Golden

Golden sits where the Columbia River bends through the Rockies, creating one of BC’s most spectacular natural amphitheaters. With Kicking Horse Mountain Resort minutes away and six national parks within driving distance, this town of nearly 4,000 has mastered the art of turning geography into gold.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Tourism and hospitality drive 13.4% of local employment, but Golden’s economy runs deeper than ski season. Construction accounts for another 12.3% of jobs, manufacturing adds 11%, and the median household income of $87,000 reflects a community that’s figured out how to balance outdoor lifestyle with economic stability.

Here’s what makes Golden different: it’s one of the few mountain towns in BC where 17.3% of housing consists of movable dwellings—think RV parks and manufactured homes that cater to both seasonal workers and retirees seeking affordable mountain living. The remaining housing stock splits between single-family homes (56.5%) and apartments, creating diverse options for different life stages.

The Kicking Horse River delivers some of North America’s most intense whitewater rafting, while the resort’s mountain coaster operates year-round, drawing visitors even when snow isn’t falling. Golden’s location at the intersection of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 95 makes it a natural stopping point for travelers exploring the Canadian Rockies.

Population growth of 7.5% since 2016 reflects steady demand, while the balanced age distribution—equal percentages of youth and seniors at 15.9% each—suggests families aren’t fleeing after high school graduation. With 66.2% of residents holding post-secondary education, Golden attracts people who choose mountain living deliberately rather than by default.

Tekamar offers mortgage solutions in Golden with a maximum LTV of 60%, recognizing that while seasonal tourism creates some economic variability, the town’s established infrastructure and consistent appeal to outdoor enthusiasts provide solid underlying value for mortgage security.