Neighbourhoods in Nanaimo

The older city quarter is located near the downtown core of Nanaimo. This area contains a mix between heritage buildings and new construction. Although it isn’t the economic hub of the city anymore, it has evolved into a space with many local businesses, quirky shops, and a strong sense of community. The iconic “Beacon” condominium with its copper roof and oceanfront views is often featured in media releases. 

The oldest heritage homes dating back to the late 1800s are found in this area. Newer developments mimic these old styles, as to maintain the neighbourhood’s charm. This neighbourhood is suitable for those that are looking for a strong community, a funky vibe, and a little piece of Nanaimo’s history.

It doesn’t matter what you are looking for, as Central Nanaimo will likely have it or be within arm’s reach of it. Nanaimo Regional Hospital is a major amenity in this area, making it a desirable location for healthcare professionals to live. Other amenities include restaurants, schools, convenience stores, retail stores, medical offices, and several outstanding parks. Bowen Park is one of the largest that is perfect for hiking, swimming, tennis, and lacrosse to name a few. 

Homes tend to have larger lots and are relatively affordable compared to the rest of Nanaimo. A few well-established condominiums and townhouse complexes round out the area, allowing more real estate opportunities for living or investing. 

If you are looking for waterfront or ocean-view properties, Uplands is a great place to look. With residential homes located near both the ocean and Long Lake, a water view isn’t hard to come across. Residents enjoy using the lake for boating, swimming, fishing, and other water sports. 

Homes are a mix of styles containing west coast contemporary, modern, craftsman, and some of the most luxurious in all of Nanaimo. Several condominium and townhouse complexes are also found in the area. Berwick on the Lake is a large senior living complex, making Uplands also desirable for seniors and retirees. 

Diver Lake is located between North Nanaimo and Central Nanaimo. It is suitable for first-time home buyers as homes are a bit older and thus fairly affordable. These homes are mainly ranchers and split-level properties, but you can find a mixture of several housing types within Diver Lake. Recent developments have opened up additional subdivisions with newer homes, some of which are custom-built. 

Diver Lake is a hotspot as it is surrounded by nature on all sides. Walking trails lead down to the lake onto a small dock, allowing for a place of respite within Nanaimo’s busy city. The lake also has a nearby playground and tennis courts. Northeast of the lake is the Country Club Centre, a shopping center containing several large stores including a grocery store, pharmacy, medical clinic, and fitness gym. 

South Nanaimo is another older part of the city which contains homes built mainly in the 1960s to 1980s, mixed with heritage homes. This area is popular for families because homes tend to be more affordable and it is away from the heavier traffic found in the northern parts of the city. Residential real estate listings lean towards single-family detached homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings. However, new subdivisions have begun to be developed within this region.

Previously, University District was referred to as “5 Acres,” a nod to its historic past of how it used to be distributed as five-acre plots. Today, it is nicknamed “Harewood” and is popular with students and families. 

Vancouver Island University is within the University District, which makes this area popular with students. Condos, older homes, and remodelled homes are commonly found within this neighbourhood. These homes are desired also as investment properties for rental income. The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre is another main amenity for the area. 

North and South Jingle Pot sits under the protection of Mount Benson. This area has a mix between rural farm-like properties and newer developments. With beautiful views of the mountain and acreage, it serves as an alternative to the other rural neighbourhoods that is much closer to the city centre. North Jingle Pot tends to have newer, more upscale builds compared with South Jingle Pot’s older farmhouses, subdivisions, and eclectic homes.

Further south of Nanaimo, more affordable housing can be found in Cedar. Acreage, farms, empty lots, and older homes make up this less-developed region. If you are looking for a house out in the country, one of these neighbourhoods will surely be what you are looking for. It isn’t too far away from most amenities – a fifteen-minute drive will get you to most places that you need to be. Known as one of the quieter areas of Nanaimo, Cedar provides a slower, more relaxed pace of life compared with those near the city centre. 

The Chase River – Cinnabar region is similar to rural Cedar, but with more amenities nearby. This is another South Nanaimo option for affordable homes in a rural setting. The main commercial district is Tenth Street near the Trans-Canada Highway. Restaurants, retail stores, and the Southgate Shopping Centre are all found here. 

Extension is one of the largest neighbourhoods in terms of land size. It is also one of the oldest! If you are looking for a farm or rural property that isn’t too far from the downtown core, then Extension is a good fit. Spacious lots, riverfront properties, and undeveloped acreage allow for many possibilities. 

Diver Lake is a hotspot as it is surrounded by nature on all sides. Walking trails lead down to the lake onto a small dock, allowing for a place of respite within Nanaimo’s busy city. The lake also has a nearby playground and tennis courts. Northeast of the lake is the Country Club Centre, a shopping center containing several large stores including a grocery store, pharmacy, medical clinic, and fitness gym.