Cost of Living in Vancouver: What to Expect in 2025
Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, but it's also one of the most expensive. Whether you're planning to move here as an immigrant, student, or just curious, this guide will help you understand how much everyday life can cost in Vancouver in 2025.
Note: All the prices are in Canadian dollars.
Housing Costs in Vancouver 2025
For many in Vancouver, rent makes up the biggest part of their budget.
One-bedroom apartment (Downtown): around $2,300–$2,800/month
One-bedroom apartment (outside Downtown): around $1,900–$2,400/month
Shared room in a house or apartment: $900–$1,300/month
If you're buying a home, prices are even higher. A small condo can cost over $700,000.
Food and Groceries Costs in Vancouver 2025
Food prices depend on where you shop and how often you eat out.
Groceries for one person: around $300–$500/month
Coffee: $4–$6
Casual lunch: $15–$20
Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: $25–$40 per person
You can save money by cooking at home and shopping at cheaper stores like Persia Foods, No Frills, Superstore, or T&T.
Transportation Cost in Vancouver
You don’t always need a car in Vancouver. The city has good public transit.
Compass Card Monthly Pass (1 zone): $107
Gasoline: about $1.50 to $1.90/litre
Evo car share (pay-per-minute): $0.49/minute + tax
Many people bike or walk, especially if they live near work or school.
Utilities and Internet
Electricity, heat, and water for a 1-bedroom apartment: $80–$120/month
Internet (unlimited high speed): $70–$100/month
Mobile phone plan (data + calling): $40–$75/month
Health and Insurance
If you live in British Columbia for more than 6 months, you're usually covered by MSP (Medical Services Plan).
MSP is free for most residents.
Newcomers may need private health insurance for the first few months. It can cost $70–$150/month.
Education Costs
If you're a student:
International students (university): $30,000–$50,000/year
Domestic students: $6,000–$9,000/year
Daycare for young children: $1,000–$1,500/month
Fun and Leisure
Going out and enjoying the city also costs money.
Gym membership: $40–$90/month
Movie ticket: $15–$18
Beer at a bar: $7–$10
Concert ticket: $40–$150, depending on the artist
Monthly Budget Example (Single Person)
What Life in Vancouver Might Cost You Each Month (2025)
- Rent your space to sleep: $2,000
- Feed yourself well: $400
- Get around the city (Transit): $107
- Keep the lights and Wi-Fi on: $150
- Stay connected: $50
- Have a little fun: $200
- Monthly Total: $2,907
Tips to Save Money in Vancouver
- Share a place with roommates
- Buy a used bike instead of driving
- Shop at budget grocery stores
- Look for free community events
- Volunteer at Film or Music Festivals to get to see the show for free
- Use apps like Too Good To Go for cheap food
- Try to eat at home instead of eating out
- Use Share Cares instead of your car
- Use public transit instead of a taxi, Uber, or your car
- Don't go into debt
Vancouver can be expensive, but it’s also full of opportunity, nature, and diversity. With good planning and budgeting, it’s possible to live well in this beautiful city.
