If you are reading this, you are probably feeling the "City Fatigue." You love the convenience of the Lower Mainland or Victoria, but the traffic, the noise, and the price per square foot are starting to lose their charm.
You aren't alone. As we move into the spring of 2026, we are seeing a renewed wave of buyers looking north—specifically to the hidden gems of Campbell River and Quadra Island.
Relocating here isn't just about buying a house; it’s about buying a lifestyle. But trading a condo in the city for an acreage on the coast comes with a learning curve. As a local Realtor® who helps clients navigate this exact transition, here is your ultimate guide to making the move.
1. Campbell River vs. Quadra Island: Choosing Your Pace
The first question I ask potential buyers is: How much island do you want in your life?
Campbell River is the hub. You have big-box stores, a hospital, recreational centers, and direct highway access to the rest of Vancouver Island. It is perfect if you want the "nature" lifestyle—fishing, hiking, skiing at Mount Washington—without sacrificing urban conveniences.
Quadra Island, a short 10-minute ferry ride across the Discovery Passage, is a different world. It is rural, artistic, and incredibly tight-knit. Life here revolves around the ferry schedule and others (a good blog post- have a read: Your guide to Ferries, Access and Daily Life on Quadra Island) . If you dream of privacy, a strong community, and slower mornings, Quadra is your spot.
2. The Logistics: Ferries and Commutes
For many city dwellers, a commute means being stuck on a bridge. Here, it might mean a boat ride.
If you are eyeing Quadra Island but plan to work in Campbell River, you need to become best friends with the BC Ferries schedule. It is a lifeline, not just a novelty. While the crossing is short, weather and peak summer traffic can impact your day.
Pro Tip: Download the BC Ferries app before you even book your viewing tour. It’s a good way to "practice" the lifestyle.
For those staying in Campbell River, your commute is likely measured in minutes, not hours. The lack of "rush hour" is one of the biggest shocks for my clients moving from Vancouver!
3. Rural Property 101: Wells, Septic, and Power
In the city, water comes from a pipe and waste disappears into the sewer. On many parts of Quadra Island and the outskirts of Campbell River, you are often your own utility company.
Buying a rural property means understanding:
Wells: Flow rates and water quality.
Septic Fields: Maintenance and capacity.
Power: How to handle outages during winter storms.
Don’t let this scare you—it’s manageable with the right knowledge. In fact, I recently wrote a specific guide on this very topic. "Pre-Inspection Guide for Island Properties – I highly recommend reading this to understand exactly what to look for during an inspection.
4. Connectivity: Can I Work Remotely?
This is the #1 question for movers in 2026. Yes, you can. Campbell River has excellent fiber-optic coverage in most areas. Quadra Island has improved significantly, but coverage can vary from street to street. If your job depends on Zoom calls, do not assume every charming cabin has high-speed access. We can verify specific internet speeds for any listing that catches your eye.
5. The 2026 Market Value
Your money simply goes further here. While prices have stabilized across BC, the value proposition in our region remains incredible.
In Vancouver: $900k might get you a 2-bedroom condo.
In Campbell River/Quadra: That same budget often opens the door to detached homes with ocean views or substantial acreage.
(Check out my recent post: "Market Wrap-Up: December 2025" for a detailed look at the numbers).
Ready to Make the Leap?
Moving to a new region is exciting, but it requires a guide who knows the territory. Whether you are looking for a low-maintenance rancher in Campbell River or a private retreat on Quadra, I can help you find a home that fits your new lifestyle.
Let’s get you moving.
Roman Krzaczek, REALTOR® Servicing Campbell River & Quadra Island 📞 604-787-4594 📧
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