3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to White Rock, BC

Thinking about moving to White Rock, BC? The ocean views, laid-back lifestyle, and charming community make it seem like the perfect place to call home.

But there are a few surprises that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. After living here, I’ve learned some lessons the hard way—and I don’t want you to make the same mistakes.

Here are the 3 things I wish I knew before moving to White Rock (and what you can do to avoid frustration).

1. Tourists Will Take Over Your Neighbourhood

White Rock is a dream in the winter—quiet streets, peaceful beach walks, no crowds. It feels like you have the whole town to yourself.

But the second summer hits? It’s an entirely different world.

• Marine Drive is packed from May to September, and traffic crawls.
• Parking is nearly impossible, especially near the beach.
• Errands take twice as long because of crowds.

Tourists aren’t a bad thing, but if you don’t plan ahead, you’ll waste hours navigating the chaos.

How to Deal With Summer Madness:

✅ Plan errands wisely—avoid peak hours and know the local shortcuts.
✅ Do your shopping in South Surrey, which has more stores and less congestion.
✅ Find hidden local spots to escape the crowds (Centennial Park, Crescent Park, and South Surrey Athletic Park are great options).

White Rock is stunning year-round, but summer life here is very different from winter—make sure you’re ready for both.

2. Parking is a Nightmare

Imagine this: You come home after a long day, but there’s nowhere to park… not even in front of your own house.

Welcome to White Rock.

• Many areas require resident parking passes—even just to park near your home.
• Parking near the beach? Forget it. Marine Drive turns into a parking lot.
• If your home doesn’t have ample parking, you’ll be in for a daily headache.

How to Avoid Parking Problems:

✅ Choose a home with a garage or large driveway—street parking isn’t reliable.
✅ Buy a resident parking pass for designated areas (starting at just $16).
✅ Use the West Beach Parkade instead of struggling to find a street spot near the beach.

If parking is important to you, make sure your new home has a solution built in—because street parking in White Rock is a constant battle.

3. Living Here Costs More Than You Think

White Rock isn’t just expensive for home prices—the cost of living adds up fast.

• Utility bills are higher because White Rock runs its own water system.
• Property taxes are steeper compared to neighboring Surrey.
• Daily expenses like groceries and dining often come with a premium price tag.

And here’s a surprise: White Rock’s tap water isn’t great. It has a noticeable taste due to manganese and chloramination. Many locals (including me) use refillable water jugs to get clean drinking water from South Surrey.

How to Budget for White Rock Living:

✅ Expect higher water bills—White Rock maintains its own system, which costs more.
✅ Plan for higher property taxes, which fund local services and infrastructure.
✅ Prepare for annual increases in both utilities and taxes so you’re not caught off guard.

White Rock’s charm comes with a higher price tag, so make sure your budget is ready for the extra costs.

Is White Rock Still Worth It?

Absolutely. White Rock offers a one-of-a-kind coastal lifestyle—but knowing these challenges before you move will make all the difference. If you’re considering buying a home here, get our Free PDF on 21 Grants & Rebates for Home Buyers.

What if I have any questions about moving to White Rock, BC?

Selecting an excellent real estate professional is key to a successful home purchase. The Germyn Group, with our deep understanding of White Rock and its real estate dynamics, is committed to guiding you every step of the way.

We invite you to book a consultation with us. During our meeting, we’ll discuss your needs, preferences, and any questions you might have about the White Rock real estate market.

As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that the right home is more than just a property; it’s a foundation for your future. With the Germyn Group by your side, let’s make your dream of homeownership a beautiful reality.