Surrey, British Columbia: The most HATED city in Canada

Surrey, BC often gets a bad rap online. You might have seen posts on social media claiming that it’s a dangerous, chaotic place where no one with options would ever choose to live. Headlines scream about crime, and Reddit threads tear into the city without mercy.

But is any of it true? Or is Surrey just misunderstood?

If you’re one of those people who have written off Surrey based on what you’ve heard, it’s time to rethink that stance. In this blog post, we’ll break down the most common myths about Surrey and reveal what’s really happening on the ground.

The Crime Myth: Is Surrey Really That Unsafe?

Let’s start with the biggest myth of all: crime.

Surrey has had its share of dark moments, like the infamous Surrey Six murders back in 2007. News outlets still bring it up, and if you Google “Surrey crime,” the results can seem overwhelming—stories about gang violence, domestic disputes, and theft.

In fact:

• Violent crime in Surrey has dropped by 9% in the past year.
• Property crimes fell by 4%, including fewer break-ins and auto theft.
• Much of the violence reported is targeted—meaning it’s between people who know each other, not random attacks on strangers.

Surrey’s crime stats are pretty much in line with other Lower Mainland cities. The difference? The perception. It’s easy for stories to go viral when they involve crime, but that doesn’t paint the full picture of what it’s like to live here.

Surrey’s Growth: A City on the Rise

While the reputation lingers, Surrey itself is booming.

• By 2046, it’s projected to hit over 1,000,000 residents.
• It could even surpass Vancouver’s population as early as 2029.

So, why are so many people moving to a place that’s supposedly terrible?

• Affordability: Housing in Surrey is about $1,000,000 cheaper than in Vancouver.
• Diversity of Housing: From townhomes in Clayton to luxury builds in South Surrey, there’s something for everyone.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: The new SkyTrain extension and a planned Cloverdale hospital are set to make life here even more convenient.

📝 Note: People aren’t just moving here because it’s cheap—they’re choosing Surrey for the lifestyle, community, and potential for growth.

A Different Kind of Community

One thing people often misunderstand about Surrey is its diversity.

When critics say Surrey doesn’t feel like the rest of BC, what they often mean is that it’s more diverse than they’re used to.

“Surrey is home to over 200,000 South Asian residents and a mix of other vibrant cultures.” – Focus on Geography Series, 2021 Census of Population, Surrey BC

Surrey’s multicultural fabric isn’t just about numbers—it’s about vibrancy.

• The Vaisakhi Parade draws 200,000 people annually.
• The Fusion Festival showcases dozens of cultures through food, music, and community.
• You can find South Asian grocers, Filipino bakeries, Chinese noodle shops, and Afghan kebab houses all within a few blocks.

Instead of seeing this as a problem, many see it as a strength. It’s what makes Surrey unique and exciting—a city of the future.

Why the Reputation Sticks

The truth is, Surrey’s bad reputation sticks because it’s constantly repeated. When something negative happens, it’s splashed all over the news, reinforcing outdated ideas.

But locals know a different Surrey:

• Families enjoying picnics in Green Timbers Park.
• Neighbors chatting outside their homes in Cloverdale.
• Community pride in places like Guildford and Crescent Beach.

Did You Know? Surrey is known as the “City of Parks” with over 200 parks and miles of beautiful trails.

Surrey’s Real Estate: A Hot Market

Surrey’s real estate demand is being driven by new infrastructure projects, especially the planned SkyTrain routes. This is making certain neighborhoods more desirable and pushing up property values.

Detached homes, townhouses, and condos are all experiencing a surge in demand, with some areas selling faster than ever.

If you’re looking for neighborhoods with strong investment potential, keep an eye on Panorama Ridge and South Surrey.

Panorama is growing rapidly and attracting new buyers, while South Surrey is seeing a lot of new developments and amenities.

Why the rush? Buyers are looking to capitalize on upcoming infrastructure, especially properties close to the future SkyTrain stations.

Want long-term value? Focus on areas that are poised for future growth. Are you ready to make a move? Now might just be the perfect time to invest in Surrey real estate.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Judge Surrey by Its Past

Surrey isn’t perfect—no city is. But to dismiss it based on old stories and viral posts is to overlook a place that’s constantly changing and growing. Whether you’re thinking of moving, investing, or just curious, take a closer look—You might be surprised.

If you’ve written off Surrey based on what you’ve heard, challenge yourself to see it differently. You might just discover that it’s not the place everyone loves to hate, but the city that many are learning to love.

Would you live in Surrey? Let us know in the comments!

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

Selecting an excellent real estate professional is key to a successful home purchase. The Germyn Group, with our deep understanding of South Surrey/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 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.