Is Kelowna a Good Place to Raise a Family?

(2026 Relocation Guide for Parents)

Why Parents Ask This Before Moving

Families want to know what life in Kelowna really feels like.
They ask questions like:

• Is Kelowna a family-friendly city?

• Are the schools good?

• Is it safe?

• Are there parks and activities?

• What neighbourhoods are best for kids?

• Will our kids grow up with a good lifestyle?

Here’s a simple, honest breakdown of whether Kelowna is a good place to raise a family in 2026.

Short Answer: Yes — Kelowna is one of the best places in Canada to raise a family.

Parents choose Kelowna because it offers:

• Safe neighbourhoods

• Strong schools

• A healthy outdoor lifestyle

• Short commutes

• A friendly community

• Space for kids to play

• Four seasons of activities

Families who move here usually say:

“We wish we moved sooner.”

Family Lifestyle: Kelowna Is Built for Kids

1. Parks & Playgrounds Everywhere

Almost every neighbourhood has parks within walking distance.

Some favourites:

• Kinsmen Park

• Mission Creek Greenway

• Ben Lee Park

• Gellatly Bay Park (West Kelowna)

• Rowcliffe Park

• Cedar Creek Park

Kids grow up outdoors — biking, running, swimming, and exploring.

2. Beaches & Lakes for Summer Fun

Kelowna’s lakeside lifestyle is a major win for families.

Popular family beaches:

• Gyro Beach

• Rotary Beach

• Sarsons Beach

• Hot Sands Beach (City Park)

• Gellatly Bay (West Kelowna)

In summer, families spend most days near the water.

3. Trails, Hiking & Biking

Families enjoy beginner-friendly trails in:

• Knox Mountain

• Mission Creek Greenway

• Kalamoir Park

• Myra Canyon

• Dilworth Mountain

• Spion Kop (Lake Country)

It helps kids stay active year-round.

4. Sports, Activities & Community Programs

Kelowna has strong youth programs:

• Soccer

• Hockey

• Dance

• Swimming

• Gymnastics

• Mountain biking

• Skiing at Big White

• Figure skating

• Arts & music programs

The H2O Aquatic Centre is one of the best family facilities in the Okanagan.

Are Schools Good in Kelowna?

Yes — Kelowna is known for strong public and private options.

Top-rated elementary schools:

• Anne McClymont (Lower Mission)

• Chute Lake (Kettle Valley)

• Dorothea Walker (Lower Mission)

• Oyama Traditional (Lake Country)

• Watson Road (Rutland North)

Top middle schools:

• Canyon Falls Middle (Upper Mission)

• Dr. Knox (Glenmore)

• H.S. Grenda (Lake Country)

High schools:

• OKM – Okanagan Mission Secondary

• KSS – Kelowna Secondary School

• George Elliot (Lake Country)

Private school options:

• Aberdeen Hall

• Kelowna Christian School

• St. Joseph

• Studio9 Arts School

Families often choose neighbourhoods based on school catchments.

Neighbourhoods That Are Best for Raising a Family

1. Lower Mission

Walkable, beaches, schools, parks — family paradise.

2. Kettle Valley (Upper Mission)

Master-planned for families with playgrounds everywhere.

3. Glenmore

Central, convenient, safe, with great schools.

4. Lake Country

Quiet, scenic, newer homes, strong sense of community.

5. Dilworth Mountain

Safe, quiet streets and great for older kids.

6. Lakeview Heights (West Kelowna)

Space, affordability, parks, and excellent family feel.

Browse homes in family-friendly areas:
https://sellingkelownarealestate.com/home-search/listings

Is Kelowna Safe for Families?

Yes — Kelowna’s residential neighbourhoods are very safe.

Family areas have:

• Low crime

• Quiet streets

• Sidewalks

• Lots of kids

• Strong community presence

Busy areas like downtown see more activity but are safe during the day.

What About Healthcare for Families?

Kelowna has excellent healthcare services:

• Kelowna General Hospital (KGH)

• Walk-in clinics

• Urgent care

• Pediatric offices

• Dental and orthodontic options

• Strong prenatal and maternity care

Many families move here because of the hospital quality.

Cost of Raising a Family in Kelowna (2026)

Housing is the highest cost.

Based on your market data:

• Single-family: $1.00M–$1.15M

• Townhomes: $720K–$780K

• Condos: $440K–$520K

Families who want space often move to:

• West Kelowna (more affordability)

• Lake Country (newer homes, calmer)

• Glenmore (central, practical)

Groceries and sports programs are similar to other BC cities.

Are Families Happy After Moving to Kelowna?

Yes — most families report:

• Better work–life balance

• More time outside

• Healthier routines

• Safer neighbourhoods

• Happier kids

• Stronger community ties

Kelowna offers a childhood that feels simple, safe, and active.

Final Thoughts

Kelowna is one of the best places in Canada to raise a family.
Safe neighbourhoods, outdoor living, strong schools, and friendly communities make it an easy place for kids to grow up — and for parents to feel confident and supported.

If you're considering raising your family in Kelowna, we can guide you to the right neighbourhood and home.

— Mark & Maddie | Selling Kelowna Real Estate Group | eXp Realty Kelowna

📞 778-744-0872
📧 [email protected]
🔎 Search Homes Anytime: https://sellingkelownarealestate.com/home-search/listings
✉️ Weekly Market Email: http://eepurl.com/gdR8NT