Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Victoria to Edmonton in 2023
Are you planning to move from Victoria to Edmonton in 2023? Moving can be a challenging process and it is important to have all the information you need before making the big decision. Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, off Canada’s west coast. The city has a population of about 85,792 people and covers an area of about 17 square miles. It offers some of the best views in British Columbia with its ocean-side rainforest, vibrant inner-harbour, and stunning architecture. When visiting Victoria one can feel inspired by its culture, which combines both modern amenities with old-world charm.
Edmonton is Alberta’s capital city with a population of over 932,546 people and an area of 684 square miles. It's known for being one of Canada's sunniest cities — receiving 2,300 hours annually — as well as for being home to North America's largest mall: West Edmonton Mall. With its rich Indigenous history combined with modern attractions such as festivals and galleries; visitors will find much to explore while visiting Edmonton's lively downtown core or bustling neighbourhoods like Old Strathcona or 124 Street Market District.
Relocating from Victoria to Edmonton
Moving from one city to another is always a challenge, and this is especially true when you are relocating from Victoria to Edmonton in 2023. There are numerous factors to consider, so we have identified the five most important considerations that must be taken into account: Cost of Living, Benefits of Moving, Where to Live, Pros and Cons, and Best Moving Solutions. So be sure to keep these in mind as you make your move!
Cost of Living
Edmonton is one of the largest cities in Canada, and so it follows that the cost of living can change drastically depending on your lifestyle. As you plan your move from Victoria to Edmonton, take a look at the table below that compares expenses between these two cities.
| Category | Edmonton | Victoria |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $240 / sq ft. | $310/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $325 / sq ft. | $391/sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $950 / Month | $1350 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $130 - $190 / Month | $200-$300 per month. |
| Transportation | $97 / Month for Edmonton Transit Service monthly pass. | $85 / Month for a Monthly Transit Pass (source: Victoria Regional Transit Commission) |
| Car Insurance | $1,132 / Year. | $1,200 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $250 / Month | $150 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $300 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $90 / Month | $120 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $60-80/Month (Gym Membership) | $60 / Month. |
| Sales Taxes | 5% / Federal sales tax + 0% / Provincial sales tax. | 7% / year |
Living costs in Edmonton are generally lower than in Victoria. For example, real estate prices are approximately $240/sq ft. and $325/sq ft respectively, while the cost of rent for a one bedroom apartment is around $950 and $1350/month respectively. Utilities and insurance costs are also lower in Edmonton, at $130 - $190/month compared to Victoria's $200 - $300/month. Other costs that are cheaper in Edmonton include transportation, car insurance and entertainment - with an ETS monthly pass costing just $97 compared to Victoria's monthly transit pass costing $85, car insurance at around $1,132 per year and entertainment at about $250 per month. Grocery costs are the same in both cities ($300/month), as well as health and fitness ($60-80/month for a gym membership) and phone and internet ($90/month). Lastly, Edmonton has a combined federal & provincial sales tax rate of 5%, while Victoria has a rate of 7%.
Benefits of Moving to Edmonton
The city of Edmonton is the perfect place for anyone looking to experience new opportunities, culture and activities. Besides being filled with bustling festivals and events, here you will find a variety of cultural and natural attractions. The food scene in Edmonton is diverse, with a range of options from locally-sourced restaurants to international fare. Moreover, the access to nature makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Victoria may provide a milder climate but lacks all these amazing features that Edmonton offers. There are many economic opportunities that can be found only in Edmonton - making it an exciting place to start anew!
Best areas to live in Edmonton
Choosing a neighbourhood in Edmonton can be a challenging process, as there are many options with different advantages and disadvantages. With its diverse population, lively urban centre and sprawling suburbs, Edmonton is home to a wide range of neighbourhoods suitable for any lifestyle. Here is a list of five of the best areas to live in Edmonton that will give you an idea of what this vibrant Canadian city has to offer.
Windermere
Windermere is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Edmonton, Canada, home to more than 15,000 residents. It's surrounded by beautiful green spaces, parks and golf courses for outdoor recreation. Residents have easy access to downtown attractions such as the Royal Alberta Museum and Fort Edmonton Park which are only a few minutes away by car. Living in Windermere provides access to great shopping malls and an abundance of restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. There's also plenty of opportunities for entertainment such as cinemas and theaters nearby. Windermere is the perfect place for those looking for an active lifestyle with all the amenities close at hand!
Westbrook Estates
Westbrook Estates is a neighbourhood located in Edmonton, with a population of around 15,000 and many young families. The area is surrounded by golf courses, shopping centers, parks and trails for outdoor activities. Those who move to Westbrook Estates will be only minutes away from vibrant nightlife and cultural destinations; downtown Edmonton is only 13 kilometers away and the University of Alberta is just 30 kilometers away. Life in Westbrook Estates offers an ideal balance between peaceful suburban living and city amenities - making it perfect for anyone looking to settle down while still having access to plenty of city attractions.
Magrath Heights
Magrath Heights is a well-known Edmonton neighbourhood, known for its diverse demographics, vibrant culture and high living standards. Located just off Whitemud Drive and the Calgary Trail, Magrath Heights offers easy access to all of Edmonton's downtown attractions as well as a wide variety of nearby shops and restaurants. For those that enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of parklands within walking distance. When you move to Magrath Heights you can expect a comfortable lifestyle with great amenities close by and quick access to downtown Edmonton via public transportation or car.
Glenora
Located in Edmonton's west end, Glenora is one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in the city. With stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River valley, surrounded by parks and walking trails, it is easy to understand why this neighbourhood is so sought after. Just a short drive from downtown Edmonton and Edmonton International Airport, living in Glenora provides quick access to some of the city's top attractions, while still offering beautiful natural landscapes within reach. Life in Glenora has it all; convenience, beauty and an unbeatable sense of community that can't be found anywhere else!
Parkview
Parkview is a vibrant neighbourhood in Edmonton, Canada home to more than 5,700 people. It is surrounded by several parks and green spaces, including the well-known Victoria Park. The area also has plenty of restaurants and cafes for visitors to explore. As for attractions, there's the Queen Elizabeth II Planetarium and several cultural sites located nearby. For those looking to be close to nature, the river valley trails are just a short drive away from Parkview. Living in Parkview therefore provides you with access to great amenities while still offering natural beauty - making it an excellent choice for anyone moving from Victoria in 2023!
Pros
- The lower cost of living in Edmonton compared to Victoria makes it a much more affordable option for those considering relocation.
- With a wide range of job opportunities, Edmonton proves to be a great destination for those looking to further their careers and work in exciting new fields.
- The stunning natural beauty of Edmonton makes it a stunning destination for those coming from Victoria.
Cons
- Moving to Edmonton in 2023 from Victoria could mean harsher weather conditions, making the relocation a lot more challenging than expected.
- Moving to Edmonton from Victoria means being farther away from the coast, a significant disadvantage for some people.
- Moving to Edmonton from Victoria can be difficult for those accustomed to a more expansive public transportation system, as the city's access is more limited.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Victoria to Edmonton?
Moving across Canada can be a thrilling experience but it can also be a challenge when you don't have all the right tools and moving services. Choosing the right moving company is essential to getting to your new home quickly and safely. Companies like Hercules Moving Company provide complete, reliable, and cost-effective services for all types of moves, from local moves to cross-country relocations. They even offer special perks like packing services, storage solutions, and specialty moving such as piano or antique furniture relocation. Meanwhile, numerous other reputable Canadian moving companies provide similar services for those looking for assistance with their Victoria to Edmonton move in 2023. All of these businesses are registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) so customers can trust that they can move confidently with experienced movers who follow best practices in safety and customer service. Before committing to any company however, it's important that customers research their options by reading reviews online as well as checking registration status with CAM.
Conclusion
Summary: Moving to Edmonton in 2023 can be a great move for anyone looking for new opportunities, access to nature and bustling culture. Relocating entails taking into account factors such as the cost of living, the pros and cons of moving, best areas to live in Edmonton, benefits of moving to Edmonton and best moving solutions. Researching these considerations is essential when planning a Victoria to Edmonton move; budget-friendly living expenses like real estate prices, housing rent and utilities are lower in Edmonton than Victoria. Furthermore, reputable Canadian moving companies offer comprehensive services like packing services and speciality relocations - all backed by the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM).
