Best Neighbourhoods in Coquitlam for Families with Young Children

Coquitlam has evolved dramatically over the past decade into one of the most family-friendly cities in Metro Vancouver. From master-planned neighbourhoods with parks on every block to SkyTrain-connected communities that make the downtown Vancouver commute manageable — if you’re choosing where to raise young children in the Tri-Cities area, here’s what each Coquitlam neighbourhood actually offers for families with babies and toddlers.

For information on BC childcare subsidies and licensed daycare regulations, visit the Government of BC Childcare Resources. Smiling Kids Childcare Centre is a licensed childcare facility meeting all BC childcare regulations.

Burke Mountain: Coquitlam’s Newest Family Community

Burke Mountain is Coquitlam’s fastest-growing neighbourhood and among the most popular for young families. Built almost entirely in the last 15 years, the area features:

• Wide streets with dedicated bike lanes and sidewalks
• Several new elementary schools within walking distance of most homes
• Extensive trail systems connecting to Pinecone Burke Provincial Park
• New community parks designed for young children
• Lower density than central Coquitlam — more detached homes and townhouses

The main challenge for Burke Mountain families: licensed childcare is scarce in the neighbourhood itself. Most families commute their children to childcare in North Coquitlam, where capacity is higher. See our guide to daycare options for Burke Mountain families.

North Coquitlam: The Urban Core for Young Families

North Coquitlam — anchored by Coquitlam Centre mall, the Lincoln SkyTrain station, and the cluster of highrises along Pinetree Way — is the most urban of Coquitlam’s family neighbourhoods. It offers:

• Direct SkyTrain access to downtown Vancouver (35–40 minutes on the Millennium Line)
• The highest concentration of licensed childcare centres in Coquitlam
• Lafarge Lake and Town Centre Park — one of the Tri-Cities’ best family outdoor spaces
• Coquitlam Recreation Complex with swimming, skating, and family programming
• A mix of condos, townhouses, and detached homes

Smiling Kids Childcare Centre (1380 Coast Meridian Rd) is located in North Coquitlam, easily accessible from this neighbourhood and from Burke Mountain, Westwood, and Port Coquitlam.

Westwood Plateau: Family-Friendly with a Suburban Feel

Westwood Plateau sits on the hillside above central Coquitlam and offers a quieter, more suburban feel that appeals strongly to families who value outdoor space and lower density:

• Large lots and quiet cul-de-sacs — ideal for families with young children
• Good elementary school options including École Panorama Heights
• Access to the Westwood Plateau trail network for outdoor recreation
• Community oriented — strong neighbourhood associations

Licensed childcare options in Westwood Plateau proper are limited. Most families in this area use centres in North Coquitlam. See why North Coquitlam is where most Westwood families find licensed infant and toddler care.

Austin Heights: Established Community, Central Location

Austin Heights is one of Coquitlam’s most established neighbourhoods — a walkable, mixed-use community centered on Austin Avenue between Mariner Way and Blue Mountain Street. For families with young children, it offers:

• A true walkable “village” feel with independent shops and restaurants
• Good access to childcare along the corridor to North Coquitlam
• Mundy Park — one of the largest natural parks in the Lower Mainland, right next door
• Older housing stock at slightly lower price points than Burke Mountain or Westwood

Comparing Coquitlam Neighbourhoods for Young Families

Licensed Childcare in Coquitlam: Where to Find It

Regardless of which Coquitlam neighbourhood you live in, licensed infant and toddler care is primarily concentrated in the North Coquitlam area — and waitlists are long across all licensed centres. Get on the waitlist early — ideally during your first or second trimester.

Smiling Kids Childcare Centre serves families from all Coquitlam neighbourhoods, as well as Port Coquitlam, Burnaby Burquitlam, and Port Moody. Contact us to check availability: 604-600-4393.