By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 7, 2025

Nestled in the heart of the Fraser Valley, Abbotsford enjoys a climate that’s not just pleasant—it’s productive. Often described as one of the most temperate cities in Canada, Abbotsford’s moderate climate is a key contributor to its agricultural success, growing population, and enviable lifestyle. With mild winters, warm summers, and an average of over 1,900 hours of sunshine per year, this city has cultivated more than just crops—it has cultivated opportunity.

A Climate that Grows More than Food

Abbotsford’s climate is a dream for growers. Rich soils paired with long frost-free periods make the area one of the most productive agricultural zones in the country. The city is home to more than 1,400 farms and leads Canada in gross farm receipts per hectare. Blueberries, raspberries, corn, greenhouse vegetables, dairy, and poultry thrive here thanks to a climate that allows for extended growing seasons and year-round farming infrastructure.

This unique weather pattern—protected by the Coastal Mountains and gently warmed by Pacific airflows—reduces the risk of extreme cold snaps that can damage crops. It’s a competitive advantage that has helped Abbotsford earn its nickname: The City in the Country.

A Lifestyle Shaped by the Outdoors

The mild, relatively dry climate also supports an active, outdoor lifestyle for Abbotsford’s 165,000+ residents. From cycling and running along Discovery Trail to hiking Sumas Mountain, or enjoying community events at Mill Lake Park, locals have access to year-round outdoor enjoyment.

For newcomers and families, this climate offers the perfect balance: enough seasonal variation to feel the changes, but without the long deep freezes or blistering heatwaves that characterize other parts of Canada. This balance is a key selling point for real estate, lifestyle, and business development in the area.

Supporting Sustainable Living

Abbotsford’s favourable climate also supports more sustainable living. Lower heating demands in winter months, combined with abundant access to local food, contributes to smaller carbon footprints for many households and businesses. The city’s climate resilience also makes it a strong candidate for future green tech investment and urban agriculture innovation.

The Business of Climate

For entrepreneurs and investors, climate matters. A stable, predictable weather pattern reduces risk for both agricultural and non-agricultural ventures. Whether you’re starting a vineyard, building a logistics hub, or opening a boutique wellness retreat, Abbotsford offers a natural edge. This has helped attract new industries to the region, including agri-tech startups and food processors looking to take advantage of the area's proximity to Metro Vancouver, fertile land, and year-round accessibility.

Looking Ahead

As climate change continues to impact regions around the world, areas like Abbotsford that enjoy stable, moderate conditions will likely become even more desirable. The city is already preparing for this future with sustainability initiatives, floodplain management, and infrastructure investments to preserve the natural assets that make this place so unique.

Abbotsford’s climate isn’t just a feature of its geography—it’s part of its identity. And as more people discover the advantages of living and working in a place where the weather works with you, not against you, it’s clear that Abbotsford’s forecast looks bright.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

TAGS:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Abbotsford is Awesome #Favourable Climate #The City in the Country

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