Vernon, the head city of the North Okanagan region, has led the way in economic development. Read on to learn about the population, economy and climate of the region. The total population of the region is currently estimated at 72,000, with a larger trading area population of 90,000 to 100,000. Conservative projections suggest an increase in population approaching 100,000 over the next 20 years.
Demographics indicate a good balance of age groups.
No longer an area just for retirees seeking a moderate climate, large numbers of urban professional families have discovered the lifestyle benefits of our friendly smaller communities. The North Okanagan's past reliance on primary industries such as forestry and farming is now balanced by large and small businesses, which continue to expand the economy. The North Okanagan's employment base has grown from 1991 to 1994 in the manufacturing, retail and service sectors, while construction, transportation and primary industry have seen marginal decreases during the same period. Local manufacturers produce a wide variety of products, including bicycles, boats, bathroom fixtures, canoes, garments, glass containers and motor homes, as well as a large number of value added wood products. Both the retail and service sectors have increased their presence in response to our growing population.