Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Quebec City to Vancouver in 2023
Have you ever thought of moving from Quebec City to Vancouver in 2023? The two cities are both beautiful and unique in their own way.
Quebec City is the capital of the province of Quebec, located on the Saint Laurence River. It has an area of 492 km² and a population estimated at 531,902 people. Known for its old town charm and vibrant culture, it’s no surprise that many choose to call this city home. With cobblestone streets lined with charming cafes, historic monuments and breathtaking views, there’s something for everyone here.
Vancouver is a coastal seaport city located on Canada's Pacific coast in British Columbia. It has an area of 114 km² and a population estimated at 675,318 people as of 2019. Vancouver offers breathtaking views from Stanley Park to Granville Island — not to mention some tasty local cuisine! Whether you want to explore the outdoors or dine al fresco at one of its many restaurants, there are plenty ways to take advantage of what this beautiful city has to offer!
Relocating from Quebec City to Vancouver
Moving to a different city can be stressful, especially when you're faced with making many decisions in a short time. Knowing what to consider is important for any relocation and it's no different when moving from Quebec City to Vancouver. To help simplify the process and make it easier, we have gathered the most crucial five considerations to be aware of before setting off on your journey. From cost of living differences and benefits of moving between the two cities, to finding out where to live once one arrives in Vancouver - this guide will cover all aspects to help make your transition smoother.
Cost of Living
Vancouver is a large and diverse city with many different neighborhoods, which can make it difficult to know the cost of living in each area. It's important to remember that expenses can vary significantly depending on the lifestyle you lead. To get a better idea of how much it costs to live in Vancouver, have a look at the table below for an overview of the differences between Quebec City and Vancouver.
| Category | Vancouver | Quebec City |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $430 / sq ft. | $185/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $1,191 / sq ft. | $236 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,850 / Month. | $820 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-300 / Month | $200-$250 / Month |
| Transportation | $98 / Month for an Adult Monthly Pass for public transit. | $86.50 / Month (OPUS transit pass) |
| Car Insurance | $1,680 / Year | $833 / Year |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month | $70 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $350 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $60 - $100 / Month. | $75 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $60-100 / Month | $30-60 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 7% / Year | 15\% |
Living costs in Vancouver tend to be higher than Quebec City, with real estate prices averaging around $430 per square foot compared to only $185 per square foot in the latter. The same goes for housing prices, which average around $1,850 a month in Vancouver and only $820 in Quebec City. Transportation costs are slightly lower in Quebec City, however, with a monthly public transit pass costing $86.50 compared to $98 in Vancouver. Car insurance is also cheaper in Quebec City than it is in Vancouver, at an average of $833 per year compared to $1,680. Entertainment costs are much lower in Quebec City as well at around $70 per month while they are estimated at around $200 per month in Vancouver. Grocery costs are slightly higher in Quebec City ($350) than they are in Vancouver ($300). Communications costs (phone and internet) also tend to be slightly higher ($75 a month) compared to what you would find for these services in Vancouver ($60 - $100 a month). Lastly, health and fitness expenses tend to be considerably cheaper in Quebec City (between $30 - 60) compared to the same services found across the country ($60 - 100).
Benefits of Moving to Vancouver
Vancouver is a great city to move to for many reasons. For one, the scenery and natural beauty of the city is unparalleled. It boasts stunning mountain views and lush forests as far as the eye can see. The moderate climate of Vancouver provides an ideal environment year-round, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or jogging in Stanley Park. Moreover, Vancouver has a vibrant cultural scene with plenty to do: from world-class dining experiences to music festivals and sporting events, there's something for everyone in this energetic metropolis.
Meanwhile, Quebec City offers much less in terms of entertainment options due to its location further north in Canada and its smaller population size. However, one major advantage that it does provide is a low crime rate – the city has been consistently ranked among some of Canada's safest cities since 2013. When considering all factors together, moving from Quebec City to Vancouver offers immense potential when it comes to living an enriched lifestyle with plenty of adventure at your fingertips!
Best areas to live in Vancouver
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, particularly when it is as large and cosmopolitan as Vancouver. Considering the endless possibilities available in this wonderful city, selecting a neighbourhood can be an arduous task. To help you narrow down your decisions, here is a list of some of the best areas to live in Vancouver.
Shaughnessy
The historical and elegant Shaughnessy neighbourhood of Vancouver, is located within the borders of Oakridge and South Cambie neighbourhoods. It's a welcoming community full of old-world charm, heritage homes, beautiful gardens and lush nature paths. Here you can find some of the most exquisite shopping experiences at Broadway & Granville or Oakridge Centre Shopping Mall. Its central location makes it easy to access all the amenities Downtown Vancouver has to offer with just a few minutes drive away. Living in Shaughnessy offers you the perfect combination between city life with convenience to parks and green areas - in other words, an ideal setting for anyone looking to lay their roots in Vancouver!
West Point Grey
West Point Grey is a neighbourhood of Vancouver that offers a high quality of life to its residents. It lies within the vicinity of the University of British Columbia and is conveniently close to downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park. Located just 20 minutes away from Stanley Park and 10 minutes away from downtown, there is no shortage of entertaining attractions nearby. Those who live in West Point Grey can enjoy the combination of urban amenities with access to nature, making it an incredibly attractive place to call home. With its picturesque sea view, vibrant cultural scene and welcoming people, this neighbourhood offers a truly unique experience for those seeking an exciting yet relaxed lifestyle.
Kerrisdale
Kerrisdale is an affluent neighbourhood in Vancouver, British Columbia. It is known for its lush greenery, numerous parks and quaint shops. Located just a few minutes' drive away from the city's bustling downtown core, Kerrisdale offers easy access to beaches and mountains, as well as all of the entertainment options that come with living close to a big city. Residents will find themselves within walking distance of some of the best restaurants in town while still staying connected with nature at nearby beaches or hiking trails. With convenient buses and rapid transit lines running through the area, getting around becomes significantly easier upon moving to Kerrisdale! Life in this lovely neighbourhood combines urban lifestyle amenities with peaceful suburban surroundings - an ideal option for anyone looking forward to relocating or settling down in Vancouver.
South Granville
South Granville is a neighbourhood in Vancouver renowned for its many high-end retailers, designer boutiques and trendy cafes. Sitting on the city's western edge, it's surrounded by lush green spaces including Queen Elizabeth Park and VanDusen Botanical Garden. It’s within walking distance of a variety of attractions - Granville Island Public Market is only 3km away and Stanley Park just a 10-minute drive away. Living in South Granville provides the opportunity to experience one of Vancouver's most well-known neighbourhoods with plenty of amenities to suit all lifestyles.
Dunbar-Southlands
Writing Sample:The Dunbar-Southlands neighbourhood in Vancouver is one of the most diverse areas, with a variety of ages, ethnicities and incomes represented. It is surrounded by lush parks and peaceful beaches, just minutes from downtown. Within walking distance you'll find great restaurants, cafes and shops to explore. Those longing for the outdoors can take advantage of quick access to parks such as Pacific Spirit Park and Point Grey Beach Park. Moving to Dunbar-Southlands promises an incredible lifestyle for those looking for a balance between city life and some peace and quiet.
Pros
- The stunning and picturesque landscape of Vancouver makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Canada.
- The cultural diversity of Vancouver offers an opportunity to experience a more varied range of culture compared to Quebec City.
- The milder climate of Vancouver compared to Quebec City makes the move a great advantage for those looking for a change of scenery.
Cons
- Moving to Vancouver from Quebec City can be financially challenging due to the significantly higher cost of living.
- Moving from Quebec City to Vancouver in 2023 can be seen as an attractive prospect, but it has its downsides such as more crowded living conditions.
- The lack of historical charm in Vancouver makes it a less attractive destination compared to Quebec City.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Quebec City to Vancouver?
Moving from Quebec City to Vancouver could be a daunting task, but if you plan ahead and take the necessary precautions, it doesn't have to be. There are several great moving solutions available for Canadians making similar moves that will help make it go as smoothly as possible. The most common of these services is professional packing crews and movers who can handle all of the logistics involved in safely transporting your belongings between cities. Companies like Hercules Moving Company specialize in providing this service, so you can rest assured that all your belongings will arrive at their destination safe and sound!
Moreover, while selecting a moving company, it's important to remember to check its reputation online, especially registering with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Doing research ahead of time can help ensure that you hire experienced professionals who understand the roads and highways between Quebec City and Vancouver thoroughly. With the right team on board, any move – regardless of distance – can become much easier!
Conclusion
Moving to Vancouver can be made simple and stress-free with the right preparation and help. Whether you're looking to explore the stunning outdoors or enjoy its vibrant culture, there are many advantages to relocating from Quebec City. With numerous moving companies in Vancouver, it's important to choose one that has a good reputation and adheres to Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) standards. Additionally, each area offers something unique - from Shaughnessy's historical charm, West Point Grey's university access or Kerrisdale's green spaces - making this an exciting journey for those looking for adventure or a new home!
