Cost of Living in Vancouver

Last updated: Vancouver, Apr 2024

For a monthly net income of $5,000, our calculator estimates that the cost of living in Vancouver for a single individual is around $3,348 per month for accommodation and basic expenses.

Living in the city centre, as opposed to the suburbs, can significantly impact your budget. For a more personalised estimate, please check the Advanced Options Advanced Options to select your preferred location and accommodation type.

Please note that all figures on this page are expressed in Canadian dollars (CAD).

Our calculator recommends renting a 1-bedroom apartment: $2,653

It is generally advised to keep accommodation costs to around a third of your monthly gross income (before tax), though in Vancouver this is likely unrealistic. The city has one of the world's most expensive rental markets, with prices 40% above the national average in Canada, higher than any other city in the country.

To keep things practical and hopefully allow for some savings, our calculator's suggestions are limited to shared rooms and 1-bedroom apartments. However, you can select your preferred accommodation type in the Advanced Options Advanced Options section and check how it affects your budget.

The table below outlines the average rental rates for apartments in the city of Vancouver compared to the surrounding suburbs (e.g. Surrey).

Average monthly utility bill for one person living in a 1-bedroom apartment: $170

In Canada, rental agreements typically cover utilities such as water and heating. However, it's important to verify the specifics before signing the lease.

As such, our calculator accounts for utilities that are commonly not included in the rent price: electricity, Internet, and a phone plan. It also factors in the suggested accommodation type for your budget and whether you are living alone or not.

Average monthly grocery bill for one person: $420

The average adult in Vancouver spends around $420 monthly on groceries. For couples living together, the cost rises to approximately $682 per month.

It's important to note that these figures can vary widely. The total amount you spend will depend on factors like how often you cook at home, the types of groceries you buy, and your spending habits on daily essentials like toiletries and household items.

Below, you'll find a list of some common grocery items along with the typical prices you can expect to see in Vancouver supermarkets.

Monthly Vancouver public transport cost for one person: $105

Vancouver has an excellent public transit system, with a large network that includes buses, the iconic Vancouver SkyTrain, the West Coast Express, and the SeaBus ferry. It's no surprise that most residents do not own a car, as public transport is not only faster, but also much cheaper.

When projecting your monthly expenses, our Vancouver cost of living calculator factors in the monthly pass for Zone 1, which covers most of the city.

Budget left after basic expenses: $1,652

Whether you're a foodie in search of the next great meal, an adventurer looking to explore the great outdoors, or a culture enthusiast eager to soak up some art and music, Vancouver has something to offer.

From high-end dining experiences to casual, cozy cafes, the city caters to all tastes and budgets. The entertainment options are just as varied as the dining scene, ranging from nature activities to cultural experiences and nightlife.

Our calculator doesn't include dining out and leisure expenses when estimating the cost of living in Vancouver, since they vary widely from person to person. To give you an idea of what to expect, the table below outlines the average prices you'll see in the city.