Kelowna

Population of approximately 106,000 (2007)

Kelowna is the largest city in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley with a population of 106,000. Surrounded by green forested mountains merging with lush orchards and vineyards overlooking the sparkling waters of 82-mile long Lake Okanagan, Kelowna is a natural choice for visitors.

Kelowna has an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine a year, with average temperatures varying from 0° C (32° F) in January to 27.9° C (88.2° F) in July. In mid-summer, 1/3 of the season's days are considered tropical in temperature (temperatures greater than 30° C or 85° F). Elevation is 344 metres or 1129 feet. .

Kelowna has a diversified economy with large industry employers such as Western Star Trucks, Sun Rype Products and Riverside Forest Products, as well as many small and medium sized businesses. There is also a growing high tech sector as entrepreneurs and employees are attracted to the lifestyle and accessibility of Kelowna. Kelowna was ranked first with the overall lowest cost to do business out of the six cities compared in the US and Canada, in the KPMG Pacific Region - Competitiveness Alternatives Study. For a detailed economic profile of Kelowna, visit the Economic Development Commission website.

The Kelowna International Airport is the 3rd busiest in British Columbia and the 11th largest in Canada. Kelowna is serviced by Canadian Regional Airlines, Westjet, Horizon Air, Air Canada, Central Mountain and Air BC, with direct flights from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Seattle, Toronto and Victoria.

Often referred to as the Hawaii of Canada or the Florida of the north, Kelowna annually attracts visitors from around the world. Many return and often remain. As the population grew, the services and choices expanded broadening the attraction. The area has enjoyed one of North America's highest growth rates over the past twenty years resulting in a flourishing economy.

Tourism, forestry, fruit growing, and wineries (over thirty locally) are the obvious industries. Tourism is attracted to Kelowna's beauty, weather, beaches, boating, skiing, wine festivals, and golf (thirteen courses within the city limits and five more within a thirty minute drive). Kelowna is the fastest growing retirement area in Canada. The experienced and diversified population demand a high quality of life.

Related Links:
Chamber of Commerce

Tourism Kelowna

City of Kelowna

Community Portal Site

Economic Development Commission

Real Estate Agents working in Kelowna

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