A new report from Metro Vancouver highlights that New Westminster is the most affordable municipality in the region when considering the combined costs of housing and transportation.
The data, which examines the “transportation and housing cost burden” across the region, shows that while housing affordability remains a pressing challenge across Metro Vancouver, New Westminster stands out for its relative balance of housing costs and access to affordable, efficient transportation options.
“This result shows what we know about New Westminster’s strengths,” said Mayor Patrick Johnstone, “Our city offers not only more attainable housing options but also excellent transit connectivity and walkable neighbourhoods, helping residents save significantly on transportation.”
Key findings from the Metro Vancouver data include:
- New Westminster has the lowest combined average housing and transportation cost burden in the region.
- Access to SkyTrain stations, frequent bus routes, and cycling infrastructure reduces reliance on personal vehicles and lowers household expenses.
- Compact, complete neighbourhoods in New Westminster mean shorter commutes and greater access to daily needs within walking distance.
Metro Vancouver’s analysis underscores the importance of considering both housing and transportation in assessing true affordability. For many households, lower housing costs are offset by higher transportation costs when living further from work, schools, and services. New Westminster’s emphasis on Transit Oriented Development and walkable streets positions it as a regional leader in livability and affordability.
“As we continue to work on addressing housing needs and affordability, this data validates our holistic approach that also considers how people move around in New Westminster. Creating a city where residents have alternative transportation options is an important part of affordability in the current housing market,” said Mayor Johnstone.
https://vancouversun.com/news/metro-vancouver-housing-and-transportation-report