British Columbia's 8 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
Between breathtaking beaches, captivating coastal landscapes, and majestic mountain scenery filled with lush forests and wildlife of all kinds, there is a reason why they call it “Beautiful British Columbia.” But did you know the province is also well-known for its incredible retirement destinations? From the low crime rates of Oak Bay to the natural vistas of Squamish and the architectural masterpieces of Colwood, now is the time to switch to a slower pace of life and spend your golden years surrounded by beauty. Enjoy the temperature climate in British Columbia’s 8 best retirement towns ranked.
Oak Bay
Fun fact: this picturesque town situated near the provincial capital was named after the lovely Garry Oak tree, which is abundant in places like Uplands Park. This legendary park is actually known to have one of the greatest concentrations of rare plant species in Canada! There are many other scenic spots in town, which you will discover when you walk down the Turkey Head Walkway from the Oak Bay Marina. Soak in the extraordinary views of Mounter Baker and Mary Tod Island as you stroll by the water and see if you can spot Seals. There are also plenty of whale-watching tours available to see Resident and Transient Orca pods, with a chance to see Grey and Humpback whales, and other wildlife in abundance such as Otters, Mink, Seabirds, and Sea Lions.
You will feel extremely secure calling Oak Bay your future home. The town was named one of the safest communities in Canada by canadacrimeindex.com in March 2025, with low Crime Severity Index (CSI) rates of 29-30. Regarding healthcare, Royal Jubilee Hospital, ranked 22nd on The Best Hospitals in Canada list by Newsweek and Statista in 2024, can be reached in under 10 minutes.
Victoria
Next up is a city that deserves all the attention it receives. Between beautiful botanical gardens and distinguished whale-watching opportunities (featuring Orcas, Humpbacks, Grays, and Minke), you will feel like you are living in an endless outdoor museum designed by Mother Nature herself. See the vibrant heather, irises, and rhododendrons as you meander through the legendary Abkhazi Garden, and explore the peaceful paths of Beacon Hill Park; a city oasis featuring ponds, gardens, trees, and sculptures. Study the fascinating history of British Columbia, including the Gold Rush and indigenous history at the Royal BC Museum, set on the territories of the Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations. Founded in 1886, it is now one of the oldest continually operating museums in Canada.
On top of stunning scenery and historic museums, residents can access quality healthcare services right in the provincial capital. Victoria General Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital both made the top 30 list of the Best Hospitals in Canada by Newsweek and Statista in 2024. If you are concerned about health issues, “The City of Gardens” is the perfect place to call home as one of British Columbia’s 8 best retirement towns.
Squamish
An hour north of Vancouver, accessible by a captivating coastal drive up the legendary Sea to Sky Highway, lies Squamish. This breathtaking mainland town is not only a magnificent place for active outdoor adventurers, with renowned hiking trails like the picturesque Shannon Falls Provincial Park or the nearby turquoise and blue-green colored lakes of Garibaldi Provincial Park; but you can connect with nature even if you do not want to spend hours hiking. Take the Sea to Sky Gondola up to the summit, revealing jaw-dropping views of the coastal forest, Howe Sound, and the surrounding mountains.
If you are concerned about healthcare, rest assured Squamish General Hospital is in town. The facility offers a wide range of services in town, including a 24/7 Emergency department. Brennan Park Recreation Centre offers recreational activities designed to boost your physical and social well-being. Events like Tai Chi, Full Body Fusion, Paint and Sketch Drop-Ins, and Ping Pong are offered in their monthly schedule.
White Rock
Approximately one hour southeast of Vancouver, and two hours from Seattle, you will find White Rock. Situated on the scenic waters of Semiahmoo Bay, this spectacular seaside destination is undoubtedly one of British Columbia’s 8 best retirement towns. With its close proximity to the province’s biggest city and the US border, you can transition to a serene, slower pace of life while still having major city amenities nearby. Spend your mornings by the water at White Rock Pier, breathing in the fresh seaside air, and sip on tasty brews in laidback taverns like White Rock Beach Beer Co. Zapoteca is a wonderful spot to sit back and taste local grilled seafood in a lovely beachside community.
Peace Arch Hospital is open 24/7 in town and offers several services. White Rock Community Centre offers classes and events in a welcoming environment that is perfect for connecting with local residents.
Sooke
Soak in the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, Canada’s coastal paradise. Surround yourself with jaw-dropping natural beauty in a place where adventures perfectly pair with relaxation. Stunning sites like Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, set in the heart of the Leeward Island Mountains Ecosection, feature scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and unique natural pools formed by glacial action during the ice age 15,000 years ago. French Beach Provincial Park is a lovely spot to go saltwater fishing, boating, or swimming in the cool Pacific waters. If you are more on the creative side, you will be happy to hear that every summer, the Sooke Fine Arts Show is held. Here, notable artists from Vancouver Island and BC’s coastal islands gather to show and sell their work in the extraordinary SEAPARC recreation center.
With the Westcoast Family Medical Clinic directly in town, residents can easily access healthcare services such as Urgent Care, Residential Care, Chronic Pain Management, and more. For those concerned about ongoing health issues, you can rest assured Victoria General Hospital is about 30 kilometers away.
Nelson
Set in the spectacular Selkirk Mountains, Nelson, with its diverse cultural scene, wide range of recreational opportunities, and immense natural beauty, is an incredible place to spend your golden years. With over 350 restored heritage buildings in town, earning it the nickname of “Queen City” and captivating views of the natural landscapes from spots like Pulpit Rock, you will have endless activities to enjoy in one of British Columbia’s 8 best retirement towns. Even the grandkids will be extra excited to visit when they find out exhilarating attractions like the Kokanee Mountain Zipline are in Nelson. The views of the forest and mountain will be hard to beat.
Kootenay Lake Hospital is open 24 hours a day. The facility offers many services, ranging from Emergency to Geriatric Medicine, Telehealth, Convalescent Care, Physiotherapy, and more. There are also volunteer opportunities for those wishing to make close connections with others and devote their time and energy to fulfilling quests.
Cranbrook
Welcome to Cranbrook, one of British Columbia’s 8 best retirement towns. Set in the heart of the Kootenay Rockies, you will find all kinds of adventures here. From ice fishing to skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing in the winter with several resorts within driving distance, including the picturesque Kimberley Alpine Resort, this truly is a mountain lover’s dream destination. Work on your aim in a scenic setting at the award-winning Wildstone Golf Course, and shop for all kinds of homemade goods and fresh produce in The Cranbrook Farmer's Market.
East Kootenay Regional Hospital offers General Surgery, Emergency, a Community Care Clinic, Telehealth, Psychiatry, and many other services in town. Western Financial Place offers recreational programs in town, with public skating times and volunteer opportunities available.
Colwood
The lovely seaside community of Colwood welcomes you with five kilometers of sparkling oceanfront views and a rich history. Nature lovers can enjoy peaceful, scenic strolls with more than 50 parks and trails to choose from. Soak in the jaw-dropping coastal scenery from Fort Rodd Hill, a 19th-century fortress active from 1895 to 1956. While you are there, explore Fisgard Lighthouse—the oldest lighthouse on Canada's west coast. Fascinating artifacts and exhibits are also displayed in Hatley Castle. Admire the late-Gothic Revival style architecture in the place where many movies have been filmed, including scenes from Deadpool, X-Men, Descendants, and Masterminds.
The new Urgent Appointment Clinic provides medical services for residents of all ages in town. Victoria General Hospital, one of the 29 Best Hospitals in Canada on Newsweek and Statista’s 2024 list, can be reached in under seven kilometers.
Whether you prefer the picturesque provincial parks and glacial wonders of Sooke, the fascinating historical heritage buildings of Nelson, or the legendary lighthouses of Colwood, it is time to spend your golden years surrounded by beauty. Experience the best of The Pacific Province in British Columbia’s 8 best retirement towns ranked. From low crime rates to nationally recognized hospitals, a warm Canadian climate, and an abundance of recreational opportunities, each of these towns offers its own magic and charm.
