What Is Kamloops Known For? A Complete Guide for Newcomers
September 25, 2025
What Is Kamloops Known For? Lifestyle, Attractions & Moving Guide
Two sentence summary:
Thinking about moving to Kamloops? This guide highlights everything you need to know, from cost of living, neighborhoods, and outdoor lifestyle to jobs, weather, and community culture; plus why choosing the right long-distance mover makes all the difference.
Table of contents
- Outdoor adventure capital of BC
- Affordable lifestyle compared to Kelowna and Vancouver
- A growing hub for families and students
- Kamloops economy and job market
- Weather in Kamloops—four distinct seasons
- Culture, sports, and community
- Best neighborhoods in Kamloops
- How MTS helps you relocate to Kamloops stress-free
- What is Kamloops really known for?
At a glance
- Kamloops combines affordability with lifestyle perks, offering average home prices around $673,200 and over 100 nearby lakes for recreation.
- Families and students are drawn to safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and Thompson Rivers University’s diverse programs.
- Challenges include a 10.7% unemployment spike in 2025, limited big-city amenities, and recurring wildfire smoke each summer.
If you’ve ever wondered what is Kamloops known for, the answer goes far beyond its nickname as BC’s “playground city.”
With hot, dry summers, mild winters, and over 2,000 hours of sunshine each year , Kamloops is defined by its outdoorsy lifestyle: hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing at nearby Sun Peaks.
Families are drawn to its sports culture and schools, retirees appreciate its affordability compared to Vancouver, and students and remote workers bring youthful energy through Thompson Rivers University.
But living in Kamloops comes with considerations: healthcare access is limited, certain neighborhoods face infrastructure gaps, and downtown businesses are grappling with visible social issues.
If you’re planning a move, this Kamloops relocation guide will give you a clear picture of the city’s attractions, lifestyle, and cost of living. And when you’re ready to take the next step, MTS Moving is here to make your transition seamless, reliable, and stress-free.
Outdoor Adventure Capital of BC
Area/Activity | Highlights |
Sun Peaks Resort | 119 ski/snowboard runs, hiking, biking, golf, festivals |
Kamloops Bike Ranch | 26 hectares—the largest municipal bike park in Canada |
Kenna Cartwright | 40+ km trails—hiking, biking, nature, lake/valley views |
Tobiano Golf Course | Bluffs above Kamloops Lake—ranked top public course in Canada |
Lac du Bois | Scenic grasslands, bird watching, hiking and rustic camping |
If you choose Kamloops as your new home, you won’t just be moving to a city, you’ll be stepping into what many call the Outdoor Adventure Capital of BC. With desert valleys, rivers, and surrounding mountains, adventure is always within reach. Whether you picture yourself hiking ridgelines, skiing fresh powder, or unwinding by a lake on weekends, you’ll find it here.
Hiking and Biking
You’ll have access to trails at Kenna Cartwright Park, the largest municipal park in BC, as well as Lac du Bois Grasslands and Battle Bluff with its sweeping valley views. If biking is your thing, Kamloops Bike Ranch is Canada’s largest municipal bike park, where you can test your skills on flow trails, jumps, and technical singletrack.
Skiing and Golfing
In winter, you’re just 45 minutes from Sun Peaks Resort, home to 119 ski runs, snowshoeing trails, and a lively alpine village. When the snow melts, you can swap skis for golf clubs at Tobiano, Rivershore, or Big Horn, where dramatic bluffs and long seasons make golfing a regular part of your lifestyle.
Water and More
With over 100 lakes nearby , weekends can mean kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply soaking up the sun at Kamloops Lake. Add horseback riding, disc golf, and snowmobiling in the cooler months, and you’ll see why outdoor recreation isn’t a side activity here; it’s part of everyday life.
Living in Kamloops means you don’t just talk about balance between work and play, you live it.
Affordable lifestyle compared to Kelowna & Vancouver
If affordability is a deciding factor in your move, Kamloops makes a strong case. Housing, rent, and day-to-day expenses are meaningfully lower than both Kelowna and Vancouver, giving you more breathing room in your budget without sacrificing quality of life.
Many families are choosing to relocate from the Lower Mainland for exactly this reason, staying in BC while reducing their monthly costs.
Housing & rental costs
City | Avg. Home Price (2025) | Avg. Rent (All Units, 2025) |
Vancouver | $1.65-$2.1M | $3,170 (2-bedroom) |
Kelowna | $870,940 | $2,400 |
Kamloops | $673,200 | $1,900 |
- Kamloops’ average home price is ~23% lower than Kelowna and about 60% lower than Vancouver.
- Median rent is $500+ less than Kelowna and $1,200 less than Vancouver.
Cost of living breakdown
Expense | Kamloops (Single, Sept. 2025) | Kelowna | Vancouver |
Full cost (with rent) | $1,857/month | $2,250 | $2,900+ |
Rent (1-bedroom downtown) | $1,102 | $1,350-$1,800 | $2,300+ |
Utilities (1 person) | $91.60 | $130-$200 | $200 |
Groceries | $569 | $600-$800 | $750-$900 |
Childcare (per child) | $779/month | $1,200+ | $1,400+ |
Gas/litre | $1.25 | $1.70 | $1.90 |
Local transit pass | $36/month | $70 | $111-$201 |
Internet | $60 | $75 | $90+ |
With shorter commutes, fewer parking headaches, and immediate access to outdoor recreation, your dollar stretches further here than in BC’s bigger urban centres.
Pro Tip: Many families from the Lower Mainland relocate to Kamloops to finally achieve homeownership or reduce monthly bills, choosing financial freedom over Vancouver’s steep housing market.
A growing hub for families & students
If you’re raising a family or planning to study in BC, Kamloops gives you the best of both worlds: safe neighborhoods, strong community amenities, and a vibrant university scene. The city continues to attract newcomers who want more than just affordability; they’re looking for a place to grow, learn, and thrive.
Thompson Rivers University: a global draw
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) enrolls nearly 30,000 students , with more than a quarter coming from 120+ countries. Even with recent federal changes slowing international enrolment, TRU remains a major hub for education in Western Canada.
The campus adds energy to the city with cultural festivals, student clubs, and diverse academic programs that support both Canadian and global learners. If you’re moving to Kamloops as a student, or with one, you’ll find TRU at the heart of the city’s growth.
Safe neighbourhoods & family amenities
For families, neighbourhoods like Sahali, Aberdeen, Juniper Ridge, Valleyview, Brocklehurst, Sun Rivers, and Pineview Valley offer safe streets, good schools, and plenty of green space.
You’ll find playgrounds, splash pads, bike trails, and sports complexes woven into everyday life, plus easy access to shopping, clinics, and community programs. Sahali, for example, scores high on livability ( 79/100 ), with crime rates below the provincial average.
Living in Kamloops means your family can enjoy affordable housing, a welcoming community, and the peace of mind that comes with safe, well-equipped neighbourhoods, while students benefit from the city’s university culture and opportunities.
Kamloops economy & job market
If you’re moving to Kamloops, you’ll be joining a city with a diverse and resilient economy. Forestry and mining still matter here, employing hundreds across extraction, milling, and transportation, but the real anchors today are healthcare and education.
Royal Inland Hospital alone supports thousands of stable jobs, while Thompson Rivers University employs nearly 1,500 staff and draws over 29,000 students, driving demand across housing, retail, and services.
Tourism is another pillar: in 2024, 1.87 million visitors spent $316 million, supporting more than 2,600 jobs in golf, hospitality, and outdoor recreation. And with affordable housing and upgraded internet, Kamloops is attracting a growing population of remote workers, choosing lifestyle and flexibility without Vancouver’s costs.
The job market isn’t immune to challenges: unemployment spiked to 10.3% in summer 2025 as new workers arrived faster than positions opened. Still, the mix of healthcare, education, tourism, resources, and remote-friendly roles makes Kamloops a solid place to build a career while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
Weather in Kamloops — four distinct seasons
When you think about living in Kamloops, one of the biggest draws is the climate. The city’s semi-arid geography means you’ll experience four distinct seasons, with hot, dry summers, cold but sunny winters, and far less rain than Vancouver or even Kelowna. For many newcomers, that translates into more days outside and a lifestyle that can stay active all year long.
Weather & climate fast facts
- Warm, Dry Summers: July and August highs often sit in the upper 20s to low 30s °C (82–95 °F). The heat is dry, not humid, making it perfect for lake days, biking, and evening patios.
- Cold But Sunny Winters: Average daytime highs in January hover around -1 °C (30 °F), with lows dipping to -6 to -9 °C (15–21 °F). You’ll feel the chill, but Kamloops is one of Canada’s sunniest winter cities.
- Low Precipitation: Just 277–300 mm annually, compared to Kelowna’s 390 mm and Vancouver’s 1,100+ mm. That’s a lot fewer rainy days.
- Plenty of Sunshine: With over 2,000 hours of sun each year, you can hike, golf, or ski for much longer than in most Canadian cities.
- Distinct Transitions: Springs warm quickly, and autumns are long, dry, and colorful—ideal shoulder seasons for outdoor recreation.
If you’re looking for a city that offers sunshine without Vancouver’s endless rain or Kelowna’s wetter stretches, Kamloops delivers a climate built for balance and outdoor living.
Culture, sports & community
Living in Kamloops means you’ll be part of a city that blends its love of sports with deep cultural roots and a growing creative scene. From cheering on the Blazers at the rink to exploring Indigenous celebrations and summer food festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with your new community.
Sports at the heart of Kamloops
If hockey is your thing, you’ll find yourself at Sandman Centre watching the Kamloops Blazers, one of BC’s most successful junior hockey teams. They don’t just play, they give back, contributing more than $280,000 annually to local programs and mentoring youth athletes. Baseball fans can catch the NorthPaws during summer, and the city’s reputation as Canada’s “Tournament Capital” means you’ll always have tournaments and championships happening nearby.
Culture and festivals that bring people together
Kamloops celebrates its roots and diversity through events like the Kamloopa Powwow, one of Canada’s largest Indigenous gatherings, where thousands come together each summer for dance, music, and food. You can also catch theatre at Sagebrush Theatre, enjoy outdoor concerts at Music in the Park, or explore the murals and galleries downtown. Festivals like Culture Days, the Buskers Festival, and Ribfest make the city feel alive through every season.
Food, wine, and local pride
If you’re a foodie, Kamloops won’t disappoint. The city’s culinary scene is expanding with wineries like Monte Creek, Harper’s Trail, and Privato, a growing craft beer culture, and summer festivals that showcase local flavours. Add in multicultural events like the Tapestry Festival, and you’ll quickly see how the food and wine scene reflects Kamloops’ welcoming and diverse community spirit.
In Kamloops, you’ll find a city that celebrates its hockey heroes, honours Indigenous culture, embraces creativity, and continues to evolve as a cultural hub in BC’s interior.
Best neighbourhoods in Kamloops
When you’re planning a move to Kamloops, the neighbourhood you choose will shape your lifestyle. The city offers safe, family-friendly areas, lively hubs for young professionals, and affordable communities where your budget stretches further.
For families: Aberdeen & Sahali
Aberdeen gives you newer homes, sweeping views, and great schools like Aberdeen Elementary. You’ll be close to Aberdeen Mall, parks, and recreation, making it a modern choice for families. Sahali is more central and established, with strong schools, walkability, and easy access to TRU, downtown, and shopping. Families love its balance of community and convenience.
For young professionals: Downtown & North Shore
Downtown puts you close to work, nightlife, and the arts. You’ll find condos, lofts, and apartments within walking distance of festivals, galleries, and the riverfront. North Shore is an up-and-coming district with new apartments, trendy cafes, and lower price points. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for value and future growth.
For affordability: Brocklehurst & Valleyview
Brocklehurst offers larger lots, budget-friendly homes, and family amenities like parks and community centers. It’s popular with first-time buyers. Valleyview combines riverside space with quick downtown access. You’ll find a mix of older and newer homes, solid schools, and plenty of family-owned businesses.
How MTS Helps You Relocate to Kamloops Stress-Free
Moving long-distance is a big step, and you deserve a mover that takes the stress out of the process.
At MTS, everything is built around transparency and trust. You’ll always know what you’re paying thanks to clear, upfront long-distance pricing; no hidden surprises.
Every move is backed with $1.50/lb coverage, and your shipment is weighed on government-certified scales with video verification for complete peace of mind.
Plus, you’ll work with our own full-time, trained crews, not subcontractors, so you can count on consistent, professional service from start to finish.
Conclusion: What Is Kamloops Really Known For?
Kamloops is known for its affordability, year-round outdoor adventure, and welcoming, family-friendly community. If you’re looking for a city with space to grow, access to nature, and a lifestyle that balances work and play, Kamloops could be the right fit for you.
And when you’re ready to make the move, MTS is here to ensure it’s seamless, predictable, and stress-free.
📥 Want to plan ahead? [Download our FREE Kamloops Relocation Checklist.]
FAQs on What Kamloops Is Known For
Is Kamloops a good place to live?
Yes. Kamloops is considered one of BC’s most livable mid-sized cities. It combines affordability, access to nature, and a family-friendly atmosphere. While it lacks some big-city amenities, most residents rate their quality of life as good or very good thanks to the climate, outdoors, and community feel.
Why is Kamloops called the Tournament Capital?
Kamloops hosts over 100 tournaments each year in hockey, baseball, basketball, swimming, and more. With world-class facilities and a culture centered on youth and amateur sport, the city has earned the official nickname “Tournament Capital of Canada.”
Is Kamloops more affordable than Kelowna?
Yes. Housing and rentals in Kamloops are on average 20–25% less than in Kelowna and about 60% lower than in Vancouver. Groceries, utilities, childcare, and transportation are also cheaper, making it attractive for families, retirees, and students.
What is winter like in Kamloops?
Winters are colder than Vancouver or Kelowna but far sunnier. Expect average January highs around -1°C (30°F) and lows near -6°C to -9°C (15–21°F). The city gets much less snow than the Rockies, and sunny skies make it one of Canada’s brightest winter destinations.
What is Kamloops famous for outdoors?
Kamloops is known as the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of BC.” Locals and visitors enjoy hiking, biking, skiing at Sun Peaks, golfing, and water sports on over 100 nearby lakes. The dry climate and four-season weather mean there’s something to do outside nearly every month of the year.