Burnaby East | North | South

The Ultimate Burnaby Neighborhood Guide

Introduction:

Burnaby, a vibrant and diverse city located just east of Vancouver, is known for its lush green spaces, dynamic urban centres, and family-friendly communities. With exceptional schools, expansive parks, diverse cultural hubs, and a booming real estate market, Burnaby offers a perfect mix of suburban comfort and city convenience. This comprehensive guide covers every official sub-area in Burnaby East, Burnaby North, and Burnaby South to help buyers and sellers navigate the real estate opportunities available across this thriving municipality.

📍 Burnaby Neighbourhood & Subareas at a Glance

Burnaby is officially divided into three major sub-regions: Burnaby East, Burnaby North, and Burnaby South. Each of these regions has its own distinct character, neighbourhoods, and lifestyle offerings:

Burnaby East

• A quieter, more residential part of the city, Burnaby East borders New Westminster and offers family-friendly streets, newer developments, and easy commuter access. It’s ideal for those seeking space, affordability, and community charm.  

Burnaby North

• Stretching from the Burrard Inlet to Burnaby Mountain, Burnaby North blends urban hubs like Brentwood with leafy residential enclaves and prestigious communities. It’s a diverse area, home to top schools, scenic views, and easy access to both downtown Vancouver and Simon Fraser University.

Burnaby South

• Anchored by the bustling Metrotown area, Burnaby South is the city’s commercial and cultural heart. It offers a mix of high-density living, quiet suburban pockets, and recreational gems like Deer Lake and Central Park—making it perfect for families, professionals, and investors alike.

Burnaby East

East Burnaby
A peaceful, residential enclave bordering New Westminster, East Burnaby is perfect for families and commuters alike. Known for its older character homes and newly built properties, this area is continually evolving with quiet streets and a strong sense of community.

• Detached homes with generous yards and tree-lined streets
• Quick access to Highway 1 and New Westminster
• Ideal for families looking for affordability and space

Edmonds
An up-and-coming neighbourhood with urban flair, Edmonds offers a vibrant mix of multicultural restaurants, walkable streets, and increasing development. This area is one of Burnaby’s most rapidly changing with numerous new condo projects and family-friendly parks.

• High-rise condos and mixed-use developments
• Edmonds Community Centre and library nearby
• Walkable streets with shops, restaurants, and transit

The Crest
A scenic residential pocket with elevated views, The Crest offers quiet streets, upscale homes, and a family-focused atmosphere. Located near the border with Coquitlam, this area combines suburban tranquility with commuter convenience.

• Large single-family homes with views of the Fraser River
• Proximity to Cariboo Hill Secondary and Armstrong Elementary
• Parks, trails, and quick access to Lougheed Highway

Burnaby North

Brentwood Park
One of Burnaby’s most exciting urban hubs, Brentwood Park blends modern living with convenience. Home to the redeveloped Amazing Brentwood shopping centre, this area is ideal for young professionals and investors.

• High-rise condos and new developments
• Brentwood SkyTrain Station and major retail hub
• Walkable, transit-oriented lifestyle

Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore mountains. Known for its steep streets and character homes, it’s a favorite for families and those seeking elevated living.

• Unique character homes and custom builds
• Hastings Street amenities and nearby parks
• Incredible west-facing sunset views

Cariboo
Cariboo is a small, quiet neighbourhood with easy access to both Burnaby and New Westminster. With its townhomes and close-knit vibe, it appeals to families and first-time buyers.

• Townhouses and low-rise condos
• Close to Cariboo Hill Park and local schools
• Quick access to Lougheed Town Centre

Central Burnaby
The heart of Burnaby North, Central Burnaby features a balanced mix of residential and commercial zones. It offers easy commuting, great schools, and proximity to BCIT.

• Detached homes, townhomes, and apartments
• Near BCIT and Burnaby Lake
• Accessible via Highway 1 and multiple bus routes

Forest Hills
Tucked near Simon Fraser University, Forest Hills is a quiet residential community with lots of green space. It’s popular with academics and nature lovers.

• Tree-lined streets and peaceful surroundings
• Nearby Burnaby Mountain trails and parks
• Mix of detached homes and townhouses

Government Road
A prestigious area with expansive lots and upscale homes, Government Road offers exclusivity and suburban comfort close to Lougheed.

• Luxury homes and large properties
• Proximity to Seaforth Elementary and Burnaby Lake
• Highly sought-after and tranquil

Lake City Industrial
Primarily an employment and industrial zone, Lake City Industrial has limited residential presence but is key to Burnaby’s economic activity.

• Industrial buildings and office parks
• Home to media production and business hubs
• Accessible via SkyTrain and Lougheed Highway

Montecito
A peaceful neighbourhood with mature trees and large lots, Montecito is family-focused with excellent local amenities.

• Spacious single-family homes
• Burnaby Mountain Golf Course nearby
• Great schools and friendly streets

Oakdale
A small, tucked-away community close to Burquitlam, Oakdale is popular for its natural surroundings and proximity to the SkyTrain.

• Mix of mid-century and new homes
• Close to SFU and shopping at Burquitlam Plaza
• Quiet and convenient

Parkcrest
Parkcrest features wide lots, classic homes, and excellent views. Known for its peaceful vibe and accessibility.

• Well-maintained family homes
• Proximity to Parkcrest Elementary and Kensington Park
• Easy access to transit and Brentwood

Simon Fraser Hills
An affordable hillside area with multi-family housing, SF Hills is ideal for students and young families.

• Townhomes and condos in forested settings
• Close to SFU and hiking trails
• Affordable entry into North Burnaby

Simon Fraser University
A unique mountain-top community built around SFU, offering walkable living, great amenities, and mountain views.

• Modern condos and townhomes
• Dining, daycare, and retail within the University district
• Strong rental and resale demand

Sperling-Duthie
A classic North Burnaby neighbourhood with long-time residents, tree-lined streets, and convenient shopping nearby.

• Mix of older homes and infill development
• Near Kensington Square and transit
• Family-oriented with great schools

Sullivan Heights
Sullivan Heights is close to Lougheed Town Centre and ideal for commuters. It offers condos, townhomes, and affordable housing options.

• Lougheed SkyTrain and shopping access
• Proximity to Burnaby Mountain trails and schools
• High rental appeal

Vancouver Heights
A charming neighbourhood with a strong Italian heritage, great views, and a village-like main street.

• Character homes and boutique retail
• Panoramic views of downtown and the inlet
• Close-knit community feel

Westridge
A quiet hillside neighbourhood with views over Burrard Inlet, close to SFU and forest trails.

• Custom homes on sloped lots
• Access to parks and hiking
• Underrated and peaceful

Willingdon Heights
Willingdon Heights is a vibrant community just north of Hastings Street, popular with young families and professionals.

• Mix of character homes and modern duplexes
• Walkable to The Heights shopping and dining
• Great schools and quick access to downtown

Burnaby South

Big Bend
Burnaby’s industrial and agricultural hub, Big Bend features riverside trails and is home to outlet shopping and warehouses.

• Industrial spaces and limited residential areas
• Byrne Creek Ravine Park and Riverway Golf
• Commercial centres like Marine Way Market

Buckingham Heights
An exclusive residential area with estate-style homes, Buckingham Heights offers elegance and privacy.

• Stately homes on large lots
• Near Deer Lake Park and Burnaby Village Museum
• Prestigious and highly sought-after

Burnaby Hospital
A convenient area for healthcare workers and commuters, located around the Burnaby Hospital medical corridor.

• Mix of condos and single-family homes
• Close to hospitals, schools, and SkyTrain
• Easy access to Vancouver

Burnaby Lake
A lush, natural sanctuary in the city. Burnaby Lake is prized for its wildlife, recreation, and peaceful lifestyle.

• Nature-focused with trails and lake views
• Homes near Burnaby Sports Complex and Lakeview Elementary
• Popular with active families and birdwatchers

Central Park
Adjacent to Metrotown, Central Park offers urban convenience and green space.

• High-rises and older walk-up apartments
• Central Park trails, tennis, and pitch & putt
• Steps from Patterson SkyTrain Station

Deer Lake
Luxury lakefront living surrounded by culture and nature. This neighbourhood is known for estate homes and tranquility.

• Custom homes near Deer Lake Park and galleries
• Quiet cul-de-sacs with large lots
• High-end market with privacy

Deer Lake Place
Family-friendly and central, Deer Lake Place features great schools, parks, and spacious homes.

• Detached homes with yards
• Walkable to Deer Lake Park and schools
• Excellent for growing families

Forest Glen
Sitting just below Metrotown, Forest Glen is a blend of quiet living and shopping access.

• Townhomes and detached homes
• Walkable to Metropolis and Bonsor Centre
• Ideal for young families and retirees

Garden Village
A centrally located area with views and a mix of original and rebuilt homes.

• Family homes with Mount Baker views
• Minutes to Central Park and Metrotown
• Walkable and well-connected

Greentree Village
A unique planned community with a strong neighbourhood feel.

• Townhomes with amenities like indoor pools
• Surrounded by forest and walking paths
• Safe and welcoming for families

Highgate
Highgate is a dynamic, fast-growing community with urban amenities and high-density living.

• High-rises, townhomes, and shopping at Highgate Village
• Great transit links
• Active and walkable

Metrotown
Burnaby’s downtown core, Metrotown is a commercial and residential powerhouse.

• High-rise condos, shopping, dining, and transit
• Metropolis at Metrotown mall
• Central hub with everything at your doorstep

Oaklands
A peaceful residential zone near Deer Lake, Oaklands offers comfort and nature access.

• Quiet cul-de-sacs and townhomes
• Close to schools, parks, and cultural venues
• Well-maintained and family-focused

South Slope
With views of the Fraser River, South Slope is a serene neighbourhood with older homes and redevelopment potential.

• Sloped lots with views
• Close to Riverway Golf and Byrne Creek trails
• Great for custom builds

Suncrest
A quiet neighbourhood tucked near Marine Drive, Suncrest features mid-century homes and parks.

• Large lots and quiet streets
• Access to Central Park and shopping
• Underrated and peaceful

Upper Deer Lake
Upscale and residential, Upper Deer Lake combines convenience with class.

• Elegant homes with mountain views
• Walkable to Deer Lake trails and parks
• Popular with professionals and families

Lifestyle Highlights

Restaurants

Burnaby’s food scene is rich in variety, from upscale dining to international eateries that reflect the city’s cultural diversity.

• Saffron Indian Cuisine (Metrotown)
• Anton’s Pasta Bar (Heights)
• Trattoria Burnaby (Italian)
• Sushi Garden (quick, fresh sushi by Metrotown)
• Chad Thai, Anatolia’s Gate, The Gray Olive Cafeteria

Here are six high-end restaurants in Burnaby, BC that you can feature in your guide or recommend to clients seeking fine dining experiences:

Hart House Restaurant

• Location: Deer Lake
• Cuisine: Contemporary West Coast
• Highlight: Elegant lakeside dining in a heritage mansion.

Atlas Steak + Fish

• Location: Grand Villa Casino, Burnaby
• Cuisine: Upscale steakhouse
• Highlight: Classic steak and seafood with live piano music.

The Pear Tree Restaurant

• Location: Burnaby Heights
• Cuisine: Modern Canadian
• Highlight: Award-winning fine dining with seasonal tasting menus.

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar – Burnaby

• Location: Burnaby South (near Metrotown)
• Cuisine: Steakhouse
• Highlight: Trusted upscale chain for steaks, cocktails, and ambiance.

Cotto Enoteca Pizzeria

• Location: Hastings Street
• Cuisine: Italian
• Highlight: Authentic Neapolitan pizza and upscale Italian fare in a chic setting.

Little Billy’s Steakhouse

• Location: North Burnaby
• Cuisine: Greek & Mediterranean fusion
• Highlight: Long-standing fine dining spot with a blend of steaks and Mediterranean classics.

Parks & Recreation

Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities thanks to Burnaby’s impressive collection of parks, trails, and recreational facilities.

• Deer Lake Park and Burnaby Lake Park
• Central Park (trails, pool, tennis)
• Confederation Park (outdoor pool, skate park)
• Byrne Creek Ravine Park
• Riverway Golf Course, Kensington Golf Course
• Burnaby Mountain hiking and biking trails

Shopping

Burnaby is a retail hub with major shopping centres and boutique strips throughout the city.

• Metropolis at Metrotown
• The Amazing Brentwood
• Lougheed Town Centre
• Highgate Village
• Crystal Mall (Asian specialty shops)

Schools

Burnaby is home to excellent public schools, top-rated private academies, and major post-secondary institutions, offering strong options for families and students across all age levels.

Public Secondary Schools:

• Burnaby Central Secondary School – Centrally located, known for strong academics and athletics
• Burnaby South Secondary School – Offers Advanced Placement and French Immersion
• Moscrop Secondary School – High academic rankings and diverse student body
• Burnaby North Secondary School – Offers AP programs and is near SFU
• Byrne Creek Community School – A community-oriented school in Edmonds
• École Alpha Secondary School – Bilingual program with French Immersion

Public Elementary Schools (Not exhaustive):

• Aubrey Elementary, Brentwood Park Elementary, Capitol Hill Elementary, Inman Elementary, Seaforth Elementary, Lakeview Elementary, Armstrong Elementary – Located in various neighbourhoods and known for strong community engagement

Private Schools:

• St. Thomas More Collegiate – A top-rated independent Catholic secondary school
• John Knox Christian School – K–12 Christian education with a new campus
• Meadowridge School (nearby in Maple Ridge) – IB World School popular among Burnaby families
• Notre Dame Regional Secondary – Catholic co-educational high school located near the Burnaby border

Post-Secondary Institutions:

• Simon Fraser University (SFU) – One of Canada’s top research universities, located on Burnaby Mountain
• British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) – A leading polytechnic institution offering hands-on technical training

Burnaby also supports French immersion programs, Montessori, and IB curriculum pathways within its public school offerings.

Transportation

With two SkyTrain lines and numerous bus routes, Burnaby is one of the most commuter-friendly cities in the region.

• SkyTrain lines: Expo and Millennium
• Highway 1 and Marine Way access
• BC Transit buses and commuter connections
• Bike routes and pedestrian-friendly zones

Market Insights for Buyers & Sellers
Burnaby’s real estate market is one of the most active in Metro Vancouver. Whether you’re eyeing a high-rise in Metrotown, a family home in The Crest, or a luxury estate in Buckingham Heights, timing and strategy are everything.

For Buyers:

• Demand remains strong for well-located homes near SkyTrain stations.
• Detached home inventory is competitive—consider flexibility with location.
• Condos and townhomes offer solid long-term value, especially in Brentwood and Edmonds.

For Sellers:

• Properties in walkable, transit-connected areas are highly desirable.
• Homes with income potential (e.g., basement suites) are in demand.
• Staging, marketing, and pricing right are critical for maximizing returns.

Ready to Make Your Move in Burnaby?

Whether you’re buying your first condo in Brentwood, searching for a family home in The Crest, or looking to sell in Buckingham Heights, the Burnaby real estate market is full of opportunity. With deep local expertise and a client-first approach, we are here to help you navigate every step with confidence.

Explore listings, book a consultation, or get a free home evaluation today. Let’s turn your Burnaby real estate goals into reality.