Shaughnessy

Shaughnessy is Vancouver's wealthiest and most prestigious neighborhood, established in 1907 as a planned residential community for the city's elite. Named after Sir Thomas Shaughnessy, president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, this neighborhood was designed as a garden suburb with curved streets, large lots, and strict building covenants that remain in effect today.

In 2026, Shaughnessy retains its character as Vancouver's most exclusive residential area. The First Shaughnessy Heritage Conservation Area, designated in 1982, protects over 400 historic homes on tree-lined streets with grand estates averaging 15,000-30,000 square feet in lot size. Walking through Shaughnessy feels like stepping into a different era—massive Tudor, Georgian, and Arts and Crafts mansions set back from the street, manicured hedges, and an almost suburban quietness despite being just 10 minutes from downtown.

Rentals in Shaughnessy are extremely limited and typically fall into two categories: basement suites in family homes (often occupied by UBC students or young professionals), or rare secondary residences on estate properties. This is not a neighborhood of rental buildings—it's single-family homes, many occupied by multi-generational families, foreign investors, and Vancouver's old money. The vibe is refined, quiet, and decidedly residential with virtually no commercial activity within the neighborhood itself.

Shaughnessy was developed starting in 1907 by the Canadian Pacific Railway as an exclusive residential district modeled after garden suburbs in England and the United States. Named after Sir Thomas Shaughnessy, president of the CPR, it was designed by landscape architect Frederick Todd with curved streets, large lots, and building restrictions to ensure grandeur. The First Shaughnessy area (north of King Edward Avenue) was designated a Heritage Conservation Area in 1982, protecting its collection of Edwardian-era mansions. Throughout the 20th century, Shaughnessy has remained Vancouver's most prestigious address, home to business leaders, old-money families, and more recently, international investors.

Demographics: Shaughnessy has one of Vancouver's highest median household incomes and property values. The population skews older (many established families) with pockets of younger families moving in. The neighborhood has a significant proportion of Chinese and Iranian immigrant families who have purchased estate homes. Average household size is larger than Vancouver's average, reflecting multi-generational living. Educational attainment is very high, with most adults holding university degrees.