Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Edmonton to Vancouver in 2023
Are you planning to move from Edmonton to Vancouver in 2023? Making such a move can be both exciting and daunting. Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is the sixth largest city in Canada with an estimated population of 950,000 people and an area of 684 square kilometres. It is known for its vibrant culture and unique sites such as the West Edmonton Mall and Elk Island National Park. Although it can get cold during winter months, Edmonton offers plenty of outdoor activities that one can enjoy all year-round.
On the other hand, Vancouver is located on British Columbia’s southwest coast with a population of approximately 2.6 million people in 11 municipalities covering 114 square kilometres. This beautiful coastal city is famous for its Stanley Park and Granville Island Market where visitors come to appreciate its stunning scenery and unique atmosphere. With lush rainforests, majestic mountains, mild climate conditions year-round, and beautiful beaches nearby - it’s no wonder why many choose to call Vancouver home!
Relocating from Edmonton to Vancouver
Relocating from Edmonton to Vancouver in 2023 can be a big decision to make and there are many factors to consider. However, we have identified the five most important moving considerations: Cost of Living, Benefits of Moving, Where to Live, Pros and Cons, and Best Moving Solutions. Let's dive deeper into each one.
Cost of Living
Vancouver is a sprawling metropolis, located and spread out over 21 municipalities. As a result, expenses can vary greatly based on one's lifestyle and where they choose to live in the city. To provide some guidance and insight into the differences, we've put together the following table for an easy comparison between locations in Edmonton and Vancouver.
| Category | Vancouver | Edmonton |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $417/sq ft. | $215/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $1000 / sq ft. | $309 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,905 / Month | $910 / Month for a 1 bedroom apartment. |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $150-250 / Month | $200-300 / Month |
| Transportation | $98.00 / Month for an adult monthly transit pass. | $97/month for an adult monthly bus pass. |
| Car Insurance | $1,500 / Year | $1,180 / Year |
| Entertainment | $250 / Month | $200 per month. |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $280 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $80 / Month | $80 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-70/month for a gym membership. | Gym Membership: $50-80 / Month. |
| Sales Taxes | 7%. | 5% / Year |
In Vancouver, real estate prices are much higher than in Edmonton, with production homes costing over twice as much ($417/sq ft. vs $215/sq ft.), and custom-built single-family homes costing over three times ($1000/sq ft. vs $309/sq ft.). Rental prices in Vancouver are also significantly higher than in Edmonton, with a 1 bedroom apartment costing almost double ($1905/month vs $910/month). Other living costs are also generally more expensive in Vancouver, including transportation (an adult monthly transit pass being $98 vs $97 in Edmonton), entertainment ($250 vs $200 per month), and groceries ($300/ month vs $280). Health and fitness costs are about the same for both cities, with gym memberships ranging from $50-$80 per month. The only cost which is lower in Vancouver is the sales tax rate (7% compared to 5% in Edmonton).
Benefits of Moving to Vancouver
The city of Vancouver provides many benefits that you can't find in Edmonton. From beautiful scenic views to a much milder climate to an array of outdoor activities, living in Vancouver is an experience like no other. Moreover, the city also offers a diversified culture and vibrant economy. Those who are moving from Edmonton will immediately notice the difference in quality of life that Vancouver offers compared to Edmonton's more moderate offerings.
Meanwhile, with its temperate climate, Vancouver allows for year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, taking bike rides on the seawall or participating in sports like tennis and badminton without any significant weather considerations that one would have if still living in Edmonton. In addition to its intriguing landscapes and recreational opportunities, you will also be able to take advantage of a strong economy with numerous career opportunities throughout the region.
Best areas to live in Vancouver
Choosing a neighbourhood to move and settle in Vancouver can be quite a challenging task. This is because the city offers a wide range of options with different attractions, amenities, features, landscapes, and opportunities. This creates complexity when juxtaposing with one's personal life goals, needs and preferences which are unique to each individual. Connecting this challenge to our article topic today - the best areas to live in Vancouver - let's explore some of the top neighbourhoods you should consider when deciding on where to put down roots in this wonderful city.
Shaughnessy
Moving to Shaughnessy in 2023 can be a great move for anyone motivated by an elevated living experience. This Vancouver neighbourhood is surrounded by the urban oasis of boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and more. With all the nearby shopping options within walking distance and only 30 minutes away from Vancouver International Airport, transportation won't be a problem either! Whether you are looking for some alone time in nature or to explore the city with friends or family, Shaughnessy offers something for everyone. The perfect blend of high-end amenities amid natural beauty makes this picturesque area an ideal place to call home.
Kerrisdale
The picturesque neighbourhood of Kerrisdale is a charming place to settle down and enjoy city life with a suburban feel. With lush parks, trees and gardens, it offers a peaceful atmosphere while being just a few minutes away from downtown Vancouver attractions. Most places are easily accessible on foot or by public transport, allowing for easy access to some of the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment spots in the city. Living in Kerrisdale means having all the amenities you need close to home, plus plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're strolling along tree-lined streets or exploring local stores and eateries tucked away in its alleys, Kerrisdale is sure to make your move an enjoyable one!
Point Grey
Point Grey is one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Vancouver, with its stunning views of the North Shore Mountains, downtown skyline, and local beaches. The area is just minutes away from some of Vancouver's top attractions like Stanley Park and Granville Island. Point Grey boasts great access to transportation hubs such as the Canada Line rapid transit system and several bus routes. Living in Point Grey will provide wonderful opportunities to experience nature while being centrally located for all that Vancouver has to offer.
Dunbar-Southlands
H3: Dunbar-SouthlandsDunbar-Southlands is a residential neighborhood in Vancouver known for its lush green spaces and parks. It is situated near the beaches of Kitsilano, close to Queen Elizabeth Park and surrounded by popular golf courses. The distance to downtown Vancouver is just 8 km away, making this area a great choice for those who seek an urban lifestyle but also enjoy being close to nature. This leafy suburban neighborhood offers easy access to public transportation, numerous shops, cafes and restaurants. It's the perfect place for families looking for a safe and peaceful place to call home. Dunbar-Southlands provides a balance between city life and nature - allowing residents to enjoy all the beauty that Vancouver has offer without sacrificing convenience or comfort.
South Granville
South Granville is a picturesque neighbourhood in Vancouver. It consists of several blocks and stretches from 16th Avenue to the Fraser River. The area combines residential homes with a bustling commercial district, making it an ideal spot for those looking for urban amenities and close proximity to nature. It is home to some remarkable landmarks like the Granville Island Public Market and Skateboard Plaza, as well as many renowned restaurants, cafes, galleries and stores. South Granville is within easy reach of most attractions in downtown Vancouver such as Stanley Park or Robson Street. Moving to this neighbourhood will give you plenty of opportunities do explore the city while still feeling at home - it's a great balance between local atmosphere and urban convenience!
Pros
- The breathtaking and majestic view of Vancouver's skyline offers a visual escape to an urban paradise, far surpassing any scenic views present in Edmonton.
- The mild climate of Vancouver is a distinct advantage when moving from Edmonton where temperatures are extreme in comparison.
- The vibrant and diverse culture of Vancouver makes it a sought-after destination for those looking to experience something new and exciting.
Cons
- The high cost of living in Vancouver stands in stark contrast to the relatively lower prices for goods and services found in Edmonton, making relocation a much less appealing proposition.
- Moving from Edmonton to Vancouver may involve dealing with more traffic congestion than when living in Edmonton.
- With its high population density, Vancouver may be a less desirable place to move compared to Edmonton, where the population is more spread out.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Edmonton to Vancouver?
Moving from one city to another can be a challenge, but luckily there are plenty of moving solutions available to make the transition smoother. Moving companies offer a range of services including packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, storage and transportation. Hercules Moving Company is just one of the many companies out there that provide professional and reliable services for relocating. Additionally, with such a large selection of Yelp-reviewed businesses available to choose from, anyone can find the perfect solution for their specific needs.
Nevertheless, it is important to remember to check each company's online reputation in order to ensure that you are choosing a trustworthy mover. It is also wise to make sure the company is registered with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) as this guarantees that they abide by legal standards for quality assurance in moving services across Canada.
Conclusion
Summary: Moving from Edmonton to Vancouver in 2023 can be an exciting and beneficial decision for many people. There are several factors to consider such as cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live and the best moving solutions. The city offers a range of neighbourhoods with unique attractions and amenities varying from high-end urban oasis in Shaughnessy to more suburban areas like Southlands-Dunbar or Point Grey. Finally, one must take into account the pros and cons before making this huge change in life.
