Is Whistler a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Whistler receives an overall livability score of 2.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include high housing costs, above-average unemployment. Whistler has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Whistler is $99,000, which is significantly higher than the national average — 32% above $75,149. This places Whistler among higher-income communities. At 17.5%, unemployment is notably high. Only 6.8% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 19 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Whistler is $1,200,000, making it a premium housing market at 326% above the U.S. median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $1,780 per month, significantly above the national average of $1,163. With a home price-to-income ratio of 12.1x, housing affordability is a significant challenge for many families.
Education
25.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 28.6% have completed high school.
Climate & Weather
Whistler experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 46°F. Winters average 32°F in January while summers reach 64°F in July. The area gets 221 sunny days per year. Annual precipitation totals 65.5 inches, including 267.2 inches of snow.