Two neighbourhoods, one incredible lifestyle, and a question I hear all the time: should I buy in Coldstream, or should I buy in East Hill?

I'm Lisa Salt with RE/MAX Vernon Salt Fowler. I live here, I work here, and I've helped clients move to both Coldstream and East Hill. They love both areas, but the vibe is totally different. By the end of this article you'll have a clearer idea which one best fits you and your family.

Location

East Hill sits just east of downtown Vernon. It's one of the city's oldest neighbourhoods, built into the hillside, which gives you sweeping city views, elevation, and walkable proximity to shops, schools and recreation. It's typically three to five minutes to everything.

Coldstream is its own municipality right beside Vernon on the way to Lumby. It's quieter and more rural, and it surrounds Kalamalka Lake. That translates to a resort-town feel without the crowds.

Lifestyle

If you want to walk to the farmers’ market, be close to downtown, or bike your kids to school, East Hill is your spot. If you prefer space, scenery and being able to walk out your door and dip into Kalamalka Lake, Coldstream feels like living in a resort town.

Real Estate

East Hill is known for character homes from the early 1900s, bungalows from the 1950s through the 1990s, some newer infills and duplexes. Lots are typically 0.1 to 0.2 acres. The area is charming, eclectic and walkable, with mature trees, alley access and a community feel.

Coldstream offers modern, custom homes with lake views, acreages and small farms, plus newer subdivisions. Lot sizes range from two acres to much larger acreages, and zoning often allows gardens, chickens or horses. If you want gardening, views, privacy or larger lots, Coldstream gives you that room.

Schools & Education

Both areas are excellent for families but offer different schooling experiences. In East Hill you’ll find Silver Star Elementary, Hillview Elementary (just outside the boundary), Beairsto (French Immersion) and Vernon Senior Secondary (VSS). These schools are close-knit, walkable and part of the neighbourhood fabric.

Coldstream is home to Coldstream Elementary (noted as one of the top-rated in the district), Lavington Elementary for rural families, Kidston Elementary and Kalamalka Secondary, which even offers lake views from the gym. Coldstream is also close to Okanagan College, giving a campus-like feel and plenty of green space around schools.

Amenities, Convenience & Commute

East Hill is close to everything: groceries, doctors, downtown dining — often within five to ten minutes. You can walk, bike or drive in under ten minutes.

Coldstream is a little more remote but still close: most places in Coldstream are about eight to twelve minutes to Vernon. You’re closer to Kal Beach, the Rail Trail and Middleton Mountain, with local markets and fruit stands nearby. If convenience is your priority, East Hill has the edge; if you want space and quieter pace, Coldstream is refreshing.

Community & Feel

East Hill is friendly, historic and diverse — a mix of families, professionals and retirees. It has sidewalks, a porch culture and a neighbourhood vibe where kids still play in the street.

Coldstream is quieter, scenic and family-oriented, known for active outdoor lifestyles like biking, hiking, paddleboarding and gardening. Coldstream feels like a getaway; East Hill feels like a vibrant Vernon community.

Prices & Value (as of 2025)

Entry-level homes in East Hill start around $700,000 to $800,000. Updated or larger homes are $900,000 to $1,000,000 plus, and character homes with views are $1.1 million plus.

In Coldstream, family homes start around $900,000. Lakeview properties range from $1.2 million to $2.5 million or more, with on-the-lake properties up to $13 million. Acreages and luxury estates can exceed $3 million. Coldstream is generally more expensive because you’re paying for space, land, views and exclusivity; East Hill often offers good value if you’re comfortable doing updates.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose East Hill if you want walkability, character homes, a heritage feel and a central location with easy access to amenities.

Choose Coldstream if you want space, views, quiet and proximity to nature and beaches — especially for a rural or luxury lifestyle near Kalamalka Lake.

If you’re undecided, we can walk you through the pros and cons based on your lifestyle, budget and goals. In the meantime, download our relocation package at vernonrelocation.com for more on Vernon and Coldstream.

Which would you choose — Coldstream or East Hill? Tell us in the comments.

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About the Author: The article above, Coldstream vs East Hill: Which Vernon Neighbourhood Is RIGHT for You?, was provided by Lisa Salt, an authority on Vernon BC and area real estate and a leader in the field of real estate blogging and vlogging.  Lisa and her group have helped literally helped thousands of families buy and sell homes since 1993. 

Looking to buy a home in the Vernon/North Okanagan area?  Check out "Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Home" article. It’s free of charge and will save you a ton of time!

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We help people buy and sell real estate in the following Okanagan/Shuswap areas: Vernon, Armstrong, Enderby, Lake Country, Lumby, Westside and Salmon Arm/Shuswap.

Call or Text 250-549-7258 or email webinfo@saltfowler.com