Moving to the Comox Valley:
Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about a move to Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, or the surrounding area? Here are straight answers to the questions we hear most from buyers, sellers, and families relocating to the Valley.

Living in the Comox Valley

What communities make up the Comox Valley?

The Comox Valley includes the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox, the Village of Cumberland, and rural communities such as Royston, Union Bay, Fanny Bay, Black Creek, and Merville. Denman and Hornby Islands are also part of the region. Campbell River is about 45 minutes north.

Which Comox Valley community is right for me?

It depends on what matters most to you. Courtenay is the commercial heart of the Valley, with the widest range of homes, shopping, and services. Comox is known for its marina, beaches, ocean views, and proximity to CFB Comox. Cumberland, a former coal mining town, suits buyers who want a walkable historic village and trail access. Royston, Union Bay, and Black Creek offer more space and rural settings. Tell us your priorities and we'll narrow it down.

What is the weather like in the Comox Valley?

The Comox Valley has one of the mildest climates in Canada. Summers are warm and dry, typically in the low-to-mid 20s°C. Winters at valley level usually sit between just above freezing and the high single digits, with snow uncommon in town but plentiful at Mount Washington, so skiing and golf on the same winter day is possible. Spring arrives early, with blossoms often appearing by late February, and fall brings mild temperatures with more rain.

How do I get to and from the Comox Valley?

By air: the Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) offers direct flights to Vancouver, Calgary, and other destinations, with seasonal sun flights. It's minutes from Comox and about 15 minutes from Courtenay.

By ferry: the Nanaimo BC Ferries terminals, with frequent sailings to the Vancouver area, are about a 75-minute drive south. The Little River terminal in Comox connects to Powell River on the Sunshine Coast.

By car: Highway 19, the Inland Island Highway, runs through the Valley, about 45 minutes to Campbell River and roughly two and a half to three hours to Victoria. Highway 19A offers a slower, scenic coastal route.

Is there public transit in the Comox Valley?

Yes. BC Transit runs bus routes connecting Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, and surrounding areas, and handyDART provides door-to-door service for people with mobility challenges. Many neighbourhoods are also bike-friendly, with a growing trail network.

What is the job market like?

The Comox Valley's economy is diverse. Major employers include the North Island Hospital Comox Valley campus and the wider healthcare sector, CFB Comox (19 Wing), the school district, and North Island College. Tourism and recreation, anchored by Mount Washington Alpine Resort and the marine and outdoor sectors, add seasonal and year-round jobs. The Valley has also become a popular home base for remote workers.

What schools are available?

Public schools are run by School District 71 (Comox Valley), with French immersion offered at schools including École Puntledge Park Elementary and École Robb Road. Francophone education is available at École Au-cœur-de-l'île through the Conseil scolaire francophone (CSF), and independent school options are also available. For post-secondary, North Island College's Comox Valley campus offers certificate, diploma, and degree programs. If a specific catchment matters to you, tell us early, because it can narrow your search more than price.

What is there to do in the Comox Valley?

Outdoors, you're close to skiing at Mount Washington, mountain biking in the Cumberland Community Forest, hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park, and kayaking and beachcombing along the Strait of Georgia. Culturally, the Sid Williams Theatre hosts performances year-round, and annual events like Vancouver Island MusicFest, the Filberg Festival, and the Comox Valley Exhibition bring the community together. The Comox Valley Farmers' Market is a weekly favourite for local food.

How do I find a family doctor after moving?

In British Columbia, the first step is to register with the provincial Health Connect Registry through HealthLink BC, which matches residents with family doctors and nurse practitioners as they become available. Register as soon as you have a BC address.

I'm being posted to CFB Comox. Where should I start?

Start with our CFB Comox relocation guide, which covers neighbourhoods near the base, schools, buying from away, and selling when you're posted out.

Buying a Home

How much do homes cost in the Comox Valley?

Prices vary widely by community and property type, from condos and manufactured homes to detached homes, waterfront, and acreage. Because prices change month to month, we publish current numbers in our monthly Comox Valley and Campbell River market updates, sourced from the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board.

Is it a buyer's market or a seller's market?

Often it's both at once, depending on the price range. Well-priced homes in more affordable ranges can attract multiple buyers, while higher-end homes may take longer to sell. Read why your price range matters more than the headline.

Can you help us relocate from out of province?

Yes. We start with a call or Zoom to understand your needs and timeline, offer virtual or in-person neighbourhood tours, and run a personalized property search with guided viewings. Every relocating client receives our relocation checklist, covering everything from utility setup to finding healthcare providers and local groups to join, along with introductions to trusted local services.

How long does it take to buy a home?

Once your offer is accepted, completion is commonly set several weeks out, giving time for financing, inspections, and legal work. The exact timeline is negotiated in each contract. Getting pre-approved before you start shopping is the single best way to move quickly when the right home appears.

Should I get a home inspection?

Yes. A home inspection helps you understand the condition of the property before you commit, and it's usually written into your offer as a condition. Your insurer may also ask for details the inspection uncovers. Our insurance checklist shows what to gather.

Do I have to pay property transfer tax in BC?

Most buyers in British Columbia pay property transfer tax when they purchase a home. First-time home buyers and buyers of newly built homes may qualify for full or partial exemptions. Rates and eligibility are set by the Province, so confirm the current rules on the Government of BC website or with your lawyer or notary.

Are foreclosures a good way to get a deal?

Not automatically. Court-ordered sales are marketed to achieve fair market value, are sold as is, and other buyers can make competing offers at the court hearing. Read what buyers should know about foreclosures.

Where can I start my home search?

Browse by town or property type, and read our Buyers Guide for the full process.

Selling a Home

Is my BC Assessment what my home is worth?

Not necessarily. Your BC Assessment estimates value as of a past valuation date for property tax purposes. What your home would sell for today depends on current comparable sales and its actual condition. Read why the assessment isn't your market value, or find out what your home is worth today.

Should I buy first or sell first?

It depends on your finances, the market in your price range, and how much risk you're comfortable with. Selling first gives you certainty about your budget. Buying first secures the next home but can mean carrying two properties. We'll walk through both scenarios with your real numbers.

We're downsizing or handling an estate. Can you help with more than the sale?

Yes. Through The Worthy Downsize Sellers Program, we coordinate sorting, clearing, repairs, cleaning, and preparation, so families can focus on the move rather than the logistics.

Are there rebates for upgrading my home before I sell?

Several provincial, utility, and local programs offer rebates for upgrades such as heat pumps and insulation, and some require registration before work begins. See our guide to home improvement rebates in the Comox Valley and Campbell River.