Why Abbotsford is Known as “The City in the Country”
Abbotsford is known as “The City in the Country”—a nickname that captures its unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. Let's talk about it.
Jenny Holly Hansen
By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 14, 2025
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, Abbotsford is affectionately known as “The City in the Country”—a nickname that captures its unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. With its sweeping farmland, vibrant cultural life, and growing business sector, this city of over 150,000 residents stands out as a place where modern living and agricultural heritage live side by side.
A Landscape Defined by Farmland
Abbotsford is one of the most agriculturally productive communities in Canada. Over 70% of its land base is part of the Agricultural Land Reserve, and it's home to more than 1,300 farms. Whether it’s dairy, berries, poultry, or greenhouse crops, the region produces an astounding variety and volume of food. In fact, Abbotsford leads the country in farm income per hectare and is often referred to as the “Berry Capital of Canada.”
Drive just a few minutes from downtown and you’ll find yourself surrounded by fields, farm stands, and vistas of Mount Baker rising in the distance. This proximity to nature and farmland gives the city a rural feel—even as it continues to grow and urbanize.
A City That’s Growing
While agriculture is at the core of Abbotsford’s identity, it’s far from the whole story. The city has developed a strong commercial and industrial base, with investments in sectors like transportation, aerospace, food processing, and technology. Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is one of the fastest-growing airports in Canada, and the city’s location along the U.S. border and Highway 1 makes it a strategic hub for logistics and cross-border trade.
Abbotsford’s population is growing, too—bringing new restaurants, entertainment venues, schools, and business opportunities. And yet, the city has maintained a slower pace and strong sense of community that distinguishes it from larger urban centres nearby.
A Culture of Community
“The City in the Country” isn’t just about geography—it’s about values. Abbotsford is known for its strong community spirit, with residents who take pride in supporting local events, businesses, and one another. From the annual Agrifair and Berry Festival to the thriving arts scene and local markets, there’s a sense of connection here that reflects both country warmth and urban creativity.
Whether you're sipping a locally roasted coffee downtown, enjoying a hike on Sumas Mountain, or picking up fresh eggs from a roadside stand, the essence of Abbotsford is never far—it's a place that feels both connected and grounded.
Final Thoughts
Abbotsford’s identity as “The City in the Country” is more than a clever slogan. It speaks to a lifestyle that offers the best of both worlds—rural beauty and urban opportunity, growth and heritage, innovation and community. For residents and visitors alike, it’s a reminder that you don’t have to choose between the bustle of the city and the peace of the countryside—you can have both, right here in Abbotsford.
Let’s Keep Talking:
Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance. With 19 years experience, she will well versed in the technical aspects of business coverages.
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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