Duncan sits in the Cowichan Valley, where the benchmark single family home price was $779,800 in June 2026, down slightly from a year earlier. That is below both the Nanaimo benchmark of $816,400 and the VIREB board-wide benchmark of $790,800.

The Cowichan Valley has the warmest year-round average temperature in Canada and is Vancouver Island's primary wine and farm region, with numerous wineries, cideries, and farm-gate producers. Duncan is its commercial centre.

Duncan's lower purchase prices relative to Nanaimo and Victoria can support stronger rental yields, and the area draws steady demand from both retirees and Victoria commuters. As with any investment, the specific property, zoning, and condition matter more than the area average.

Duncan is about a 50 to 60 minute drive south to Victoria via the Malahat, though travel times vary considerably with traffic, construction, and winter weather on that stretch.