East Hill vs. the BX: Comparing Two Vernon Neighbourhoods
Quick answer: East Hill is an established in-town neighbourhood right above downtown Vernon, with older homes, city services and walkable access to schools and the hospital. The BX is a more rural area to the north and east, known for acreages, ranch land and trails, and it sits closer to SilverStar. Choose East Hill for convenience and character; choose the BX for space and a country feel.
East Hill and the BX are neighbours. In fact, East Hill's eastern edge runs toward the South BX. But the two areas feel very different once you're there. Here's how they compare.
Where They Are
East Hill
East Hill is the hillside directly east of downtown Vernon, roughly from Pleasant Valley Road and 27th Street east toward the South BX and Coldstream, and from Highway 6 / 30th Avenue north to around 43rd Avenue. It's inside the City of Vernon.
The BX
The BX is the historic area that stretches into the hills toward SilverStar. The Regional District of North Okanagan describes its Electoral Area C as "BX / SilverStar", a rural area that includes Silver Star Mountain and the historic BX, with acreages and ranch land. Some nearby pockets are inside City of Vernon boundaries, so always confirm which jurisdiction a specific address falls under.
Homes and Lots
- East Hill: City lots with a mix of home ages, from 1890s heritage landmarks like the Caetani Cultural Centre's Sommerville house to homes built in later decades. Mature trees and established gardens are common.
- The BX: Larger lots, acreages and rural properties. More room for gardens, animals, shops and outbuildings, and more distance between neighbours.
If you want a suite or carriage house, provincial small-scale housing rules apply to many serviced city lots, including in East Hill. Rural properties follow different zoning, so check with the RDNO or the City as appropriate.
Services, Taxes and Utilities
This is where the differences really matter.
- Local government: East Hill is served by the City of Vernon. For properties in RDNO Electoral Area C, the RDNO notes that property taxes are sent by the provincial Surveyor of Taxes rather than a city hall.
- Water: The RDNO lists Greater Vernon Water and the Silver Star Water Utility as serving parts of Area C. Some rural properties may use private wells. Ask for the water source on any listing.
- Sewer: City lots are generally on municipal sewer. Rural properties may use a septic system, which needs its own inspection and maintenance.
- Everyday services: Garbage collection, snow clearing and other services differ between the City and the regional district. Check what applies to a given address.
Getting Around
From East Hill
You're minutes from downtown, and Vernon Jubilee Hospital is just down the hill. Vernon Secondary School sits near the neighbourhood's centre. Kalamalka Lake beaches are about 10 to 15 minutes by car and SilverStar about 30 minutes.
From the BX
You're closer to SilverStar and the Silver Star Road corridor, but most errands, schools and appointments mean a drive into town. Winter driving on rural hill roads is part of the lifestyle.
Outdoors and Lifestyle
Both areas are great for people who love the outdoors, in different ways.
- East Hill: Lakeview Park with its free Peanut Pool and spray park, walkable streets and easy access to downtown's parks and events.
- The BX: The RDNO lists the BX Creek Trail, the BX Ranch Trail, BX Community Park and the BX Ranch Dog Park in Area C. Sections of the Grey Canal Trail, which follows the historic irrigation canal built between 1906 and 1914, also wind through the Greater Vernon hills, including the East Vernon section running from the BX Creek ravine.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose East Hill if you want character, convenience and a walkable connection to town. Choose the BX if you want land, privacy and a rural pace, and don't mind driving for daily errands.
Our East Hill guide goes deeper on the neighbourhood, and you can see what's available now on Tim's live East Hill MLS® search. If you're weighing several areas, our buying in East Hill guide explains how to compare them.
FAQ
Is the BX part of the City of Vernon?
Much of the BX is in the Regional District of North Okanagan's Electoral Area C, while some nearby areas are inside the City. Always confirm the jurisdiction for a specific property.
Which is closer to SilverStar?
The BX, since it stretches toward Silver Star Mountain. From East Hill, SilverStar is about a 30-minute drive.
Do BX properties have city water?
Some are served by Greater Vernon Water or the Silver Star Water Utility; others may use private wells. Confirm the water source for any listing.
Weighing East Hill against the BX? Call or text Sean at 778-363-0542, or call the Sarah AI info hotline any time at 604-227-4810.
Featured photo: stock image from Unsplash, for illustration.
