Langley in Fraser Valley, BC offers a lifestyle that is enriched by its beautiful natural surroundings and also made fun and easy with a wealth of great amenities. The city has picturesque landscapes and a host of outdoor recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and green spaces. With mild winters and warm summers, residents can experience the full beauty of each season. Here, families have the opportunity to live a healthy and balanced life.
Only a short distance away from Vancouver’s bustling urban center, residents enjoy the perks and opportunities of a major metropolitan area while residing in a quieter and more suburban environment.
Take a look at this city and all it offers to see if Langley is the perfect location for you.
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Table of Content
A brief history
Langley has a storied history dating back to the early 19th century when the Hudson’s Bay Company established a fur trading post in Fort Langley.
The discovery of gold in the Fraser River in 1858 was a transformative event for the entire region, including Langley. Prospectors flocked to nearby areas like Yale and Hope, and Langley was perfectly situated to become the primary supply center for these gold miners. The city witnessed a surge in population as merchants, traders, and supply stores set up shop to cater to the prospectors’ needs. This influx of people and economic activity formed the foundation of Langley’s development as a significant trade hub in the Fraser Valley.
After the Second World War, Langley experienced substantial growth due to an expansion in farming, particularly in the dairy industry, which brought prosperity to the region. The establishment of residential areas, shopping centers, and educational institutions solidified Langley’s status as a thriving community.
Langley at a glance
Location
The City of Langley covers approximately 10 square kilometers. This compact region forms the core of the city and its thriving business district.
However, do note that Langley extends well beyond the city limits. The Township of Langley encompasses the remaining area east towards Surrey and west towards Abbotsford and covers 316 square kilometers To the north, there’s the Fraser River, and across that is Maple Ridge, while if you head south, you’ll reach the US border. Surrey is a dynamic city in its own right, and Abbotsford is home to lively cultural events and beautiful landscapes. Each of these neighboring communities, along with Langley creates a vibrant and interconnected region.
Climate
Summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures frequently reaching the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and boating. Winters are mild, especially when compared to other regions in Canada, extending the time when you can enjoy these activities to almost all year round. The region receives abundant rainfall, providing ample water for the vibrant flora and lush green spaces for which the city is known.
Population and Communities
The city and township combined had a population of around 166,300 in 2021 and the region has seen significant growth in recent years, attracting families, professionals, and retirees alike. Langley’s sense of community is palpable, with various events, festivals, and markets held throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
Housing Market
Homes for sale in Langley, BC are comparably a little more expensive than many other neighboring communities, a testament to how desirable the city and township have become in recent years. However, it still presents great value when compared to home prices in Vancouver. With Vancouver’s booming property market, many have chosen to look elsewhere, and Langley hits the perfect balance in many ways. Close enough to Vancouver to enjoy all its benefits while far enough to provide a range of homes in idyllic settings, Langley is the perfect location for young professionals, families looking to raise their kids, and retirees looking for a tranquil place to enjoy their retirement.
Types of home
There is a diverse range of options available to potential buyers. Whether you are looking for a newly constructed home or a charming character house, you can find something to suit your taste and preferences. Single-family homes in Langley typically offer spacious layouts and outdoor areas and are ideal for those who are looking for space and privacy.
Townhouses often feature amenities such as shared green spaces, recreational facilities, and a strong sense of community. Their well-designed layouts make for comfortable living without the maintenance obligations associated with a detached property.
Condos are an excellent choice for individuals or small families looking for a low-maintenance living experience. From modern condos in more urban areas of Langley to more tranquil units nestled in suburban pockets, there are a variety of options. Condos are perfect for first-time buyers, downsizers, or those seeking an investment property.
Noteworthy neighborhoods
Fort Langley
If you are looking for a neighborhood that has a rich history, an abundance of charm, and modern amenities, take a closer look at Fort Langley. One of the highlights of Fort Langley is its picturesque streets, lined with some of the most beautiful houses you’ll find in the Lower Mainland. Do note that Langley, BC homes for sale come with strict building regulations, ensuring that the neighborhood maintains its unique character and beauty.
With the famous fort-to-fort pathways, you can explore the neighborhood’s scenic beauty on foot. And if you’re in the mood for a delightful culinary experience, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the diverse dining options available.
Brookswood
Situated south of the Nicomekl River, Brookswood has become a favorite choice for families looking for a vibrant community to call home. The neighborhood is surrounded by enchanting woods and creeks, which serve as a natural haven for spawning salmon. The township aims to build multi-family homes, further enhancing the range of housing options available in Brookswood. This expansion will undoubtedly improve the accessibility and convenience of this already well-connected and centrally located neighborhood.
Walnut Grove
This neighborhood is a great location for those interested in single-family homes, in proximity to a phenomenal school district. The area is ideal for young families as Walnut Grove offers an abundance of planned subdivisions with spacious lots which on average are a little more affordable than other neighborhoods in Langley. However, this does not mean that residents miss out on amenities, with Walnut Grove home to community and sporting centers, shopping districts, and a good selection of dining options.
Aldergrove
Aldergrove is a neighborhood that presents good opportunities for real estate investment. The area was once known as a highway neighborhood with light industrial surroundings but is increasingly being seen as an up-and-coming neighborhood. Aldergrove is in the process of constructing a state-of-the-art municipal center, a symbol of the area’s commitment to growth and progress. Additionally, within a few years, the community will open a brand-new ice rink and pool, adding even more amenities for residents to enjoy.
Latimer Heights
Latimer Heights presents an array of newer and more affordable housing options. If you’re looking for a modern and stylish home, this neighborhood might be for you. The Langley, BC homes for sale in this area boast impressive designs and up-to-date features without overly stretching your budget.
The large lot sizes and spacious homes available, are perfect for families who may require additional room in the future. However, it is important to note that due to the increasing popularity of this coveted community, housing costs have been rising.
Notable educational institutions
Langley is well-served with excellent schools, some of which are denomination schools and others secular, however, all provide a rounded education for students. Just some of the highly rated schools in Langley include:
Elementary
- Alex Hope in Walnut Grove
- Coghlan Fundamental Rural Langley
- Langley Fine Arts in Fort Langley
Secondary School
- Langley Fundamental in Brookswood
- Walnut Grove in Walnut Grove
- Langley Christian School in Murrayville
Langley is also situated near several prestigious institutions for higher education, offering a wide range of academic programs and options for lifelong learning.
Trinity Western is a Christian liberal arts school with a campus within Langley. Holding over 5,000 students and offering a diverse range of courses, Trinity Western provides a great opportunity for students to gain an excellent experience and education that will prepare them for their role in the world. Note that Trinity Western has excellent satisfaction rates with its alumni.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University is a leading post-secondary institution, offering degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeship programs across various disciplines. KPU’s emphasis on practical education and a supportive learning environment has earned it a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Kwantlen is a relatively short distance from Langley, taking less than a 30-minute drive to get to its location in Surrey.
Also within driving distance are other renowned educational institutions, such as Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia. Both of these universities consistently rank among Canada’s top institutions for higher learning and provide countless opportunities for pursuing advanced education, research, and personal growth.
Dining and Shopping
When it comes to shopping, Langley offers a multitude of options, ranging from large shopping malls to boutique outlets. Some of the most popular shopping destinations in the area include Willowbrook Shopping Centre, which is considered Langley’s premier shopping center; and The Fort Langley Village, which has delightful boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores.
Some of the most popular restaurants in Langley include Oak & Thorne, which is known for its relaxed atmosphere and a delectable selection of gourmet pub fare. S+L Kitchen & Bar is an elegant steakhouse that offers a modern twist on traditional favorites. The ambiance is conducive to fun but the dishes are certainly a cut above the rest. If you’re looking for good food with great music, try Beatniks Bistro, a place that has won multiple awards.
Art of the vine
Langley’s climate and soil make it a perfect place for growing grapes, and there are many great vineyards and wineries in the area. A highly recommended tour and tasting is offered by Township 7, a multiple award-winning winery in South Langley. Backyard Vinyard is another winery that you should try with their Picnic Hill where your meal can be enjoyed with some very fine bottles. Chaberton Estate Winery is where you can pair authentic French cuisine at the Bacchus Bistro, with some of the finest Wines British Columbia has to offer. Vista D’oro Farm and Winery is rounder in concept, not only offering you a tour of how they make great wine but also showcasing their farm and orchards. Our last but by no means least of our recommendations is Festina Lente, a relaxed and friendly place where friends who share a love for good wine and food can sit back and enjoy.
However, apart from wineries, there are also breweries. If you haven’t guessed by now, Langley is where the production of drinks has been turned into an art form. If you love beer, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s Trading Post Breweries which not only offers a great tour but also great food. As daunting as the name may sound, Dead Frog Brewery is actually great fun, especially if you visit on a Sunday when there’s live music playing. Tapping into the spirit of adventure and the enterprise in the region is Smuggler’s Trail which also provides live music and a packed calendar of events. Different breweries like their brews have different accents and influences. When you’ve tried the ones above, others we can recommend are Brookswood Breweries, Five Roads Breweries , Farm Country Brewing, and Camp Deer Co.
Distilleries and cideries are also present here, with some choice recommendations in the Fraser Valley Cider Company which produces some very high-quality English and French cider apples, and Roots and Wings Distillery, which creates artisanal spirits and transforms them into delightful and exciting cocktails. Note that cider in British Colombia is of the British and French kind, an alcoholic beverage not made for children.
Outdoor Recreation
With an impressive collection of over 40 parks and green spaces covering a remarkable 122 hectares (300 acres), this region is a playground for those looking for adventures in the great outdoors. There’s Langley City Park, Sendall Gardens, Ponder Park Nature Reserve, Glen Valley Regional Park, and Campbell Valley Regional Park to name just a few. Derby Reach Regional Park, Nicomekl River Flood Plain Trails, and Brae Island Regional Park are just a few examples of the incredible natural wonders waiting to be explored.
There’s horseback riding giving an alternative way to explore the beautiful surroundings. A number of stables in the area provide tours such as Glen Valley Stables, Langley 204, and Sacred Equestrians.
If golf is your pastime of choice, Langley provides many options. Try the Green Tee Country Club, a 72-par course that provides a challenge for beginners as well as more experienced golfers. The course itself is named The Pagoda Ridge Golf Course and is situated near historic Fort Langley.
The Poppy Estate, located just west of Aldergrove is a golf course set against the backdrop of the North Shore Mountains. This 18-hole course is famous for its picturesque fairways and immaculately manicured greens.
Another option is the Langley Golf and Banquet Center which provides more than top-end golfing. The center, as the name implies, has the facilities, amenities, and looks to hold even the most lavish of events.
Community Attractions
The rich history of Fort Langley has been preserved in The Fort Langley National Historic Site, which gives visitors the chance to step back in time and experience what life was like during the early days of European settlement. Explore traditional buildings, engage in interactive exhibits, and gain a deeper understanding of the community’s past.
Apart from the outdoor activities and sense of history, Langley is also culturally vibrant and those interested in the arts will want to head to the Langley Arts Council. Here you can discover local talent at art galleries, take in musical performances, and immerse yourself in cultural experiences that showcase the creative spirit of the community. If you’d like to become more involved, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t try a hand at something creative yourself and join some of the numerous classes and workshops that the center holds throughout the year.
Every good location needs a farmers market or a few. Langley’s farmers markets, showcase unique boutiques, and delightful dining establishments. From locally sourced produce to artisanal crafts, the community has a commitment to supporting local businesses, while adhering to ethical practices.
Partner with a British Columbia real estate expert
Langley has so much to enjoy, including some of the finest homes for sale in the region. Let me, Don Munro, be your guide as you search for the perfect property in Langley, BC. A seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience as a Realtor in Langley, BC, I have the knowledge, contacts, and passion to find the perfect property for you. Contact me at 604.817.7338 or send an email here to get started.