Mobility

This section examines commuters flow patterns, transit ridership, and modes of transportation. Mobility data helps shape transportation planning and supports efforts to build a more accessible, efficient, and sustainable community.

About 60% of West Vancouver’s working residents commute to jobs outside the District, with 20% traveling to the rest of the North Shore and 27% to Vancouver. Meanwhile, around 70% of West Vancouver workers commute in from other areas, with 33% from the North Shore and 17% from Vancouver. Peak hour congestion results from this “exchange” of residents and workers, as our local workforce rely on jobs located elsewhere and our local businesses rely on employees living elsewhere.

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Figure: Labour force commuter flow patterns, West Vancouver, 2021 Census
Cars remain the primary mode of transportation, accounting for at least 80% of daily trips, regardless of purpose¹. However, commuter car trips declined by 5% over the past two decades, with slight increases in walking and biking. By comparison, the region has seen similar shifts away from car use, but towards public transit. Unlike the broader region, which has seen higher transit use, West Vancouver’s transit ridership has slightly declined.

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Figure: Daily total trips by purpose and mode split, West Vancouver, 2017 TransLink Trip Diary

¹TransLink - Metro Vancouver Regional Trip Diary, 2017. 2023 not available.