Census shows B.C.'s population hit five million after 7.6 per cent growth

Canada's latest census shows British Columbia had the second-highest population growth among the provinces, second only to Prince Edward Island.

The census released today says five million people call the western province home, after growth of 7.6 per cent between 2016 and 2021.

Data also show resort towns like Squamish are among the fastest-growing communities in the country.

But a population hike of 22.2 per cent since 2016 in the town north of Vancouver has fuelled competition among young buyers drawn to the area's world-class climbing, hiking and biking trails.

A local Realtor says that's created heartache for those whose multiple offers are being rejected as prices keep soaring.

Other areas of growth in B.C. include Langford, on Vancouver Island, as well as the Fraser Valley, as newcomers move further east from Vancouver so they can afford a place to live.