Living in Lake Country East/Oyama, Kelowna BC: A Local Guide
Looking to move to the Lake Country East/Oyama area near Kelowna, BC? You’re not alone! This quiet and scenic community between Kelowna and Vernon is quickly becoming a hot spot for families, retirees, and outdoor lovers. As a long-time local and expert in Kelowna real estate, I'm here to walk you through what it's really like to live in this special slice of the Okanagan.
Whether you're browsing homes for sale in Kelowna or planning a relocation, this blog is your full guide to Lake Country East/Oyama.
Pros and Cons of Living in Lake Country East/Oyama
Pros:
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Scenic views of Wood Lake, Kalamalka Lake, and mountains.
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Peaceful lifestyle away from city noise.
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Great hiking, biking, and water sports right outside your door.
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Quick access to both Kelowna and Vernon (25–30 mins drive).
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Strong sense of community and safety.
Cons:
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Limited public transportation options.
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Fewer retail and dining choices compared to central Kelowna.
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Can be a longer commute for those working downtown Kelowna.
Education in Lake Country East/Oyama
Parents love the local school options here. Public schools are part of School District 23 (Central Okanagan). Oyama Traditional School offers a close-knit learning environment, and nearby George Elliot Secondary in Winfield covers grades 8–12.
For younger kids, there are excellent preschools and childcare centers nearby, plus school bus routes that reach most neighbourhoods.
Employment Opportunities in Lake Country East/Oyama
While many residents commute to Kelowna, local jobs include:
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Agriculture & vineyards (fruit picking, wine production)
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Tourism & hospitality (lodges, cafes, adventure tours)
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Trades & construction (lots of new home builds)
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Remote work – the peaceful vibe is ideal for online professionals.
5 Must-Do Activities in the Neighbourhood
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Cycle the Okanagan Rail Trail – Smooth, scenic, and family-friendly.
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Swim or paddle on Wood Lake – Quiet, calm waters perfect for summer.
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Tour the local wineries – Try Intrigue Wines or Blind Tiger Vineyards.
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Visit Oyama Zipline Adventure Park – A top pick for thrill seekers.
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Explore Kaloya Regional Park – A picnic-perfect lakeside gem.
What It's Like Living in the Community
Lake Country East/Oyama has a laid-back and nature-focused lifestyle. People wave to each other. Kids ride their bikes on quiet streets. Families enjoy the lake all summer, and in the fall, you’ll find locals picking apples or hiking the hills.
The vibe is relaxed, and people here really care about their community.
The Lifestyle: Quiet, Active, and Scenic
This is where you go to slow down and breathe. Most people are into hiking, boating, cycling, and gardening. With two stunning lakes nearby and trails everywhere, it’s an active lifestyle without being intense.
There’s also a growing arts and food scene—local markets, wine tastings, and artisan crafts are common.
Demographics of Lake Country East/Oyama
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Families with young kids make up a big part of the population.
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Many retirees enjoy the peaceful pace and warm climate.
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You’ll find professionals working remotely or commuting to Kelowna or Vernon.
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Community events and school functions bring everyone together.
Real Estate in Lake Country East/Oyama
This area is a mix of newer builds, lakefront properties, and older homes with large lots.
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Styles include modern craftsman, traditional ranchers, and contemporary lakeview homes.
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Many properties offer lake views or quick access to the water.
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Homes built from the early 2000s to present day are common, with some historic character homes as well.
The area is ideal for buyers looking for space, peace, and outdoor access.
Want to learn the steps to buying in this market? Download our free buyer’s guide here for expert tips and insights.
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If you're serious about finding a home in Lake Country East/Oyama, we can send you new listings as soon as they hit the market.
Call/text
Mark and Maddie Coons
778-744-0872 or
email [email protected] to get started today.
