Living in Tofino

Living in Tofino: The Basics

Population: 1,932
Average age: 39
Average home price: $599,999
Average salary: $67,881

Literally, at the end of the road, Tofino is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, accessed via Highway 4 from Parksville, 26 miles (42 km) north of Ucluelet, and 81 miles (130 km) west of Port Alberni. Tofino is situated within one of the most dramatic and pristine landscapes on the southern coast.

Weather in Tofino

The climate in Tofino is marine west coast. Precipitation mostly happens in the winter. Tofino’s annual amount of precipitation is 3,270.7 mm (128.77 in), far exceeding nearby areas. Tofino’s proximity to the ocean keeps the temperatures cool in the summer and mild in the winter. The average high temperature in the summer is 19.1 °C and 8.1 °C in the winter.

Employment in Tofino

During the 1980s and 1990s, recognition for Tofino as a tourism destination increased, and since that time, Tofino has become the West Coast’s premier tourist destination. Top industries in Tofino include:

Buying a home in Tofino

Property taxes are one of the District’s primary sources of revenue to pay for the services provided. District Council determines the budget required to provide the services, and a municipal tax rate is set to collect the necessary taxes. For a breakdown of tax rates in Tofino, click here.

If you’d like to browse my top listings in Tofino, click here. Contact me when you find something you love, and we’ll schedule a showing.

If you have any questions about how to move to Tofino, I am happy to answer them all.

Utilities in Tofino

The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) provides waste collection, which services the Tofino community. Tofino has a modern cell phone and landline access (including Internet and ADSL). Tofino’s tap water is collected with gratitude from the rainforests protected by Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks in the Hahuulthii of the Tla-o-qui-aht Ha’wiih. Power is provided by British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority (BC Hydro)

Getting around Tofino

The Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ) is centrally located between Tofino and Ucluelet on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The city’s free summer shuttle runs between Tofino’s Village core and the Cox Bay Visitor Centre. Riders can hop on and off at any stop along the route – and surfboards are welcome too.

Healthcare in Tofino

Tofino’s hospital is the Tofino General Hospital, operated by the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA). The Tofino Volunteer Fire Department provides fire protection and emergency services to the community of Tofino.

Education in Tofino

The Tofino Community Children’s Centre is a group daycare/out-of-school care facility that offers enriched, quality programming that enables children to learn and grow. The Centre focuses on helping children living in Tofino master their world through play and exploration. Public education is offered by the School District 70 Alberni through the Wickaninnish Community School in Tofino and Ucluelet Secondary School in Ucluelet.

Dining out in Tofino

Tofino offers a wealth of fantastic restaurants, coffee shops, and brand new spots to check out. Over the years, Tofino has grown from its quiet fishing town roots, and the culinary scene has become an award-winning force to be reckoned with. Some of the most popular restaurants in Tofino include Lil Ronnie Beachside BBQ, Rhino Coffee House, Shed, Chocolate Tofino.

Things to do in Tofino

Tofino is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The town hosts several music and art festivals. The Tofino Community Hall is used for a range of activities and programs, some of which are offered by the Tofino Parks and Recreation Program. The Hall is also used for public and private special events.

The Clayoquot Sound Community Theatre Association further enhances and enriches the Tofino community’s cultural well-being by hosting big-screen movies, small stage productions, and cultural events in its 72 seat theatre.

The Pacific Rim Arts Society is a highly active arts and culture organization that advocates for the local artisan community and runs special events and festivals to benefit residents and visitors alike.

Planning on moving to Tofino, BC?

Whatever your reason may be for relocating to Tofino, the moving process can be an enormously stressful experience. I want to use my experience in the Tofino real estate market to help you and your family find your dream home. Contact me today! This area is my home, and I can’t wait to help you find your new home.

Start Your Ucluelet & Tofino Home Search With This Guide

I’ve put together all my knowledge about this extraordinary area, as well as an introductory checklist to optimize your home buying process. Download the Ucluelet & Tofino Home Buying Guide and get ready to find your hidden gem of a home.