Penticton has welcomed at least 198 new residents since Jan. 1, with the majority of those relocating to the city because of work-related reasons.
New data released by the city’s economic development department on Wednesday, April 13, reveals that 42 per cent of Penticton’s newcomers over the last three months moved due to either skilled or remote work opportunities.
A city-led survey had 84 people respond over Jan. 1 to April 9, representing 198 new Penticton residents. Out of those who completed the form, 23 per cent recently moved from the Lower Mainland.
“The number of skilled and remote workers moving to Penticton in recent months reflects a positive trend that is critical to our local economy,” said the city’s economic development manager, Carly Lewis.
Only five per cent of the survey’s respondents said they were unemployed, with 16 per cent specifically identifying as remote or “work from home” employees.
With the newest data, the city is hoping to better understand what exactly attracts people to Penticton.
“Penticton really is an ideal place to live, providing a work-life balance that makes it possible to spend more time with your family and friends,” said mayor John Vassilaki.
While 42 per cent of new residents are in the Peach City because of either skilled or remote work opportunities, an additional 24 per cent of people now call Penticton home because of either a plan to open a local business or their partner’s career.
“We’ve been targeting these key demographics because we know employers have a need for skilled labour, and it’s encouraging to see that working professionals are choosing to move to this community for the lifestyle advantage,” Lewis added.
Out of the 198 new residents, 13 per cent moved from Ontario while 12 per cent arrived from Alberta.
On behalf of council, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all new residents, young and old, and thank you for the vibrancy that you bring to our community,” Vassilaki concluded.
READ MORE: Penticton’s population grows by 9%, approaches 37,000 people
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