Avg. 1BR Rent
$2,100/mo
Avg. 2BR Rent
$2,600/mo
Source: Zumper, liv.rent · Updated April 2026
Willingdon Heights is a well-established residential neighbourhood in North Burnaby, valued for its blend of quiet family-oriented streets and convenient access to urban amenities. Situated between Boundary Road and Willingdon Avenue, it offers a strategic location for tenants who commute to both Vancouver and other parts of Burnaby. The area's appeal is bolstered by its proximity to major transit routes and shopping centres, driving consistent rental demand. For property owners, this translates into a stable tenant pool and low vacancy rates. Professional management is key to navigating the diverse housing stock and maximizing returns in this competitive market.
Local Landmarks & Transit
The neighbourhood is anchored by Confederation Park, a major recreational hub offering everything from a model steam railway and swimming pool to tennis courts and skateboard ramps. Residents have easy access to the bustling Brentwood Town Centre for major retail and the unique 'Heights' shopping district along Hastings Street for independent shops and services. Gilmore and Brentwood SkyTrain stations on the Millennium Line provide rapid transit across the region. The Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool & Fitness Centre offers year-round aquatic programs. This combination of parks, shopping, and transit makes it a highly practical and desirable location for tenants.
Building Types & Housing Stock
The housing landscape in Willingdon Heights is predominantly composed of single-family homes, many of which contain secondary suites, alongside a significant number of two-family dwellings. This makes it a prime area for investors seeking properties with mortgage helpers. While the area is mostly low-density, there are also pockets of low-rise apartment buildings, particularly closer to the main arterial roads. The building stock is a mix of older, well-maintained homes from the mid-20th century and newer constructions, offering a range of rental options from garden-level suites to full houses.
Typical Tenant Profile
The tenant profile in Willingdon Heights is diverse, attracting a mix of young families, working professionals, and students. Families are drawn to the neighbourhood for its schools, parks, and community-oriented atmosphere. Professionals appreciate the convenient commute to regional employment hubs. The presence of BCIT and SFU nearby also creates a steady stream of student renters. Tenants in this area typically seek a balance between affordability, space, and accessibility, valuing properties that are well-maintained and professionally managed.
Market Insight
Willingdon Heights remains a strong and stable rental market within Burnaby. While not experiencing the dramatic rent spikes of high-density nodes like Brentwood, the area sees consistent, healthy appreciation. The demand for family-sized units and homes with suites is particularly high, often leading to minimal vacancy periods for well-priced properties. Investors can expect reliable returns, with the potential for long-term appreciation driven by the neighbourhood's enduring appeal and its strategic location bordering Vancouver. The market favours landlords who maintain their properties to a high standard, attracting quality, long-term tenants.
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Get Your Free AssessmentFrequently Asked Questions
What is the average rent for a family home in Willingdon Heights?
While 1-bedroom units average around $2,100/month, a full single-family home or a 3-4 bedroom duplex can range from $3,500 to $4,500+, depending on size, condition, and exact location.
How is transit access in Willingdon Heights?
The area is well-serviced by bus routes along Hastings Street, Willingdon Avenue, and Boundary Road, connecting to downtown Vancouver, SFU, and Metrotown. The Gilmore and Brentwood SkyTrain stations are also nearby, providing access to the Millennium Line.
Are there many new developments in Willingdon Heights?
While the core of Willingdon Heights is mostly established single-family homes, the broader area around Brentwood is seeing significant high-rise development. This adds new rental supply to the market but also increases the overall desirability and amenity base of the entire district.
What makes Willingdon Heights a good investment for rental properties?
Its stability, diverse tenant pool, and high concentration of single-family homes with rental suites make it an attractive market. The proximity to both Vancouver and Burnaby's city centre ensures consistent demand and long-term value.
Is professional property management necessary in Willingdon Heights?
While any landlord can self-manage, professional management in a diverse market like this ensures optimal pricing, tenant screening, and compliance with the Residential Tenancy Act. It is particularly valuable for owners of homes with multiple suites or those who live out of the area.
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