Penticton was named Canada’s second most entrepreneurial city by the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses. The city also encourages and aims to help its entrepreneurs.
Some of the key sectors in Penticton are manufacturing, tourism and agriculture. Penticton is clearly a great place for businesses in the manufacturing sector, as it was named the most cost-effective place to run a manufacturing business in the North America Pacific Region by KPMG. The tourism industry brings in around 1.2 million people per year, making it a thriving source of income in Penticton. The city has plenty of attractions to offer visitors and it is a popular vacation spot. The agricultural sector does well in the city with its largest industry being fruit and tree nut farming.
Entertainment and Tourism
History and culture play a large role in Penticton. There are many places to visit in the city that document the railway and the Syilx First People’s presence in the city. The S.S. Sicamous Museum is a historical site where visitors can learn about the history behind the largest surviving stern-wheeler in Canada.
The city also has many areas dedicated to the outdoors. Water sports are popular activities in the area and in turn there are many companies that provide the tools you need to have fun on the water. There are many places to venture out to and there are also guided tours that take people exploring in the mountains and outdoor areas of Penticton.
Neighbourhoods
The city is divided in three main areas: the Center, the North and the South.
Central Penticton is the main area of the city. It is filled with housing, businesses and amenities. This area of the town is home to the Downtown neighbourhood of Penticton. The community of Downtown has many shops, dining opportunities and services. The South Okanagan Events Centre is also found here and provides entertainment to the city. This area is located along the water. Health care is close by with the Penticton Regional Hospital towards the south of the area.
North
North Penticton is a largely rural area. The main attraction shere are the wineries that are scattered throughout the vicinity. The area provides stunning views and picturesque landscapes. A few houses can be found scattered around here as well.
South
South Penticton runs from the Penticton Regional Airport all the way down along Skaha Lake. Housing, along with shopping and other amenities, makes up a large part of the north of this area. Towards the south of the area, along Skaha Lake, it tends to be more rural. A few wineries can also be found here.
Real Estate Market
North Penticton has plenty of land and single-family homes. The properties in this area have breathtaking views and some of them can be found along the water. The homes that are in this area are large and most have plenty of privacy. The land available in the area has many different uses including farming and agriculture, not to mention for the construction of homes.
Central Penticton has single-family homes, townhouses and commercial space.
The homes tend to be smaller and they are quite affordable. The commercial property in the area can be put to work for many different uses and the location is excellent for business.
South Penticton has condominiums, single-family homes, apartments, land and commercial space. Many of the homes in this area have stunning views as well. Somehomes herehave a higher price. Most of the land that is availableis located by the water. The commercial space in the area is perfect for office space.
Home Style
Median Price
Home
$459,950
Apartment
$298,400
The table above is based on data from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) National MLS® Report for April 2016 (the latest information available). Median prices are based on data from www.canadianrealestatemagazine.ca.
Education
School District 67 is a school board in Penticton that manages the public schools in the area. There are seven elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools in the city. In addition to these, there is also a French Immersion school and a Catholic school.
Post-secondary options in Penticton include Okanagan College and Sprott Shaw College. In addition to these educational establishments, there are also two other schools in the city. One is the Okanagan School of Arts that is for people who are looking to express themselves creatively. The other is the Okanagan Hockey School with staff who have played or coached the sport of hockey for many years.
