Central B.C.
Life in the Heart of B.C.
Central British Columbia is the heartland of the province, defined by rolling plateaus, rugged mountains, dense forests and hundreds of lakes. It's known for its natural beauty, slower pace of life compared to the Lower Mainland, and a strong sense of community.
The region is shaped by forestry, mining, ranching and increasingly tourism and outdoor recreation. You'll find four-season opportunities: skiing, fishing, camping, mountain biking and hiking are all part of everyday life.
Central B.C. is home to key cities and towns, including Kamloops, Prince George, Williams Lake, Quesnel, Cache Creek and Lillooet.
Featured Employers
Cariboo-Chilcotin 27
30 Schools | 5,800 Students | 1,000 Employees
Gold Trail 74
11 Schools | 1,200 Students | 366 Employees
Kamloops-Thompson 73
49 Schools | 15,000 Students | 1,650 Employees
K-12 Employers
Public School Employers
Francophone School Board
Culture
In Central B.C., culture is rooted in community and tradition. Ranching and farming have long shaped the way of life, and that heritage lives on in summer rodeos, stampedes and agricultural fairs that bring families, friends and neighbours together. These gatherings are more than entertainment; they’re celebrations of local pride and connection.
For many residents, time in nature is as much about community as it is about recreation, with outdoor activities often shared among families, clubs and social groups.
Cultural life also draws on the region’s history. Communities take pride in preserving stories of the Cariboo Gold Rush, with places like Barkerville serving not just as historic sites, but as reminders of the resilience, creativity and spirit that continue to define the region.
Lifestyle
Central B.C. may cover a vast area, but life here is closely knit. The outdoors is a way of life. Weekends are often spent on the trails, lakes and rivers, hiking, biking, paddling, fishing or skiing when winter arrives.
Life moves at a steady, balanced pace. Residents enjoy wide-open spaces, fresh air and easy access to nature, making outdoor recreation a natural part of daily routines, from skiing and fishing to gardening and backyard barbecues with friends and neighbours.
For those pursuing higher education, the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George provides an outstanding option close to home, consistently recognized as one of the top small universities in Western Canada.
Community
Community is at the heart of life in Central B.C. Despite the region’s size, the towns and cities are tightly knit, with neighbours quick to lend a hand and people taking pride in looking out for one another.
Local events, whether a school fundraiser, a rodeo, or a hockey game, are where residents gather, connect and celebrate together. Farmers’ markets, cultural festivals and community halls create regular opportunities for people to share food, stories, and traditions.
The sense of belonging is strong here: newcomers often find it easy to become part of the fabric of the community, building friendships and support networks quickly. In Central B.C., community isn’t just where you live, it’s something you experience every day.
