A Guide to Settling In: Essential Tips for New Residents to the Central Okanagan

Uncategorized April 26, 2024

Moving to a new region can be an exciting and challenging process. Whether you are making the move for work, education or for a new beginning, it is always best to research and carefully plan. In this guide we will explore essential tips to help new residents to the Okanagan settle in and navigate their transition.

The Central Okanagan

Having been recognized as the fastest growing region in Canada, the Central Okanagan is made up of six communities. These communities are District of Lake Country, City of Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, City of West Kelowna, District of Peachland, and Central Okanagan West & Central Okanagan East Electoral Areas. With a population of 222,162 people, the region ranks as the third largest urban area in British Columbia.

The Central Okanagan is perfect for those looking to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle. People move to the region to enjoy the beauty of Okanagan Lake, surrounding hillsides, beaches, orchards, and vineyards. Beyond its recreational benefits, this beautiful landscape also offers economic opportunities for professionals and businesses in different industries. These industries include digital tech, aerospace,  technology, agriculture, hospitality, and health care.

New residents to the Central Okanagan

Connect with the local community

There are several resources for new residents to explore to build their professional network and seize opportunities. For instance, the Okanagan Young Professionals Collective is a collection of resources and opportunities for young professionals. Whereas Kelowna Newcomers Club helps new residents in Kelowna make new friends and learn about the community. Likewise, the connecter program is also an excellent resource for new residents to grow their professional network. It is a formalized community networking initiative for job seekers to connect to the workforce.

Attending local networking events and joining local community groups will allow you to immerse yourself in the local community, learn more about the region and establish meaningful connections. The events calendar on our website is also a resourceful tool to build your network.

Research the New Area

Equipping yourself with knowledge about your local environment can provide valuable insight and aid in navigating challenges you may face during your transition. Our new residents page is a one-stop resource designed to offer information and resources about your new area, making your transition as smooth as possible. Whether you are interested in learning about the diverse communities in our region, discover housing options, or find out about local recreation and events, our new residents page acts as a comprehensive guide to help you acquire essential knowledge about different aspects of the region.

Begin your Job Search

Navigating the job market as a new resident can be overwhelming. However there are several employment resources highlighted on our new residents page that you can utilize. It consists of a curated list of employment support organizations that can help launch your career. Additionally there are several job boards such as WorkBC, Castanet, Indeed, and Government of Canada Job Bank that are resourceful.

Learn about Local Services

New residents can also ensure a smooth transition by taking the time to familiarize themselves with essential services offered in the area. By proactively learning about healthcare facilities, childcare options and emergency services within the community, newcomers can effectively prepare themselves to manage unforeseen circumstances. This knowledge not only proves beneficial during times of needs but also serves to alleviate potential stress by providing a sense of security and readiness. Becoming acquainted with local essential services is a proactive step towards ensuring a seamless and comfortable transition to your new environment.

Settling Into a New Community

Settling into a new city and building your community requires patience and willingness to explore change. By following this quick guide of essential tips for new residents to the Central Okanagan, you can adjust smoothly.

For more information about the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission and our role in the local economy, visit our website.