If it's relocating you're looking for, moving to the small town of Chemainus in British Columbia is like embarking on a new adventure, and one of the first things you'll need is a guide. This all-inclusive relocating guide will help you get started and has all the ins and outs, where to go, and what to expect from the experience. 

You'll find information about the average costs for homes in the area, schools, history, services, culture, and recreation. 

The information in this document will give you an idea of what's available in Chemainus and how it's a good fit for you and your family. 

About Chemainus, BC

Chemainus, located on Vancouver Island's east coast, with over 4000 people, is 30-minutes south of Nanaimo and an hour north of Victoria. A small enough community to feel like home yet large enough to give you plenty of options for your new home!

Chemainus is Rich in History

The origins of the name come from the Stz’uminus First Nations. 

Chemainus falls within North Cowichan, a little town with a rich and resilient history. When the town's survival was threatened by failing natural resources, a new revitalization project in 1982 gave this town new life. Now a tourist destination, it features world-renowned outdoor murals. 

Real Estate in Chemainus, BC

The real estate inventory in Chemainus has much to offer. Choose from oceanfront, oceanview, and mountain view properties. The average home here differs from those located elsewhere due to its old character and established gardens, still in good condition.

Home prices in Chemainus can range from the upper $200K to $3M. Property types include single-family homes, semi-detached homes, townhomes, condos, with the occasional duplex, triplex, and fourplex. Thus, the ideal location for raising a family, retiring, or vacationing and suitable for any budget. 

Prices for single-family homes range from the upper $400K to $2M and are ideal for larger families. The wide disparity in price is dependent on the age, size, location, and condition of the home. 

Townhomes are popular among young families and singles moving up from condo living. Townhomes have shared walls, parking on the property and are more affordable than single-family homes. The average price of a townhome is around the upper $300K. 

Duplexes, considered semi-detached homes, are also priced in the upper $300K depending on size and location.

With various property types to choose from and prices for all budgets, Chemainus is a place where you can secure a home. 

Schools in Chemainus

Schools in Chemainus fall under the Cowichan Valley School District. The following are public schools in the area:

• St Joseph Elementary School
• Chemainus Secondary School
• Chemainus Elementary Community School
• Crofton Elementary School
• Kuper Island School
• Mount Brenton Elementary School
• Chemainus Native College

Amenities in Chemainus

Tourists and vacationers are constantly drawn to this place over and over, but relocating to Chemainus awards you countless amenities and recreational opportunities. 

The streets and roads of Downtown, Old Town, and Chemainus Road are lined with boutique, antique, and gift stores, with the occasional confectionary store and art gallery. 

And thanks to the temperate climate here in Chemainus, there are many outdoor activities available year-round. With mountain range and ocean at its feet, adventures await:

• Mount Breton Golf Club: The course is 18-holes with creeks, ponds, and Douglas Fir trees and is perfect for all-year-round golfing. 
• Fuller Lake and Park: Ideal for fishing and swimming.
• Kim Beach: The beach is excellent for swimming or exploring the tidal pools at low tide. Other amenities at Kim beach include picnicking, a playground, and a boat launch. 
• Chemainus Valley Museum: While Chemainus itself is a museum with all its history displayed as art on the walls, the museum in Waterwheel Park houses many historical artifacts. 
• Hiking: There are many trails in and around Chemainus. Namely Askew Creek Wilderness Park, Chemainus Lake, Fuller Lake Park, and The Trans Canada Trail. 

Visiting the Thetis and Penelakut Islands is easily accessible by taking the BC ferry from Chemainus. 

Chemainus is Alive With Arts and Culture

With the success of the Festival of Murals to revitalize Chemainus, the murals represent the pride of the community. Known to many as 'The Little Town That Did,' Chemainus now has 63 murals. The murals vary in theme from nature, indigenous history, logging, rail to immigration. 

The Chemainus Theatre Festival is another highlight of the town. The theatre is where you can enjoy dinner and revel in exceptional plays performed by the best performers. They seek to entertain, encourage and enrich lives. 

You'll find that relocating to Chemainus is favourable for anyone looking for a balance of small-town charm and proximity to downtown Victoria, schooling, affordable housing, and beautiful scenery. Chemainus is worth exploring!