Living in Port Moody: A guide

Posted on Aug 06, 2025 in Neighbourhood Guides


Port Moody is one of Metro Vancouver’s most desirable communities for good reason. Just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, it offers a rare mix of convenience, natural beauty, and small-city character. With waterfront parks, excellent schools, and direct SkyTrain access, it’s a place where you can enjoy urban amenities without losing the benefits of a close-knit community and a slower pace of life.
Whether you’re searching for a condo near transit, a family home with great schools, or simply more access to nature, here’s what makes Port Moody stand out—and why its neighbourhoods each have something unique to offer.

Location and Lifestyle

Nestled along the eastern edge of Burrard Inlet, Port Moody is bordered by Coquitlam, Burnaby, Anmore, and Belcarra. It’s the smallest of the Tri-Cities but has one of the strongest identities. With the Evergreen SkyTrain line and West Coast Express connecting residents to downtown Vancouver, plus an extensive network of parks and trails, Port Moody offers a lifestyle that blends convenience with outdoor living.

Real Estate Snapshot

As of 2025:
  • Detached homes: ~ $1.7M
  • Condos: ~ $650K
  • 1-bedroom rentals: $1,300–$1,500/month
While prices have steadily increased, Port Moody continues to attract buyers who value its balance of nature, community, and accessibility.

Transit and Connectivity

  • Evergreen SkyTrain Line: Connects Port Moody to Coquitlam, Burnaby, and Vancouver.
  • West Coast Express: A 25-minute rush-hour rail link downtown.
  • Barnet Highway: Quick access to Vancouver by car.
  • Local bus routes: Reliable service to key neighbourhoods and surrounding cities.

Outdoor Recreation

For many residents, living in Port Moody means nature isn’t an escape—it’s the backdrop to daily life:
  • Rocky Point Park: A waterfront park with trails, a pier, kayak rentals, food trucks, and seasonal events.
  • Shoreline Trail: A scenic route along Burrard Inlet linking Rocky Point to Old Orchard Park.
  • Buntzen Lake & Sasamat Lake: Year-round hiking, swimming, and picnic destinations.
  • Bert Flinn Park: A large, forested network of trails for biking, hiking, and dog walking.

Arts, Culture, and Community

Port Moody is known as the “City of the Arts,” and its cultural scene reflects that title:

  • Port Moody Arts Centre: Classes, exhibitions, and community programs.
  • Inlet Theatre: Local performances and film festivals.
  • Brewer’s Row: A must-visit for craft beer fans, featuring some of the region’s top breweries.
  • Events: Golden Spike Days, RibFest, and the Summer Sundays Concert Series keep the community vibrant.

Schools and Education

Port Moody is part of School District 43, known for strong academic programs:
  • Elementary: Aspenwood, Seaview, Pleasantside
  • Middle: Moody Middle, Eagle Mountain
  • High: Heritage Woods Secondary, Port Moody Secondary (IB program)
Nearby post-secondary options include Simon Fraser University (SFU) and Douglas College.

Port Moody Neighbourhoods: A Local’s Guide

Every part of Port Moody has its own character. Here’s how the city’s main neighbourhoods compare:

  • Suter Brook Village
Urban, modern, and walkable. This master-planned community next to Inlet Centre Station offers high-rise living with shops, restaurants, fitness studios, and cafés just steps from your door. Ideal for professionals and downsizers looking for convenience.

  • Klahanie
Perfect for young families. This community is known for its townhomes, condos, and access to the Canoe Club, which offers amenities like a pool, gym, and tennis courts. Walkable to transit and Rocky Point Park, it’s a balanced option for lifestyle and location.

  • Heritage Mountain & Heritage Woods
Tucked into the hills, this is classic family suburbia. You’ll find detached homes, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Many properties back onto trails, offering easy access to green space.

  • Moody Centre
Where old meets new. This historic area features character homes, local shops, and an evolving transit-oriented core near the SkyTrain. With ongoing redevelopment, it’s one of Port Moody’s most exciting areas for long-term investment.

  • Inlet Centre
High-density and transit-friendly, this neighbourhood is built for convenience. With Newport Village and Suter Brook close by, it’s a hub for shopping, dining, and SkyTrain access—all within a short walk.

  • College Park & Glenayre
These established neighbourhoods near SFU and Burnaby Mountain are known for larger lots, older homes, and a quiet, residential atmosphere. They’re popular with families and investors thanks to their rental potential.

  • Pleasantside & Ioco
On the western edge of Port Moody, these scenic neighbourhoods are perfect for nature lovers. With easy access to Sasamat Lake, Buntzen Lake, and future redevelopment plans for the Ioco Lands, they offer a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to the city.

The Bottom Line

Port Moody is ideal for those who want access to the city but prefer a community with its own identity, strong schools, and endless outdoor opportunities. It’s a city that offers long-term value, both as a real estate market and a place to call home.
👉 Thinking about making the move to Port Moody?
Port Moody is more than just a commuter-friendly suburb—it’s a community with its own identity. With diverse neighbourhoods, strong schools, and unmatched access to nature, it continues to attract buyers who want balance between urban access and small-city charm.

Kyle Lamb, PREC
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