Vancouver Cost of Living

As a newcomer to Vancouver, BC, estimating the cost of living may differ from one individual to another. Various factors can be taken into consideration based on your location, lifestyle, and budget. Estimating the cost of living can be challenging since it may differ from where you are moving from. To help you estimate the cost of living in Vancouver, BC, we have outlined some of the basic living expenses.

Living Cost

Here is a breakdown of essential monthly expenses to budget.

Expense Category Cost Estimate (per month, per person)

  • Grocery $300 – $450
  • Cellphone $50 – $100
  • Health Insurance (MSP) $75
  • Public Transportation (Compass Card) $107.30 to $193.80, depending on zones traveled

* If your housing arrangement does not include utilities, see below for cost breakdown

Housing Cost

Monthly rent can vary widely depending on the city or neighborhood in which you reside. Rental costs increase, the closer you live to Downtown Vancouver.

Housing Type Cost Estimate (per month)

  • Shared or Private Room in Shared Housing $700 – $1800
  • Studio $1400 – $2300
  • One Bedroom unit $1600 – $2900
  • Two Bedroom unit $2200 – $3800

Utilities and Tenant Insurance

Depending on your rental agreement, the costs below may or may not be included in your rent.

Utilities and Insurance Cost Estimate (per month)

  • BC Hydro (heat and electricity) From $25, depending on the size of your unit and usage
  • Wi-Fi $45 – $100, depending on needs and provider
  • Tenant Insurance $20 – $35

Medical Costs

As of January 1, 2020, all study permit holders are required to pay a health fee of $75 per month directly to the BC government. For international students who are bringing families to Canada, only family members with valid study permits will be charged the health fee. If a family member has a work permit or is staying in Canada as a visitor, they will not be charged the health fee. However, if a family member also has a study permit, they will be charged the health fee. The health fees are subject to change.

Check the MSP website for the most up-to-date information. Permit holders are eligible for BC MSP coverage after living in BC for 3 months; therefore FDU Vancouver Campus provides students with private medical insurance called Guard Me, during their first 3 months in Canada. Guard Me can be purchased directly through FDU at a cost of $2.10. Please contact Emily Wang at m.wang1@fdu.edu to activate your Guard Me insurance.