Cost of Living

Vancouver is the third-largest metropolitan area in Canada, so it's no surprise that moving there can be quite a costly endeavour. Expenses will vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and needs, so take a look at the table below to get an idea of how living in Vancouver might impact your finances.

Living costs in Vancouver are generally higher than those in Halifax. For example, real estate is more expensive in Vancouver with the production home cost being $380/sq ft. compared to Halifax's $210/sq ft. This difference is even more dramatic for a custom-built single family home, where Vancouver's cost of $1000/sq ft. surpasses Halifax's cost of $330/sq ft. Similarly, the monthly housing cost in Vancouver is higher than that of Halifax at $1,943 per month compared to $1,300 per month and monthly utilities and insurance costs are roughly $200-300 per month in Vancouver compared to just $250 per month in Halifax. Furthermore, the transportation pass costs more in Vancouver at $98 a month compared to the regular monthly pass costing just $78 per month in Halifax. Car insurance also tends to be higher in Vancouver at an approximate cost of $1,680 a year while it's only around $891 per year in Halifax. Other living costs such as entertainment ($150/month versus $100/month), grocery ($200/month for one person for both cities), communication ($80/month versus $120) and health and fitness ($50-100 / Month for Vancouver versus just $40-60 for Halifax) are also higher or lower respectively depending on which city you live in. Finally, sales taxes are lower in Vancouver at 7% a year compared to 15% a year in Halifax.

Benefits of Moving to Vancouver

Moving to Vancouver from Halifax offers many advantages that the former city does not have. The most obvious advantage is the mild climate, which is much more conducive for outdoor activities than the Atlantic coast. Furthermore, Vancouver boasts an abundance of natural and urban beauty – from the rocky mountains to downtown's bustling harbour – that Halifax simply cannot match. Meanwhile, Vancouver has some of Canada's best food scene and incredible cultural diversity thanks to its multicultural population.

Moreover, while Halifax is a great place to live with its friendly people and close proximity to nature reserves, it can't quite compete with Vancouver in terms of outdoor activities such as skiing or surfing. And on top of all this, there are numerous scenic routes and recreational sites just a short drive away from both cities which make moving to Vancouver an even better choice for those looking for some new scenery!

Best areas to live in Vancouver

Finding the right neighbourhood to settle down in Vancouver can be a daunting task, especially for newcomers. With so many vibrant neighbourhoods to choose from, it can be difficult to figure out which one fits your lifestyle best. To help make the decision easier, here is an overview of five of the best areas to live in Vancouver.

Shaughnessy

With its centuries-old heritage, the vibrant neighbourhood of Shaughnessy is a beloved part of Vancouver. One can find charming old million-dollar mansions lining the streets, as well as beautifully landscaped gardens. There are plenty of parks for picnicking and leisurely strolls nearby the area. A wide range of attractions such as Granville Island, Kitsilano Beach, and Gastown lie close by and make it convenient for those living in Shaughnessy to explore all that Vancouver has to offer. With its peaceful tranquility and suburban charm just minutes away from all the city's vibrancy, living in Shaughnessy is truly an elegant experience.

Kerrisdale

Kerrisdale is a Vancouver neighbourhood known for its beautifully maintained homes, exquisite gardens, and friendly locals. It's surrounded by some of the city's finest restaurants, boutiques and shopping centers, making it an ideal place to live if you want easy access to all that Vancouver has to offer. From Kerrisdale you can easily reach popular attractions like Stanley Park in mere minutes and enjoy the bustling nightlife of downtown just a few kilometers away. Living in Kerrisdale is a great way to experience the best of both worlds - lush greenery within easy reach combined with the convenience of living close to downtown.

West Point Grey

West Point Grey is one of Vancouver's most affluent neighborhoods, boasting a population of over 20,000 people. Nestled between the University of British Columbia and Kitsilano Beach Park, West Point Grey offers residents spectacular views, access to excellent dining options nearby, and plenty of green spaces. Living in West Point Grey comes with its perks - residents are conveniently located within 10 minutes from both Stanley Park and Granville Island; even closer is Jericho Beach with its year-round activities such as canoeing and kayaking. West Point Grey is boasting with community spirit which makes living here a truly enriching experience.

Dunbar-Southlands

Dunbar Southlands is a residential neighborhood in the city of Vancouver, BC. It's known for its views of the North Shore Mountains and waterfront parks. The area is home to several attractions such as the popular Granville Island Public Market and Vancouver Maritime Museum. There are many different shops and restaurants lined along West 4th avenue which everyone can enjoy. In close proximity, you will find all major amenities including grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, schools and more! Living in Dunbar-Southlands allows quick access to numerous outdoor activities such as biking along False Creek Seawall or visiting local beaches at Kitsilano or Jericho Park. Staying away from hustle and bustle of downtown life with ample accessibility makes Dunbar Southlands a prime residential area for new residents in the city of Vancouver!

South Cambie

South Cambie is an idyllic residential neighbourhood in Vancouver, with a population of just under 6,500 people. Located at the base of the North Shore Mountains and close to popular attractions such as Stanley Park and Granville Island, South Cambie offers great access to outdoor activities and scenic views. The downtown core is only minutes away via public transit or car, while nearby beaches are easily accessible as well. Living in South Cambie puts you close enough to take advantage of all that Vancouver has to offer while also enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle. As such, it's the perfect destination for those looking for a balance between urban exploration and laid-back relaxation.

What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Halifax to Vancouver?

Moving from Halifax to Vancouver could be a big undertaking, so it's advisable that you get familiar with your moving options first. There are a variety of different solutions for moving from one place to another, including full-service movers, container services and DIY moves. If you choose to seek the assistance of professional movers, then Hercules Moving Company is among the most trusted and well-known companies available for this service in Canada. Many more businesses also offer their expertise in helping people move their belongings around the country. Furthermore, it is important to remember that when looking for a reliable business or individual in Halifax or Vancouver who offers moving services - always double check their registration with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). This will ensure that they are up to date on safety regulations as well as maintain their reputation for trustworthiness within the industry.