities including jogging/cycling trails, tennis courts, an outdoor pool, a pitch-and-putt golf course, and Swangard Stadium.
Deer Lake Park: A serene urban park offering walking trails, canoeing, and cultural venues such as the Burnaby Art Gallery and the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts.
Community Amenities & Schools
Schools: The area is served by Suncrest Elementary and Marlborough Elementary, with Burnaby South Secondary and Moscrop Secondary as the designated high schools.
Bonsor Community Centre: Offers indoor fitness facilities, sports courts, and community programs.
Burnaby Public Library: The Bob Prittie Metrotown Branch is located in Civic Square, serving as a local resource for education and community gathering.
Metrotown Civic Centre: This approved amenity will deliver a new library, cultural facilities, and a central civic plaza.
Transportation & Commuting
Metrotown offers excellent transportation access with two SkyTrain stations on the Expo Line, a major bus exchange, and proximity to key arterial roads. Future transit upgrades, such as the Metrotown-North Shore Bus Rapid Transit, will further enhance regional connectivity.
SkyTrain: Metrotown Station is on the Expo Line and provides direct service to Downtown Vancouver, New Westminster, and Surrey. Patterson and Royal Oak stations are the adjacent Expo Line stops and serve residents on the edges of the town centre.
Bus Rapid Transit: The future Metrotown-North Shore BRT line will link key destinations between Metrotown and Park Royal with a high-frequency rapid transit service.
Bus Network: The Metrotown SkyTrain station is a major transit exchange, offering frequent service across Burnaby and connections to neighbouring municipalities. It will also be a terminus of the future Metrotown-North Shore Bus Rapid Transit line.
Cycling: The BC Parkway runs near the Metrotown corridor and provides car-free cycling and walking routes that parallel much of the SkyTrain alignment. The Central Valley Greenway and local bike lane upgrades also connect the town centre to adjacent neighbourhoods.
Major Roads: Kingsway and Nelson Avenue run through the Metrotown area. Imperial Street and Willingdon Avenue provide north-south links and direct access to adjacent residential blocks and employment areas. These routes are commonly used for short local trips and to reach Highway 1.
Is Metrotown Right for You?
Metrotown is a good match for buyers who want reliable rapid transit, short commute times, and close access to shopping & services. It is less suitable for buyers seeking a low-density setting or a large private yard. When comparing presale options, consider proximity to parks, school catchments, building orientation, and nearby construction activity to ensure the home aligns with your daily routine.
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