Powell River

Powell River sits on the Sunshine Coast with something most BC communities can’t claim: it’s technically an island but feels like the mainland. The Salish Sea surrounds this paper mill town that’s reinvented itself as a cultural hotspot without losing its working-class roots.

The numbers tell an interesting story. With a median age of 53.2 and nearly 31% of residents over 65, Powell River has become a magnet for retirees who want ocean views without Vancouver prices. That demographic shift brings stability—these aren’t transient renters but people putting down permanent roots. The 6% population growth since 2016 reflects this steady influx of new residents discovering what locals have known for decades.

Here’s what makes Powell River different: it’s one of only four places on earth with a complete cultural district designation from UNESCO. The historic Townsite, built by the Powell River Company in 1910, remains largely intact with its planned community layout and heritage buildings. This isn’t just tourism fluff—it’s a genuine draw for the creative class and heritage enthusiasts who drive property values.

The housing market reflects this appeal. Single-detached homes dominate at 72.1%, and with our maximum 65% LTV, there’s solid equity cushion in a market supported by both retiree migration and recreational property demand. The Sunshine Coast Trail, stretching 180 kilometers through old-growth forests, puts Powell River on the map for outdoor enthusiasts willing to pay premium prices for trail access.

Healthcare leads employment at 18.5%, which makes sense given the aging population and Powell River’s role as a regional medical hub. The old mill may be gone, but the town’s reinvention as a retirement and recreation destination has created a more stable economic base than many single-industry communities ever enjoyed.

For brokers, Powell River represents that sweet spot where lifestyle appeal meets lending security in a market that’s found its footing beyond resource dependence.