7 Cheapest Cities To Buy A Home In British Columbia (2025)

The housing market in British Columbia remains among Canada’s most expensive overall — the provincial average home price is roughly $948,296 as of September 2025.
That said, there are still smaller cities and more remote areas in BC where home-ownership is far more achievable. In this article we explore seven of the most affordable cities in BC to buy a home right now, why they make the list, and what to keep in mind.

1. Williams Lake

Typical price: Median price of single-family homes ~ $507,450 (first half of 2025) in the Williams Lake area. bcnreb.bc.ca+1

Located in the Cariboo region, central BC
Significantly below the provincial average, offering strong value
Ideal for buyers willing to trade commute/amenities for affordability
Things to know: Smaller economy, less diversification; check employment prospects and services.

2. Prince George

Typical price: Median price for single-family homes ~ $468,000 (Western part) and ~ $402,000 (east of bypass) in early 2025. bcnreb.bc.ca+2My Prince George Now+2

Serves as a regional hub for northern BC, larger than many “cheap” towns
More amenities & infrastructure compared to very small towns
Things to know: While more affordable, “cheapest city” is relative — still well above rural markets; accessibility and climate matter.

3. Castlegar

Typical price: Average home sale price ~ $427,450 per one 2023 analysis. Mortgage Professional

Situated in the West Kootenay region — scenic natural surroundings
Lower price points due to more remote location and smaller population
Things to know: Limited scale of services and job market; may appeal to lifestyle-oriented buyers (outdoor recreation, slower pace).

4. Cranbrook

Typical price: Average home sale price ~ $475,000 (2023 cited) in the East Kootenay region. Mortgage Professional

Larger town in the Kootenays with airport, recreation, and regional services
One of the stronger “value” locations outside major markets
Things to know: While cheaper than the Lower Mainland or Vancouver Island, still expect higher cost of living than truly remote regions.

5. Prince Rupert

Typical price: Average home sale price ~ $485,000 (2023 figure) in the Pacific North-West coastal region. Mortgage Professional

Coastal community, remote but with unique natural setting
Offers more affordability relative to major BC markets
Things to know: Remote location may mean higher transport/travel costs; local economic base narrower.

6. Vernon

Typical price: Average home price ~ $584,890 (2025 figure) for the city in the North Okanagan. RE/MAX Canada

Mid-sized city with amenities, in a desirable wine-lake region
Though more expensive than some smaller towns, still among the more affordable for “city scale” in BC
Things to know: With growing demand, prices may be rising; the “cheapest among bigger cities” trade-off applies.

7. Campbell River

Typical price: Average residential price ~ $696,344 (August 2025 on Vancouver Island) per REMAX data. RE/MAX Canada

Coastal lifestyle on Vancouver Island, and still significantly cheaper than Victoria or much of the Lower Mainland
Good balance of affordability + lifestyle for buyers who value wood, water and nature
Things to know: Island access may carry travel/commute premiums; ensure local infrastructure and services align with your needs.

Why These Cities Made the List

Each city shows average or median home prices significantly below the provincial average of ~ $948,000. WOWA+1
Many are outside major metropolitan regions — less demand, more available land, lower land values
They offer a strong value proposition for buyers willing to accept a slower-paced lifestyle, fewer amenities, or a longer commute

Buyer Considerations & Checklist

Check local employment market: Affordability matters less if you must commute far or change jobs
Factor in total cost: In remote areas, travel, heating/insulation costs, insurance may be higher
Evaluate resale potential: Some of the smallest markets may have thinner resale liquidity
Lifestyle fit: Smaller towns may not have major hospitals, universities, or large shopping/entertainment infrastructure
Visit the area: Spend time in the city/community you’re considering — check for services, culture, neighbourhood feel
Work with a local realtor: Especially in markets with fewer transactions, local knowledge is especially valuable

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to buy a home in British Columbia but frustrated with skyrocketing prices in Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, and major island/metro markets, these seven cities prove there are still affordable options. The key is aligning your budget with your lifestyle priorities and being open to smaller or less conventional markets.

Each of the cities listed offers its own trade-offs: from ultra affordable Williams Lake to lifestyle-rich Campbell River. Your “best fit” depends on what you value most, commute time, access to amenities, nature, community size, and your budget.

Bottom line: With the right approach you can still find a home in BC that won’t break the bank, especially if you’re flexible on location.

References

British Columbia Housing Market Report — average home price ~ $948,296 (Sep 2025) WOWA+1
BC Northern Real Estate Board median/average home prices (Williams Lake / Prince George areas) bcnreb.bc.ca+2Williams Lake Tribune+2
MPAMag “Cheapest cities to live in BC” (2023) — Castlegar, Cranbrook, Prince Rupert etc. Mortgage Professional
REMAX “Most Affordable Markets in British Columbia” (Aug 2025) — Vernon & Campbell River figures RE/MAX Canada
MetroVancouverLife article on most affordable cities in the Lower Mainland (for context)

Canada Housing Market