Why move to the Thompson Okanagan
The Thompson Okanagan Region is one of the most unique areas in British Columbia's interior. Here, you'll discover Canada's only true desert, striking waterfalls and rain forests, unbelievable mountains, and a collection of scenic small towns. Aside from the region's varied geography, locals also love Thompson Okanagan's wineries, fresh water lakes and unusually warm climate and long growing season.
Top Reasons to move to the Thompson Okanagan
1. Mediterranean-style climate— warm, dry summers and mild winters ideal for year‑round outdoor living.
2. World-class wineries and food culture — vibrant wine industry, farmers’ markets, and farm-to-table dining.
3. Lake recreation— swimming, boating, paddle-boarding and beaches centered on Okanagan Lake and surrounding lakes.
4. Outdoor activities year-round — hiking, mountain biking, skiing (nearby hills), golf and water sports.
5. Strong real‑estate demand and lifestyle variety— city neighbourhoods, vineyard properties, lakefront homes and rural acreages.
6. Growing economy and jobs— tourism, viticulture, tech startups, construction and healthcare expansion.
7. Excellent food and cultural scene — festivals, farmers’ markets, live music, galleries and theatre.
8. Health and education services — regional hospitals, specialty care in Kelowna, and established schools and colleges.
7. Good transport links— Kelowna International Airport, highways to Vancouver and Calgary, and regional transit.
8. Attractive for retirees and families— pleasant climate, recreation options, and diverse housing choices for downsizers and growing families.
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Spectacular Parks and Unlike many other regions in Canada, the Thompson Okanagan enjoys more than 2,000 hours of sunlight every year, which makes We recommend Mount Robson (the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies), Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park, or Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. |
Shopping and Dining You'll find plenty of spots to shop and dine the day away in Thompson Okanagan. From fresh fruit and vegetable stands to metro lakefront dining. Kelowna's Orchard Park Shopping Center and downtown core offers diverse shopping.Be sure to grab a bite to eat at Central Kitchen + Bar or Lakeside Dining Room. Other top destinations can be found in Kamloops, Vernon, and Penticton. Aberdeen Mall, Theo's Restaurant, and Fresh Lemongrass are just a few favourites. |
Local Attractions Believe it or not, Thompson Okanagan is actually known as Canada's wine country. The first vineyard was planted in 1859 at the Oblate Mission, and the industry took off in 1976 after Okanagan growers began planting German grapes, such as Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. Today, the region is home to more than 100 small vineyards, and wine trails are a popular attraction for tourists. Thompson Okanagan is also home to a number of ski resorts, Helmcken Falls, and the |
