Living in Vancouver vs. Toronto: Where Should You Live?

If you’re an expat considering moving to Canada, you may be wondering which city is the best place to live.

Vancouver and Toronto are both great cities, but they each have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Most people first think of Toronto when they think of Canada. It’s not the capital city, but it is the largest city in Canada.

It’s a hub of business, but that comes with a high cost of living.

Vancouver is on the West Coast in British Columbia. It’s a smaller city than Toronto, but it’s still a major metropolitan area.

It has a more relaxed vibe than Toronto, and it’s surrounded by natural beauty.

So, which should you choose? Let’s take a closer look at the difference (and similarities) of living in Vancouver vs. Toronto.

Vancouver vs. Toronto Weather

Vancouver

Vancouver has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures year-round.

The average temperature in July is 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit), and in January it’s 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit).

You can expect rain throughout the year in Vancouver, but the rainiest months are October through April.

Many people love Vancouver for the ability to go to the beach and go skiing in the same day, since the altitude of the mountains means there’s always snow in some areas.

This is my favourite tour to get to know Vancouver

Toronto

Toronto is not temperate. It’s a city of extremes.

Summer temperatures rise to 30+ Celcius in July, with the HUMIDEX making it feel even hotter (often up to 40C).

In winter, on the other hand, it gets COLD. We regularly see -20C in Toronto each winter, with snow often shutting down the city.

We’ve even got the world’s largest underground mall built in our tunnels downtown (which we have to avoid going out in the snow).

Toronto is also a tougher place to live if you have allergies. The intensity of the weather changes often causes more severe allergies.

This is my favourite tour to get to know Toronto

Vancouver vs. Toronto Cost of Living

Vancouver

Vancouver is an expensive place to live.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver is $2,200+ per month in the city centre.

If you want to buy a house, the average price is $1.3 million.

A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost you about $60, and a cappuccino will set you back $4.50.

You will need an estimated $1,200 per month BEFORE rent or housing.

So that means that monthly you need about $3,500 to live in Vancouver.

This seems fairly high, but living in Vancouver has a lot of pros to balance it out.

Toronto

The cost of living in Toronto is similar to Vancouver.

Rent for a TINY one-bedroom apartment in the city will set you back $2,000+, and the average house price is around $1.2 million (that’s factoring in condo prices. A house will likely cost you into $2 million nowadays for a family).

A meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant will cost about $70.

You’ll need an estimated $1,500 per month to live in Toronto BEFORE rent or housing.

That means that monthly you need at least $3,500 to live in Toronto. It’ll likely be closer to $4,000 a month.

You can bring this down by having roommates or living in a basement apartment. Another way many people save money is by living on the outskirts of the city in Mississauga.

Ultimately, living in Toronto has a high quality of life but it will cost you.

Groceries

Vancouver

In Vancouver, a trip to the grocery store will cost you about $200 for one person eating meat, fresh vegetables, and snacks.

You can find cheaper food prices, especially if you don’t eat meat or if you make big batch food.

Toronto

Much like Vancouver, groceries in Toronto are expensive.

You’ll likely spend $230 for one person in Toronto eating fresh vegetables, meat, and snacks.

Anyone who is celiac will find bread prices around $13 breaking your gluten-free heart!

You can save by shopping in bulk at Costco and by meal prepping with big meals.

Rent/Housing

Vancouver

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver is $2,200+.

If you want to buy a house, the average price is $1.375 million.

You can find cheaper options outside of downtown, but that means longer commute times.

Many people live north of Vancouver where you can have more of a cottage with lakes and mountains. But you’ll then have a pretty, but long commute to the city for work.

Toronto

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is $2,145. And that might claim to be a one-bedroom but it’s likely more of a studio.

If you want to buy a house, the average price is $1,354,000. However, right now houses in Toronto are selling like crazy before even being listed with massive bidding wars.

Most houses are selling for closer to $2 million.

You can find cheaper options outside of downtown in areas like Mississauga or even Hamilton.

BUT commutes are notoriously horrible in Canada.

So expect a LONG drive or bus ride home.

Public Transit

Vancouver

Vancouver’s public transit is called TransLink.

It operates more like a UK metro with zones.

This table will help you break down the costs for different zones:

Zone	1 Trip	Monthly Pass
Zone 1	$3.05	$100.25
Zone 2	$4.35	$134.00
Zone 3	$5.90	$181.05

See a zone map here.

Toronto

Toronto’s TTC operates on a 1 trip or pass basis.

You can buy a Presto Card for cheaper fares.

Cash fares are $3.25. With the Presto, it’s $3.20 – and it’s paperless then.

You can get a monthly pass alternatively for $156. This is great for commuters!

Students get discounted passes via their post-secondary schools.

Gas Costs

Vancouver

Gas prices are on the rise.

As of May 2022, gas in Vancouver is averaging $2.17/L.

You can check up to date gas rates here.

Toronto

Toronto has high gas as well, but it’s always a bit cheaper than Vancouver.

As of May 2022, gas in Toronto is averaging $2.08/L.

You can check up to date gas rates here.

Safety

Vancouver

Vancouver is a pretty safe city.

The crime rate is lower than Toronto and other large cities in Canada.

However, there are still areas to avoid – especially at night. You’ll find higher rates of pickpocketing and petty crime around popular tourist areas.

You won’t find crimes like across the border in the US. There are almost no instances of murders, stabbings, or shootings in Vancouver.

Unfortunately, the murders that do happen are to local Indigenous women (a big Canadian issue). But for new expats, you’re safe from this systemic issue.

However, it’s still a big city.

Don’t leave your bag unattended. Lock your bicycle, especially in Stanley Park.

There’s also a low risk for natural disasters. You may get a minor earthquake or heavy rainfall, but it’s not a site for tornados or monsoons.

Women, especially solo women, can feel very safe here.

Toronto

Toronto is generally a safe place.

The crime rate is higher than Vancouver, but it’s still lower than other large cities in the US.

You’ll find higher rates of pickpocketing and petty crime around popular tourist areas. According to Numbeo’s data, Toronto has a safety index of 58.85.

As with any big city, don’t leave your belongings unattended. Keep an eye on your drink if you’re going out clubbing. And be cautious when walking alone at night – especially if you’re a woman and in the downtown core.

There has been a rise in burglaries and carjackings in Toronto recently in the suburbs, which is a surprise for these usually safer areas. It’s smart to keep your car in your garage when possible.

Toronto gets snowstorms and the odd heavy rainfall, but we’re pretty safe from major weather disasters.

Women, especially solo women, can feel safe here during the day. But at night, it’s always best to take a taxi home.

Honestly, I used to walk home alone at night all the time, and never had an issue aside from some catcalls.

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Lifestyle

Vancouver

Vancouver is an outdoorsy city.

You’ll find people jogging, cycling, and hiking all over the place.

Because of the warmer weather, you can do these activities all year round.

In the winter, there’s skiing and snowboarding up in the nearby mountains. Many expats come here to live and work at ski chalets, especially in Whistler.

There are tons of beaches to lounge on in the summer. And Stanley Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Vancouver is also a foodie city. You’ll find all sorts of international cuisine here. Their China Town is world-renowned, so be sure to stop in for some dumplings!

Vancouverites are health-conscious and environmentally friendly. You’ll find a lot of organic food options and people driving hybrid cars.

There’s a big nightlife scene, especially in the downtown core.

Toronto

Toronto is a big city with a lot to offer.

There are many different neighbourhoods to explore, each with their own unique vibe.

Whether you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene or a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll be able to find it here.

The food scene in Toronto is diverse and exciting, with something to suit everyone. It was recently named the most diverse in the world!

If you’re into the arts, Toronto is a great place to be. There are always concerts and shows going on.

There’s also a lot of green space in Toronto, which is perfect for picnics or just taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The downtown core can feel a bit claustrophobic, so be sure to get out and explore the neighbouring areas. Take day trips to beautiful outdoorsy areas like Elora or Tobermory or Muskoka.

People

Vancouver

Vancouverites are known for being friendly and laid back.

You’ll find that people here are very open and accepting of others.

There’s a big immigrant population, so you’ll hear all sorts of languages being spoken on the streets.

Because of the outdoorsy lifestyle, Vancouverites are generally pretty active and health-conscious.

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Toronto

Torontonians are known for being polite and reserved.

You’ll find that people here are very welcoming of others, but are busy going about their day.

They’re not going to take time to smile at you on the sidewalk like in smaller cities, such as Ottawa. Instead, they’ll brush past you.

But they’ll still say please and thank you at Tim Hortons!

There’s a big immigrant population, so you’ll hear all sorts of languages being spoken on the streets.

Because Toronto is such a big city, you’ll find all types of people here.

You’ll find that the downtown core is full of young professionals, while the suburbs are home to families.

Things to Do

Vancouver

There’s always something to do in Vancouver!

In the summer, you can go for hikes, bike rides, or just lounge on the beach.

In the winter, there’s skiing and snowboarding.

There are also tons of events going on all year round, like the Vancouver International Jazz Festival and the Folk Music Festival.

Toronto

Toronto is the place that boredom forgot!

Toronto is a great city for people who love to be active. There are always concerts and shows going on, as well as a big nightlife scene.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there are plenty of green spaces to enjoy.

Be sure to check out the different neighbourhoods and take day trips to explore everything that Toronto has to offer!

There are also tons of events going on all year round, like the Toronto International Film Festival and Caribana. The Pride Festival is one of the biggest in the world!

Location

Vancouver

Vancouver is located on the west coast of Canada. In British Columbia, you’ll find this capital on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Toronto

Toronto is located in the province of Ontario, in the southeastern part of Canada.

It’s on the shores of Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes.

Education

Vancouver

Vancouver has a lot of great schools, both public and private.

Some of the top universities in the city are the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and Vancouver Island University.

There are also many colleges and trade schools.

Toronto

Toronto is home to some of the best schools in the country.

The top universities here are the University of Toronto, York University, and Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University).

There are also many colleges and trade schools. Some include Humber College and George Brown.

Hockey

Vancouver

Although Vancouver doesn’t have an NHL team, there’s still a lot of love for hockey here.

You can catch a Vancouver Canucks game at Rogers Arena, or cheer on the junior league team, the Vancouver Giants.

Toronto

Hockey is huge in Toronto!

The city is home to the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, who play at the Air Canada Centre.

You can also catch a game of the Toronto Marlies, the city’s AHL team (who I think are more fun to watch)

Toronto is right for you if…

• you’re looking for a big city with a lot to do
• you want to be in a place with a lot of cultural diversity
• you’re interested in a career in the arts or media
• you’re looking for a good school system

Vancouver is right for you if…

•  you love the outdoors and being active
• you want to live in a smaller city
• you’re interested in a career in green technology or sustainability
• you want to be close to nature

FAQs Vancouver vs. Toronto:

What Is the Biggest Difference Between Vancouver and Toronto?

The biggest difference between Vancouver and Toronto is the size.

Toronto is a much bigger city than Vancouver. It has a population of about 2.8 million people, while Vancouver has a population of about 675,000.

This means that there are more things to do in downtown Toronto, but it also means that it can be more crowded. And it means the traffic is terrible.

It also drives up the cost of living.

However, the size is largely because of the plethora of job opportunities in Toronto.

Where to Live in Vancouver?

The best neighbourhood to live in Vancouver depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want to be close to the action, then downtown is the place for you.

But it can be expensive. For a more affordable option, try somewhere like Mount Pleasant or Commercial Drive.

If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Kitsilano or Point Grey are great neighbourhoods.

And if you want to be close to the water, try Coal Harbour or English Bay.

Where to Live in Toronto?

The best neighbourhood to live in Toronto depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want to be close to downtown, then the Financial District or the Entertainment District are both great options.

For a more affordable option, try somewhere like Chinatown or Kensington Market.

If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Rosedale or Forest Hill are great neighbourhoods, but quite expensive.

And if you want to be close to the water, try Harbourfront.

However, I recommend getting outside of downtown entirely and heading to Etobicoke or Mississauga for cheaper rent.

Is Tax Cheaper in Vancouver vs. Toronto?

The tax rate is higher in Toronto than it is in Vancouver.

In Toronto, the tax rate is 13% while in Vancouver it is only 12%.

However, the cost of living is also higher in Toronto, so ultimately it depends on how much money you’re bringing in and what your expenses are.

Distance from Toronto Vancouver

The distance from Toronto to Vancouver is about 4,000 kilometres.

It would take you about 40 hours to drive there, or you could fly and be there in about 6 hours.

Toronto is often considered the middle of Canada, even though it’s more eastern set.

Is Vancouver Better Than Toronto?

It’s hard to say which city is better, because it depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want a big city with a lot of things to do, then Toronto is probably the better choice.

But if you’re looking for a smaller city with a more relaxed pace, then Vancouver might be better for you.

It really depends on your personal preferences.

I prefer Vancouver for the way of life and warm weather, but Toronto for the job opportunities and ease of travel to Europe (the flights are shorter).

What is the Best City in Canada to Live in?

There are a lot of great cities to live in Canada, and it really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for the most job opportunities, Toronto is the place to be.

If you want a slow paces life with lots of nature, Halifax or Vancouver are better fits.

If you’re looking for low cost of living, head to the Prairies or the East Coast.

You can read my breakdown of the best cities to live in Canada, including their cost of living and job opportunities, here.

Wrap Up: Living in Vancouver vs. Toronto

It is evident that there are pros and cons to living in both Toronto and Vancouver.

Ultimately, it depends on what you are looking for as a new resident.

If job opportunities are important, then Toronto would be the better choice.

However, if affordability or nature are priorities, then Vancouver would be a better fit.

No matter which city you choose, Canada is a great place to call home.

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Related Posts:

• Average Cost of Living in Canada by Province [2022]
• 23 Pros and Cons of Living in Canada (Updated 2022)
• 20 Pros And Cons Of Living In Vancouver, BC Canada
• 30 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto: Beyond the CN Tower
• 25 Pros and Cons of Living in Ottawa, Ontario
• 55 Fun & Interesting Facts About Toronto, Canada

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