Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Toronto to Vancouver in 2023
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to move from Toronto to Vancouver in 2023? Toronto is the most populated city in Canada and is a vibrant urban centre with plenty of attractions. It has an area of 630 square kilometers and a population of 3 million people. One can experience the hustle and bustle of city life strolling along its busy streets, or enjoy its many parks, cafes and cultural events.
Vancouver is situated on the west coast of Canada near the Pacific Ocean; it's mild climate makes it one of the most sought-after cities for living in Canada. With an area of 114 square kilometers, Vancouver has a population estimated at 2.5 million people making it one of the largest metropolitan areas in North America. The vibrancy that comes from its combination between culture, art galleries, music venues, museums and amazing outdoor activities make Vancouver an ideal place for those looking for great quality living standards!
Relocating from Toronto to Vancouver
Relocating from Toronto to Vancouver can be an exciting yet complicated experience. There are many factors to consider when planning a move, but here at Hercules Moving Company, we have identified 5 of the most important issues to take into account. These considerations include cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons and best moving solutions. In the following section we will explore each factor in greater detail so you can make the most informed decision when planning your big move.
Cost of Living
Vancouver is Canada's biggest city, and a vibrant hub of culture, nightlife and opportunity. Moving to Vancouver offers a host of possibilities for people looking to settle down in an exciting metropolitan environment, but living there comes with expenses that depend heavily on the lifestyle you choose. To help you make an informed decision when it comes to budgeting for your move from Toronto to Vancouver in 2023, we've compiled a table comparing the cost of living between both cities below.
| Category | Vancouver | Toronto |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $560 / sq ft. | $370 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $1,469 / sq ft. | $750/sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,946 / Month | $2268 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-300 / Month | $200-300 / Month. |
| Transportation | $98 / Month for a Monthly Pass (Compass Card). | $156.00 / Month with Presto Card |
| Car Insurance | $1,680 / Year. | $1500 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month | $200 / Month. |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $400 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $70-80 / Month | $80 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $60-80 / Month | $70-100/month |
| Sales Taxes | 7% / Year | 13\% |
Living costs in Vancouver are higher compared to Toronto, particularly when it comes to real estate and housing. The production home price per sq. ft. is $190 higher in Vancouver than Toronto and the custom-built single-family home price per sq. ft. is $719 higher in Vancouver. A one bedroom apartment costs over $700 more monthly and car insurance is $180 cheaper annually in Toronto than Vancouver. The monthly transportation cost is much lower in Vancouver with a monthly pass costing only $98, but the sales taxes are 7% higher in Vancouver than Toronto. All other living costs are comparable between the two cities, including groceries, communication services, health and fitness, and entertainment expenses.
Benefits of Moving to Vancouver
Vancouver is a stunning city with unparalleled beauty, boasting magnificent mountain views and a mild climate. It also offers an abundance of outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to skiing and snowshoeing – something the city of Toronto can't compete with. Moreover, Vancouver's multiculturalism provides an endless array of cultural experiences that Toronto simply can't offer. Meanwhile, Vancouver also offers many economic advantages over Toronto: lower taxes, lower cost of living expenses, more affordable housing prices, higher wages – all this makes it a much better choice for those looking to make their home in Canada.
Best areas to live in Vancouver
Choosing the perfect neighbourhood in Vancouver can be a tricky decision. With so many unique districts and vibrant communities, it can be hard to decide which one best suits your needs. With this list of Vancouver's best neighbourhoods, make sure you pick the right one for you!
Shaughnessy
Settling in Vancouver's Shaughnessy neighbourhood puts residents within walking distance of the city's best attractions. This charming area is known for its grand homes, spacious gardens and easy access to downtown shopping, dining and entertainment. With miles of lush parks and pristine beaches nearby, you'll feel like you're on vacation every time you take a walk in this vibrant community. Shaughnessy is also very close to renowned schools, world-class healthcare centers as well as cultural spots such as museums, experiential theaters and more. In Shaughnessy neighbourhood one can really experience the best of Vancouver living – a fusion of nature’s tranquility, urban amenities and a serene atmosphere all around.
West Point Grey
West Point Grey is an affluent, residential neighbourhood situated between the shoreline of English Bay and the slopes of the North Shore Mountains. It is home to some of Vancouver's wealthiest citizens and boasts a mix of single-family homes with beautiful views and large rental apartment buildings. The neighbourhood is home to some popular attractions including Jericho Beach Park, Pacific Spirit Park and Kitsilano Beach, all within easy walking distance. For those in need of convenience, nearby transportation links provide access to downtown Vancouver in less than 15 minutes. With luxury living resources such as upscale dining options, high-end shopping malls, world-class beaches and a variety of green spaces at its doorstep, West Point Grey offers residents a vibrant lifestyle with tremendous possibility.
Kerrisdale
Situated in the heart of Vancouver, Kerrisdale is the hub of luxurious and comfortable city life. From beautiful homes, manicured lawns and serene gardens to designer boutiques, fine dining restaurants and vibrant cafés - everything is just within walking distance. The area also offers excellent schools, parks, and other leisure amenities within a 5-minute radius. Living in Kerrisdale makes one feel like part of a chosen few who have access to urban amenities without compromising on breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains or pristine ocean coastlines. With its convenient location at the centre of it all, Kerrisdale residents can enjoy an unmatched metropolitan lifestyle that is both comfortable and luxurious.
Dunbar-Southlands
Dunbar-Southlands, located in the southwest of Vancouver, is name after an early settler and it's known for its rich cultural diversity. Sitting between the Pacific Ocean and Queen Elizabeth Park, with Musqueam Park to the east, this neighbourhood offers stunning views along with easy access to established amenities; from restaurants and shopping malls to medical care. You can enjoy breathtaking views from numerous nearby parks or hike the trails surrounding Point Grey. For those who appreciate nature there are plenty of options - but if you're looking for more urban activities there are many cultural attractions at nearby Marine Drive. A few minutes drive away you'll find all sorts of entertainment venues, making Dunbar-Southlands a perfect place to raise a family and be part of a vibrant community.
South Granville
South Granville is a beautiful, upscale Vancouver neighbourhood known for its historic mansions, elegant shops, and lively eateries. Surrounding South Granville are a range of attractions, from the beaches at English Bay to the trails of Stanley Park – all less than 10 minutes away by car. With its lovely tree-lined parks and boulevards along with access to all that this great city has to offer, living in South Granville truly offers an unbeatable quality of life.
Pros
- The milder climate in Vancouver is an ideal escape from the sometimes unpredictable weather of Toronto.
- The breathtaking scenery of Vancouver is sure to provide a stunning contrast from the city life of Toronto.
- In Vancouver, residents have an abundant amount of outdoor activities to choose from, making it an ideal destination for nature-lovers looking to explore the great outdoors.
Cons
- The cost of living in Vancouver is notably higher than that of Toronto, making it an expensive move.
- Moving to Vancouver from Toronto in 2023 could mean fewer job opportunities due to its relatively smaller metropolitan area.
- Moving to Vancouver from Toronto could mean saying goodbye to family and friends, leaving behind a network of familiar faces that may be hard to replicate in a new city.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Toronto to Vancouver?
Moving from Toronto to Vancouver in 2023 can be made much easier with a reliable moving company to help you along the way. Companies such as Hercules Moving Company provide several services for this kind of move, including packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, furniture assembly/disassembly and more. Meanwhile there are a number of companies to choose from that offer these same services, so it is important to do your research before making any decisions on which company is the best fit for your needs. Furthermore, make sure that any company you use is registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) and check their online reputation for customer reviews prior to booking their services.
Conclusion
Summary: Moving to Vancouver in 2023 is an exciting prospect that comes with a plethora of benefits. Although living costs are higher in the city compared to Toronto, there are several factors than can make it worth the investment, including lower taxes, more affordable housing prices, higher wages and incredible natural attractions like its stunning mountain views and mild climate. When it comes to choosing a neighbourhood in Vancouver there are plenty of options – each offering its own unique combination of culture and modern amenities – so be sure to do your research before settling down. For those looking for help moving their belongings from Toronto to Vancouver there are reliable moving companies such as Hercules Moving Company available.
