Top 5 Pros and Cons of Moving to Vancouver, BC in 2025

Do you know? According to the most recent HelloSafe study, Vancouver is the third-best student city in Canada for 2025, with a score of 143, up four points from the previous rankings in 2021.

If you’re a professional or a family planning to relocate to a new city in Canada, this blog will help you weigh the pros and cons of moving to Vancouver, so you can make an informed decision about settling in this vibrant city in British Columbia.

What is Vancouver known for?

For decades, the city has been the #1 choice for newcomers. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with many people wishing to call it home. 

This city is well-known for its mild climate, stunning scenery, and friendly people.

Here are some more basic things you should know before moving to this British Columbia city:

• Vancouver is known as “Hollywood North” because it is a popular destination for TV and film production. The city hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Vancouver International Film Festival, the Vancouver Pride Parade, and the Celebration of Light fireworks competition.
• Encourages environmentally conscious practices, such as biking, walking, and taking public transportation.
• The city’s average annual precipitation is 44 inches, or roughly 165 rainy days, with the most rain falling between October and April.
• Vancouver’s cost of living is high, and it can be challenging to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and transportation if your budget is not properly planned.

7 Best Places To Visit in Vancouver, BC

1. Stanley Park

Stanley Park, one of the major tourist attractions in Vancouver, is also very well-known. Not only visitors but even locals, are enamored with the beautiful park to this day! It’s like entering a mystical or parallel universe of Vancouver.

It is a 405-hectare Vancouver’s largest and most beloved urban public park!

Fun Fact: It’s larger than New York City’s Central Park and attracts millions of visitors each year, and it’s true!

There are numerous free activities available in Stanley Park, such as walking or biking. However, some activities, such as train rides, aquariums, and events, will cost money.

Nevertheless, the expense is worth it for the experience of being surrounded by nature and experiencing the park’s varied attractions.

2. Granville Island

Located just south of downtown beneath the Granville Bridge, Granville Island offers a mix of markets, eateries, and art studios., Granville Island is easily one of the best places to visit in Vancouver. 

Once home to many of the city’s factories and sawmills, the area has been transformed into a vibrant cultural district.

 Today, it features the bustling Public Market, intimate theatres, indie craft studios, and creative workshop spaces, making it an epic spot to explore.

3. Chinese Garden

If you’re looking to explore some of the most unique and peaceful spots in Vancouver, don’t miss the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

This serene, almost otherworldly space is the first classical Chinese garden built outside of China, offering visitors a rich cultural experience right in the heart of the city.

Constructed between 1985 and 1986, the garden was inspired by the scholars’ gardens of the Ming Dynasty and was a collaboration between Chinese and Canadian artisans. The result is a truly special place that blends art, architecture, and nature.

Admission includes a guided tour, and rotating exhibits ensure there’s always something new to discover.

4. Capilano Suspension Bridge

Just north of Stanley Park, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the top places to visit in Vancouver, especially if you’re heading to North Vancouver. It’s only about 20 minutes from downtown and well worth the short trip.

The bridge stretches 460 feet (140 meters) across and hangs 230 feet (70 meters) above the Capilano River, offering incredible views. Even if you’re a little nervous about heights, the experience is definitely worth it.

After walking across the bridge (maybe more than once!), be sure to explore the rest of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. It’s a great way to soak in the natural beauty of the West Coast.

5. Grouse Mountain 

Instead of just admiring the mountain views from the city, take a quick 15-minute drive and experience them up close at Grouse Mountain.

In the winter, you can hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding, then relax with a cozy mountain-top après-ski. 

In the summer, hike up the trails or ride the gondola to the top, where you can catch a lumberjack show and visit Grinder and Coola, two rescued grizzly bears living in a protected wildlife enclosure.

Grouse Mountain truly offers something for everyone, no matter the season.

6. Seawall in Vancouver

Extending over 13.5 miles, Vancouver’s iconic Seawall is the world’s longest continuous waterfront path, offering unmatched views and outdoor experiences.

It’s a favorite among walkers, joggers, and cyclists, and it’s easy to see why. The route offers breathtaking views of English Bay and the surrounding mountain ranges, while guiding you along the edge of the iconic Stanley Park.

Along the way, you might pause to photograph sea otters and harbor seals, or take in the natural beauty of landmarks like Siwash Rock. 

With several beaches and scenic spots dotting the trail, it’s the perfect place to stop for a picnic or enjoy a waterfront dining experience. On a sunny day, there are few better ways to enjoy the outdoors in Vancouver than a trip along the Seawall.

7. Vancouver Art Gallery

While Vancouver is renowned for its breathtaking natural surroundings, the beauty continues well beyond the outdoors.

The Vancouver Art Gallery, located in the heart of downtown, houses over 10,000 works of art, from Canadian and British paintings to iconic photographs by artists like Ansel Adams and Henri Cartier-Bresson.

While guided tours are always available, consider attending one of the gallery’s unique FUSE events. 

These after-hours experiences feature DJs, live performances, and interactive art installations, transforming the museum into a vibrant, late-night cultural space from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving to Vancouver, BC, Canada

Do you want to know the advantages and disadvantages of relocating to Vancouver? You‘ve come to the correct place.

While a vacation in Vancouver is usually a fantastic idea, is it a decent place to live permanently?

After weighing the pros and cons of living in Vancouver, you will be able to make a more informed decision.

5 Advantages of Moving to Vancouver, BC Canada

Vancouver is a gorgeous city on Canada’s west coast. It is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, warm climate, and diversified culture. If you’re thinking of relocating to Vancouver, consider the following advantages:

Stunning natural beauty:

• Vancouver is embraced by breathtaking natural beauty such as mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean.
• The people living in Vancouver can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking due to the city’s proximity to nature.

Mild climate:

• Vancouver enjoys a relatively mild climate compared to other parts of Canada. 
• Winters are mild with little snow, and summers are pleasantly warm without excessive heat.

Multicultural and diverse:

• Vancouver is famous for its multiculturalism, which includes a diverse range of cultures and nationalities. 
• This diversity is mirrored in the city’s food, festivals, and cultural events, creating a lively and welcoming environment.

Strong job market:

• Vancouver’s economy is growing, and it is home to a diverse range of businesses, such as technology, film production, banking, and tourism. 
• The lifestyle in Vancouver is great. The city has many work prospects and attracts top people from all around the world.

Outdoor recreation:

• With nearness to mountains, forests, and the coasts, Vancouver is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, cycling, and sailing are all accessible from the city.
• Many Vancouver residents enjoy going camping under the stars as well.

5 Disadvantages of Moving to Vancouver, BC, Canada

Vancouver is a great place to call home. While it is a beautiful city with numerous benefits, there are certain drawbacks that should be considered before making the decision to relocate:

High cost of living:

• The average cost of living in Vancouver, BC for a 1-bedroom apartment is between $2,300 to $2,900; however, it depends on several factors including the location, size of the apartment, count of bathrooms, etc.
• B.C. is an abbreviation for Bring Cash Between Canadians, and it is true! You should expect to pay a lot if you live in Vancouver, from excessive rent rates to costly gas prices.
• Don’t you believe it? Try searching “Why are Vancouver” and one of the top suggestions will be “Why are Vancouver houses so expensive.”

Traffic and driving:

• Fun fact: Vancouver has the fourth worst traffic in North America, trailing only Mexico City, New York, and Toronto.
• Driving in Vancouver is not for the impatient; you’ll witness vehicles cutting off, running red lights, and so on.

Rainy Climate:

• Vancouver receives a lot of rain throughout the year, which can be a disadvantage for individuals who prefer brighter weather.
• The city’s humid climate might not be to everyone’s taste, and some people could find it difficult to adapt.

Limited housing availability:

• The Vancouver real estate market is fiercely competitive, with limited housing supply and tremendous demand.
• This might make it difficult to obtain inexpensive housing, especially for people or families on a limited budget.

Income Disparity:

• While there are many work options in Vancouver, the wage discrepancy between rich and low earners can be enormous.
• When comparing metropolitan areas, income disparity is highest in Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver.

Making the Move to Vancouver, BC Canada?

If you’re making the move to Vancouver, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant city offers stunning scenery, a bustling downtown, and endless opportunities for adventure. But before you can start exploring all that Vancouver has to offer, you’ll need to make sure your move goes smoothly. 

That’s where a local moving company in Vancouver comes in. The moving companies make the relocation as simple and peaceful as possible. 

Don’t be concerned if weighing the positives and drawbacks of moving to Vancouver has depleted your vitality. You can rely on Toronto movers as they offer a wide range of services, as well as all types of packing materials. 

You can simply relax your mind and body while the movers do their work and make it easy. Whether you are considering a relocation from one city to another or within Vancouver, I would recommend hiring packers and movers to ensure a stress-free transition. 

These movers have the experience and expertise to handle all of your possessions with care and ensure they arrive safely at your new home. They may also assist with packing and unpacking, furniture disassembly and reassembly, and, if necessary, storage options. 

Furthermore, hiring a moving company will save you the time and energy required to relocate on your own. So, if you’re considering a move to Vancouver, don’t be afraid to contact a local moving company to help you through the process.

Conclusion

We cannot deny it, but we can confidently state that Vancouver has something for everyone. Every day, there is something new to do in one of the most beautiful cities of British Columbia.

The greenery is what you can see from your end of the vision means that you are always near nature. But living in this beautiful nature is also a challenge, and it is not for everyone. 

Ask yourself, Why move to Vancouver? and list down all the pros and cons before making a decision to relocate to this city. If you believe you can overcome all the disadvantages of moving to Vancouver, then you can and may prosper there!

However, for those who are willing to make the investment, the rewards of living in Vancouver are abundant. You’ll adapt to the lifestyle in Vancouver. From its stunning natural scenery to its vibrant cultural scene, there is always something to discover in this dynamic city. So, if you’re making a move to Vancouver, do not forget to take some assistance from Let’s Get Moving, Vancouver Movers!

Quick FAQs About the Pros and Cons of Moving to Vancouver

Is Vancouver an expensive city to live in?

In terms of the cons of moving to Vancouver, the cost of living, especially housing and food, is relatively high.

The average cost of living in Vancouver is $2,515, which is 10% higher than the average in British Columbia.

What are the popular neighbourhoods in Vancouver?

Vancouver is full of beautiful neighborhoods. However, some are more popular, including Yaletown, West Point Grey, Gastown, South Granville, Oakridge, Knight, Collingwood, Fairview, and Mount Pleasant.

How much does it cost to relocate to Vancouver?

The cost of moving to Vancouver depends on the following factors:

• The moving distance and the service you need.
• The volume and size of your belongings
• Whether you need storage services, extra moving protection, or professional packing services to pack your items,

Since moving costs vary, we recommend getting a quote from a professional moving company and discussing ways to help cut costs.

How safe is Vancouver?

Vancouver is considered a safe city overall, with a low crime rate. The downtown and popular neighborhoods are well-patrolled, and violent crimes are rare. However, standard safety precautions are recommended to ensure personal security.

Is Vancouver suitable for families?

Vancouver is considered a suitable place for families and offers good schools and various family-friendly activities. However, the high cost of living and housing may pose challenges for some families.

What is the weather like in Vancouver?

Vancouver experiences a mild climate with cool, wet winters and relatively cooler summers. Rainfall is common, especially during the fall and winter months.

What salary do you need to live in Vancouver?

The salary needed to live comfortably in Vancouver depends on various factors, including lifestyle and housing choices.

The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800 per month, and utilities for one person cost around $250.

This means an annual income of $45,000 is enough to live a comfortable life in Vancouver.

The average salary in Vancouver is $68,255 per year, which makes it $35 per hour. This is the average amount, and salaries range from a minimum of $44,828 per year (for entry-level positions) to $132,076 per year ( for experienced workers).

Is Vancouver a good place to live?

Vancouver is known for its good quality of life. The city has a low crime rate compared to other cities in Canada, making it a safe place to live. The city has lush green parks and scenic views and provides opportunities for various outdoor activities that would promote a healthy lifestyle. 

Should I move to Vancouver?

Whether you should move to Vancouver or not largely depends on your priorities and budget. It also offers good schooling options and quality education to students and is accessible to abundant parks, oceans, and diverse cultures. However, the cost of living and housing can pose a challenge, so it’s better if you create a moving budget before you plan to relocate. 

Is Vancouver a good place to raise a family?

Yes, Vancouver is a great place to raise a family. The city is known for its stunning views, diverse cultures, and plenty of outdoor activities that are perfect for families. It offers good schools, lots of parks, and excellent public transportation. With low crime rates and a welcoming community, Vancouver is a great choice if you’re planning to settle down and raise children.

What are the pros and cons of living in British Columbia?

The pros of living in British Columbia include that it has a strong job market, scenic views, natural landscapes, and a high standard of living. Meanwhile, the cons of living in BC is the high cost of living and traffic congestion.

Is it better to live in Toronto or Vancouver?

Ultimately, deciding between living in Toronto vs Vancouver will depend on what you or your family values the most. If you prefer outdoor activities and a milder climate, Vancouver could be a better choice, and if job opportunities and cultural experiences are more important to you, then Toronto can be the perfect choice.