Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Vancouver to Halifax in 2023
Have you ever thought about moving from Vancouver to Halifax in 2023? Vancouver is the most populous city in British Columbia and the third-largest city in Canada. It has a population of over 631,486 people and covers an area of 114 square kilometers. Vancouver is known for its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife.
Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia and one of the oldest cities in North America. It has a population of over 403,131 people and covers an area of 741 square kilometers. Halifax offers stunning natural beauty with its rolling hills, rugged coastline, sandy beaches, lush forests and plentiful wildlife. Its historic downtown core will make you feel like you've stepped back in time while its bustling streets provide a taste of modern Canadian life.
Relocating to Halifax from Vancouver
Relocating from Vancouver to Halifax can be an intense experience due to all the different factors to consider. That's why we have selected the most important five that you should definitely keep in mind. From cost of living and benefits of moving, to where to live and pros and cons, not forgetting the best moving solutions - this section will offer you valuable information on these topics. Let's learn more!
Cost of Living
Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and the largest city east of Montreal. Moving to Halifax can be a great experience with many similarities to living in larger Canadian cities, however, the cost of living will highly depend on your lifestyle. To compare apples to apples and make an educated decision about moving from Vancouver to Halifax, take a closer look at the table below.
| Category | Halifax | Vancouver |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $180 /sq ft. | $X / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $270 / sq ft. | $1,200 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1300 / Month | $1,990 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $180 - $300 / Month | $200 - $250 / Month |
| Transportation | $78.25 / Month for a regular adult monthly pass for public transportation. | $98 / Month for a monthly transit pass. |
| Car Insurance | $825 / Year. | $1,500 / Year |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month | $200 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $280 / Month | $400 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $90 / Month | $100 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-70/month. | $50 to $100/month. |
| Sales Taxes | 15% / year. | 7% / Year |
The cost of living in Halifax is generally much lower than in Vancouver. Real estate prices are considerably cheaper, with production homes costing $180 per square foot compared to the $X per square foot in Vancouver. Similarly, custom-built single family homes in Halifax are about $270 per square foot, while they cost about $1200 per square foot in Vancouver. When it comes to housing costs, a one-bedroom apartment will run you about $1300 a month in Halifax versus nearly double that amount ($1990) in Vancouver. Utilities and insurance for each city are relatively comparable, with Halifax usually being slightly less expensive than Vancouver. Public transportation fares are also much more economical in Halifax at only $78.25 for an adult monthly pass compared to $98 in Vancouver. Car insurance is dramatically less expensive at just $825 annually compared to the whopping $1500 yearly cost of coverage in Vancouver. Entertainment and Communications costs remain roughly equal at both cities, with grocery expenses being slightly pricier in Vancouver at around $400 a month as opposed to the monthly cost of around $280 per person found in Halifax. Finally, Sales Taxes are significantly higher in Canada's West Coast city at 15% versus 7% annually found in The Maritimes' largest city.
Benefits of Moving to Halifax
When it comes to relocation from Vancouver to Halifax, there are several advantages that make it worthwhile. Firstly, the stunning coastline in Halifax offers a much needed change of scenery and provides an opportunity for coastal living. Moreover, the city is overflowing with rich history and culture that puts into perspective our current lives and remind us of where we come from. Meanwhile, Halifax has a friendly community which proves to be especially welcoming for newcomers - something many cities lack. Lastly, coming to Halifax won't break your bank account as the cost of living in this part of Canada is significantly lower than in Vancouver.
Wherever you go will have its own unique set of pros and cons but moving to Halifax gives you an edge compared to staying in Vancouver. For instance, while the latter provides more career opportunities in bigger industries like consulting or banking due its larger population size; however those same jobs come at a higher cost of living which can be offset by making a move eastwards. That's why so many Canadians are now choosing Halifax as their new home—a move that promises beautiful views, lively culture and even affordability for all!
Best areas to live in Halifax
Choosing a neighbourhood in Halifax is no easy task. With every area offering its own unique set of amenities and drawbacks, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit. Knowing that each neighbourhood brings something different to the table can help make the decision easier. Below are five of the best neighbourhoods in Halifax that may just be the perfect place for you to call home!
South End
Moving to Halifax's South End is a great option for those looking to explore the coast of Nova Scotia. With the nearby Bedford Basin and Point Pleasant Park, you'll have easy access to nearby hiking trails, beaches, and more. It's a short drive from downtown Halifax with many amenities like shopping centers, restaurants, pubs and events located within walking distance. South End provides an intimate atmosphere while still providing proximity to major attractions in Halifax. Living in South End can be full of life as it is bustling with activities yet still offering the peace of small-town life.
Downtown
Downtown Halifax is a bustling neighbourhood full of life and excitement. The waterfront district and historic properties are just steps away with Citadel Hill, the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History, and the Public Gardens nearby. Visitors on foot can reach the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market within minutes, while Point Pleasant Park is a quick drive or bus ride away. Those who decide to move to this area will find that downtown living brings convenience for day-to-day errands, cultural attractions galore, plus lots of outdoor activities within easy reach.
North End
The North End of Halifax offers a diverse range of cultural activities, from its colourful architecture to the green gardens it is known for. Nearby attractions in this neighbourhood include Point Pleasant Park and the Citadel Hill National Historic Site, both within easy walking distance. Those who decide to move there will enjoy a vibrant urban lifestyle with plenty of local restaurants and shops; in addition, they will be able to take advantage of all the benefits that Halifax has to offer while still being close enough to explore other parts of Nova Scotia. The North End is an ideal place for anyone who wants an exciting life close to nature.
Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant is the perfect place to experience the coastal charm of Halifax. It is a quiet and cozy neighbourhood, located within minutes of downtown Halifax, with stunning views of the city's expansive harbor. The area offers many attractions close by including museums, galleries, boutiques and restaurants all within walking distance. Nature lovers will also find themselves surrounded by lush parks and trails filled with outdoor activities for exploring. With its welcoming atmosphere, easy access to amenities and wide array of entertainment options at your fingertips, Point Pleasant promises an enjoyable life for all who call it home.
Armdale
Living in Armdale, Halifax, is all about experiencing the Canadian lifestyle. This laid-back neighbourhood is surrounded by beautiful green spaces and parks to explore, while being within a reasonable distance of downtown Halifax. Armdale offers great accessibility to local shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of things to do in nearby downtown areas. The proximity of amenities combined with the more laid back atmosphere make it a great spot for those who want to experience city living without feeling overwhelmed by hustle and bustle. With its close connection to nature, some great evening walks can be had around Armdale’s picturesque lakeside paths while taking in magnificent views across the harbour. Make your move today and experience life in one of Canada's most vibrant neighbourhoods!
Pros
- In Halifax, the cost of living is notably more affordable than in Vancouver, making it an attractive option for people looking to save money.
- The rich history and cultural heritage of Halifax provides a unique experience that may not be found in Vancouver.
- The advantage of moving from Vancouver to Halifax is the access to the Atlantic Ocean, which is something that you can't get in Vancouver.
Cons
- Moving to Halifax from Vancouver can be difficult due to its extreme weather conditions, making it more challenging than the more temperate climate of Vancouver.
- Moving from Vancouver to Halifax in 2023 can be a challenge as job opportunities might be limited compared to the ones available in Vancouver.
- Moving from Vancouver to Halifax in 2023 means being distant from other major Canadian cities, making it difficult to travel and access services.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Vancouver to Halifax?
Moving can be an exhausting and overwhelming experience. Fortunately, there are many packing, transport and storage services available to make it easier. For those moving from Vancouver to Halifax in 2023, a plethora of companies offer their services. Hercules Moving Company is among the most commonly chosen options; they provide a wide variety of services including packing and unpacking, loading and unloading assistance as well as storage options. Moreover, they provide extra assistance such as furniture assembly/dismantling and disposing of unwanted items if needed. Meanwhile, there are also several other reputable moving companies available should you prefer them over Hercules Moving Company.
No matter which one you go for though, be sure to keep in mind that the company's registration with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) reaffirms their professional status – plus it always pays off to check the online reputation for any feedback or ratings from prior customers.
Conclusion
Relocating to Halifax from Vancouver can be an exciting experience with numerous benefits such as stunning coastal views and a more affordable cost of living. It is essential to choose the right moving company for the best results. Hercules Moving Company is well-known for providing reliable services and assistance throughout the entire moving process. Furthermore, Halifax offers five great neighbourhoods with distinct features - from its natural beauty to vibrant culture, there's something special for everyone! A move to Halifax promises superior quality of life, numerous attractions, and a welcoming community - making it a highly recommended location in Canada!
