Tips for Moving to and Enjoying Living in Vancouver

What Does Living in Vancouver Entail?

Living in Vancouver means having a complete range of geographic landscapes to choose from. If you’re arriving with a trailer full of your belongings, feel free to store them at a self-storage facility and look around.

There’s oceanside living downtown, mountainous terrain in North Vancouver, and sprawling, landlocked neighborhoods like East Vancouver. What they share is off-the-charts natural beauty, a through-line of West Coast attitude, and piney fresh air.

More than any other Canadian city, Vancouver is also part of the Pacific Rim, and Asian culture is well represented here. There are niche areas for whatever community suits you, though the overall atmosphere is welcoming, and Vancouverites pride themselves on a festive, live-and-let live outlook.

Is Vancouver as Rainy as People Say?

Yes and no. Vancouver gets a lot of rain during the winter months, with extended periods of cloudiness. However, compared to the rest of Canada, it rarely experiences winter. Unless you’re living inland, near the heights of Grouse Mountain or another skiing area, it’s possible to forget this town is part of the Great White North.

That said, Vancouverites are serious about their raingear. Instead of bringing parkas, you’ll be better off with quality waterproof jackets and a few light fleeces. The Cowichan sweater is an authentically indigenous, wool favorite and very practical.

Wherever you end up in the city, wax your vehicle for extra protection before the showers start. Any excuse to be outdoors in Vancouver is a good one. With that in mind, as far as city vibes go, the sunny summer months outperform the damp cool winters. That’s when Terminal City’s other nickname, ‘City of Glass,’ really shines.

How Is Vancouver Doing Economically?

Housing Costs

It’s been famously overpriced for the last ten years. However, as of September of 2024, for cost-effectiveness, Vancouver’s housing prices are now in flux. The average cost of $1.25 million per home is a slight decline from the record highs set last year. Prices can vary significantly between neighborhoods.

Job Opportunities

The job market is tough, with the city being such an attractive place to live. Both skilled and unskilled workers are going to face stiff competition. The provincial government is projecting an additional million jobs in 2025, but how many of these are remote or situated in Vancouver is unclear.

Cost of Living

By normal standards, you’ll need to make at least $80,000 a year to live comfortably. That said, Vancouver is such a nice place that it skews usual standards of comfort. Many people would rather go without treats and niceties to enjoy the West Coast aura and sunsets.

What Are the Main Things to Remember About Moving to Vancouver?

Be realistic. Vancouver is spectacularly gorgeous and is constantly attracting talent from all over the world. If you already have a remote gig that pays well, fitting in shouldn’t be too difficult. If your skillset is more general, finding work and affordable housing will prove an uphill battle. Nothing is impossible! Be creative! The more you prepare beforehand, the better you’ll be acclimated to this unique harbour town.

Let Maple Leaf Self Storage Help You Make Vancouver Your Home!

Maple Leaf Self Storage has 11 locations in Vancouver waiting to serve you. Each of our outlets conveniently offers moving supplies including boxes, locks, and more. Our professional staff look forward to making your move a success. Contact us for a free quote today!