LIFESTYLE

LIVING IN ONE OF THE BEST COMMUNITIES

Chemainus is a small town and with that comes so many benefits and beauty that you may not know. Chemainus is living history, authentic, creative and rich with uniqueness. Living in Chemainus offers an active, free, and easy lifestyle with all of the benefits of a small community with big city services. Clothing stores with your favourite name brands, worldly cuisine, professional services, and coastal seascapes galore, Chemainus is the perfect hybrid community of small town and big city. 

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Life in Chemainus is easy. The culture and history embraces the unique and diverse community. A healthy and natural atmosphere of small town living, rich with artistic culture, a temperate climate, natural ocean-side views, affordability in all areas and most importantly a dedication to wilderness, exploration, and creativity.

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The open and friendly residents, and fulfilling Westcoast lifestyle, keep visitors coming back and residents young at heart. The community of Chemainus is one that feels like a big family. Business owners are your neighbours and your neighbours are your friends. Come experience community living in Chemainus. 

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FACTS ABOUT CHEMAINUS 

• Population: 3,021 (confirmed by 2016 census data) plus surrounding communities 

• Founded: 1858

• Biggest current employers: Chemainus Theatre Festival

• Visitors: approx. 250,000 per year

• Located in: Municipality of North Cowichan

• Served by: Municipality and the Cowichan Valley Regional District

• Equipped with:

  • Extended care hospital

  • Urgent care centre

  • Radiology

  • Medical lab

• Three schools:

  • Two elementary

    • Chemainus Elementary ​

    • Crofton Elementary

  • One secondary school 

    • Chemainus Highschool​

• Served by RCMP

• Volunteer fire department

• Gateway to Thetis & Penelakut Islands and the Gulf Islands

• A year round temperate climate