Neighborhood Scores
About Marpole
Marpole is one of Vancouver's most established and diverse South Vancouver neighborhoods, offering a unique blend of affordability, transit access, and cultural richness. Historically an industrial area tied to the Fraser River and early railway development, Marpole has evolved into a primarily residential community with strong multicultural roots.
In 2026, Marpole stands out as one of Vancouver's most affordable rental markets with direct Canada Line access to downtown, Richmond, and YVR Airport. The neighborhood is characterized by low-rise apartment buildings, established single-family homes, and a strong Asian commercial presence along Oak Street and Marine Drive.
While it lacks the trendy cafes and nightlife of more central neighborhoods, Marpole offers practical, value-driven living for airport workers, students attending nearby schools (Langara College, UBC), and renters seeking affordability without sacrificing transit connectivity. The neighborhood is in transition, with new development bringing modern housing stock and amenities.
May not be ideal for:
- • Those seeking walkable urban amenities and nightlife
- • Young professionals wanting vibrant social scene
- • Renters prioritizing trendy cafes and restaurants
- • Those without tolerance for aircraft noise (near YVR flight path)
- • People avoiding car-dependent areas (outside Marine Drive core)
Rental Prices in Marpole
Where to Eat, Drink & Work
Coffee Shops
Authentic Italian cafe with espresso, pastries, and light lunch. Long-time Marpole staple.
8568 Granville Street
Reliable chain location convenient to Canada Line station.
Canadian staple for coffee and donuts, multiple locations.
Vancouver-based chain with comfortable seating for remote work.
Restaurants
Legendary Beijing-style cuisine. Famous for their lamb and hand-pulled noodles. A Vancouver institution.
8682 Granville Street
Hidekazu Tojo's flagship—one of Vancouver's most acclaimed Japanese restaurants. Omakase and sushi excellence.
1133 W Broadway (nearby)
Reliable pho and Vietnamese comfort food at affordable prices.
Neighborhood sushi spot with fresh fish and good value.
BC's original burger chain with family-friendly atmosphere.
South Asian cuisine with tandoori specialties and curries.
Bars & Nightlife
Upscale pub with craft beer, comfort food, and TVs for sports.
450 SW Marine Drive
Casual chain with cocktails, beer, and pub fare.
Asian fusion restaurant and lounge with evening drinks.
Fitness
Large gym with cardio, weights, group fitness, pool, and sauna.
450 SW Marine Drive
Affordable community fitness with ice rink, gym, and classes.
990 W 59th Avenue
24/7 access with basic equipment and personal training.
Affordable gym chain with standard equipment.
Getting Around
Commute Times
Transit Stations
- • Marine Drive Station (Canada Line)
- • Langara-49th Avenue Station (Canada Line)
- • Multiple bus routes along Oak Street and Granville Street
Is Marpole Safe?
Marpole is generally safe with average crime rates for Vancouver. It's a quiet residential neighborhood with family presence, though some areas near arterial roads (Granville, Oak) experience more property crime. The neighborhood lacks the high-profile safety issues of downtown but isn't as secure as wealthier West Side areas.
During the Day
Very safe during daytime. Families, students, and workers create active street life. Standard urban awareness recommended.
At Night
Generally safe, but quieter streets can feel isolated after dark. Main streets (Granville, Oak, Marine Drive) are better lit and more active. Avoid walking alone in industrial areas near the river.
Areas to Be Aware Of
Industrial pockets near the Fraser River can be isolated at night. Some sections of Granville Street south of 70th Avenue are quieter. Otherwise, no major concern areas.
History & Culture
Named after early settler Richard Marpole, Chief Executive of the Canadian Pacific Railway's BC Coast Service, the neighborhood developed as an industrial and working-class area tied to the Fraser River shipping industry in the early 1900s. Marpole was Vancouver's original airport location (1929-1931) before YVR moved to Sea Island. Post-WWII saw residential growth, and from the 1980s onward, significant Asian immigration transformed the commercial landscape, particularly along Oak Street and Granville Street. The 2009 Canada Line opening and 2010s Marine Gateway development marked Marpole's modern transition into a transit-oriented, multicultural urban neighborhood.
Demographics: Highly multicultural with significant Asian populations (Chinese, Filipino, South Asian, Vietnamese). Large immigrant and international student presence due to proximity to Langara College. Working and middle-class families, seniors who've lived in the area for decades, and younger renters seeking affordability. Mix of long-term residents and newcomers.
- • Marpole Winter Festival (community celebration)
- • Langara College cultural events (open to public)
- • Marpole Oakridge Community Centre programs
- • Chinese New Year celebrations at Asian businesses
Explore Nearby
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Last updated: 2026-01-05 • By Vancouver Sublets
Sources: City of Vancouver, TransLink, Rentals.ca, Zumper, Walk Score, Marpole Neighbourhood Association, Reddit r/vancouver