Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Halifax to Victoria in 2023
Have you been thinking of moving from Halifax to Victoria in 2023? Both Canadian cities are unique and have something special to offer. Halifax, the provincial capital of Nova Scotia, has a population of over 403,000 people and an area of 5,490 km2. It is well-known for its harbourfront boardwalk that allows visitors to explore the waterfront while enjoying views of the iconic Halifax Citadel Hill. In Halifax you can feel the ocean breeze, enjoy vibrant culture and outdoor activities.
Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city with a population of around 85,792 people and an area of 31 km2 located on Vancouver Island's south end. This picturesque city offers a beautiful natural landscape with plenty to explore such as Butchart Gardens or Beacon Hill Park for nature lovers. In Victoria you can experience relaxed West Coast vibes combined with an urban lifestyle full of art galleries and live music venues.
Moving to Victoria from Victoria
Moving to a new city can be an exciting and daunting experience, especially when relocating from one coast of Canada to another. While there are many elements to consider when planning such a journey, here are the five most important things to bear in mind before moving from Halifax to Victoria in 2023. With these tips in mind, we can guarantee that your move will go as smoothly as possible.
Cost of Living
Victoria is a beautiful city located on the west coast of Canada with a great quality of life and lots of attractions. The cost of living in Victoria compared to Halifax can vary greatly depending on lifestyle choices and expenses such as rent, groceries, travel, entertainment etc., so it's important to understand what to expect if you're planning to move from Halifax to Victoria in 2023. Below is an overview comparing the estimated costs for different lifestyle and expense categories between Halifax and Victoria.
| Category | Victoria | Halifax |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $318 / sq ft. | $280 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $411/sq ft. | $245/sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,450 / Month | $1300 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200 - $300 / Month. | $230 / Month |
| Transportation | $85 / Month for a Monthly Pass of public transit. | $78 / Month for a Halifax Transit Pass. |
| Car Insurance | $1680 / year. | $800-1,200 / Year |
| Entertainment | $150 / month | $200 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $250 / Month. | $300 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $85 / Month | $110 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-100/month. | $60-80 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 7% / Year | 15% / year |
For those planning to move from Halifax to Victoria, there are notable differences in living costs. Housing in Victoria is more expensive - about $1,450 per month compared to $1,300 per month in Halifax - but utilities and insurance are cheaper, ranging from $200-$300 per month compared to $230 per month. Transportation is also less expensive in Victoria, with a monthly pass costing $85 compared to $78 for the Halifax Transit Pass. Car insurance is much higher in Victoria at an average of $1,680 per year compared to an average of $800-$1,200 in Halifax. When it comes to entertainment and groceries, costs are slightly higher in Victoria at around $150 and $250 per month respectively compared to $200 and $300 per month in Halifax. Finally, the sales taxes are lower in Victoria at 7%, while they are 15% in Halifax.
Benefits of Moving to Victoria
Victoria offers a number of unique benefits to those looking to move there. From its stunning scenery to its great food and wide range of cultural experiences, it really does have something special to offer. Moreover, one of the key advantages of living in Victoria is its reliable public transport system which is much more developed than Halifax's. Meanwhile, another benefit that Victoria offers is quality education – it has some of the best educational institutions in the country compared to what Halifax has available. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation due to Victoria’s beautiful natural environment – something that Halifax can’t match. Finally, living in Victoria gives you access to a vibrant culinary scene with an array of amazing restaurants and eateries unlike anything found in Halifax.
Best areas to live in Victoria
Choosing a neighbourhood in Victoria can be overwhelming; there are so many factors to consider and a lot of research to do. With so much on offer, it can be hard to decide which area is the best for you and your family. In this post, we will outline five of the best neighbourhoods in Victoria that offer the right balance between convenience and atmosphere.
Uplands
Uplands is a popular neigbourhood in Victoria that has been growing steadily over the years, with its current population estimated to be around 15,000 residents. The area is surrounded by spectacular beaches, lush parks and vibrant shops. It's located near major attractions such as the Downtown Inner Harbour and the world-famous Butchart Gardens; both of these can be reached in just a few minutes' drive or bus ride. As for lifestyle options, there are plenty of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines to explore, and families living here will find several schools within walking distance from their homes. With unbeatable ocean views and plenty of outdoor activities nearby, Uplands offers all the benefits of life in an urban setting with easy access to nature.
Oak Bay
Oak Bay is a neighbourhood of Victoria, British Columbia known for its mild climate and beautiful beaches. With nearby parks, marketplaces and shopping centres, there is plenty to do without ever leaving the area. It's only 6 kilometers from Beacon Hill Park, one of Victoria's most famous attractions that offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding areas. Oak Bay also boasts easy access to other local attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood delicacies and board a ferry for a picturesque excursion around the harbour. Moving to Oak Bay promises residents a life full of relaxation amidst modern amenities, scenic vistas and an array of exciting social activities.
Fairfield
Fairfield is a charming neighbourhood in Victoria and one of the most desirable places to live according to locals. It's bordered by quaint shops and stunning views of the ocean, so you'll never be short on excellent sightseeing or dining opportunities. The Fairfield Gorge Park is a stone's throw away, and downtown Victoria lies just a short 10-minute drive away. Moving to Fairfield provides a unique opportunity to experience nature while still enjoying urban life – it truly has something for everyone! With its convenient location, friendly residents, great amenities and beautiful scenery, Fairfield is an ideal place to settle down in 2023!
Rockland
Rockland is a beautiful and large neighbourhood in Victoria, British Columbia. It is known for its trendy shops, impressive architecture and lively culture. There are plenty of attractions nearby, such as the Inner Harbour with its stunning views of the ocean, Craigdarroch Castle with its 4 floors of Victorian-era art and history and the world-famous Butchart Gardens - all within driving distance. Living in Rockland means having access to a diverse range of recreational activities such as surfing, hiking and biking trails plus many other outdoor adventures. With plenty to do within walking distance or short trips away, Rockland is an ideal place to call home!
Gonzales
Gonzales is a lively neighbourhood in Victoria, British Columbia, with an eclectic mix of residents. It's situated close to the Inner Harbour, giving it easy access to world-class shopping, award-winning restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Gonzales is also conveniently positioned for outdoor activities; Mt. Tolmie stands nearby and its pleasant meadows are just a short walk from the area's numerous cafes. For those looking for uninterrupted peace and quiet while still being near downtown, Gonzales offers just that; it's located far enough away from Victoria's hustle and bustle yet still within easy reach of its facilities. All-in-all life in Gonzales provides the perfect balance between urban convenience and rural serenity – you can have all city amenities on your doorstep without compromising on peacefulness or scenic views!
Pros
- The advantage of moving from Halifax to Victoria is the warmer climate.
- Victoria is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal location for those seeking a beautiful and serene landscape.
- Victoria's countless outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the outdoors more than Halifax ever could.
Cons
- Moving from Halifax to Victoria can be a costly undertaking, given that the standard of living in Victoria is significantly higher.
- Moving from Halifax to Victoria in 2023 means that trips to family and friends could take longer, making it a disadvantage than staying in Halifax.
- Moving to Victoria from Halifax may present fewer job opportunities in certain fields.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Halifax to Victoria?
MOVING FROM HALIFAX TO VICTORIA: WHAT ARE THE BEST MOVING SOLUTIONS?Moving from Halifax to Victoria requires a reliable and experienced moving company. The best option for those who are considering a move between these two cities is Hercules Moving Company. This company offers safe, timely, and budget-friendly solutions that cover all aspects of relocation. Moreover, they provide full-service moves to make the process easier on their customers. Additionally, there are many other local companies that offer both residential and commercial moves in the area. Meanwhile, it's important to remember to check the moving company's reputation online before making any bookings and always ensure they have registration with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM).
Conclusion
Summary:Moving to Victoria in 2023 is an exciting decision that promises beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, a reliable public transport system and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are notable differences between living costs in Victoria and Halifax, but the cost of living in Victoria can be offset by its benefits. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly neighbourhoods or a more urban lifestyle, there are five great neighbourhoods to choose from - Uplands, Oak Bay, Fairfield, Rockland and Gonzales - each offering its own unique advantages. Before making your move though, it’s important to compare the pros and cons of both cities to ensure that it’s the right decision for you. Lastly, choosing a reliable moving company such as Hercules Moving Company will help make your transition from Halifax to Victoria smooth and stress-free.
