Gizane Campos Planning to relocate but don’t know where to start? Living in Vancouver, Canada can offer several advantages. This beautiful city sits on the Pacific Ocean and has many beaches, mountains, and farmland. Vancouver has warm winters and is one of the most ethnically diverse cities.
Vancouver welcomes many expats due to various job opportunities, vibrant nightlife, and the unique blend of different cultures. However, the cost of living is among the highest in the country.
It can be difficult to understand the financial realities of life in British Columbia. But we can help. This guide accurately represents the costs, pros, and cons of life in Vancouver, Canada.
Keep reading to learn about:
What is it like living in Vancouver, Canada?
Vancouver is a vibrant city on the west coast of the Canadian mainland. It sits on the southwestern tip of British Columbia, right along the Pacific Ocean. British Columbia is a Canadian province with a diverse expat community and rich Canadian culture.
Living in Vancouver has a lot to offer. It is a beautiful place to live, surrounded by nature, mountains, rivers, lakes, and the largest urban parks. Residents have easy access to outdoor activities, hiking trails, and live music. Stanley Park is within walking distance from downtown Vancouver.
The city has very mild winters compared to the rest of Canada where you can simply relax. The summer months in Canada’s west coast are incredibly sunny and dry. The milder climate and natural landscapes allow many residents to stay physically active, enjoy outdoor recreation, and lead a healthy lifestyle. Public transport has a vast network of bus routes for visitors and residents across both remote and urban areas.
Granville Entertainment District, in downtown Vancouver, has the most dynamic nightlife scene. There is access to so many restaurants, clubs, bars, music venues, coffee shops, and art spaces. There is also Vancouver Island, located off the southern coast of British Columbia. It is famous for its natural beauty, wilderness parks, great restaurants, and fishing settlements.
Benefits of living in Vancouver, Canada
Living in Vancouver offers many advantages for residents, such as:
- Stunning natural beauty with amazing views.
- Mild winters and sunny summer months.
- Many job opportunities across different industries.
- Diverse job market with high possibilities for career growth.
- Higher average salary compared to smaller Canadian cities and rural areas.
- Active nightlife in the downtown core.
- Access to good schools and quality education.
Where do most expats live in Vancouver, Canada?
Many expats settle in North Vancouver, Kerrisdale, or the Kitsilano area. Downtown Vancouver is very expensive to live comfortably on an average wage, due to high rent and housing costs. Expats usually avoid the city centre and opt for a quiet Vancouver life in more affordable neighborhoods.
Vancouver has the highest population living in a concentrated area compared to other Canadian cities. Expats who choose to live in Vancouver are often temporary residents on a study or work visa. They are drawn to the west end of Canada in search of a more comfortable life and career growth.
Plenty of expats live in South Vancouver as well. For example, Dunbar-Southlands is a quiet neighborhood with large parks, food markets, and convenient access to downtown. Meanwhile, Renfrew-Collingwood is far from downtown but reserved for low-income households.
Living in Vancouver, Canada as an American – What to expect
Living in Vancouver, Canada, as an American can be comfortable and exciting. The entire area is strongly influenced by American culture when it comes to fashion, coffee culture, and outdoor activities. So, most people can expect a smooth cultural transition.
Canada and the United States have very similar time zones. Vancouver is very close to the US border, which is convenient for so many people with families in both countries. Although it is one of the most expensive cities in the country, enrolling in British Columbia’s MSP (Medical Services Plan) provides better health coverage than U.S. healthcare.
Americans need a work permit, study permit, or Canadian permanent residency to live in Vancouver long-term. They can also settle through family sponsorship and work transfers. Vancouver life offers a diverse job market with many job prospects, especially in the city center.
American expats usually settle in North Vancouver due to its more affordable living costs. It is quieter than the downtown area yet provides quick access to all modern necessities for daily life.
Many Americans living in Canada choose to buy property in the Northwest Territories in Canada. But Vancouver is entirely different. Vancouver is more urban and densely populated, with comfortable winter months.
The Northwest Territories are often rural with certain drawbacks. There is a lower population density and cold and long winters. Any North American who prefers fast-paced city life with career opportunities in tech, real estate, the science world, and global trade may settle in Vancouver and live comfortably.
All you need to know about relocating to Canada
Living in Vancouver vs Toronto
Toronto and Vancouver are the top spots for most expats. Toronto is the largest city in Canada, while Vancouver has the best mountains for outdoor activities. These cities have very different climates. Toronto has cold and snowy winters. So, if you want to escape the harsh winter, Vancouver life may suit you.
Vancouver has stunning nature, beaches, and mountains. For outdoor enthusiasts, it is a nice way to spend time. Toronto is more business-oriented and a great place to invest, very similar to New York City. It has a more fast-paced life than other Canadian cities, which can be a good spot for any North American household.
How much does it cost to live in Vancouver, Canada?
Vancouver is an expensive place to live. The monthly cost for a family of four is over $5,400, excluding rent. For a single person, the average monthly cost is over $1,480, excluding rent, which can increase if you live in the downtown center.
Most annual salaries in Vancouver range between $53,250 and $84,000. Grocery prices are relatively high, making it difficult for low-income families to dine out regularly. The costs vary based on various factors, such as the neighborhood and the housing market.
However, Vancouver is more affordable than New York. Expenses, including housing, childcare, transportation, and groceries, are 18.7% cheaper in Canada than in New York. Vancouver is slightly more affordable than London, UK.
The table below provides a general estimate of Vancouver’s living costs in Canadian dollars.
Average monthly salary | $5,792 |
Rent for one bedroom apartment (city centre) | $2,761.05 |
Rent for one bedroom apartment (outside of city centre) | $2,316.08 |
Monthly utility bills (electricity, cooling, heating, water, garbage) | $141.97 |
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $25 |
Milk (regular), (1 liter) | $2.79 |
Rice (white), (1kg) | $5.41 |
Water (1.5 liter bottle) | $2.40 |
Living in Vancouver: pros and cons
There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages of living in Vancouver. It mostly depends on your lifestyle preference, career opportunities, and way of life.
Pros
- Beautiful nature, mountains, oceans, and parks
- Better career opportunities
- Mild climate with less snow in winter
- Thriving nightlife in the downtown area
- Access to a great food variety
- Many urban areas to explore
- Great cultural diversity
- Convenient public transportation system
- Close proximity to the United States border
Cons
- Competitive job market
- High cost of living
- Crowded downtown core
- Heavy traffic on every main street, especially during rush hours
Is it safe to live in Vancouver, Canada?
Vancouver is a relatively safe city to live in with low crime rate compared to New York City. The downtown and popular tourist destinations are regularly patrolled to ensure reasonable safety and a lower crime rate. However, like any city, Vancouver is not crime-free.
The city is relatively big and has a constantly growing population. As the population increases, there is a higher chance of wealth inequality, which can lead to more crime. The Government of Canada has gone to great lengths to ensure the safety and security of its residents.
Some petty theft may be recorded in Granville Island, Stanley Park, or Pacific Center areas. These destinations attract both tourists and Canadian residents, which often causes heavy traffic congestion. So, it is important to be street smart and take the necessary precautions when commuting, traveling, or sightseeing.
Vancouver has higher crime rates than Prince Edward Island. Prince Edward Island, a separate province on the east coast of Canada, is known for having a very low crime rate. Some of the most requested services for safety and security in these areas are video surveillance, crime prevention, traffic, and road safety.
Your Guide to Buying Property in Canada: What You Need to Know
How to move to Vancouver, Canada – Step-by-step
Relocating to Vancouver requires careful planning and budgeting. British Columbia is ethnically diverse with many opportunities for education and career growth. The steps below can show you how to plan your next move.
Step 1: Check eligibility
Before you move to Canada, you must be eligible to live there. The steps vary based on several factors, such as whether you plan to work, study, or retire in the country.
These options include:
- Temporary visa – Foreign nationals can obtain a work permit or a study permit to live in Canada on a short-term basis. Work permits require a valid Canadian job offer, while study permits enable students to finish their studies and gain valuable job experience.
- Permanent residency (PR) – Foreign nationals can obtain a PR card through Canada citizenship by investment program. The Government of Canada provides various immigration programs to allow immigrants to live and work in Canada long-term. Canada corporate environment creates a stable economy for setting up a business or investing in real estate.
Step 2: Collect the necessary documents
The Government of Canada requires foreign nationals to provide the necessary documents based on their specific situation.
The documents you may need to start living in Vancouver may include:
- Valid passport
- Visa or immigration documents (e.g., study permit, work permit, or permanent residency)
- Documents for dependents (e.g., children, spouse, or family members)
- Provincial health insurance
- Social insurance number
- Proof of funds (show you have finances to support yourself and dependent family members)
A regulated Canadian immigration consultant can streamline the relocating process and help you collect the necessary documents.
Step 3: Submit your application
Submit your application through the official Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Select the type of program or visa you are applying for and provide any further information if necessary. The Government of Canada offers many visa and work permit opportunities for those who want to live in the country.
Step 4: Find a residence
Rent controls a major portion of the expenses. Look for any rental options you prefer, like an apartment, house, or shared accommodation. Many expats living in Vancouver want to be surrounded by nature and live in the country over the downtown area. Vancouver has lots of parks and outdoor areas to explore, making it a popular destination for residents of all ages.
Step 5: Open a Canadian bank account
Opening a Canadian bank account offers many practical advantages and can help you manage your finances. You can receive direct deposit payments and build a credit history. If you are an entrepreneur looking to open a business, a Canada Startup Visa lawyer can streamline the process for you and help you collect the necessary documents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Vancouver, Canada
What is life like in Vancouver, Canada?
Vancouver is one of the most livable cities, but its cost of living is high, especially for rent in downtown areas. The city is surrounded by forests, mountains, and greenery. It blends modern infrastructure with a diverse culture. It offers a booming economy, a higher quality of life, and an active nightlife.
Can I live in Vancouver as an American?
Yes, you can live in Vancouver as an American citizen with the proper visa or residency permit. If you plan to live in Canada for the long term, you need a permanent resident card. But, if you need a short-term stay, then a work or study visa can help you settle in Canada.
Are there limited job opportunities in Vancouver for newcomers?
Canada’s very competitive job market provides many job prospects to only the most exceptional and skilled foreign hires. If your job experience fits the needs of an industry in high demand, then you are more likely to land a job.
Does the Canadian government invest in Vancouver?
The Government of Canada actively invests in Vancouver to promote economic growth, innovation, and infrastructure development. Many immigration programs attract high-net-worth investors to boost Canada’s local economy. If you plan to invest, check out the latest Canada citizenship by investment changes.
How does Vancouver fit into the Canada corporate sector?
As a large metropolitan city, Vancouver is a key player in Canada’s corporate sector compared to many other cities in the country. Vancouver is home to many multinational companies, especially in the tech, entertainment, and green energy industries. It is also an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and business executives.
Where do most expats live in Vancouver, Canada?
Many expats settle in North Vancouver, a suburban area across the Burrard Inlet from downtown. It is a well-rounded location with all the amenities of Vancouver life like dedicated bike lanes, plus mountains for recreation and a diverse culture. The real estate market in the north is slightly more affordable than in West Vancouver.
Is British Columbia more expensive to live in than in Ontario?
British Columbia, especially Vancouver, has higher cost of living than Ontario province. Housing, rental prices, utilities, and general living expenses are more affordable in Ontario. However, salaries in Vancouver tend to be higher due to the larger job variety and real estate potential.
Which indigenous languages are used in British Columbia?
British Columbia is home to 34 Indigenous languages grouped into seven distinct language families. Vancouver, Canada, is situated on the traditional and ancestral lands of several Indigenous nations. The Government of Canada is constantly working to advance indigenous rights.
Are there cultural events in Vancouver that highlight Canada themes?
The city of Vancouver hosts many events, such as the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF), Celebration of Light, and Caribbean Days Festival. Every event offers something unique, such as parading, dining, socializing, or dancing. You can also visit the Vancouver Art Gallery for some unique art themes.
