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Conception Bay South

Coastal Living with Waterfront Character and Natural Beauty

Chris Morrison, REALTOR®

Your Avalon Peninsula expert

Want a tour of CBS?

Chris Morrison serves St. John’s, Mount Pearl, Paradise, CBS, and the wider Avalon Peninsula — from downtown row houses to suburban families to waterfront properties. Originally from Gander, Chris brings the full Royal LePage Turner Realty network to every Avalon transaction.

📞 709-725-6520  ·  cmorrison@royallepage.ca

Quick Facts

Population
27,168 (2021 Census)
Location
West of St. John's, on Conception Bay
Price Range
$225K–$500K+
Character
Coastal Villages

Community Overview

Conception Bay South—one of the largest towns in Newfoundland and Labrador, with 27,168 residents at the 2021 Census (up 3.7% from 2016)—encompasses several distinct communities strung along the shore of Conception Bay: Topsail, Chamberlains, Manuels, Long Pond, Foxtrap, Kelligrews, Upper Gullies, and Seal Cove. Each village retains character while benefiting from proximity to St. John's. The area is renowned for waterfront access, natural beauty, and the appeal of coastal living combined with urban convenience.

The municipality has grown thoughtfully, balancing new development with heritage preservation. Topsail Beach remains a primary attraction, offering recreational opportunities and aesthetic appeal. The communities span from waterfront homes on pristine coastline to inland residential areas, accommodating diverse preferences and budgets. Strong municipal governance and community involvement characterize the region.

Real Estate Market

View full market statistics — prices, sales & days on market →

CBS's real estate market offers exceptional diversity. Waterfront and bay-view properties command premium pricing ($400K–$500K+), while inland residential areas range $225K–$400K. The market appeals to retirees seeking coastal living, young families wanting village character, and investors appreciating long-term waterfront value.

New construction continues in designated growth areas while heritage homes retain appeal for renovators and character-home enthusiasts. Rental demand supports investment returns from vacation properties, especially in Topsail. The combination of natural amenity, proximity to services, and diverse inventory makes CBS consistently attractive.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Topsail Beach & Rotary Park

Popular beach and park on Conception Bay with views to Bell Island — and the northern trailhead of the East Coast Trail.

Manuels River Interpretation Centre

Scenic river valley with walking trails and world-renowned 500-million-year-old trilobite fossil sites, anchored by a modern interpretation centre and café.

Waterfront Properties

Direct bay access enables boating, fishing, and maritime recreation for residents.

Recreation Complex

The CBS Recreation Complex on Remembrance Square offers a 25-metre indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and squash courts — with a major new town recreation and community centre under development.

Schools & Education

CBS is served by Newfoundland and Labrador English School District schools across the municipality — elementary schools include Topsail Elementary, St. Edward's, St. George's Elementary, Admirals Academy, and Upper Gullies Elementary; Frank Roberts and Villanova junior highs; and two high schools, Queen Elizabeth Regional High and Holy Spirit High. The established communities retain close-knit school cultures despite the town's size.

Post-secondary access is straightforward via Memorial University and other institutions in St. John's, just 30–40 minutes away. Many families choose CBS specifically for the combination of quality education and community-oriented school environments.

Transportation & Connectivity

CBS sits 25–40 minutes west of St. John's via the Conception Bay Highway (Route 60) and the Trans-Canada Highway, providing reasonable commute times for professionals working in the capital. Local roads are well-maintained, and the highway connection ensures efficient regional travel and access to services across the metro area.

Metrobus service extends to CBS communities, supporting non-drivers and commuters. The natural beauty of the route—driving along Conception Bay—makes the commute itself enjoyable for many residents. Long-term planning anticipates continued transit improvements as population grows.

Why Choose Conception Bay South?

  • Authentic coastal village character combined with modern amenities
  • Outstanding natural beauty and waterfront/beach recreation access
  • Diverse housing options from heritage homes to modern construction
  • Waterfront investment properties with strong appreciation potential
  • Strong community identity and engaged local population
  • Reasonable commute to St. John's (30–45 minutes)
  • Exceptional natural attractions including Topsail Beach and Manuels River
  • Vibrant local culture with seasonal tourism and year-round activities

Market Snapshot

2025 full-year summary • IMS brokerage data

$405,041
Avg Sale Price
347
Properties Sold
46
Avg Days on Market
103.3%
Sale-to-Ask Ratio

2026 Jan–Feb: Avg $466,464 — ↑ 15.2% YTD vs 2025 avg

View Full Market Stats →

Common Questions

How much does a home cost in Conception Bay South?

Typical CBS homes range from $225K to $500K+. Across 2025, 347 properties sold at an average price of $405,041 (brokerage data).

How many people live in Conception Bay South?

27,168 people as of the 2021 Census, up 3.7% from 2016.

What schools are in CBS?

Elementary schools include Topsail Elementary, St. Edward's, St. George's Elementary, Admirals Academy, and Upper Gullies Elementary; Frank Roberts and Villanova junior highs; and two high schools — Queen Elizabeth Regional High and Holy Spirit High.

What is there to do in CBS?

Topsail Beach and Rotary Park — the northern trailhead of the East Coast Trail — the Manuels River valley with its 500-million-year-old trilobite fossil sites and interpretation centre, and the CBS Recreation Complex with its 25-metre indoor pool.

Where is Conception Bay South?

On the shore of Conception Bay, west of St. John's — a string of coastal villages connected along Route 60.

Explore Nearby

Neighbouring community guides and live MLS® listings across the Avalon.

Paradise guide → Holyrood guide → Mount Pearl guide → Browse Conception Bay South listings →

Find Your Coastal Home

Explore waterfront estates, charming village homes, and investment opportunities throughout CBS.