Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Vancouver to St. John's in 2023
Have you ever dreamed of moving from Vancouver to St. John's in 2023? Canada's westernmost city, Vancouver, is known for its spectacular harbourfront and mountainside setting. With a population of over 2.5 million people, Vancouver has something for everyone and is an ideal place to live and work. Strolling through the bustling downtown streets or taking in the stunning mountain views are just some of the experiences that make living in Vancouver so special.
St. John’s is a vibrant port city located on the eastern coast of Newfoundland and Labrador province. As Canada’s oldest English-founded city, St. John’s boasts a rich cultural heritage with historic sites like Signal Hill National Historic Site and Water Street – one of North America’s oldest continuously occupied streetscapes – as well as modern attractions like George Street entertainment district and colourful row houses along its seaside cliffsides. With its picturesque ocean views, friendly locals, great restaurants and cafes it's no surprise that many have found their home here in this beautiful coastal town!
Relocating from Vancouver to St. John's
Moving from Vancouver to St. John's can be a complex process as there are many factors to consider. That's why it is important to select the most important ones and plan ahead. We have gathered five key considerations that will make you relocation a smoother process - cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons, and best moving solutions. Let's take a closer look at each one in upcoming sections!
Cost of Living
Moving from Vancouver to St. John's can be a challenging experience, particularly due to the size difference of the two cities. Expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle: some things are more expensive in St. John's than in Vancouver and vice versa, so take a look at the table below for a detailed comparison of costs between the two cities!
| Category | St. John's | Vancouver |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $220/sq ft. | $450 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $290/sq ft. | $1,180/sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $950 / Month. | $1,940 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-300/month. | $240 / Month |
| Transportation | $65 / Month - Metrobus Transit Pass | $98 / Month for a Monthly Pass. |
| Car Insurance | $1100 / year. | $1,680 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month | $200 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300/month. | $250 - $300 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $100 / Month | $80 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50 - $80 / Month. | $60-120 / Month for gym memberships or fitness classes. |
| Sales Taxes | 15% | 7%. |
Moving to St. John's from Vancouver will be a more affordable option for people looking to relocate. The cost of production homes in St. John’s is much lower than Vancouver at around $220/sqft compared to $450/sqft, while custom-built single-family homes are also significantly lower at $290/sqft vs. $1,180/sqft in Vancouver. Similarly, housing costs in St. John’s are much less expensive than Vancouver at around $950 vs. $1,940 per month on average and monthly utility and insurance expenses are also cheaper by almost half of those in Vancouver. Furthermore, transportation expenses such as the Metrobus Transit Pass and car insurance are also more affordable in St. John's compared to Vancouver with the Transit Pass costing $65/month vs. $98/month and Car Insurance costing about $1100/year compared to about $1680/year in Vancouver. Entertainment and grocery costs between the two cities remain similar but communication costs in St. John’s (phone & internet) are cheaper than Vancouver by about 20%. Lastly, taxes in St. John’s are 8% higher than that of Vancouver at 15% vs 7%.
Benefits of Moving to St. John's
Moving from Vancouver to St. John's brings with it numerous benefits that not many other Canadian cities can compete with. One of these benefits is access to the vibrant cultural scene in St John’s, which offers something for everyone - from festivals and celebrations to museums and galleries. Meanwhile, the natural surrounding of St John's is unbeatable; there are no shortages of stunning mountainous sceneries, lush meadows and picturesque views for you to explore. Moreover, this city has an incredibly welcoming community filled with friendly locals that makes life feel more authentic than ever before. On top of that, living in St John's also generally comes at a more affordable cost compared with Vancouver making it even easier to build a new life here. Lastly, there are plenty of high quality educational opportunities available here which means you won't have compromise on your learning experiences either!
Best areas to live in St. John's
Choosing the right neighbourhood in St. John's can be a challenging task due the variety of diverse options available to potential residents. With its unique attractions, coastal charm, and range of activities, making a sound decision about where to live is not easy. To help narrow down your selection, here are five top-notch neighbourhoods of St. John's that provide favourable living conditions for families and young professionals alike.
East End
East End is a vibrant neighbourhood in St. John's, home to around 6,400 residents. With its incredible scenery and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, East End offers something special to each of its residents. The area is surrounded by local attractions such as Quidi Vidi Village Plantation, Signal Hill National Historic Park and Cabot Tower; all within easy reach from the centre of the neighbourhood. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll on a picturesque boardwalk or an exciting cultural experience with dining and entertainment, East End has it all! Living in Eastern End means an idyllic lifestyle where you can enjoy nature in tranquillity while being close to incredible attractions and amenities - perfect for families looking for an enriching life in Canada's easternmost city.
King William Estates
Moving to King William Estates in St. John's is an exciting prospect for many people looking for a change of scenery in 2023. Located in the heart of St. John's, this neighbourhood boasts beautiful views of Signal Hill and the ocean from its charming residential streets. The bustling downtown area, full of shopping and entertainment options, is just minutes away by car or by public transit; local hospitals, schools, and parks nearby make it easy to take advantage of all the amenities this vibrant city has to offer. It's no wonder why living here is considered so appealing: residents can enjoy all the convenience that comes with urban life while also having access to nature and beautiful scenery nearby. Whether you're looking for an affordable family home or a trendy place close to nightlife, King William Estates has something perfect for everyone!
Waterford Valley
Living in Waterford Valley means having everything at your doorstep. The charming neighbourhood is located in the southern part of St. John's, offering a mix of urban life and green spaces. With easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and cycling as well as restaurants, shops and pubs, there are no shortages of things to do nearby. Additionally, downtown St. John's is only 10 minutes away by car or bike making it easy for residents to explore the city's culture and attractions such as George Street or Signal Hill National Historic Site. Whether you are looking for tranquillity or adventure in your everyday life, Waterford Valley can provide a unique balance of both with plenty of exciting possibilities around every corner.
Rabbittown
Rabbittown is an historic neighborhood in the heart of St. John's and is known for its mix of multi-story buildings, quaint shops, and diverse restaurants. It's a trendy place for locals and visitors alike, as well as being a great spot to explore the city's rich culture. The beautiful coastal views from Rabbittown will keep you inspired while its close proximity to downtown attractions like Signal Hill National Historic Site makes it easily accessible for any weekend getaway. Whether you're looking to enjoy some fine dining at one of Rabbitown’s many acclaimed eateries or take in some local fresh air at Quidi Vidi Lake, living in this vibrant community provides plenty of opportunities to live an exciting lifestyle!
Kilbride
Moving to Kilbride in St. John's will prove to be an enticing adventure for anyone who loves being outdoors and close to natural beauty. As it's situated in the heart of Newfoundland, Kilbride is surrounded by majestic hillsides and rolling countryside, as well as plenty of small nearby villages. Those looking for a change of pace from the hustle and bustle can find peace in the easy access to multiple parks, trails, beaches, camping spots and fishing pontoons just minutes away from Kilbride. Living in this vibrant area offers unique experiences with its dynamic culture and captivating attractions within walking distance or an easy drive away from home. Here you'll find a community where you can truly make memories that last forever!
Pros
- With a lower cost of living compared to other cities in Canada, moving from Vancouver to St. John's can be an attractive option for those looking to keep more of their money without sacrificing comfort and convenience.
- The breathtaking landscapes of St. John's offer picturesque access to natural beauty, a delight not often found in Vancouver.
- The people of St. John's are known to be exceptionally friendly and welcoming, providing a warm atmosphere that can't be found in Vancouver.
Cons
- The harsh winter in St. John's contrasts with the mild winters of Vancouver, making moving a challenge for those unaccustomed to the chill.
- Moving from the bustling city of Vancouver to St. John's may feel isolating due to its lack of proximity to other major Canadian cities.
- Given the limited job opportunities in St. John's compared to Vancouver, making a move here could prove challenging for some.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Vancouver to St. John's?
Moving from Vancouver to St. John's is a considerable task that requires organizing, planning and professional help. Fortunately, with the many moving companies available in both cities, finding the best one for your needs is much easier than it may seem. Hercules Moving Company is a great option to consider as they provide services such as packing and storage at an affordable cost. Other companies offer services such as long-distance transportation of large objects like furniture or appliances and even complete home pick-up service packages which come in handy when you don't have the time to pack everything yourself.
Moreover, it's essential for anyone looking for movers to ensure that their chosen company is properly registered with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Meanwhile, checking out customer reviews online can also assist customers in finding reliable movers who are suitable for their individual needs and budget.
Conclusion
Relocating from Vancouver to St. John's in 2023 is a great opportunity for those looking for a change of scenery and a more affordable cost of living. With its charming coastal charm, vibrant cultural scene and abundance of natural beauty, St. John's has something special to offer all types of people. Moving to the capital city is made easier with the numerous moving companies and solutions available including Hercules Moving Company which provides services such as packing and storage at an affordable cost, as well as reliable long-distance transportation of large objects and complete home pick-up packages. Before making your decision it’s important to consider the pros & cons associated with moving and ensure your chosen company is registered with CAM (Canadian Association of Movers). With careful planning you can make your relocation experience hassle free!
