Retire in Kelowna, Canada

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Aug 01, 2025

Summary: Kelowna, Canada is a popular destination for retirees due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and mild climate. The average temperature in Kelowna ranges from a low of -2°F in January to a high of 86°F in July. There are several retirement communities in Kelowna, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Kelowna is approximately $400,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home is around $500,000 USD.

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

What is it like to retire in Kelowna?

"Kelowna is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. The city offers a variety of cultural attractions, recreation, and nightlife. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from all over the world. The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theatres, as well as a vibrant music and arts scene. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The city also has a number of parks and beaches to explore. For those looking for a night out, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to choose from. With its stunning scenery and friendly people, Kelowna is a great place to retire," remarked one retiree in Kelowna.

BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
Get Quote

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retiring abroad can be a great option for many people. People should take the time to research the country they plan to retire in, take into account the cost of living and health care there, and learn the local language. They should also make sure that they are comfortable with their living situation, find ways to make friends, and connect with other expats who can provide assistance and support. Additionally, it can be helpful to develop a plan for returning to your home country if necessary. Finally, it is important to remain flexible and prepare for change as countries and cultures can transform rapidly," said one retiree in Kelowna.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Kelowna?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Kelowna is the cost of living. The cost of housing, groceries, and other necessities can be quite high, making it difficult for retirees to make ends meet. Additionally, the climate in Kelowna can be quite extreme, with hot summers and cold winters, which can be difficult for retirees to adjust to. Finally, the area can be quite isolated, making it difficult for retirees to find social activities and make new friends," remarked one retiree in Kelowna.

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

Learn MoreGet Quote

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Kelowna?

"Retiring in Kelowna offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its picturesque lakefront and mountain views. Residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and golfing, as well as a vibrant cultural scene with a variety of festivals and events. The city also offers a wide range of amenities, including excellent healthcare, shopping, and dining options. With its mild climate and low cost of living, Kelowna is an ideal place to retire and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle," remarked one retiree in Kelowna.

What are healthcare services like in Kelowna?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Kelowna. They wrote:

"Kelowna offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The city is home to a number of hospitals, including Kelowna General Hospital, which is the largest hospital in the region. In addition, there are several walk-in clinics, family doctors, and specialists available to provide medical care. The city also has a number of pharmacies, as well as a variety of mental health services. Furthermore, Kelowna is home to a number of community health centres, which provide a range of services such as health promotion, disease prevention, and health education," said a person in Kelowna.

How do I meet people in Kelowna?

When we asked people living in Kelowna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Most things happen in, on or around Okanagan Lake which divides Kelowna and West Kelowna. There are two waterfronts with walkways. Music in the park on Friday evenings during summer. Festivals, street parades, wine tasting, cherry picking, beaches, parks, bears, hiking, mountain biking," said one retiree in Kelowna.

"Expats in Kelowna can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as the Kelowna International Network, the Kelowna Women's Network, and the Kelowna Expat Club. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as farmers markets, art shows, and music festivals. Additionally, expats can join local sports teams, volunteer with local organizations, or take classes at the local college or university. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending church services, joining a book club, or attending meetups organized by local expat groups," commented one retiree living in Kelowna, Canada.

What is life like in Kelowna?

When we asked people living in Kelowna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Kelowna is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, and biking. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Canada, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. Additionally, Kelowna is well-connected to the rest of Canada, with easy access to major cities like Vancouver and Calgary. All in all, Kelowna is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a great place to live and work," explained a retiree in Kelowna.

"There are many young families and lots of activity on the water in summer and in the snow during winter. Lifestyle - paradise in summer," explained one retiree living in Kelowna.

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

Learn MoreGet Quote

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do I need to know before retiring in Kelowna?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Kelowna, they said:

"Kelowna is a beautiful city located in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its stunning scenery, mild climate, and abundance of outdoor activities. Before retiring in Kelowna, expats should research the cost of living, healthcare options, and the availability of public transportation. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Additionally, expats should consider the tax implications of retiring in Canada, as well as the availability of banking and financial services. Finally, expats should take the time to explore the city and its surrounding areas to ensure that it is the right fit for them," explained a retiree in Kelowna.

What type of recreational activities are there in Kelowna?

"Kelowna offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents and visitors. The City of Kelowna operates several outdoor pools, a skate park, and a variety of sports fields and courts. The City also operates several parks, trails, and beaches, including the popular Knox Mountain Park, which offers stunning views of the Okanagan Valley. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the City also operates several golf courses, including the Okanagan Golf Club and the Harvest Golf Club. For those looking for a more active experience, the City also offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing. In addition, the City operates several marinas, providing access to Okanagan Lake. Finally, the City also operates several cultural and entertainment venues, including the Kelowna Art Gallery and the Prospera Place arena," said one retiree in Kelowna.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kelowna?

"Kelowna is home to a variety of stores and markets where expats can buy groceries and do other shopping. The Real Canadian Superstore is a popular grocery store chain that offers a wide selection of food and other items. The Orchard Park Shopping Centre is a large mall with a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. For fresh produce, the Kelowna Farmers' and Crafters' Market is a great option, with local vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade crafts. For specialty items, the Downtown Kelowna Market is a great place to find unique items from around the world. Finally, the Mission Hill Winery is a great place to find local wines and other products," explained one retiree living in Kelowna.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
 PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Copyright 1997-2026 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal