Boomer Migration

The Boomer generation is the wealthiest generation in Canadian history. And while some are holding on to their large two-story homes in the suburbs a faction of the Boomer brigade are now fording a different route, away from the bridges and tunnels and back into the city.

The Boomers are downsizing, buying single level homes and reinventing themselves in the urban landscape. They are spreading their fortunes between their family, travel and entertainment. Suburban life has little to offer culturally, so the grey-hairs are now taking another look at the urban sprawl.

Main Street, often viewed as the Mecca of cool in Vancouver, is seeing a new demographic moving into the surrounding midrises. Seniors who want to reignite their passions, lower their carbon footprint and be closer to the action are buying homes in and around the Broadway and Main intersection. Mixing with the trendsetters and young professionals, Boomers now have the time, money and desire to enjoy the city life offered to those in the pulse.

Art is a major pull. With the number of galleries along and around Main, Boomers can indulge their interest in the visual arts. They are starting collections, taking classes at Emily Carr and paying closer attention to the public art scene. We're talking about YOU, Main St. Poodle.

They are also becoming more involved with how they would like their communities to be decorated. Seniors are taking leading roles in community centres and on powerful boards around that city that are shaping the contemporary urban aesthetic.

The entertainment industry is also seeing a revival. The Bard tents are one of the most popular summer draws for Boomers, but live music venues are seeing an increase as well. Seniors are taking a renewed interest in the musical outputs of local musicians. They may not be hitting the downtown club scene, but they are taking in smaller shows like those offered on the Main Street strip.

And have you spent anytime in the coffee shops lately. Every second table has a Boomer enjoying a cup of the dark stuff. With limited time constraints, Boomers have gravitated to the tablet market, bringing their web browsing to the cafés.

After a lifetime of cooking for themselves, seniors are also expanding their culinary palates. The Main Street restaurant scene is one of the most diverse in the city. Eateries like Burgoo offer a wide selection of menu options for the dine-out enthusiast.

Then there is the issue of the car. Living around Main Street offers residents the chance to free themselves of the burden of owning an automobile. Walking is the main form of transportation. Add an excellent, ever-expanding public transport system to the mix and the need for a vehicle becomes obsolete.

The bike is the new mode for Boomers looking to stay healthy. With the increase in bike lanes, Boomers can feel safe when they ride to and from their social meetings. And growing up under the tutelage of David Susuki, Boomers are keenly aware of the environmental benefits of choosing a two-wheeled transporter over a four-wheel.

Evan Living offers the perfect modern hideaway for this generation. With security features, art inspired living spaces, bike storage and the proximity to the urban pulse; Evan is the next destination for seniors looking to reignite their urban aspirations.