Discover the Best and Worst Things About Living in Winnipeg’s Birchwood Neighborhood
Quiet, calm, and clean, Birchwood is a cozy neighborhood right by the river, which I always see whenever I hike around the area. With abundant green spaces and waterfront properties, I assumed it was an expensive place to live.
But after a friend moved into an apartment nearby, I found out how reasonably priced the neighborhood is. And she had her own private balcony!
Whether you’re looking for a house or a rental unit, I can help you understand what it’s like to live in Birchwood, Winnipeg. I will go over important details such as housing options, affordability, convenience, and more in our guide below.
About Birchwood, Winnipeg
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Birchwood is a charming neighborhood in Winnipeg situated along the Assiniboine River.
Compared to more central or upscale areas, it offers a calmer atmosphere with less noise and traffic but it’s still within arm’s reach from the city.
The neighborhood’s proximity to green spaces and local amenities also adds to its appeal, making it a solid choice for those looking for a suburban feel within reach of city conveniences.
Where is Birchwood?
Located right on the Assiniboine River, Birchwood is about 9.1 km from Downtown Winnipeg. It’s situated between Silver Heights and Woodhaven in the St. James region.
How to Get to Birchwood
Car: From downtown, hop on Portage Avenue and follow it all the way to Olive Street. Just take a left and continue on Assiniboine Crescent, where the suburb is located.
Bus: Take Bus 11 at Southbound Main at Lombard, which will take about 25 minutes to reach your stop at Westbound Portage at Whyteworld. From there, you can reach Birchwood on foot in 5 minutes or less.
Why Birchwood Is a Good Neighborhood to Live In
Variety of Housing Options
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At Birchwood, you can expect a variety of housing options that fit different lifestyles and budgets. Although large apartments in high-rise buildings are the most common type of dwelling here, there are plenty of single-detached homes in the area as well.
Around 70% of the residents are renters who pay anywhere from $1,000 to $2,499. This affordability makes it a great option for young professionals or households looking to downsize.
If you have a family, you might prefer getting a house. The units here come with sizable yards and mature trees, where your children can play safely in the shade.
More importantly, the average cost of a home in Birchwood is $396,378. It’s nearly half the price of properties in neighborhoods, such as Assiniboia Downs and Tuxedo.
Safe, Well-Maintained Streets
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Birchwood barely has any sidewalks, but it’s still a pretty walkable area as there isn’t much car traffic around. All of the properties are well-kept and clean, making the streets safe enough for leisurely strolls and morning runs.
You can even cross the Assiniboine River using a nearby walking bridge. This lovely pathway not only offers a scenic crossing but also provides quick access to WoodHaven and its charming park.
Abundant Green Spaces
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The upside to living near the river is some peace and quiet. Not to mention, you can have plenty of outdoor fun all year round.
Here, you won’t have to stray too far in search of a park or a playground—there are several nearby where residents of all ages can enjoy the outdoors.
Along Olive Street, you’ll find a small play area with slides, swings, and other equipment that little children can use. It’s just a short walk away from all the houses in the area.
On the other side of the neighborhood, you have WoodHaven Park. It has a larger green field where kids can play sports or simply run around to their heart’s content.
Access to Shopping Centers
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Having easy access to stores allows residents to take care of their shopping needs quickly and efficiently.
For example, the nearby Shoppers Drug Mart is a fantastic go-to spot for daily needs. It has everything from snacks and personal care to electronics, simplifying life for Birchwood residents.
What makes Shoppers Drug Mart even more valuable is its pharmacy services, allowing locals to fill their prescriptions and pick up health essentials without the hassle of traveling far.
The proximity of these stores means that residents can easily maintain their wellness routines, grab last-minute groceries, or handle unexpected needs in a pinch.
Access to Health Services
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Convenient access to a range of health and emergency services makes Birchwood a practical choice for families and seniors. Knowing comprehensive healthcare is nearby should also give you peace of mind.
Grace Hospital is one of the closest full-service hospitals. It offers emergency care, surgery, and other medical services. For more specialized care, you can turn to the Health Sciences Centre, which is a bit further but still within a reasonable distance.
Proximity to Golf Courses
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Perfect for retirees and golf enthusiasts, Birchwood is a stone’s throw away from various Country Clubs. Whether you’re interested in a full membership or a casual place to practice, you have a few exclusive and public courses to choose from.
Assiniboine Golf Club’s challenging 9-hole golf course is open to the public, including nonmembers. If you want a more exclusive experience, Glendale Golf and Country Club is only 10 minutes away.
Variety of School Options
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Birchwood offers families access to a variety of school options nearby, including daycares, and private and public schools. You can reduce commute times and ensure that children receive quality education in a supportive environment.
For younger children, nearby elementary schools such as Stevenson-Britannia School and Linwood School provide strong early education programs.
You can also find private schooling options, with institutions like St. James-Assiniboia International School offering alternative curricula and diverse learning opportunities.
Additionally, families interested in French immersion or bilingual programs can explore options like École Assiniboine.
Proximity to Assiniboine Zoo
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Perhaps the most exciting thing about living in Birchwood is being so close to Assiniboine Zoo, one of Winnipeg’s most beloved attractions.
You can explore a wide variety of exhibits featuring over 200 species from around the world. Everyone’s favorite is the Journey to Churchill exhibit, which showcases polar bears, Arctic foxes, and seals in a 10-acre space that mimics their natural habitat.
They also host seasonal events and educational programs, making it an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy a day outdoors.
Things to Consider Before Moving to Birchwood
Old Homes
Most of the dwellings in Birchwood were built in the 1960s and 1970s, and there are even a handful that were constructed prior to that decade.
Although rent is cheap here, you have to consider that older homes might require more frequent maintenance. If the property hasn’t been maintained well over the years, the upkeep might cost you more per month.
There have also been structural issues concerning an old apartment complex in the area, which forced the city to evacuate the tenants for their safety. It caused a lot of stress as they were hardly given any time to move out.
If you’re interested in getting a place here, you must be nit-picky with your options. You should look closely at the property before signing a contract.
Limited Entertainment Options
Besides the parks, there aren’t a lot of dining or entertainment options in the neighborhood.
There are a few fast food places nearby like McDonald’s and Boston Pizza, where you can grab a quick bite or order takeout. For drinks or maybe a fancy dinner, you can go to The Keg or Underdogs just a short drive away.
If you’re looking for other options, you’ll have to venture out to the city.
Minimal Bus Stops and Services
Nearly 70% of Birchwood residents rely on a car for transportation as bus stops and services are quite limited in this suburb, unlike the rest of the St. James region.
It’s only a 16-minute drive to Downtown Winnipeg in favorable weather and road conditions. If you commute from the neighborhood, you’ll have to wait for Bus 11 at the Eastbound Portage at Olive station, which comes every 15 minutes.
You’ll reach the city in at least 35 minutes. It can be very inconvenient if you’re working full-time downtown.