We (couple, no kids) moved here 8 years ago from Montreal. We did a lot of research into different areas and ended up choosing Lower Lonsdale. We’ve been renting the same 1-br the entire time. We like the area for its walkability, easy access to seabus, waterfront/pier, Spirit Trail.
We both did the seabus commute to downtown for a while and I bike commuted to downtown every once in a while via Spirit Trail, Lions Gate, Stanley Park, seawall. One of the nicest bike commutes in the world! Now we both work on the North Shore. Me from home, my wife a short walk up Lonsdale.
Riding to Seymour trails Is doable or short drive to any of the Shore trails or Deep Cove for kayaking. Never had any issues with bridge traffic because we never have any reason to cross them at rush hour.
We do feel Lower Lonsdale is getting busier and more hipsterized / yupified lately. On the other hand the Shipyards development and all the outdoor patios have really improved the vibe. We’ll probably stay here for a while.