Why Abbotsford Is Becoming B.C.’s Next Business and Lifestyle Hotspot

By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 1, 2025

If you’re looking for a community where opportunity, affordability, and quality of life converge — Abbotsford, British Columbia should be on your radar. Once known primarily for its agricultural roots, Abbotsford is now one of the fastest-growing cities in the province — and a serious contender for business investment, entrepreneurial ventures, and relocation.

A City on the Rise

Recent data confirms what many locals and regional developers already know: Abbotsford’s population is booming, nearing 170,000 residents and climbing steadily each year. What’s fueling this rapid growth? A rare combination of strategic location, economic momentum, and livability.

Whether you’re launching a new business, expanding operations, or looking to relocate your family, Abbotsford is positioning itself as a city where you can plant roots and grow — personally and professionally.

Why Investors and Entrepreneurs Are Paying Attention

1. Unmatched Value in a Prime Location

Abbotsford offers one of the most cost-effective entry points into B.C.’s thriving Lower Mainland economy. Just 70 minutes from downtown Vancouver and minutes from the U.S. border, the city offers industrial, commercial, and residential real estate at a fraction of Metro Vancouver prices — but with direct access to major trade routes and supply chains.

The Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) supports cargo, business travel, and commercial expansion, while Highway 1 provides seamless east-west connectivity for logistics and commuting.

2. Strong Development Activity

In 2023 alone, Abbotsford approved over $730 million in building permits, including:

• 473,000 sq. ft. of industrial space
• 247,000 sq. ft. of commercial space
• 156,000 sq. ft. of education facilities

This reflects not only infrastructure expansion, but also rising business confidence in the region. Local government has been proactive in cutting red tape and streamlining development processes — creating a business-friendly environment that welcomes innovation and job creation.

3. Diverse and Growing Talent Pool

Abbotsford’s population isn’t just growing — it’s diversifying. The city is home to one of the most culturally rich communities in the province, with a high percentage of immigrants, young families, and skilled professionals.

Institutions like the University of the Fraser Valley and robust trade schools help feed the local workforce pipeline, while the city’s livability attracts remote workers, entrepreneurs, and skilled tradespeople looking for affordable alternatives to Vancouver.

A Magnet for Newcomers and Families

For those relocating from Metro Vancouver or moving to Canada from abroad, Abbotsford checks a lot of boxes:

• Housing is more affordable than in Surrey, Burnaby, or Richmond.
• Family life thrives here, with strong schools, parks, community centres, and faith-based organizations.
• Healthcare access is expanding through upgrades to Abbotsford Regional Hospital and walk-in clinics across the city.
• Lifestyle is balanced, with proximity to nature, vibrant cultural festivals, and a strong sense of community.

Newcomers often describe Abbotsford as “big enough to build a future, but small enough to feel like home.”

What’s Next for Abbotsford?

As the city grows, expect to see:

• Continued investment in transit, road upgrades, and downtown revitalization
• A surge in mixed-use developments, offering live/work/play options for professionals and families
• Expansion in tech, manufacturing, and agri-innovation, aligning with the region’s strengths in sustainability and food security

For investors, the timing is ideal. For business owners, the market is expanding. And for new residents, Abbotsford offers the one thing that’s getting harder to find in the Lower Mainland: room to grow.

Final Thought: Abbotsford isn’t just experiencing growth — it’s harnessing it. And for those ready to move forward, it’s a city that offers the right combination of economic opportunity, strategic location, and community spirit.

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

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