The housing market doesn’t exist in a bubble—and nowhere is that more true than in fast-growing cities like Surrey, BC. While interest rates, government policies, and immigration play national roles, the local economy often has a direct and lasting impact on real estate values and buyer confidence in your neighbourhood.
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, it’s important to understand how economic factors specific to Surrey influence the property market.
Why the Local Economy Matters in Real Estate
At its core, real estate is driven by supply and demand—and both are directly tied to economic conditions. A strong local economy typically means:
More jobs
Higher wages
Increased population growth
Greater consumer confidence
All of which contribute to more people buying homes, higher property values, and stronger overall market activity.
In contrast, a slowing economy may lead to cautious buyers, fewer sales, and price adjustments.
Key Economic Factors Influencing Surrey Real Estate
1. Employment Growth and Job Sectors
Surrey is one of BC’s fastest-growing job markets, with employment in:
Tech and innovation (especially in Central City & Innovation Boulevard)
Health care (Surrey Memorial Hospital, new medical campuses)
Construction and trades
Education (SFU Surrey and Kwantlen Polytechnic University)
Why it matters: When jobs are stable and diverse, people are more willing to purchase or upgrade homes. Higher-paying jobs also support stronger buying power—fueling demand for both condos and detached homes.
2. Population Growth and Migration
Surrey continues to attract new immigrants, young families, and professionals from across Canada. In fact, it’s projected to overtake Vancouver in population within the next decade.
Why it matters: More people moving in = more housing demand. This drives up prices and rental values, especially in high-growth areas like Fleetwood, Clayton Heights, and South Surrey.
3. Infrastructure Development
Surrey is investing heavily in public transit, roads, and community projects, including:
The Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension
New recreation centres, parks, and schools
Ongoing downtown revitalization projects
Why it matters: Infrastructure boosts property values—especially near transit-oriented developments (TODs). Buyers pay a premium to live in accessible, well-serviced communities.
4. Business & Commercial Growth
Surrey’s emerging city core is attracting tech startups, retailers, and corporate offices. Innovation Boulevard and the health tech sector are also creating long-term employment hubs.
Why it matters: A thriving business environment means more jobs, more professionals relocating to the area, and more support for the local housing market—especially in urban condo developments.
5. Real Estate Development & Supply
While demand in Surrey is growing, the supply side is catching up—with numerous condo, townhouse, and single-family projects underway.
Why it matters: New supply can help balance prices but also signals investor confidence. The volume and pace of new construction are tied to the local economy’s ability to support growth.
6. Consumer Confidence and Local Spending
Economic optimism translates into real estate action. When Surrey residents feel secure in their income and career paths, they’re more likely to:
Upsize from condos to townhomes
Buy investment properties
Enter the market as first-time buyers
In times of uncertainty, many buyers pause or negotiate more aggressively, which softens market activity.
What Happens During an Economic Slowdown?
If the local economy slows—due to layoffs, reduced construction, or stalled infrastructure—it can lead to:
Decreased buyer demand
Price corrections in some property types
Longer days on market
A more balanced or buyer-friendly market
However, Surrey’s diverse economy and rapid population growth offer some insulation. Unlike resource-dependent towns, Surrey has multiple engines (healthcare, education, tech, construction) helping keep demand stable.
How to Stay Informed as a Buyer or Seller
Understanding the economic impact on Surrey real estate helps you make smarter decisions. Here’s how to stay informed:
Follow city updates at Surrey(dot)ca
Track trends via the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board
Subscribe to local business and housing market reports
Work with a local realtor (like Future Assets Group) who offers real-time insights on neighborhood dynamics
Final Thoughts: Local Economy, Real Estate Reality
The strength of Surrey’s economy plays a major role in shaping its property market. Job creation, infrastructure, migration, and spending habits all influence buyer behaviour and property values.
If you’re planning to make a move in 2025, keep one eye on the market—and the other on the economy behind it.
📞 Want to know how current local trends could impact your buying or selling decision? Let’s talk. At Future Assets Group, we connect the dots between the economy and your next move.