Moving From Ottawa To Surrey

Trusted Partners and Accreditations

Cassidy’s is a long standing and respected member of the moving industry. We strive to uphold the very best in service, standards, and care no matter how far you’re moving.

We are members of and/or accredited by the following organizations:

• Better Business Bureau
• United Van Lines
• Canadian Chamber of Commerce
• Canadian Association of Movers
• Air Miles

Pros & Cons of Moving to Surrey

Pros of Living in Surrey BC

Surrey is a rapidly growing city with a unique blend of city living and coastal beauty. Known for diverse communities, expansive parkland, and being just down the street from both Vancouver and the U.S. border, Surrey is a city on the rise, with both job opportunities and a desirable lifestyle.

There’s a reason why Surrey is often referred to as the next big city in British Columbia. The city’s economy is thriving, housing costs are lower than Vancouver, and with many family-friendly facilities, residents have a high quality of life.

Here are some of the reasons people want to live there.

Robust Economy

Surrey is one of the fastest-growing cities in British Columbia and has an economy to match. The city saw a 22% employment growth over the past decade, and the number of jobs is projected to grow by 16% over the next decade. The city’s strategic location within the Greater Vancouver area makes it an attractive destination for both businesses and job seekers. Surrey has a median family income of $113,000, 61.5% of Surrey’s workforce has a post-secondary degree, and over 3,000 new businesses open in Surrey each year.

Surrey’s economy has strong sectors in technology, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The city is also home to a burgeoning tech industry, with many startups and established companies choosing to set up shop here because of its proximity to Vancouver, relatively lower housing costs than Vancouver, and access to a skilled workforce. If you’re looking to advance your career, Surrey offers a lot of opportunities.

Beautiful Weather

One of the best reasons to move to Surrey is the beautiful weather. Compared to Ottawa’s harsh winters, Surrey enjoys a milder climate year-round. Winters can be rainy but are also much warmer, with very little snow, making it easier to get around and enjoy outdoor activities even in January. Summers in Surrey are warm and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and long days. If you prefer a temperate, oceanic climate with less extreme weather, Surrey’s weather will be a welcome change.

Public Transportation

Surrey has an excellent public transportation system, making it fairly easy to get around without a car. The city is well-connected to the rest of the Greater Vancouver area through the SkyTrain, buses, and major highways. The SkyTrain’s Expo Line runs directly through Surrey with convenient access to downtown Vancouver. In addition to the SkyTrain, the city’s bus network, Community Shuttles, and HandyDARTs make sure even those living on the outskirts of town have options. Surrey’s public transportation system offers a reliable and efficient way to travel.

Multicultural

Surrey is one of the most multicultural cities in Canada, with a diverse population that contributes to the city’s rich cultural fabric. People from all over the world have made Surrey their home. This cultural mosaic is reflected in the city’s vibrant cultural scene, with festivals, markets, and events celebrating the city’s cultures throughout the year. If you’re someone who enjoys checking out new and interesting cuisines, you’re headed to the right place. 

Scenic Nature & Parks

Along with living near the ocean comes an abundance of natural beauty, from its lush parks and gardens to its scenic views of the mountains and sea. The city also has over 200 parks with lots of green spaces for families to spend time in. Some of the most popular parks include Bear Creek Park, with its beautiful gardens and walking trails, and Crescent Beach, a charming seaside area perfect for a day of relaxation by the water. Being next to the mountains and ocean also means that outdoor enthusiasts have easy access to hiking, skiing, and water sports.

Compare to Kelowna and Vancouver

​Surrey’s population comes in second to Vancouver, but it’s expected to become the largest city in BC within the next 20 years.

When comparing Surrey to Kelowna and Vancouver, it’s clear that Surrey has something unique when it comes to urban lifestyle and natural beauty. Compared to Vancouver, Surrey has more affordable housing options while still being close enough to enjoy the amenities of a major city. Compared to Kelowna, which is known for its slower pace of life and wine country charm, Surrey has more of a “real city” vibe with more nightlife and better job opportunities. If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, Surrey is a great choice.

Family Friendly

Surrey is a great city to raise a family. Good schools, plenty of parks and playgrounds, and newer recreational centres are available where kids and families can stay active and busy. The city also has a strong sense of community that makes it a welcoming environment for families. The recently-expanded Surrey Memorial Hospital provides high-quality medical care. On top of that, the city is continually working to improve safety and security in its communities. Many neighbourhoods in Surrey have very low crime rates and family-friendly atmospheres, making them perfect for raising kids. 

Cons of Living in Surrey BC

Like all cities, life in Surrey isn’t without its challenges.

Lots Of Traffic

As the city continues to grow, so does its traffic, especially during peak hours. Commuters who don’t take public transit can often sit in gridlock, especially on Highway 1 and the Fraser Highway. If you drive to work, this can be a major drawback. The city is working on improving infrastructure but for the moment, traffic remains a challenge.

Lacking Arts & Culture Life

While Surrey is a multicultural city with a vibrant community, its arts and culture scene is not as developed as Vancouver or Toronto. The city has fewer museums and galleries than Ottawa, which can be a downside for those who enjoy cultural activities. 

Cost Of Living

Although Surrey seems affordable compared to Vancouver, the cost of living is still sky-high compared to other Canadian cities. Both rents and housing prices have been rising steadily, making it more challenging for newcomers to find affordable homes. The cost of groceries, gas, car insurance, and utilities are also higher than in many other parts of Canada. While higher wages can, make sure you’re prepared for the higher cost of living before moving.

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Moving long distance from Ottawa to Surrey offers a mix of exciting opportunities and challenges.

If you’ve decided to make the move, Cassidy’s is here to take care of every detail so you can focus on settling into your new life.Trust Cassidy’s to be your long distance movers in Ottawa.