Here we grow again!

Here we

again! grow

Pop into any of our local cafés or eavesdrop on a trail and you are sure to hear a discussion of Squamish’s growth.

Squamish is one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities.

Our population is booming.

From 2016 to 2021, the population of Squamish spiked to 23,819, up from 19,497.

That’s a 22% population growth in five years. B.C.’s average population increase was 7.6% over the same period, and the national average was 5.2%.

The number of private dwellings in town matches the population growth, with a 26% increase over five years.

This growth has brought growing pains, there’s no question.

Construction has been the soundtrack of locals’ lives for a few years now, and there are more developments planned.

Old-time locals reminisce about a lake that was often free of others back in the day or of walking downtown and knowing every single person they pass.

Those days are mostly gone.

But what Squamish folks work hard at is staying the tight-knit, caring community it has always been.

We are still a small-ish town. We take the time to say hi to you in our stores and we smile often at strangers (don’t be alarmed).

And we know that growth brings with it many positives, such as more diversity — in people, yes, and also — in choices of where to eat, shop, be entertained and live.

We also know that the tourism that bloats our numbers in the fine weather months is a boon for our local economy and visitors bring with them unique perspectives and backstories.

Whether you lived here all your life, just moved here, are considering a move to town or are here for the day, we are glad you are here, in other words.

This edition of Discover Squamish focuses on the many ways Squamish is growing, whether it is an increase in food choices, mountain biking, or our returning Squamish Constellation Festival.

Unlike greed, growth can be good, and we are here for it.

We hope you will take a stroll through our pages and our town.

Welcome.