West Vancouver, “The Waterfront Community,” is home for more than 44,000 residents.  Our community is known for its beaches, mountains, recreation facilities, and cultural activities. West Vancouver combines small-town charm with cosmopolitan amenities in several unique village business areas. The natural setting and proximity to downtown Vancouver completes our desirable setting.

District Facts
West Vancouver was founded on the principle that it would be an attractive
residential community, one without industrial activities, and this principle has been instrumental in shaping the community. The local economy is comprised primarily of retail, service and recreational activities serving the local and regional community and restricted to defined areas.

Commercial Areas
The commercial areas consist of the Ambleside Town Centre, Park Royal regional shopping centre, the neighbourhood/village centres of Dundarave,
Caulfeild and Horseshoe Bay, small local commercial centres and marina commercial operations.
Ambleside is the community’s historic commercial centre and the focus for
community activities. Its extensive retail and commercial enterprises meet the
daily shopping and service needs of many local residents and generate
employment in the community. The area is strengthened by its location adjacent
to the waterfront, its proximity to major civic facilities and the apartment area, its
pedestrian scale and excellent transportation access.

Tax Base
Residential property comprises 96% of total property value in West Vancouver;
commercial property comprises 4%. 92% of total tax revenue is derived from
residential property; 8% is derived from commercial property.
Source: District of West Vancouver (2005)
Population Demographics and Community Trends
The following section provides an overview of population demographics and
community trends in West Vancouver. More detailed information on these topics
is available through a series of “Facts and Stats” reports provided to Council in a
separate binder.
The primary data source is the Statistics Canada 2001 Census, but data is also
drawn from other sources, which are indicated where applicable. The Canada
Census is conducted every five years.
The full series of Facts and Stats reports is available on the District website at
http://www.westvancouver.ca/article.asp?c=450.