3-Bedroom Townhomes in Squamish vs North Vancouver: Costs, Lifestyle & Value (2026)

by Debbie Evans

3-Bedroom Townhomes: Comparing Life and Expenses in Squamish and North Vancouver

By Debbie Evans | REALTOR® | eXp Realty | North Shore & Sea-to-Sky Markets

As families and investors look for more space and lifestyle in the Sea-to-Sky corridor, 3-bedroom townhomes remain in high demand—particularly in Squamish and North Vancouver.

At first glance, Squamish appears to offer significantly more value. But when you look beyond the purchase price, the full picture becomes more nuanced.

A Shift in the Narrative

For years, buyers were drawn to Squamish for one primary reason—affordability.

It offered more space, newer homes, and a lower entry price compared to North Vancouver.

But today, that gap is narrowing.

👉 And the question is—are you still getting that same value once you factor in the full cost of living?

Squamish vs. North Vancouver: 3-Bedroom Townhome Prices

Squamish

Current listings range from approximately $859,000 to $1,165,000, typically offering 1,189–1,523 square feet. Many of these homes are newer, with modern finishes and close proximity to trails, schools, and growing community amenities.

North Vancouver

Comparable townhomes are listed from roughly $1,258,000 to $1,525,000, with sizes between 1,140 and 1,857 square feet. The market is more established, offering a mix of contemporary and classic homes, all within close reach of urban conveniences and top-rated schools.

What's the Price Gap?

On average, 3-bedroom townhomes in North Vancouver are approximately 30% more expensive than similar homes in Squamish.

That's a meaningful difference—potentially saving buyers hundreds of thousands of dollars upfront.

👉 Does a lower purchase price actually translate into a lower overall cost of living?

Transportation: The Real Cost Factor

For many families, this is where the equation changes.

In Squamish, daily life is heavily car-dependent. Whether it's commuting to work, getting kids to school, or heading into Vancouver for sports and activities, driving is often essential.

The trip to Vancouver can take 45 minutes to over an hour each way, depending on traffic.

Over time, the costs add up:

Fuel
Insurance
Maintenance
Wear and tear
Time spent commuting

For families making multiple trips per week, this can easily translate into hundreds of dollars per month, along with a significant lifestyle impact.

North Vancouver Advantage

With access to transit—including the SeaBus, bus routes, and more walkable neighbourhoods—many households can reduce their reliance on vehicles, sometimes even managing with one car.

👉 That difference can significantly impact both monthly costs and quality of life.

Amenities & Lifestyle: Convenience Without Compromise

North Vancouver offers a rare combination—urban convenience and immediate access to nature.

You're minutes from:

Grouse Mountain
Cypress Mountain
Extensive hiking and biking trails

👉 And you don't need to drive 45 minutes to an hour to get there.

In Squamish, the outdoor lifestyle is exceptional—but it often comes with more driving, especially when balancing work, school, and activities.

In North Vancouver, many families can live, work, and access outdoor recreation within a much tighter radius.

You're not sacrificing lifestyle—you're integrating it into your everyday life.

Overall Cost of Living: Is It Actually Cheaper?

This is where the conversation shifts.

If your work and daily life are based in Squamish, the lower purchase price can absolutely translate into real savings.

But for families commuting regularly to Vancouver, the additional transportation costs—combined with time, logistics, and vehicle needs—can begin to close the gap significantly.

The Real Picture

In some cases, the overall monthly cost of living may end up being surprisingly similar.

What appears to be a 30% savings on paper can look very different in real life.

Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your lifestyle and priorities.

Choose Squamish if…

You value space and newer homes
You want an outdoor-focused lifestyle
You don't mind the added driving

Choose North Vancouver if…

You prioritize convenience
You want access to amenities close by
You want lifestyle integrated into daily routine

What used to be a clear affordability advantage is now a much more nuanced decision.

Thinking About Making a Move?

If you're considering buying or selling in Squamish or North Vancouver, I can help you evaluate not just pricing—but the full picture.

Debbie Evans | REALTOR®

eXp Realty | North Shore & Sea-to-Sky Markets

👉 Explore your options here

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Market conditions and pricing are subject to change. Always consult appropriate professionals regarding your specific situation.