The Ongoing Urban Exodus – Why Zoom Calls and Chickens Totally Work Together
Turns out, “working from home” hits different when your home has mountain views, zero traffic jams, and a goat named Kevin. As remote work becomes the norm, more folks are swapping urban hustle for rural tranquility.
Signs of the Shift:
- Interprovincial Migration Trends: In 2023, British Columbia experienced a net loss of over 8,600 residents to other provinces. This marks the first such decline in a decade .BC Chartered Professional Accountants+4Burns Lake Lakes District News+4Times Colonist+4
- Remote Work Revolution: Self-employment in Canada has seen a resurgence, with 2.7 million self-employed workers recorded in March 2025, up 3.0% from the same month in 2024 .Statistics Canada
- Internet Infrastructure: TELUS has expanded its PureFibre network, offering symmetrical upload and download speeds of up to 250 Mbps in various regions. This allows for enhanced connectivity for remote workers .Reddit+3TELUS+3BC Technology+3
Top Rural Retreats:
Creston Valley: Affordable living with a community feel. The ongoing rollout of fiber-optic internet ensures that you can attend Zoom meetings without a hitch, all while enjoying the serenity of rural life.
Nelson: A haven for artists and entrepreneurs alike. With co-working spaces and a vibrant arts scene, Nelson combines creativity with connectivity.
Kimberley & Invermere: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t want to compromise on their caffeine fix. These towns offer a blend of adventure and amenities.
Expert Insight:
“The urban exodus isn’t just a phase—it’s a cultural shift redefining how and where we live and work.”
– Dana Mirza, Urban-to-Rural Migration Researcher, UVic
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of swapping traffic jams for tractor sightings, or replacing your office view with rolling hills and roaming deer — this might be your sign. Rural BC isn’t just where you live — it’s where you thrive, breathe a little deeper, and maybe finally learn how to keep a basil plant alive.
Give us a call, your lakeside cabin, cozy cottage, and scenic Zoom background await — country living never looked so good 🌻🐓✨