Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Victoria to Halifax in 2023
Have you ever thought of moving from Victoria to Halifax in 2023? With its stunning views and bustling city life, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and has a population of over 85,000. Home to the iconic Butchart Gardens and Inner Harbour, it's no wonder why people fall in love with this beautiful city.
Halifax is a port city located on Canada's east coast with an estimated population of 403,390. This vibrant coastal city offers interesting architecture, spectacular harbour views and plenty of outdoor activities. From cultural festivals to amazing dining experiences, Halifax has something for everyone.
Relocating from Victoria to Halifax
Relocating from Victoria to Halifax can be an exciting experience, but daunting if you don't have the necessary information. There are countless factors to consider before making a move like this, but these five considerations should be at the top of your list: Cost of Living, Benefits of Moving, Where to Live, Pros and Cons, Best Moving Solutions. Taking all things into account will ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Cost of Living
With the bustling metropolises of Victoria and Halifax stretching from sea-to-sea, moving between them presents a unique opportunity to experience two different lifestyles. A cost of living comparison is essential for anyone looking to move, as expenses can vary significantly depending on one's lifestyle. To give you an idea of what you can expect when relocating from Victoria to Halifax, let's take a look at the table below.
| Category | Halifax | Victoria |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $250 / sq ft. | $340 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $274 / sq ft. | $438 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,302/ Month. | $982 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $200-$300 / Month. | $250-400 / month. |
| Transportation | $78.50/month for a Halifax Transit bus pass. | $85 / Month for an Adult Monthly Pass |
| Car Insurance | $891 / Year | $1,400 per year. |
| Entertainment | $150 / Month | $150 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $300 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $120/Month | $100 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-80 / Month for gym or fitness center memberships. | $60-80 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 15% / total sales tax percentage. | 7% / Year |
The cost of real estate is significantly lower in Halifax compared to Victoria, with a production home costing about 25% less and a custom-built single family costing about 37% less. Similarly, the cost of housing is significantly lower in Halifax than in Victoria, with the average 1 bedroom renting for $320 less per month and utilities and insurance being cheaper by at least $50. Transportation costs are also lower in Halifax, with the bus pass being more than 6% cheaper than in Victoria. Car insurance is more expensive in Halifax by about 55%, and entertainment and communication costs are equivalent in both cities. Grocery costs for one person are the same across both cities at $300/month. Health and fitness costs are also similar across both cities, with memberships ranging from $50-80/month. Finally, sales taxes are significantly lower in Victoria at 7%, compared to 15% in Halifax.
Benefits of Moving to Halifax
Moving to Halifax offers many advantages that are not found in Victoria. For starters, Halifax boasts a lower crime rate than that of Victoria's. Moreover, costs of living are much more affordable in Halifax compared to Victoria. Meanwhile, the friendly community and historic architecture provides plenty of options for activities and sightseeing. What's more, there is an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation with its coastline location offering stunning oceanfront views. Finally, Halifax has a wide range of art and culture events that allow residents to experience something new almost every day!
Best areas to live in Halifax
Choosing a neighbourhood in Halifax can be tricky as there are many great areas with different characteristics. It might be difficult to decide which one is the right fit for you and your family due to heavy competition and ever-increasing rent prices. With this list, you will quickly know about the best neighbourhoods in Halifax for your future home or rental property.
South End
Moving to Halifax's South End in 2023 will be an exciting adventure! Located just west of Downtown Halifax, the South End is a vibrant urban area made up of a diverse population. Surrounded by restaurants, parks, and other attractions all within walking distance, you will never be far from the action while living in the South End. Access to public transportation and nearby shops makes this neighbourhood ideal for those who want convenience at their doorstep. You'll love being part of this bustling community with its lively atmosphere and friendly locals - it's a great place to call home!
Downtown
Downtown Halifax is an urban core with a population of around 15,000 people and almost 2.6 million visitors annually. It is home to landmarks such as the Halifax Citadel and St. Paul's Church, while nearby areas like Scotia Square offer plenty of shopping opportunities and cultural activities, making it a highly desirable place to live and work. The neighbourhood is only minutes away from attractions like the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Park and other popular sites in the city. Living in Downtown Halifax provides all the amenities of a major city center, with easy access to public transportation and local services within walking distance. From densely populated streets lined with restaurants, bars, cafes and stores to sprawling parks that provide ample green space for outdoor activities- life in downtown Halifax will never be boring!
Armdale
Armdale is an ethnically diverse neighbourhood in Halifax, Canada with a population of 8,000. It is surrounded by green spaces and parks like the Long Lake Provincial Park and the Armdale Yacht Club. The area has numerous attractions close by, including shopping centres, restaurants, libraries and movie theatres just a few minutes away. Living in Armdale is practical yet comfortable; visitors can enjoy all the city amenities while also taking advantage of outdoor recreations. Those who choose to call Armdale home will experience a vibrant neighbourhood atmosphere with plenty of cultural entertainment to explore.
Rockingham
Rockingham was settled in 1783 and is now home to one of the oldest neighborhoods in Halifax. With a population around 10,000, Rockingham features many attractions like the Point Pleasant Park and Historic Properties on the waterfront. The area is close to downtown Halifax, with easy access to main shopping centers, universities and other cultural venues. It's a great place for new residents looking for a reliable and diverse community that is both vibrant yet calm. The convenient travel distances make it easy to explore more of what Halifax has to offer while also enjoying all that Rockingham has to its name – from cozy cafés to lively pubs.
Fairmount
Fairmount is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Halifax, boasting beautiful architecture, neoclassical buildings, and a unique blend of tranquil residential streets with vibrant city energy. This historic area offers its residents easy access to parks and green spaces while being surrounded by the hustle and bustle of downtown restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. With just a short distance to take in the local sights like Citadel Hill or Nova Scotia's Public Gardens, Fairmount provides both convenience and charm for those who call it home. From life on its leafy lanes to enjoying the cafes and street life nearby – living in Fairmount is truly like experiencing many different worlds encapsulated within one neighbourhood.
Pros
- With the lower cost of living in Halifax compared to Victoria, moving there can have many financial benefits.
- The mesmerizing landscape of Halifax provides a stunning contrast to the oceanic vistas of Victoria, making it a great choice for those wishing to take in beautiful scenic views.
- Halifax is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a unique perspective not found in Victoria.
Cons
- Moving from Victoria to Halifax can be a challenge due to the harsher winters experienced in Halifax.
- Moving to Halifax from Victoria means being significantly farther away from other major cities, making it more difficult and time-consuming to access them.
- The higher taxes and fees in Halifax compared to Victoria can be a major deterrent to those wanting to move there.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Victoria to Halifax?
Moving from one part of Canada to another can be a challenging experience, but there are many resources available to make the transition as smooth as possible. Fortunately, there are several moving companies that offer professional services and solutions for relocating from Victoria to Halifax. These companies offer everything from full-service packing and transportation to self-packing materials and advice. For example, Hercules Moving Company provides long distance moving for people who want a full-service experience or just need help with certain aspects of their move. Meanwhile, those who are looking for more DIY options can find materials and support with companies like U-Haul or PODS. Additionally, it's important to remember that all movers must be registered with the Canadian Association of Movers in order to provide legal moving services across Canada. Checking the mover’s reputation online is also essential before selecting a provider for your move from Victoria to Halifax in 2023.
Conclusion
Moving to Halifax in 2023 is a great opportunity to experience the city's vibrant coastal views and exciting architecture. Compared to Victoria, Halifax has significantly lower costs of living, making it a more affordable option for relocation. Not only is it safer than Victoria but also offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities as well as art and cultural events. With so many neighbourhoods like South End, Downtown, Armdale, Rockingham and Fairmount available with various amenities nearby - there are plenty of places you can call home. Furthermore, numerous moving companies such as Hercules Moving Company offer professional services that make the transition from one part of Canada to another easier than ever. For anyone considering a move from Victoria to Halifax in 2023 – take the time for thorough research and planning for an enjoyable relocation experience!
