I actually plan on biking from grand falls NB to Vancouver to move their this summer I know it’s probably a stupid idea but it’ll be worth the journey also y’all get like no snow
If you’re thinking about it I recommend visiting first and see how you feel. That goes for any city, you shouldn’t make a decision from a video. I fell in love with Vancouver the first time I visited and I moved here a few years later. No regrets. I’m not saying I’ll live here forever but I know it was the right move for me. That being said changing your geography won’t solve all of your problems no matter where you go. Happiness comes from within not from where you’re located :)
1. Weather, it rains ALOT here...most of the year is overcast, rainy or just unpredictable with weather...you better invest in a good rain jacket, waterproof shoes and maybe an umbrella. The seasonal affective disorder is real here thanks to the amount of cloudy, rainy, and generally grey days here. Summer is much cooler than other places and really in terms of "seasons", we get two instead of four which is a combo of fall/winter and prolonged spring followed by a brief and sometimes intense summer for about 2-3 months tops before the weather drops back to rain by the end of August on the dot with a sprinkling of good days between then and October if you're lucky. That being said for Canada Vancouver and BC generally usually get the better weather overall since it doesn't snow here very much and generally never gets too cold. 2. Housing and expense, it is EXPENSIVE to live here period, not just Canada but the world overall...rent is high compared to income for most people and unless your income bracket is on par with the national household average it's not a very comfortable life, good rents are hard to come by and even harder if you have a pet as most places don't want to deal with cats/dogs. If you have roommates or a partner it does become easier and more manageable but even then if you're looking to snag a rental somewhere in the Vancouver area be prepared to pay close to $2,000+ for a two-bedroom for an older, poorer condition building and anywhere from 1600-2000 for a one-bedroom for something a little more modern, the sizes are quite small and you'd be looking at 400-600sqf for the 1BR. Food is expensive here and your options are more limited as a consumer if you're coming from the US or similar you can expect your dairy and alcohol prices to be a lot more than other places. We have several taxes on top of things too, so for example a can of beer 500ml beer might cost $1.99 but you'll end up paying almost an additional 20-40 cents thanks to taxes. Gasoline is also one of the most expensive in all of Canada, even currently with crude being at something like 30$/barrel you can see prices linger in the $1.20-30/Litre regularly. 3. Transit, If you do live in the 'burbs then prepare to have a longer commute into the city where "most" of the jobs are located depending on your career or profession. Parking is a nightmare since there is limited spots in the city, if you do end up paying by meter it is quite costly and if you pay for the day it also isn't that cheap, the city does a good job to try and make people not use their cars which leaves public transit, which while can you most places is also quite expensive given the range. A single ticket that covers all transit "zones" (around 60km~) is $5.75 one way, which isn't too bad. Vancouver downtown is tiny though compared to other major cities, honestly, you can walk from one end to the other in about an hour. The system of transit is overall pretty good and most things are easy enough to access, however, the train is usually full most of the time thanks to the fact that most people all go into downtown (either for work or for fun as most things are located there) and while trains come often you can expect to be standing in a mostly crowded train. Buses tend to be better in some ways. One thing to note is that if for whatever reason the train system is offline or knocked out, it becomes much, much harder to actually get further into the 'burbs from downtown and vice versa, there is some buses but few and far between to accommodate most people if they needed them. 4. Jobs, this is incredibly subjective because it highly depends on your career and education. There is a good amount of work to be found in the city but the major areas that seem to be in constant demand are health services (although they are underfunded) nurses/doctors, plumbers/electricians/engineers/etc, construction and so on. There is a huge demand for tech but historically Vancouver has paid lower wages compared to cities like Toronto...that is course-correcting recently but the wages are still not equal to say something like the US for a similar role or location (Seattle) TV/Film/Animation is a big part of the city as well but keeping in mind that Vancouver and Canada don't tend to produce a lot of its own content and we end of being more of a service work type industry (we get work farmed out because we pay less but our quality is pretty good and we're located close enough to Hollywood etc) not to mention the large tax benefits large companies get for coming here. Most head offices for companies are STILL not located here and are usually on the East Coast in Toronto or Montreal. 5. Education, We have a lot of good schools but if you are an international student get ready to get screwed over with paying nearly double what a Canadian student would pay, in Vancouver though because of the large number of Asian students with well to do parents often have no issues with this. It would do well for someone to really research into which school they are going to avoid giving money to a for-profit private school. Douglas College, Emily Carr, UBC, Capilano U, SFU, and BCIT are all great schools to attend for example. 6. Fitness, I guess we are but comparing Vancouver to the rest of Canada doesn't say much...when most of the country is slogged with rain and snow it's easy to see why we would be. In the early 2000s, there was a trend of seen as being "fit" was like a status symbol, and to some degree that still holds true but you do see a fair bit of people running, jogging, or hiking. We have some trails and paths in most of the city and 'burbs but it does leave something to be desired if you're coming from another city or country so this is subjective. The major tourist and popular spots like Stanley Park, Grouse, Kits beach, and others are usually very crowded and full of people though..so best to find spots for yourself. 7. Culture, We are diverse for sure but again there is a good reason why which is that most people would rather move to either of the coasts rather the in the middle of the country which doesn't have anything to offer other than cheaper housing and food but lacks the jobs, higher income, forms of entertainment and more. In terms of an actual race, I would say it is around a solid 35-40% of Asian (Chinese, Korean, Japanese, etc) people, 30-40% White (Canadian, Irish, German, Russian, Polish, etc) and the remainder would be southeast Asian in Vancouver (not metro but overall) it varies by the district/city and in some like Richmond the actual stats would be much higher for certain ethnicities over others in different cities. Some cities have neighborhoods that are more heavily influenced by certain ethnic groups with an overabundance of restaurants that cater to that taste and with newer luxury apartments being built by pretty much every major shopping area (Brentwood, Metrotown, Lougheed, and Oakridge) you see the demographics changing faster. It is a fact that we have a LOT of Asian restaurants in Vancouver and in other cities within the lower mainland, it is not uncommon to see 3 bubble tea shops literally side by side on some stores or various Ramen shops/stores in other streets, I personally feel there is too many and the city would benefit from a truly multicultural aspect by having more that are not just Asian themed similar to cities like Toronto which in my opinion seems much more balanced. Last, to note about restaurants and eating out, a lot of them are owned by the same 3-5 families or large businesses and operate as a big chain, Vancouver has few truly good single independent locations that make the places a must to visit or see and even when visiting most pubs, bars or similar and thinking they are different they are in fact owned mostly by the same families. These are just some highlights thoughts and observations as someone who's lived here for 15+ years since the early 00s and seeing the city develop and change, it's not a bad place to live, and depending on your perspective it can either be a true marvel or a slight bore. Experiences will vary.
We have the same type of weather here in the UK, wet, mild, near the sea. Even in winter we have green grass and some of the trees are still green, like evergreens and pines. Mulder from X-files from what I read called Vancouver a wet cold version of a rain forest. lol.
As as a long-time Vancouverite, also note these things: 1) We get a lot less sunshine than most parts of North America. The months from October to March can be particularly brutal for sun-lovers. 2) Not only are rents expensive, but finding decent accommodation can be tough - currently occupancy rates are at or near zero (for Vancouver proper that is) 3) It's one of the tougher places to meet people and make friends - people are generally nice, but fairly standoffish (and flakey, like the rest of the west coast) 4) If none of these caveats scare you off...then welcome!
Still get a kick listening to newbies go on and on about Vancouver like it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. Slowly but surely around Year 3, their spirit is broken and the life in them is gone.
I get SO BUMMED about the negativity that Vancouver gets! I don't have much money and living in this city has changed my life. I did a lot of research and found an incredible home and live with friends. I don't have 3 jobs. I have one. No, my parents don't pay any bills. No, I don't have a car. I use a bike, city transit, and walk. It's an INCREDIBLE city if you let it be. Put a bit of work and research into it and you can live here sustainably. Stop whining. People get so down instead of trying to do something about it.
Vanessa Nostbakken what you described is the lifestyle of a single bachelor who doesn’t mind bunking with 3 other guys, who works locally and doesn’t worry about commuting to work... someone who doesn’t have a family... yes it’s not impossible but it’s not easy for those moving with a family who have a job out in Delta, or whatever.. Not all of us are starving artists
Only one room where one job and several people share is my place. If you are satisfied with just living like this, it is your standard. Not everyone should do it because you are happy with that kind of life. You can express your thoughts. However, don't blame someone who's not like you.😡
@@jijibebe3084 It's not about blaming anyone, especially not someone who's "not like me," I totally understand that people come from different situations and that it's a tough city to sustain in for several reasons...however, there just seems to be overwhelming negativity and I don't think it's always a fair representation of what the city has to offer. This is my expression that's been built over several years of living here, coming from living in many other places and countries. I just like to spread positivity about this city because I do like what it's done for me and people that I know (including ones who are struggling,) and want others to be able to experience it too.
Home sweet home! I noticed a lot of people are being quite negative in the comments and it's saddening. Yes it's expensive and there are downsides, but we really are blessed. Especially with all the new worldly perspective we can gain right now, there's a lot to be appreciative for. Thank you for making this! Hopefully you enjoyed your visit. :)
I was born and raised in the flatlands of Winnipeg Manitoba...I now call a suburb of Vancouver BC home...been here 20 years...no plans on leaving anytime soon.
Sky train goes from downtown Vancouver to the outer cites ( Burnaby, New Westminster, Port Moody,Coquitlam,Surrey) and the Canada Line goes from downtown Vancouver to the Vancouver International Airport and the city of Richmond. And there is also the West Coast Express which is a commuter train that takes you from downtown Vancouver to Mission via Coquitlam and Port Moody!
I lived in Vancouver before and decided to go back to my own country Indonesia because I could not find a suitable job for my qualification. I graduated with engineering degree in western country and lot of years experience just ended up working in a restaurant.
@@BritneyWaldron Yeah, when I lived in Vancouver it was shocking to see how many people with Masters and even PhD degrees were working in restaurants, coffee shops, retail, etc!
If you're living rough in January it's a damn sight easier living in Vancouver under an overpass or a park then in a sleeping bag over a heating vent in any downtown Toronto intersection.
Thanks so much for this! I’m a Canadian citizen who’s been living & working in the US for the past 25 years as an RN. I’ve just begun researching the beautiful province of BC as it is my intention to endorse to the nursing board there and move home to my native Canada, only this time instead of Ontario where I was born & raised, instead, I intend live and work in beautiful British Columbia. Thanks again for this wonderful video! John.
Bang on review! Moved here 7 years ago from Edmonton. Any city can be home. It is your own decisions. No it does not always rain here. I ride my motorcycle year round. We live in the west end 2 bed heritage walk up beautiful, 1925 month. A block away newly reno'd walk up studios 320 sq ft 2400 to 3400 month. You have to look around. Thanks again for a great review!
I moved here from Brighton and also dont consider Vancouver to be that expensive... rent is about the same or lower, transport is cheaper and better... food is significantly more expensive however
SMG ah right do you live in London? Every single thing in this video seems insanely cheap to me. Especially travel - I paid almost £200 a month for my travel card.
Lived there two years. I wouldn’t saw weather is great it just isn’t cold very often. Not only does it rain a lot, it can be overcast for weeks at a time. The transit system is good thorough and BC is beautiful. It is expensive, especially for housing which then drivers up other costs. A lot has been said about diversity and yes there is a variety of ethnicity and cultures, but they don’t really mix. It’s very cliquey so you don’t really get to experience it.. Overall a great place to visit, but not a great place to live.
also if you want to get into the film industry it is the best place for people starting out. You'll have way more luck getting film work and labour here than LA or New York.
Would you say is fairly easy to find work in VFX area? I work in vfx in Toronto, but I'm thinking of moving to Van... but wasn't sure how stable is the industry there. Thanks!
@@Qwijebo That's right. I lived in ATL for 5 years, and I've been in the middle of filming when I'm passing by Five Points or by Marietta St. etc. It's because of the tax incentive. Hollywood of the South.
Born and raised here in Vancouver BC. Buy the way the BC after Vancouver stands for BRING CASH or BRING CREDIT! I even tell all the tourists visiting here that!
I would like to add the following, Vancouver in the winter time does get snow, don't stay long and plenty of rain year round. I would have mentioned you will see many people wearing Gore Tex and layers. If you wearing the same thing when raining, you would be wet and cold. Transit has Seabus linking Vancouver & North Van, Skytrain to Surrey or Coquitlam and links to the Evergreen Line, Canada Line was built for the Olympics and ends either at our Airport or in Richmond. As for fare and if you don't want to buy a monthly pass or multiple fares, you can purchase an all day bus pass for $10.50, good for all modes of transit. Vancouver is big on Tourism/hospitality, movie industry as we're dubbed as "Hollywood North" and forestry. Our city is known for tech industry as well. the province of BC stands Brings Cash and living here has increased since we hosted the 2010 winter Olympics. Filming took place in January and was downloaded in April, All of the World, including Canada is dealing with Covid-19 and maybe in the Summer go back to some of the restaurants (Denman) to see if they're still operating.
*Who wants to be Vancouver roommates and save on rent?* 🗣🗣 Like actually though. We are all here watching and wanting to go, why not make it happen? As someone who prefers biking to driving, film making, and community activities, Vancouver sounds wonderful. I'm set on living here and if any of you fine people are serious about it too let's get in touch!
I have lived here for 55 years and LOVE IT!! I drove cab during Expo 86 and love how the Olympics really highlighted the city! Every detail you hit upon is bang on and I tell anyone reading this comment that he ain't whistling dixie when it comes to everything he says! Thank you for the video!
As a side note on the food: There is a metric ton of restaurants. In fact there are more restaurants than the city can actually support. So you will see restaurants that last 2-3 years, then change into an entirely different restaurant because the old one went under. So, if you are hoping to open your dream restaurant Vancouver is not the place for you. On the flip side, if you are experienced in working in one, you're almost guaranteed employment. Of course the industry is corrupt as hell so don't expect breaks, or for the hours you work to actually be only what is scheduled and free-timing is pretty much required. And the minimum wage for working in the restaurant industry is lower than the minimum wage for everywhere else. And the owner takes a cut of your tips, the kitchen staff takes a cut of your tips, the manager gets a cut of your tips, the poor homeless guy out back gets a cut of your tips... yeah, don't work in the restaurant industry.
Lived in the 'Couv' for 3 years in my 20's and it was great. That said it's not an easy place to get permanently setup primarily due to housing prices compared to wages. Lots of transient young people so long term friendships are hard to maintain but its easy to make a ton of acquaintances. Commute times are better in recent years with the Skytrain but be strategic where you live as +2.0 hours on public transit or stuck in traffic jams every days can be a drag especially in the endless winter rain. North Van never sees the sun outside of a short window in the summer; people there are almost translucent white like characters out of Twilight. Tons of pot smokers. In the 25 years since I lived in Kitsalano there has been a massive amount of new construction which has made it almost unrecognisable in places, this is typical for most of Vancouver. Enjoy your stay.
I moved to Vancouver (not Canada) some 20 years ago. After 2 years in bliss, the company I worked for closed their Vancouver office and moved me to Toronto where I live today. I have it good in Toronto so I'm not going to moan about Toronto. . I have gone back to Van on holiday on a regular basis, went there a few months back (June of 2021). To see electric cars as common as coffee shops, was quite the sight. The artistic effort thrown into the bike paths (painted concrete barricades, etc) was super cool. Van is still the most progressive city in Canada. . I spent time in the druggy area - (Hastings street) and I do like the effort to uplift the area (although still way too many druggies). I took the skytrain to various areas where there was no Skytrain before. And I like the Canada line, etc. . It's a pity that Vancouver does not have any power industries. In essence Vancouver is a retirement city, a city for the well-to-do to send their kids to study and a city for Asians to buy property as a means to have a foot in 2 countries (for when the CCP finally implodes China). All of this makes Van a sort of false economy subsidised by foreign money yet too expensive for the locals. . I sometimes wish I could move back to Vancouver. When Torontonians say, "But it rains so much" my response is, "Hey at least you don't have to shovel it." . BC is markedly different to the rest of Canada. The Tim Hortons culture is something so new to BC that Quebec in all its Frenchness is more into Tim Hortons than Vancouverites. . Interestingly BC has 2 extreme cultures living happily side by-side: the left-wing-ganola-kids and the right-wing-cowboy-hicksters. Simply drive down to the Cloverdale Rodeo and you will see what I mean. BC'ers seems to get on better with Albertans than say with Ontarians.... go figure (and kind of cool). . As a suggestion to all you foreigners (both from the rest of Canada and from the rest of the world). Take up sailing and you will meet wonderful people from all over the place. You are confined to a small boat and have no choice but to get to know one another. Turned out to be the best thing I ever did to make friends in Van. Locals in Van have (in my mind) good reason not to get too close to foreigners - they simply grew up together and have a history together - why chance it with foreigners who you don't fully know (this is common all over the world). . I think in one phrase, "Vancouver is prohibitively beautiful"
I live in Vancouver, and I recommend the following. 1) Never rent a condo, it's not cost effective. Rent a basement suite instead, as you can find a two bedroom for only $1300. My family rents the upper floor of one of our houses for only $2800, which includes 4 rooms. This is $700 per person, and is market rate. 2) Food is relatively cheap here, I would say sushi is half the price of that in Saskatoon. 3) You don't need a car, public transit is cheap, and is sufficient enough to get you anywhere in the city. 4) If you're willing to pay in cash, you will be able to buy food and rent at a cheaper price. Asians, like myself will give significant discounts to those who are willing to deal in cash. 5) Make friends with locals who can give you advice on good deals.
@@rayc3103 So, 375 sq ft. each. I suppose It's a matter of perspective, like all things...I consider 1500 sq. ft. to be quite a smaller area. Then again, I'm a grown man with a very large house all to myself. But, whatever makes them happy lol
Love to see that enthusiasm for newbies for my own town. Truth is, it's nice, but people are not consistently friendly, and can be generally standoffish and often rude. Yes it's multicultural but people from other cultures don't often mix well which creates a climate of intolerance. For example, people bring their random driving habits, need to drop garbage on the ground, not being considerate in line ups etc, which tends to infuriate people. Lots of snobs of every kind. Yes you can meet people you can get along with but it's difficult. Lots of junkies and break and enter plus bike theft crime is off the hook. Lived here for 20 years, still love it, but anyone who has been here for any time does not paint it as the paradise you see in travel vids. I've seen gang fights, discovered a dead body in Stanley Park, plenty of reckless driving, hate crimes etc. Just sayin'.
Well said. This guy in the video is getting paid by COV probably. Nobody is that positive about Vancouver. Diversity doesn't work, I don't care how many times the federal government says it.
Good points, I've been here almost as long as you have and it's generally true, people are friendly but in a way that suggests only because it's the "right" thing to do, not because they are. There is a lot of different cultures here but it's a ton of "bubbles" of culture, there is no foundation which everyone can/should start from so everyone just sorts of does whatever because no one tells them otherwise...driving is an obvious example where people do things that are so wrong or illegal that it blows my mind. I think meeting people is also age and hobbies too, I found if you're not "into" certain things it's harder to meet new people and because the city doesn't have a ton of diverse events it's hard to meet people.
@@JackSmith-kx7fe I didn't even watch the video, but if he's "excited" about muIticuIturaIism, he's in for a rude awakening. Van is a muIticuIturaI hellhole ... diEveristy is society's greatest weakness... People are isolated & atomized and everyone sticks to their own ethnicity, except for liberal whltes of course who try to suck up to minorities who despise them. I genuinely feel sorry for young Canadians who are growing up as a despised minority in the nation their ancestors built.
the multiculturalism is only a slight net negative overall; I love the exposure and experience but... native born Canadians or "westerners" will find it is a family oriented "eastern" economy here... no family or friend help and your fucked with finding reasonably well paid work, financing education, saving money, buying spacious housing, and eventually having children. These things can be done but you need to live like a refugee if you're on your own. If you're single it is better to buy a bus ticket somewhere else outside...
@William Burr Those drivers were probably Asian. They don't even turn the blinkers when they make a left or right turn. Plus they don't understand the concept of "right-of-way". Neither on the road nor anywhere else.
You forgot to mention that it's really hard if not impossible to find rentals in or around Vancouver. I live in Pitt Meadows which is about 50 km east of the city and it is impossible to find rental.
After living in Vancouver for almost two years now, my partner and I are heading back to Toronto. It seems like no one here talks about the homeless/drug crisis. East Hastings Street and Oppenheimer Park were deal breakers for me. Vancouver is aesthetically beautiful, but there is a real dark side here that the locals seem to push under the rug.
Realistically speaking, those same problems exist in almost any other major city in the world, especially cities on the west coast. Go to any other city down the coastline and you'll see the same thing in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, etc. Problem does need a solution, however it's more a crisis with opioids as you said than it is just a simple "homeless" problem.
@@wheelingdbag It does, I agree you. I've lived in Honolulu before moving to Vancouver which had similar issues with homelessness/drugs. But it wasn't concentrated on just one street/one park (East Hastings and Oppenheimer Park) like Vancouver. I was shocked how many homeless/mentally unstable/druggies just walk the city streets in Vancouver while the locals just turn their heads the other way. Not to mention the smell of urine, blue needles and tents in some of the "nicest" neighbourhoods here in Vancouver. Never once did I experience that in Toronto. It's a deal breaker for me.
@@fraudcoward9327 i reaaally wouldn't describe Vancouver as a shithole, but okay buddy. Every city has it's problems, and we're actually doing something about the homeless crisis contrary to popular belief.
The best thing about Vancouver is that you can get free entertainment, ie nature. And you can't put a price on that. There is always an affordable living option as well. Just up to you where you put your money. Do you make your own coffee every morning, or buy Starbucks?
As a person born and raised in Vancouver. Moving to Vancouver is probably the worst financial decision any person can make. Aside from the nice views, that’s really where the perks end. Be ready to pay the the worlds 3rd most expensive housing prices in conjunction with North America’s highest insurance rates. Drivers 25 and under pay $4500+ annually. Not to mention food and especially gas is probably one of the most expensive in North America.
@@pysof I live in Edmonton. Vancouver is one hour away by air. i go there to visit my son in July and August when it doesn't rain. Great city in those months. The rest of the year it can be really dismal.
What a brilliant video. Have seen so many "need to know before you move" videos. But this one stands out by a mile. Thank you for coming up with this. Can't wait for move to Vancouver.
Great video! A nice overview of Vancouver without the pros and cons (because these are always different depending on the person). It is a beautiful, diverse city with a lot to offer.
He's not from Vancouver and he got it wrong, 2K rent to start DT, and no freehold house cost less than 1mil no matter how crappy it is. I'm in Vancouver and I used to travel to LA every year to get a break from the gloom and coldness of Vancouver. Everything costs about half in LA, more shopping and entertainment, better food, friendlier people. Traffic in LA is bliss compared to Vancouver, can you imagine the same effin amount of cars on two-lane highways in rush hours with guaranteed accidents every single day? 4km (ONE MILE) weekday commute takes me average ONE HOUR! It takes me 40mins from DT LA to Pasadena in rush hours! Don't complain about homelessness in LA, Vancouver's about the same, if not we're getting there.
As someone from Hong Kong, 2k is super affordable (relative to Hong Kong.......where for a decent two-bedroom...one should expect to pay about 3k a month)
I loved your video. I live in the suburbs of Vancouver and, during the current period of self-isolation, it made me really miss going to the city. Aside from the easy access to nature, my favourite part of living here is the cultural diversity. Thank you for such a great video. I'm going to send a link to my relatives in Denmark!
haha, Čau. Česká republika je krásná země, ale taky bych se chtěl na nějakou dobu podívat nebo možná i přestěhovat někam do Severní Ameriky. Rozhodně je Česko mnohokrát bezpečnější, což je paráda, ale chtěl bych zkusit něco jiného. Hodně štěstí! :)
Just to let people who are considering moving here - move to surrey. Surrey is very accessible to Vancouver. Our transit system is pretty good. It would take you about an hour to get to there through the Skytrain with lots of options of busses. My family pays $1200 rent for a four bedroom townhouse. If you’re attending a big university like SFU or UBC we have busses that will take you straight there literally named either SFU or UBC.
Reading some comments here confuse me, I live in Halifax, Nova Scotia and let me tell you it's not roses and peaches here either. 1. People complain about all the rain in Vancouver, should I tell you about winters in Halifax? Tons of snow and there is nothing to do, literally nothing, the city dies during the winter periods. 2. People, yeah there is a lot of nice people here but I also have met a lot of rude, racist people here, a lot of people are flaky here as well, that's just the world unfortunately. 3. Price. Lol try living downtown Halifax, good lucking finding a cheap place, you'll have the most luck living outside the city to find a cheap place, but guess what? Our bus systems suck, they aren't reliable and if you don't have a car you're basically screwed. 4. Career wise, most people that go to university here either don't find work here and move to a different city, do something that they don't study and if you are lucky to find something you studied in then you just fought a whole bunch of people. When I was in Vancouver a few years ago I met a lot of really nice people, some strangers even talked to me at the bus stop and they were very nice, does that happen all the time? No, but people complaining about Vancouver clearly never visited other cities in Canada.
The rents are outrageously high in Vancouver. I used to live in a two bedroom apartment in North Vancouver and pay $900/month about 17 years ago. Then I moved to Montreal. I would love to move back because I'm fed up with the Québec's long and cold winters but the high cost of accommodations scares the hell of out me!
There was a day to call the CRA. When talking to a cra employee, I said that for some issue, Vancouver was too expensive to live. Then the CRA staff said "I heard too. Vancouver is too expensive ~~ I moved to Montreal ~ It's not like Vancouver ~"😅😅👋👋👋😷
I got an offer to stay Montreal and have considered moving there as soon as this pandemic slows down or ends. I have my concerns about it of course but BC as whole has become virtually unliveable on fronts. So please let me know if it's a good move thanks.
@@Saint3188 I too am hoping to make the move to Montréal - if MIFI will ever let me in. Do you have any idea how hard it is to get in there if you're not Canadian? I don't even know where to start. Quebec have done two Express Entry draws this year. In the last one, they invited 7 candidates. Seven. I'm shifting my focus to Ottawa in the hope I can settle there and try to make the move to MTL after X months/yrs. because I just know CAQ are never going to let me into Quebec. It's a shame. Montréal really does look like it's the city to be in.
@@BlueSpirit3743 Sadly Quebec got hit really hard with the pandemic but I have connections there but I will have to really think about it because the flights have opened up again which is nice but time will tell at this point?
Montrealer here! Every time I get hyped by a Vancouver video, I'm always saddened to read in the comments section that some things don't seem to change over the years. I love Montreal(borned and raised here) for a lot of different reasons, but I want to move out for a lot of other ones too haha I lived in Auckland, New Zealand and I'd like to move back there indefinitely because I really love that country but my plan B has always been Vancouver since it's in Canada(so no visas required, etc). I'd be happy to have less harsh winters, having a beautiful scenery surrounding the city, having access to a beach, etc BUT...are Vancouverites overall that ''unfriendly'' or fake? Coming from a place where people will start a conversation pretty much with anyone (especially on a bad weather day since we all complain haha), where you can easily make friends, etc, it's always ''that'' thing about Vancouver that stops me from going forward with it. I'm a musician so maybe finding a band would help I guess haha But joke aside, I wonder why Vancouverites have that reputation of being clicky. I know it's an expensive city and all but so is Toronto and now Montreal more and more believe it or not.
I can’t stand Vancouver’s social scene anymore. Once you start traveling you realize how bad it is in Vancouver socially, and culturally it is a void. One of the reasons I’’m moving to Montréal.
@@scottarchibaldmusic I'm sad to read this if you are from Vancouver :/ Montreal has harsh winters, never ending road reparations, etc but at least it's a friendly city where you will have fun!
@@bengirard1984 Every place has its pros and cons.. There is a lot of construction in every city, including Vancouver. Yes Montréal has harsh winters and more extreme weather but I think it affects the entertainment and creative culture/ arts there in a positive way. Vancouver is rainy and gray a lot of the year and I think it affects the culture and people in a negative way. Vancouver has beautiful mountains and ocean and Montréal is 400 years older which makes it more interesting as a city. Both have great restaurants/cuisine. The Vancouver social scene, from my perspective and from many others has no “joie de vivre” as the French say.
I'm an American who just graduated college, applying to law school for the next year. I am so tempted to move to Canada I'm just so tired of USA. UBC is one of the schools I'm applying to, I've heard so many great things about Vancouver
I like the feel of Vancouver, if you have ever seen any of the X-files episodes from season 1-6 , they have a good vibe about them, X-files was filmed in Vancouver. If I had another choice to go, I would check out Vancouver for sure.
@@ephedra443 he was being sarcastic. what he meant was, you must be crazy to consider moving to VC. You'll need to read eevry comment on this section from the bottom up to understand why. Not saying Dev is right btw - I wouldn't be any the wiser as I'm 8,000 miles away. have to say though: I'm glad I decided to read every comment in this section. It's been a major eye-opener. I would advise doing the same yourself. It will take around an hour but what's an hour's investment for the rest of your life.
I grew up in Vancouver and now live outside of Toronto. Everytime I think rent is gonna approach 1k per month including utilities I just keep moving on.
Before I moved to Vancouver finding a decent place to live was the hardest part. Once I did everything else fell into place. I found a decent basement / garden suite for a good price with all utilities included.
I lived in Vancouver for a while and I'll summarise it for anybody thinking of doing the same. Once the novelty of the Mountains wear off - and it will - you're left with a city which is: very expensive, congested, with poor road infrastructure/quality and a climate which injects depression. When the chance came to leave.....I did just that. I suggest you assess your own City carefully before moving to the Vancouver because the stunning scenery won't mask the City's deficiencies forever.
I used to deliver freight to Vancouver. Beautiful city. But expect to leave broke. For the price of a motel room for a week, you can buy a small house in Ontario or Queerbec.
VANCOUVER is the most EXPENSIVE city in CANADA. It can be friendly but people DO NOT build long term meaningful friends here as it is very transient due to cost of living and immigration. It is the capital in Canada for mental health and drug addiction for social housing and Downtown Eastside is infested with mental health issues. Medical is NOT absolutely FREE as many immigrants think. Only when you are inside a hospital or basic medical visit at a office or on low income for some things.
A young guy from Newfoundland moves to British Columbia and goes to a big "everything under one roof" department store looking for a job. The Manager says, "Do you have any sales experience?" The kid says "Yeah. I was a vacuum salesman back in Newfoundland." Well, the boss was unsure, but he liked the kid and figured he'd give him a shot, so he gave him the job. "You start tomorrow. I'll come down after we close and see how you did." His first day on the job was rough, but he got through it. After the store was locked up, the boss came down to the sales floor. "How many customers bought something from you today?" The kid frowns and looks at the floor and mutters, "One". The boss says "Just one?!!? Our salespeople average sales of 20 to 30 customers a day. That will have to change, and soon if you'd like to continue your employment here. We have very strict standards for our sales force here in Vancouver. One sale a day might have been acceptable in Newfoundland, but you're not on the farm anymore, son." The kid took his beating but continued to look at his shoes, so the boss felt kind of bad for chewing him out on his first day. He asked (semi-sarcastically), "So, how much was your one sale for?" The kid looks up at his boss and says "$101,237.65.′′ The boss, astonished, says, "$101,237.65?!? What the heck did you sell?" The kid says, "Well, first, I sold him some new fish hooks. Then I sold him a new fishing rod to go with his new hooks. Then I asked him where he was going fishing and he said down the coast, so I told him he was going to need a boat, so we went down to the boat department and I sold him a twin engine Chris Craft. Then he said he didn't think his Honda Civic would pull it, so I took him down to the automotive department and sold him that 4×4 Expedition." The boss said, "A guy came in here to buy a fish hook and you sold him a boat and a TRUCK!?" The kid said, "No, the guy came in here to buy tampons for his wife, and I said, 'Dude, your weekend's shot, you should go fishing.'"
It's actually rattling how much can change in a few months. We're hopeful this video will come back around to being an accurate reflection of life in Vancouver not too long from now!
Ohhh I love Vancouver! The weather may be rainy but personally I love it. It’s so refreshing and the springtime is beautiful. the trees fill up with cherry blossoms! The winter is not very cold, and the summers are just perfect!😁😁😁 I was gonna go there last summer but covid shut down travel which sucks.
@@Saint3188 Yup. 8 years was enough for me. beautiful but expensive and boring. No one has money and just lives there to say they love in a beautiful city yet they cant enjoy it when always broke
@@ktowniecity7269 Well thats just it you can't do anything fun because no one has any $$$ to do so. And relationship life here sucks because even on a medium income half of your earnings are gone at the end of every cheque and if you get into a relationship they're goes your other half
@@Saint3188 Exactly. Thats why young people leave. If you cant save money, its dumb to stay there. Visiting vancouver and living in Vancouver are so so different. I had a great time in Vancouver when i visited in early January. When i lived there, it was depressing!
@@Gennyschannel0215 damn that sucks well nevermind whenever you will come let me know lets hangout and have some fun i will be waiting for you btw I'm 21 from india going Vancouver for studies.
Welcome to Vancouver the city I was born and raised in. It's one of the most beautiful cities in the world and thanks to government on all levels have turned it into a living nightmare. I have two kids whose future is basically somewhere else as the cost of living here is beyond normal. If you're looking for work we have advertised to the world that we have the lowest pay rate in the tech industry, awesome! Move to one of the most expensive places on earth and volunteer to be a slave. I make significantly more than the average person here yet I simply can't get ahead. It breaks my heart to see what we've done here all to benefit a tiny percentage of people, alot who don't even hold citizenship here. Not sure what to tell you, if you have buckets of cash enjoy, if you work, good luck!
If I lived in Vancouver, I would be spending most days visiting old x-file filming locations. I know that the x-files filmed there from season 1-6, plus a few popular movies and other shows.
Come to Calgary we have houses for peanuts (less then a dog house in Vancouver) , crime almost does not exist and jobs pay more. Main minus is that your house will not make you a millionaire in few years.
Daamn. I really wanna move to Vancouver. I'm currently in Winnipeg rn and I have a brand new one bedroom apartment for 299.00. I am really grateful. One day I will move to Vancouver though!
There aren't that many homeless people in Vancouver, people assume that because the housing cost is high there must be a lot of homeless people, but in my opinion Vancouver is the cleanest cleanest city in north america (on par with Singapore). This is because the cost of living is actually surprising low, due to the extencive bike network, great farmers market, and amazing job market.
They don't do anything besides feed the fire. I'd lock them up for a year in a specialized prison, until they clean up. The Liberal way is not working.
I'm from the Chicago area and have been to Vancouver three times. Only homeless that I've seen are on Hastings Street and maybe a couple on Davie Street. That's it! Seattle has way more homelessness from what I've seen(been there four times).
“Vancouver is one of the friendliest cities in Canada when it come to cycling”... haha debatable. Otherwise that was a pretty good tour, minus the stereotypical “you Vancouverite don’t know cold!” thing at the beginning. One thing I would have added is that we are a rainforest. Which means we live up to our nickname of Raincouver most of the year.
The causal bikers don’t. You see a serious increase in the late spring and summer. The rest just don their rain gear and bring a change of clothes. If you live here, you have to own at least 1 waterproof jacket with a hood.
M Vp No problem. And actually it doesn’t rain heavily very often. It’s more spurts of regular to light rain through the week in fall, winter (with some snow mixed in) and early spring, but more often just cloudy. Really heavy rain only happens a handful of times in the fall.
Maybe is not that chilly for a Canadian. But I have lived in Vancouver and, even though it is not as cold as other parts of Canada, it is actually very cold and rainy in winter.
**Correction:* The fare system is based off how many zones you travel between. If say, you travel from Coquitlam to Port Moody, you would pay for a 1 zone fare. If you travel from Coquitlam to Downtown Vancouver, you would pay for a 3 zone fare because, you’re travelling through all 3 zones. An extra thing to note is the 5 dollar charge for travelling from Sea Island where YVR Airport is located.
@@lolamar6064 the first one had a fully furnished two bedrooms apartment for $800.00 and they wanted me to pay for it then they will tell me where to collect the key they told me that they are in Germany and won't be able to fly over so that would of being the best option to do then the next person told me that they are in the UK and they are very old and they place was going for $1000.00 fully furnished again but when I told them my lawyer would be the one doing the transaction I never heard from them again 🤷♀️
I loved Vancouver when I lived there BUT as an American some Canadians hold reserves we Americans are all alike or what I encountered is alot of Vancouverites are passive aggressive. They start off friendly but when you get to know them they have another side to them. I had really nice roommates and then out of the blue turn on me. I never experienced this before and it threw me off. I just wanted a roof over my head, friends and a life there. Some roommates had to make this unbearable. The rent was very expensive for small roommate living Good luck finding a room that take pets in a good part of town. Cost of food is extremely costly! (I did good with going to "No Frills") But walkability was nice Scenary was nice Transportation was wonderful! Immigrating is confusing and difficult as an American (there is no American embassy to help) But aside from living situations i enjoyed my time there
I lived in Vancouver from 2005 to 2016 and I couldn't stand it anymore. The high cost of living, housing and goods services and education became far to unbearable. I can't wait to finally leave BC as a whole. I'm doing a series of videos documenting my leave of BC on my channel.
Amazing video - I should have been moving to Vancouver next week if it wasn't for COVID19. Praying for a speedy & healthy resolution for this disaster soon!
do it, you have the ocean and the mountains beside each other. BC is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. The city is great because its small but feels big. You can literally walk across downtown in about half-hour.
Great city if you are rich or have a big paying job. If you like sunshine choose Toronto or Montreal. If you like long hot summers choose Windsor Ontario, it's the same latitude as Rome Italy.
It rains like crazy, everytime when I feel depressed because of school, job, family or friends. Most of the time it's raining and I feel like I'm in one of those movies. Like everytime something bad happens it RAINS. One or two times are fine, but almost everytime, I get more depressed man.
The first time I arrived in Vancouver in 2018, I was shocked. As soon as I left the airport door, I saw tissue, disposable glasses, and other garbage left in the city. The further I went, the more I saw them. Before I moved to Canada, I lived in Georgia, Armenia, Turkey, Serbia, The United States, and for a short time in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Netherland, Germany, and England, but I have never seen the amount of garbage that people leave in different Canadian cities. Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec are no less than Vancouver. I'm so sorry for Canada. Canadian and Canadian Governments don't care about this tragedy. I think everything that says about Canada as a clean and powerful culture is not true. You don't need to travel to Canada to see this. Just watch some videos about walking in downtown Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec. You will find the truth. Impossible for you to walk in a Canadian city and you don't see the dark side of that. Everywhere you will see garbage. You will never see like this in Europe or the United States
Nearly half of people living in 'Couver are not Canadaians. That is the problem. Plus the majority out of this half came from countries with extremely low sanitary and hygienic standards.
@@the.blackest.russian As an immigrant, I respect your opinion. But this is not true. Whichever Canadian city you travel to, the dirtiest neighborhoods and areas have the least number of immigrants. If you look at the homeless people who throw the most garbage, you will not see a single immigrant among them. in Canada, I think people and government don't care about this problem. I lived for about 4 years in the US, and more than 90% of places in every city, even poor cities or populated cities are really clean because American people and their government absolutely care about cleanness. When I see litter in every Canadian forest or national park, it is so weird for me. I never ever didn't see it in the US.
As a guy who moved out from Calgary to Vancouver in 2014 it's only one thing you really need to know about Vancouver it's goddamn expensive if you can figure that out that's it. It's worth it.. you hear about how expensive it is but you don't really understand until you're here.
Move to Vancouver because you like nice weather, great scenery, outdoor activities, skiing, access to the ocean, close proximity to cross-border shopping and great Asian cuisines. Do not move to Vancouver if your expectation is to have much money left after your monthly expenses, or to die wealthy, or to make many friends. The above trade-offs are yours to decide.
@@JackSmith-kx7fe Sounds like you don't live in Vancouver. The temperature doesn't usually go below zero in the winter time and it doesn't rain much at all between May and September's dry summers with most days being very sunny.
Rained 8 months of the year. Hasn’t reached 70F yet and we’re in June. Look at the weather report! It still shows rain all week. September 15 last year summer was done like a switch and rain went nonstops for months. It’s dark are dreary. I fucking despise it.
There's a lot of culturally diverse places in the world. Even Toronto and Montreal is considered culturally diverse. It's like mixing up spices. Culturally diverse is according to the blend of spices you have, and Vancouver has a lot of ASIAN spices. So definitely, within a year, if you wanna date, you probably meet an Asian girl within a year, unless you choose not to date Asians, and that's a choice for you too. But if you have no preference, you'll most likely date an Asian. Another thing about Vancouver is there's a big health eating scene and yoga scene here. Health care is slow here but it's close to free because it's Canada. Top schools in Vancouver include: UBC, SFU, CapU, Kwantlen, BCIT, Langara (upcoming college turning possibly into a uni), Douglas College, TRU if you like online education, Emily Carr if you like a challenging art school and you like Grandville Island and possibly acting and alternative lifestyle or something, if you just got out of high school with a passable grade like a C or C- grade and you want to hang with older international people with VISA drama, then VCC is the place to be, there's also a culinary school in Granville Island as well, Pacific Northwest Institute of culinary arts. If you plan to live in Vancouver, most people start with basement suites, dorms if you're a uni student, a tiny apartment complex is also a place to start. Most places here, compared to other cities are really clean as apartment policies and building codes standards are pretty high. Same applies to restaurants. And most people here live a very comfortable lifestyle compared to most cities. But many do complain about living standards not living up to their expectations and yes, social securities can be difficult at first for many just started living in Vancouver, but with proper planning and being open to meeting the right kind of people, Vancouver is a good place to live.
Interesting.....having lived there, in Canada I would be considered the "least friendliest city", very difficult to meet new people and create friends; And when you live and visit Canada you realize that the East Coast of Canada with likely it's friendliest people is a bit of the opposite of Vancouver. Secondly, Toronto would likely be considered the most diverse population in Canada likely followed by Vancouver. And lastly , as for foodies. Montreal still tops Canada as the epicurean capital of Canada, where food is most important and very diverse .
@@gioh8205 this city and my personal experiences and those of friends is that Vancouverites are quite "clique"....hard to make friends and break through....i left and many of my friends left because it just didn't feel right....Pretty city but in my view that's about it.
Well done video. In order to save money in Vancouver, you may need to get a part-time job in addition to your full-time job. You may have to avoid going to bars and restaurants. It will help if you don’t smoke cigs or pot or drink more than a couple beer a week. Find friends with good habits like walking and photography and avoid friends with bad habits like getting drunk once a week. After you have saved a substantial amount of money and you have no debts…then you can splurge a little. Good Luck.
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I actually plan on biking from grand falls NB to Vancouver to move their this summer I know it’s probably a stupid idea but it’ll be worth the journey also y’all get like no snow
If you’re thinking about it I recommend visiting first and see how you feel. That goes for any city, you shouldn’t make a decision from a video. I fell in love with Vancouver the first time I visited and I moved here a few years later. No regrets. I’m not saying I’ll live here forever but I know it was the right move for me. That being said changing your geography won’t solve all of your problems no matter where you go. Happiness comes from within not from where you’re located :)
Your last sentence is a full of experience and wisdom. Thank you!
@@johnnyfrank8450 Thanks for the positivity! Have a great day
why did I watch a whole tour of my own city...?
I feeeeeeeeel this comment. 😑
I mean, at this point with stay-at-home life it's either this or rewatch Tiger King. we're glad y'all chose this, though.
Same here.
hunter lang yep
me 2 ahhahaah
1. Weather, it rains ALOT here...most of the year is overcast, rainy or just unpredictable with weather...you better invest in a good rain jacket, waterproof shoes and maybe an umbrella. The seasonal affective disorder is real here thanks to the amount of cloudy, rainy, and generally grey days here. Summer is much cooler than other places and really in terms of "seasons", we get two instead of four which is a combo of fall/winter and prolonged spring followed by a brief and sometimes intense summer for about 2-3 months tops before the weather drops back to rain by the end of August on the dot with a sprinkling of good days between then and October if you're lucky. That being said for Canada Vancouver and BC generally usually get the better weather overall since it doesn't snow here very much and generally never gets too cold.
2. Housing and expense, it is EXPENSIVE to live here period, not just Canada but the world overall...rent is high compared to income for most people and unless your income bracket is on par with the national household average it's not a very comfortable life, good rents are hard to come by and even harder if you have a pet as most places don't want to deal with cats/dogs.
If you have roommates or a partner it does become easier and more manageable but even then if you're looking to snag a rental somewhere in the Vancouver area be prepared to pay close to $2,000+ for a two-bedroom for an older, poorer condition building and anywhere from 1600-2000 for a one-bedroom for something a little more modern, the sizes are quite small and you'd be looking at 400-600sqf for the 1BR.
Food is expensive here and your options are more limited as a consumer if you're coming from the US or similar you can expect your dairy and alcohol prices to be a lot more than other places. We have several taxes on top of things too, so for example a can of beer 500ml beer might cost $1.99 but you'll end up paying almost an additional 20-40 cents thanks to taxes.
Gasoline is also one of the most expensive in all of Canada, even currently with crude being at something like 30$/barrel you can see prices linger in the $1.20-30/Litre regularly.
3. Transit, If you do live in the 'burbs then prepare to have a longer commute into the city where "most" of the jobs are located depending on your career or profession. Parking is a nightmare since there is limited spots in the city, if you do end up paying by meter it is quite costly and if you pay for the day it also isn't that cheap, the city does a good job to try and make people not use their cars which leaves public transit, which while can you most places is also quite expensive given the range. A single ticket that covers all transit "zones" (around 60km~) is $5.75 one way, which isn't too bad.
Vancouver downtown is tiny though compared to other major cities, honestly, you can walk from one end to the other in about an hour. The system of transit is overall pretty good and most things are easy enough to access, however, the train is usually full most of the time thanks to the fact that most people all go into downtown (either for work or for fun as most things are located there) and while trains come often you can expect to be standing in a mostly crowded train. Buses tend to be better in some ways. One thing to note is that if for whatever reason the train system is offline or knocked out, it becomes much, much harder to actually get further into the 'burbs from downtown and vice versa, there is some buses but few and far between to accommodate most people if they needed them.
4. Jobs, this is incredibly subjective because it highly depends on your career and education. There is a good amount of work to be found in the city but the major areas that seem to be in constant demand are health services (although they are underfunded) nurses/doctors, plumbers/electricians/engineers/etc, construction and so on. There is a huge demand for tech but historically Vancouver has paid lower wages compared to cities like Toronto...that is course-correcting recently but the wages are still not equal to say something like the US for a similar role or location (Seattle)
TV/Film/Animation is a big part of the city as well but keeping in mind that Vancouver and Canada don't tend to produce a lot of its own content and we end of being more of a service work type industry (we get work farmed out because we pay less but our quality is pretty good and we're located close enough to Hollywood etc) not to mention the large tax benefits large companies get for coming here. Most head offices for companies are STILL not located here and are usually on the East Coast in Toronto or Montreal.
5. Education, We have a lot of good schools but if you are an international student get ready to get screwed over with paying nearly double what a Canadian student would pay, in Vancouver though because of the large number of Asian students with well to do parents often have no issues with this. It would do well for someone to really research into which school they are going to avoid giving money to a for-profit private school. Douglas College, Emily Carr, UBC, Capilano U, SFU, and BCIT are all great schools to attend for example.
6. Fitness, I guess we are but comparing Vancouver to the rest of Canada doesn't say much...when most of the country is slogged with rain and snow it's easy to see why we would be.
In the early 2000s, there was a trend of seen as being "fit" was like a status symbol, and to some degree that still holds true but you do see a fair bit of people running, jogging, or hiking.
We have some trails and paths in most of the city and 'burbs but it does leave something to be desired if you're coming from another city or country so this is subjective. The major tourist and popular spots like Stanley Park, Grouse, Kits beach, and others are usually very crowded and full of people though..so best to find spots for yourself.
7. Culture, We are diverse for sure but again there is a good reason why which is that most people would rather move to either of the coasts rather the in the middle of the country which doesn't have anything to offer other than cheaper housing and food but lacks the jobs, higher income, forms of entertainment and more.
In terms of an actual race, I would say it is around a solid 35-40% of Asian (Chinese, Korean, Japanese, etc) people, 30-40% White (Canadian, Irish, German, Russian, Polish, etc) and the remainder would be southeast Asian in Vancouver (not metro but overall) it varies by the district/city and in some like Richmond the actual stats would be much higher for certain ethnicities over others in different cities. Some cities have neighborhoods that are more heavily influenced by certain ethnic groups with an overabundance of restaurants that cater to that taste and with newer luxury apartments being built by pretty much every major shopping area (Brentwood, Metrotown, Lougheed, and Oakridge) you see the demographics changing faster.
It is a fact that we have a LOT of Asian restaurants in Vancouver and in other cities within the lower mainland, it is not uncommon to see 3 bubble tea shops literally side by side on some stores or various Ramen shops/stores in other streets, I personally feel there is too many and the city would benefit from a truly multicultural aspect by having more that are not just Asian themed similar to cities like Toronto which in my opinion seems much more balanced.
Last, to note about restaurants and eating out, a lot of them are owned by the same 3-5 families or large businesses and operate as a big chain, Vancouver has few truly good single independent locations that make the places a must to visit or see and even when visiting most pubs, bars or similar and thinking they are different they are in fact owned mostly by the same families.
These are just some highlights thoughts and observations as someone who's lived here for 15+ years since the early 00s and seeing the city develop and change, it's not a bad place to live, and depending on your perspective it can either be a true marvel or a slight bore. Experiences will vary.
Very good insights...thanks for this!
We have the same type of weather here in the UK, wet, mild, near the sea. Even in winter we have green grass and some of the trees are still green, like evergreens and pines. Mulder from X-files from what I read called Vancouver a wet cold version of a rain forest. lol.
Question, wouldn't so much rain make you very car dependable? I cant imagine riding a bicycle safely with so much rain...
How hard is it to get a server job that pays CAD12-14/hour as an international Student?
Is it realistic to live in neighbour city like Burnaby or even Coquitlam but work in downtown Vancouver?
As as a long-time Vancouverite, also note these things:
1) We get a lot less sunshine than most parts of North America. The months from October to March can be particularly brutal for sun-lovers.
2) Not only are rents expensive, but finding decent accommodation can be tough - currently occupancy rates are at or near zero (for Vancouver proper that is)
3) It's one of the tougher places to meet people and make friends - people are generally nice, but fairly standoffish (and flakey, like the rest of the west coast)
4) If none of these caveats scare you off...then welcome!
Agree! Also, lots of rain!
Is there anything I should know about moving to abbotsford? I’m a us citizen thinking about becoming an international student at ufv
Stephen Koss yea don’t talk to strangers . There . You’ll do fine .
You forgot to add we have the highest insurance rates in North America where drivers under 25 pay upwards of $4,500 a year.
Still get a kick listening to newbies go on and on about Vancouver like it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. Slowly but surely around Year 3, their spirit is broken and the life in them is gone.
Moved back to Vancouver after 23 years. 10 years in Venezuela and 13 years in Ottawa. Thank God, I am back home.
I get SO BUMMED about the negativity that Vancouver gets! I don't have much money and living in this city has changed my life. I did a lot of research and found an incredible home and live with friends. I don't have 3 jobs. I have one. No, my parents don't pay any bills. No, I don't have a car. I use a bike, city transit, and walk. It's an INCREDIBLE city if you let it be. Put a bit of work and research into it and you can live here sustainably. Stop whining. People get so down instead of trying to do something about it.
How can you fix the east end?
Vanessa Nostbakken what you described is the lifestyle of a single bachelor who doesn’t mind bunking with 3 other guys, who works locally and doesn’t worry about commuting to work... someone who doesn’t have a family... yes it’s not impossible but it’s not easy for those moving with a family who have a job out in Delta, or whatever.. Not all of us are starving artists
@@marianfrances4959 As in East Van?
Only one room where one job and several people share is my place.
If you are satisfied with just living like this, it is your standard.
Not everyone should do it because you are happy with that kind of life.
You can express your thoughts.
However, don't blame someone who's not like you.😡
@@jijibebe3084 It's not about blaming anyone, especially not someone who's "not like me," I totally understand that people come from different situations and that it's a tough city to sustain in for several reasons...however, there just seems to be overwhelming negativity and I don't think it's always a fair representation of what the city has to offer. This is my expression that's been built over several years of living here, coming from living in many other places and countries. I just like to spread positivity about this city because I do like what it's done for me and people that I know (including ones who are struggling,) and want others to be able to experience it too.
Home sweet home! I noticed a lot of people are being quite negative in the comments and it's saddening. Yes it's expensive and there are downsides, but we really are blessed. Especially with all the new worldly perspective we can gain right now, there's a lot to be appreciative for. Thank you for making this! Hopefully you enjoyed your visit. :)
This city is a shithole. I've lived here all my life. It sucks.
@@JackSmith-kx7fe How? What city is better?
Kevin John Duerme miami sucks. Nyc is better
Vancouver is a shithole.
goovialisticprofunks Toronto is a shiithole
I was born and raised in the flatlands of Winnipeg Manitoba...I now call a suburb of Vancouver BC home...been here 20 years...no plans on leaving anytime soon.
Government pension plan?!
I think I want to start a new chapter of my life in Vancouver. I'm planning on studying in UBC for my MBA. I am actually hyped
Can we trade places? Where are you from?
@@alexanderream1384 India. Yea bet u won't want to come here now 🤣
Come on in , the city and it’s citizens are here to make you feel welcome!
dont do it
im from India and i regret every day. now i cant go back cos i spent all our wealth here and i will keep working until the day i die
Sky train goes from downtown Vancouver to the outer cites ( Burnaby, New Westminster, Port Moody,Coquitlam,Surrey) and the Canada Line goes from downtown Vancouver to the Vancouver International Airport and the city of Richmond. And there is also the West Coast Express which is a commuter train that takes you from downtown Vancouver to Mission via Coquitlam and Port Moody!
I lived in Vancouver before and decided to go back to my own country Indonesia because I could not find a suitable job for my qualification. I graduated with engineering degree in western country and lot of years experience just ended up working in a restaurant.
I hear this all the time. Canada doesn't need highly skilled and educated labour. Most of the jobs are hands on and don't require an education.
@@BritneyWaldron Yeah, when I lived in Vancouver it was shocking to see how many people with Masters and even PhD degrees were working in restaurants, coffee shops, retail, etc!
@@erikapk very true. I knew a guy with a masters degree in engineering working in a warehouse.
sorry to hear that
@@erikapk k
If you're living rough in January it's a damn sight easier living in Vancouver under an overpass or a park then in a sleeping bag over a heating vent in any downtown Toronto intersection.
Thanks so much for this! I’m a Canadian citizen who’s been living & working in the US for the past 25 years as an RN. I’ve just begun researching the beautiful province of BC as it is my intention to endorse to the nursing board there and move home to my native Canada, only this time instead of Ontario where I was born & raised, instead, I intend live and work in beautiful British Columbia. Thanks again for this wonderful video!
John.
So …Did you make the move? I’m also from Ontario moved to the US then moved to Vancouver
Bang on review! Moved here 7 years ago from Edmonton. Any city can be home. It is your own decisions. No it does not always rain here. I ride my motorcycle year round. We live in the west end 2 bed heritage walk up beautiful, 1925 month. A block away newly reno'd walk up studios 320 sq ft 2400 to 3400 month. You have to look around. Thanks again for a great review!
I moved from Edmonton in 2007. Couldn’t pay me enough to go back!
320sq ft for 2400? that's too much, not even speaking about 3400
i'm looking to move out of london uk, for everyone complaining about costs this is so cheap! i'd be balling
Lau Hol I've only been to London for a few days - I loved it, but you're not kidding about the cost! And I was just a tourist!
timtwoface I love it , but need to get out of the UK as our political situation is really oppressive
@@lauraholliday9343 i am sorry to hear that...Canada is very welcoming if you choose to come here.
I moved here from Brighton and also dont consider Vancouver to be that expensive... rent is about the same or lower, transport is cheaper and better... food is significantly more expensive however
SMG ah right do you live in London? Every single thing in this video seems insanely cheap to me. Especially travel - I paid almost £200 a month for my travel card.
BC stand for Bring Cash.. so yeah. That’s all you need to know
B.C. = Bring Coins. Parking meters are everywhere.
BC - Basically China
BC Big Corruption
BC...Bust chops (all the time)
@@LDNpat Only in Hongcouver and the surrounding areas like Ricemond.
Lived there two years. I wouldn’t saw weather is great it just isn’t cold very often. Not only does it rain a lot, it can be overcast for weeks at a time. The transit system is good thorough and BC is beautiful. It is expensive, especially for housing which then drivers up other costs. A lot has been said about diversity and yes there is a variety of ethnicity and cultures, but they don’t really mix. It’s very cliquey so you don’t really get to experience it.. Overall a great place to visit, but not a great place to live.
also if you want to get into the film industry it is the best place for people starting out. You'll have way more luck getting film work and labour here than LA or New York.
Would you say is fairly easy to find work in VFX area? I work in vfx in Toronto, but I'm thinking of moving to Van... but wasn't sure how stable is the industry there. Thanks!
Atlanta is the new place for film and TV
@@Qwijebo That's right. I lived in ATL for 5 years, and I've been in the middle of filming when I'm passing by Five Points or by Marietta St. etc. It's because of the tax incentive. Hollywood of the South.
You're right. One reason I could think of is the weather. They can shoot on location with less hassle. Also, the tax incentive.
👏🏻👏🏻😍
Born and raised here in Vancouver BC. Buy the way the BC after Vancouver stands for BRING CASH or BRING CREDIT! I even tell all the tourists visiting here that!
Woah 😮
I would like to add the following, Vancouver in the winter time does get snow, don't stay long and plenty of rain year round. I would have mentioned you will see many people wearing Gore Tex and layers. If you wearing the same thing when raining, you would be wet and cold.
Transit has Seabus linking Vancouver & North Van, Skytrain to Surrey or Coquitlam and links to the Evergreen Line, Canada Line was built for the Olympics and ends either at our Airport or in Richmond. As for fare and if you don't want to buy a monthly pass or multiple fares, you can purchase an all day bus pass for $10.50, good for all modes of transit.
Vancouver is big on Tourism/hospitality, movie industry as we're dubbed as "Hollywood North" and forestry. Our city is known for tech industry as well.
the province of BC stands Brings Cash and living here has increased since we hosted the 2010 winter Olympics.
Filming took place in January and was downloaded in April, All of the World, including Canada is dealing with Covid-19 and maybe in the Summer go back to some of the restaurants (Denman) to see if they're still operating.
Awesome, thanks for the info.
Btw., in the video, was he talking about the money in the Canadian or American currency?
*Who wants to be Vancouver roommates and save on rent?* 🗣🗣
Like actually though. We are all here watching and wanting to go, why not make it happen? As someone who prefers biking to driving, film making, and community activities, Vancouver sounds wonderful. I'm set on living here and if any of you fine people are serious about it too let's get in touch!
I'm in dude
I'm from Vancouver. Grew up here. Beautiful city
Moved here 40 years ago. Shovel snow 3 times a year.
God damn thats a blessing here in sask regina we basically shovel every week, such a pain
@@UniqueliAnimationsSN What about 30 sunny days a year? Lol
I thought there was something wrong with me, I'm so happy to see how everyone is commenting on how clique and flakey Vancouverites are.
I'm not I like making new friends, I wasnt born or raised here though. Moved here 2016 when I was 23
I have lived here for 55 years and LOVE IT!! I drove cab during Expo 86 and love how the Olympics really highlighted the city! Every detail you hit upon is bang on and I tell anyone reading this comment that he ain't whistling dixie when it comes to everything he says! Thank you for the video!
As a side note on the food: There is a metric ton of restaurants. In fact there are more restaurants than the city can actually support. So you will see restaurants that last 2-3 years, then change into an entirely different restaurant because the old one went under. So, if you are hoping to open your dream restaurant Vancouver is not the place for you. On the flip side, if you are experienced in working in one, you're almost guaranteed employment.
Of course the industry is corrupt as hell so don't expect breaks, or for the hours you work to actually be only what is scheduled and free-timing is pretty much required. And the minimum wage for working in the restaurant industry is lower than the minimum wage for everywhere else. And the owner takes a cut of your tips, the kitchen staff takes a cut of your tips, the manager gets a cut of your tips, the poor homeless guy out back gets a cut of your tips... yeah, don't work in the restaurant industry.
Lived in the 'Couv' for 3 years in my 20's and it was great. That said it's not an easy place to get permanently setup primarily due to housing prices compared to wages. Lots of transient young people so long term friendships are hard to maintain but its easy to make a ton of acquaintances. Commute times are better in recent years with the Skytrain but be strategic where you live as +2.0 hours on public transit or stuck in traffic jams every days can be a drag especially in the endless winter rain. North Van never sees the sun outside of a short window in the summer; people there are almost translucent white like characters out of Twilight. Tons of pot smokers. In the 25 years since I lived in Kitsalano there has been a massive amount of new construction which has made it almost unrecognisable in places, this is typical for most of Vancouver. Enjoy your stay.
Thank you! To rent an apartment in Vancouver really costs a lot
I moved to Vancouver (not Canada) some 20 years ago. After 2 years in bliss, the company I worked for closed their Vancouver office and moved me to Toronto where I live today. I have it good in Toronto so I'm not going to moan about Toronto.
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I have gone back to Van on holiday on a regular basis, went there a few months back (June of 2021). To see electric cars as common as coffee shops, was quite the sight. The artistic effort thrown into the bike paths (painted concrete barricades, etc) was super cool. Van is still the most progressive city in Canada.
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I spent time in the druggy area - (Hastings street) and I do like the effort to uplift the area (although still way too many druggies). I took the skytrain to various areas where there was no Skytrain before. And I like the Canada line, etc.
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It's a pity that Vancouver does not have any power industries. In essence Vancouver is a retirement city, a city for the well-to-do to send their kids to study and a city for Asians to buy property as a means to have a foot in 2 countries (for when the CCP finally implodes China). All of this makes Van a sort of false economy subsidised by foreign money yet too expensive for the locals.
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I sometimes wish I could move back to Vancouver. When Torontonians say, "But it rains so much" my response is, "Hey at least you don't have to shovel it."
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BC is markedly different to the rest of Canada. The Tim Hortons culture is something so new to BC that Quebec in all its Frenchness is more into Tim Hortons than Vancouverites.
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Interestingly BC has 2 extreme cultures living happily side by-side: the left-wing-ganola-kids and the right-wing-cowboy-hicksters. Simply drive down to the Cloverdale Rodeo and you will see what I mean. BC'ers seems to get on better with Albertans than say with Ontarians.... go figure (and kind of cool).
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As a suggestion to all you foreigners (both from the rest of Canada and from the rest of the world). Take up sailing and you will meet wonderful people from all over the place. You are confined to a small boat and have no choice but to get to know one another. Turned out to be the best thing I ever did to make friends in Van. Locals in Van have (in my mind) good reason not to get too close to foreigners - they simply grew up together and have a history together - why chance it with foreigners who you don't fully know (this is common all over the world).
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I think in one phrase, "Vancouver is prohibitively beautiful"
What do you mean take up sailing? As in but a boat? How much would that be?
I live in Vancouver, and I recommend the following.
1) Never rent a condo, it's not cost effective. Rent a basement suite instead, as you can find a two bedroom for only $1300. My family rents the upper floor of one of our houses for only $2800, which includes 4 rooms. This is $700 per person, and is market rate.
2) Food is relatively cheap here, I would say sushi is half the price of that in Saskatoon.
3) You don't need a car, public transit is cheap, and is sufficient enough to get you anywhere in the city.
4) If you're willing to pay in cash, you will be able to buy food and rent at a cheaper price. Asians, like myself will give significant discounts to those who are willing to deal in cash.
5) Make friends with locals who can give you advice on good deals.
3 roomates, WTH!!! lol
Have lots of money like this guy and you're set.
@@tima.478 well, the our tenants have about 1500 sq ft for the 4 of them. They have one room each, with a balcony. Plenty of room for all of them.
@@nikolai3620 hahaha. You don't need that much. Just be efficient with your money.
@@rayc3103 So, 375 sq ft. each. I suppose It's a matter of perspective, like all things...I consider 1500 sq. ft. to be quite a smaller area. Then again, I'm a grown man with a very large house all to myself. But, whatever makes them happy lol
Vancouver is beautiful thanks for sharing this video, very informative thumbs up.
Love to see that enthusiasm for newbies for my own town. Truth is, it's nice, but people are not consistently friendly, and can be generally standoffish and often rude. Yes it's multicultural but people from other cultures don't often mix well which creates a climate of intolerance. For example, people bring their random driving habits, need to drop garbage on the ground, not being considerate in line ups etc, which tends to infuriate people. Lots of snobs of every kind. Yes you can meet people you can get along with but it's difficult. Lots of junkies and break and enter plus bike theft crime is off the hook. Lived here for 20 years, still love it, but anyone who has been here for any time does not paint it as the paradise you see in travel vids. I've seen gang fights, discovered a dead body in Stanley Park, plenty of reckless driving, hate crimes etc. Just sayin'.
Well said. This guy in the video is getting paid by COV probably. Nobody is that positive about Vancouver. Diversity doesn't work, I don't care how many times the federal government says it.
Good points, I've been here almost as long as you have and it's generally true, people are friendly but in a way that suggests only because it's the "right" thing to do, not because they are.
There is a lot of different cultures here but it's a ton of "bubbles" of culture, there is no foundation which everyone can/should start from so everyone just sorts of does whatever because no one tells them otherwise...driving is an obvious example where people do things that are so wrong or illegal that it blows my mind.
I think meeting people is also age and hobbies too, I found if you're not "into" certain things it's harder to meet new people and because the city doesn't have a ton of diverse events it's hard to meet people.
@@JackSmith-kx7fe I didn't even watch the video, but if he's "excited" about muIticuIturaIism, he's in for a rude awakening. Van is a muIticuIturaI hellhole ...
diEveristy is society's greatest weakness...
People are isolated & atomized and everyone sticks to their own ethnicity, except for liberal whltes of course who try to suck up to minorities who despise them.
I genuinely feel sorry for young Canadians who are growing up as a despised minority in the nation their ancestors built.
the multiculturalism is only a slight net negative overall; I love the exposure and experience but... native born Canadians or "westerners" will find it is a family oriented "eastern" economy here... no family or friend help and your fucked with finding reasonably well paid work, financing education, saving money, buying spacious housing, and eventually having children. These things can be done but you need to live like a refugee if you're on your own. If you're single it is better to buy a bus ticket somewhere else outside...
@William Burr Those drivers were probably Asian. They don't even turn the blinkers when they make a left or right turn. Plus they don't understand the concept of "right-of-way". Neither on the road nor anywhere else.
You forgot to mention that it's really hard if not impossible to find rentals in or around Vancouver. I live in Pitt Meadows which is about 50 km east of the city and it is impossible to find rental.
Pitt Meadows is too nice, try Surrey, if you don't mind the random stabbing incidents and stray bullets.
@@pinkcichlid You learn to love Indian music and long bus rides too...
Pitt meadows is extremely small though. I live in Maple Ridge for 5 years. In the area since 2007.
After living in Vancouver for almost two years now, my partner and I are heading back to Toronto. It seems like no one here talks about the homeless/drug crisis. East Hastings Street and Oppenheimer Park were deal breakers for me. Vancouver is aesthetically beautiful, but there is a real dark side here that the locals seem to push under the rug.
It's the far left gov't. It's similar to California, the far left thinks laws and homeless control are 'rayciss!"
Realistically speaking, those same problems exist in almost any other major city in the world, especially cities on the west coast. Go to any other city down the coastline and you'll see the same thing in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, etc. Problem does need a solution, however it's more a crisis with opioids as you said than it is just a simple "homeless" problem.
@@wheelingdbag It's a liberal problem. Every city run by the leftists is a shithole. Liberals are the worst problem mankind has ever faced.
@@wheelingdbag It does, I agree you. I've lived in Honolulu before moving to Vancouver which had similar issues with homelessness/drugs. But it wasn't concentrated on just one street/one park (East Hastings and Oppenheimer Park) like Vancouver. I was shocked how many homeless/mentally unstable/druggies just walk the city streets in Vancouver while the locals just turn their heads the other way. Not to mention the smell of urine, blue needles and tents in some of the "nicest" neighbourhoods here in Vancouver. Never once did I experience that in Toronto. It's a deal breaker for me.
@@fraudcoward9327 i reaaally wouldn't describe Vancouver as a shithole, but okay buddy. Every city has it's problems, and we're actually doing something about the homeless crisis contrary to popular belief.
The best thing about Vancouver is that you can get free entertainment, ie nature. And you can't put a price on that. There is always an affordable living option as well. Just up to you where you put your money. Do you make your own coffee every morning, or buy Starbucks?
As a person born and raised in Vancouver. Moving to Vancouver is probably the worst financial decision any person can make. Aside from the nice views, that’s really where the perks end. Be ready to pay the the worlds 3rd most expensive housing prices in conjunction with North America’s highest insurance rates. Drivers 25 and under pay $4500+ annually. Not to mention food and especially gas is probably one of the most expensive in North America.
Sounds like Sydney, my colonial buddy
Jacky Chen well said !
Kurio71 yup everywhere in Australia is damn expensive grrr
@@pysof I live in Edmonton. Vancouver is one hour away by air. i go there to visit my son in July and August when it doesn't rain. Great city in those months. The rest of the year it can be really dismal.
i love my city but 6k in car insurance is highway robbery.
What a brilliant video. Have seen so many "need to know before you move" videos. But this one stands out by a mile. Thank you for coming up with this. Can't wait for move to Vancouver.
Great video! A nice overview of Vancouver without the pros and cons (because these are always different depending on the person). It is a beautiful, diverse city with a lot to offer.
2k a month is expensive?!!
*Laughs in Los Angeles”
✈️Vancouver here I come!
He's not from Vancouver and he got it wrong, 2K rent to start DT, and no freehold house cost less than 1mil no matter how crappy it is. I'm in Vancouver and I used to travel to LA every year to get a break from the gloom and coldness of Vancouver. Everything costs about half in LA, more shopping and entertainment, better food, friendlier people. Traffic in LA is bliss compared to Vancouver, can you imagine the same effin amount of cars on two-lane highways in rush hours with guaranteed accidents every single day? 4km (ONE MILE) weekday commute takes me average ONE HOUR! It takes me 40mins from DT LA to Pasadena in rush hours! Don't complain about homelessness in LA, Vancouver's about the same, if not we're getting there.
* laughs equally in New York City while also crying *
That is if you can find a place at that price. Sky is the limit.
Apartments in Vancouver tend to be really small too.
As someone from Hong Kong, 2k is super affordable (relative to Hong Kong.......where for a decent two-bedroom...one should expect to pay about 3k a month)
I loved your video. I live in the suburbs of Vancouver and, during the current period of self-isolation, it made me really miss going to the city. Aside from the easy access to nature, my favourite part of living here is the cultural diversity. Thank you for such a great video. I'm going to send a link to my relatives in Denmark!
Stay where you are, relatives do not move to Expensive Vancouver
In my opinion, Danmark is much more comfortable for life than any part of canada!
@@kseniia7949 I agree. As far as I'm concerned, Denmark is the most amazing place in the whole world.
Everything costs everywhere you go.
You just gotta know how to save and invest.
I’ve been considering starting the process to move to Vancouver from the US. I love the weather and nature!
The nature is great, the weather is...changeable. But overall all of our time living in Vancouver and BC love it :)
Me in Czech Republic: I want move to Vancouver❤️ It look like so good😊
haha, Čau. Česká republika je krásná země, ale taky bych se chtěl na nějakou dobu podívat nebo možná i přestěhovat někam do Severní Ameriky. Rozhodně je Česko mnohokrát bezpečnější, což je paráda, ale chtěl bych zkusit něco jiného. Hodně štěstí! :)
Move baby move, we’re waiting for you
Last summer I was supposed to visit your beautiful country for two weeks...then Covid. 😭
Just to let people who are considering moving here - move to surrey. Surrey is very accessible to Vancouver. Our transit system is pretty good. It would take you about an hour to get to there through the Skytrain with lots of options of busses. My family pays $1200 rent for a four bedroom townhouse. If you’re attending a big university like SFU or UBC we have busses that will take you straight there literally named either SFU or UBC.
This was really well done. Thanks for posting it.
Thanks for that Brother. Am considering moving with my Wife,
Just watched your entire tour about my city, thanks for the tour!!🖐🏼
He totally skipped over the wonderful Oppenheimer park in downtown Vancouver LMAO 🤣
J Skill true!😄 hey Check it out also my Vlog its all about Amazing Scenery here in B.C. th-cam.com/video/y8OKR7T3U74/w-d-xo.html
HAHAHAHAHA
i saw police telling junkies to go there to the tent town
Reading some comments here confuse me, I live in Halifax, Nova Scotia and let me tell you it's not roses and peaches here either.
1. People complain about all the rain in Vancouver, should I tell you about winters in Halifax? Tons of snow and there is nothing to do, literally nothing, the city dies during the winter periods.
2. People, yeah there is a lot of nice people here but I also have met a lot of rude, racist people here, a lot of people are flaky here as well, that's just the world unfortunately.
3. Price. Lol try living downtown Halifax, good lucking finding a cheap place, you'll have the most luck living outside the city to find a cheap place, but guess what? Our bus systems suck, they aren't reliable and if you don't have a car you're basically screwed.
4. Career wise, most people that go to university here either don't find work here and move to a different city, do something that they don't study and if you are lucky to find something you studied in then you just fought a whole bunch of people.
When I was in Vancouver a few years ago I met a lot of really nice people, some strangers even talked to me at the bus stop and they were very nice, does that happen all the time? No, but people complaining about Vancouver clearly never visited other cities in Canada.
@Michael T Unfortunately that's everywhere as well, the amount of times I've been treated is awful.
Facts
@Michael T I have a soft spot for Halifax because I am a Pier 21 graduate.
Vancouver is way too expensive but I'm too broke to move anywhere else
foundthecreek damrights your lucky ha here is so damn expensive $A40-50 Queensland Australia
foundthecreek damrights haha😆😆🤭👋👋😷
Its cheap compared to Edmonton
@ Smokes in the downtown eastside are five bucks. They come from reserves.
@@jasonwright9405 "...$A40-50 Queensland Australia" Maybe it's time to give up smoking?
The rents are outrageously high in Vancouver. I used to live in a two bedroom apartment in North Vancouver and pay $900/month about 17 years ago. Then I moved to Montreal. I would love to move back because I'm fed up with the Québec's long and cold winters but the high cost of accommodations scares the hell of out me!
There was a day to call the CRA.
When talking to a cra employee, I said that for some issue, Vancouver was too expensive to live.
Then the CRA staff said
"I heard too. Vancouver is too expensive ~~ I moved to Montreal ~ It's not like Vancouver ~"😅😅👋👋👋😷
How’s the weather like in Vancouver? I live in Toronto and hate the long winters here, but the summers are really nice.
I got an offer to stay Montreal and have considered moving there as soon as this pandemic slows down or ends. I have my concerns about it of course but BC as whole has become virtually unliveable on fronts. So please let me know if it's a good move thanks.
@@Saint3188 I too am hoping to make the move to Montréal - if MIFI will ever let me in. Do you have any idea how hard it is to get in there if you're not Canadian? I don't even know where to start. Quebec have done two Express Entry draws this year. In the last one, they invited 7 candidates. Seven. I'm shifting my focus to Ottawa in the hope I can settle there and try to make the move to MTL after X months/yrs. because I just know CAQ are never going to let me into Quebec. It's a shame. Montréal really does look like it's the city to be in.
@@BlueSpirit3743 Sadly Quebec got hit really hard with the pandemic but I have connections there but I will have to really think about it because the flights have opened up again which is nice but time will tell at this point?
Montrealer here! Every time I get hyped by a Vancouver video, I'm always saddened to read in the comments section that some things don't seem to change over the years. I love Montreal(borned and raised here) for a lot of different reasons, but I want to move out for a lot of other ones too haha I lived in Auckland, New Zealand and I'd like to move back there indefinitely because I really love that country but my plan B has always been Vancouver since it's in Canada(so no visas required, etc). I'd be happy to have less harsh winters, having a beautiful scenery surrounding the city, having access to a beach, etc BUT...are Vancouverites overall that ''unfriendly'' or fake? Coming from a place where people will start a conversation pretty much with anyone (especially on a bad weather day since we all complain haha), where you can easily make friends, etc, it's always ''that'' thing about Vancouver that stops me from going forward with it. I'm a musician so maybe finding a band would help I guess haha But joke aside, I wonder why Vancouverites have that reputation of being clicky. I know it's an expensive city and all but so is Toronto and now Montreal more and more believe it or not.
I don’t think Vancouverites are fake, but they are reserved. Everyone is from somewhere else and there are a lot of weird people.
I can’t stand Vancouver’s social scene anymore. Once you start traveling you realize how bad it is in Vancouver socially, and culturally it is a void. One of the reasons I’’m moving to Montréal.
@@scottarchibaldmusic I'm sad to read this if you are from Vancouver :/ Montreal has harsh winters, never ending road reparations, etc but at least it's a friendly city where you will have fun!
The people I know from there are flakey and fake for sure, 1000%
@@bengirard1984 Every place has its pros and cons.. There is a lot of construction in every city, including Vancouver. Yes Montréal has harsh winters and more extreme weather but I think it affects the entertainment and creative culture/ arts there in a positive way. Vancouver is rainy and gray a lot of the year and I think it affects the culture and people in a negative way. Vancouver has beautiful mountains and ocean and Montréal is 400 years older which makes it more interesting as a city. Both have great restaurants/cuisine. The Vancouver social scene, from my perspective and from many others has no “joie de vivre” as the French say.
I'm an American who just graduated college, applying to law school for the next year. I am so tempted to move to Canada I'm just so tired of USA. UBC is one of the schools I'm applying to, I've heard so many great things about Vancouver
I like the feel of Vancouver, if you have ever seen any of the X-files episodes from season 1-6 , they have a good vibe about them, X-files was filmed in Vancouver. If I had another choice to go, I would check out Vancouver for sure.
are you on drugs?
@@smartrockcoolguy no are you? weird question to ask
@@ephedra443 he was being sarcastic. what he meant was, you must be crazy to consider moving to VC. You'll need to read eevry comment on this section from the bottom up to understand why. Not saying Dev is right btw - I wouldn't be any the wiser as I'm 8,000 miles away. have to say though: I'm glad I decided to read every comment in this section. It's been a major eye-opener. I would advise doing the same yourself. It will take around an hour but what's an hour's investment for the rest of your life.
I grew up in Vancouver and now live outside of Toronto. Everytime I think rent is gonna approach 1k per month including utilities I just keep moving on.
So where do you live now?
Before I moved to Vancouver finding a decent place to live was the hardest part. Once I did everything else fell into place. I found a decent basement / garden suite for a good price with all utilities included.
I lived in Vancouver for a while and I'll summarise it for anybody thinking of doing the same. Once the novelty of the Mountains wear off - and it will - you're left with a city which is: very expensive, congested, with poor road infrastructure/quality and a climate which injects depression. When the chance came to leave.....I did just that. I suggest you assess your own City carefully before moving to the Vancouver because the stunning scenery won't mask the City's deficiencies forever.
I used to deliver freight to Vancouver. Beautiful city. But expect to leave broke. For the price of a motel room for a week, you can buy a small house in Ontario or Queerbec.
Those are the only two provinces to make a living. No jobs in the maritimes. the prairies are far too cold and barren. Alberta is a mess
Ontario.....love it.
Wow good sharing friend, really enjoy the tour with you. Have a nice day and stay safe!
VANCOUVER is the most EXPENSIVE city in CANADA. It can be friendly but people DO NOT build long term meaningful friends here as it is very transient due to cost of living and immigration. It is the capital in Canada for mental health and drug addiction for social housing and Downtown Eastside is infested with mental health issues. Medical is NOT absolutely FREE as many immigrants think. Only when you are inside a hospital or basic medical visit at a office or on low income for some things.
A young guy from Newfoundland moves to British Columbia and goes to a big "everything under one roof" department store looking for a job.
The Manager says, "Do you have any sales experience?"
The kid says "Yeah. I was a vacuum salesman back in Newfoundland."
Well, the boss was unsure, but he liked the kid and figured he'd give him a shot, so he gave him the job.
"You start tomorrow. I'll come down after we close and see how you did."
His first day on the job was rough, but he got through it.
After the store was locked up, the boss came down to the sales floor.
"How many customers bought something from you today?"
The kid frowns and looks at the floor and mutters, "One".
The boss says "Just one?!!? Our salespeople average sales of 20 to 30 customers a day. That will have to change, and soon if you'd like to continue your employment here. We have very strict standards for our sales force here in Vancouver. One sale a day might have been acceptable in Newfoundland, but you're not on the farm anymore, son."
The kid took his beating but continued to look at his shoes, so the boss felt kind of bad for chewing him out on his first day. He asked (semi-sarcastically), "So, how much was your one sale for?"
The kid looks up at his boss and says "$101,237.65.′′
The boss, astonished, says, "$101,237.65?!? What the heck did you sell?"
The kid says, "Well, first, I sold him some new fish hooks. Then I sold him a new fishing rod to go with his new hooks. Then I asked him where he was going fishing and he said down the coast, so I told him he was going to need a boat, so we went down to the boat department and I sold him a twin engine Chris Craft. Then he said he didn't think his Honda Civic would pull it, so I took him down to the automotive department and sold him that 4×4 Expedition."
The boss said, "A guy came in here to buy a fish hook and you sold him a boat and a TRUCK!?"
The kid said, "No, the guy came in here to buy tampons for his wife, and I said, 'Dude, your weekend's shot, you should go fishing.'"
This is an interesting artifact. Filmed in January 2020 just before Cov2 closed down the border and sent everyone home.
It's actually rattling how much can change in a few months. We're hopeful this video will come back around to being an accurate reflection of life in Vancouver not too long from now!
basebrat64 in seven years here I’ve not yet made a stable, suitable friend group.
@@Moving2Canadainfo Funny thing is, it wasn't to begin with!
@basebrat64 why would u move to SK?
@the_david I try to be centrist... but most people here believe in free shit that comes magically from the sky...
Ohhh I love Vancouver! The weather may be rainy but personally I love it. It’s so refreshing and the springtime is beautiful. the trees fill up with cherry blossoms! The winter is not very cold, and the summers are just perfect!😁😁😁
I was gonna go there last summer but covid shut down travel which sucks.
BC! Bring Cash. Gas. Food. Transit. Housing. Taxes. Did I mention taxes?
I left Vancouver in 2016 and will soon be leaving BC as well due to how expensive and dire it has gotten.
Birdie B the transit is quite good. World class in many regards.
I have nothing to add to your other remarks :-p
@@Saint3188 Yup. 8 years was enough for me. beautiful but expensive and boring. No one has money and just lives there to say they love in a beautiful city yet they cant enjoy it when always broke
@@ktowniecity7269 Well thats just it you can't do anything fun because no one has any $$$ to do so. And relationship life here sucks because even on a medium income half of your earnings are gone at the end of every cheque and if you get into a relationship they're goes your other half
@@Saint3188 Exactly. Thats why young people leave. If you cant save money, its dumb to stay there. Visiting vancouver and living in Vancouver are so so different. I had a great time in Vancouver when i visited in early January. When i lived there, it was depressing!
Great information about Vancouver! Good to know. Especially about finances required.
Very good video ! I’m a 20 yo french girl that want to move ont Vancouver and that really helps me ! Thanks a lot
When you are planning to move I'm coming next month wanna meet up? I need friends
Afshan Raza The borders are close for now so probably next year with a working holiday permit
@@Gennyschannel0215 damn that sucks well nevermind whenever you will come let me know lets hangout and have some fun i will be waiting for you btw I'm 21 from india going Vancouver for studies.
Afshan Raza for sure i let you know if and when I come ♡
@@afshanraza9851 wanna meet up too?
can't tell you how much i enjoyed this video. great job!
Welcome to Vancouver the city I was born and raised in. It's one of the most beautiful cities in the world and thanks to government on all levels have turned it into a living nightmare.
I have two kids whose future is basically somewhere else as the cost of living here is beyond normal.
If you're looking for work we have advertised to the world that we have the lowest pay rate in the tech industry, awesome! Move to one of the most expensive places on earth and volunteer to be a slave.
I make significantly more than the average person here yet I simply can't get ahead.
It breaks my heart to see what we've done here all to benefit a tiny percentage of people, alot who don't even hold citizenship here.
Not sure what to tell you, if you have buckets of cash enjoy, if you work, good luck!
If I lived in Vancouver, I would be spending most days visiting old x-file filming locations. I know that the x-files filmed there from season 1-6, plus a few popular movies and other shows.
Come to Calgary we have houses for peanuts (less then a dog house in Vancouver) , crime almost does not exist and jobs pay more. Main minus is that your house will not make you a millionaire in few years.
Daamn. I really wanna move to Vancouver. I'm currently in Winnipeg rn and I have a brand new one bedroom apartment for 299.00. I am really grateful. One day I will move to Vancouver though!
Don't we also need to know about the gigantic homeless issue?
5,000 homeless in Dublin 🇮🇪
I live in Japan are homeless too lol
There aren't that many homeless people in Vancouver, people assume that because the housing cost is high there must be a lot of homeless people, but in my opinion Vancouver is the cleanest cleanest city in north america (on par with Singapore). This is because the cost of living is actually surprising low, due to the extencive bike network, great farmers market, and amazing job market.
They don't do anything besides feed the fire. I'd lock them up for a year in a specialized prison, until they clean up. The Liberal way is not working.
I'm from the Chicago area and have been to Vancouver three times. Only homeless that I've seen are on Hastings Street and maybe a couple on Davie Street. That's it! Seattle has way more homelessness from what I've seen(been there four times).
Thanks guy for your information and learning us about the beautiful city of Vancouver i will be there soon hopefully.
“Vancouver is one of the friendliest cities in Canada when it come to cycling”... haha debatable. Otherwise that was a pretty good tour, minus the stereotypical “you Vancouverite don’t know cold!” thing at the beginning. One thing I would have added is that we are a rainforest. Which means we live up to our nickname of Raincouver most of the year.
How do people bike so much despite the heavy and frequent rain?
The causal bikers don’t. You see a serious increase in the late spring and summer. The rest just don their rain gear and bring a change of clothes. If you live here, you have to own at least 1 waterproof jacket with a hood.
@@yamo_chan oh wow..😳😅😬, thanks so much for explaining!!
M Vp No problem. And actually it doesn’t rain heavily very often. It’s more spurts of regular to light rain through the week in fall, winter (with some snow mixed in) and early spring, but more often just cloudy. Really heavy rain only happens a handful of times in the fall.
@@yamo_chan oooh thanks! Yes im thinking of, God willing, moving there for a school so I've been checking which transportation options I have 😅
Maybe is not that chilly for a Canadian. But I have lived in Vancouver and, even though it is not as cold as other parts of Canada, it is actually very cold and rainy in winter.
Thanks, Dan! Great content, as always!
**Correction:*
The fare system is based off how many zones you travel between.
If say, you travel from Coquitlam to Port Moody, you would pay for a 1 zone fare.
If you travel from Coquitlam to Downtown Vancouver, you would pay for a 3 zone fare because, you’re travelling through all 3 zones.
An extra thing to note is the 5 dollar charge for travelling from Sea Island where YVR Airport is located.
Super helpful correction, thanks!
I live in vancouver too.
very expensive city to live and more ~more getting expensive~~😭😭😭😭😭
subscribed your channel!!
That's fine for me I'm an millionere
Great video. I live here and still find it informative!
Thanks for sharing guys do one about renting scams i nearly got scammed twice 😡
Sorry to hear that, Denise. We'll try to get some content up on our site about rental scams!
@@Moving2Canadainfo thank you so much
I believe it. How were you scammed?
@@lolamar6064 the first one had a fully furnished two bedrooms apartment for $800.00 and they wanted me to pay for it then they will tell me where to collect the key they told me that they are in Germany and won't be able to fly over so that would of being the best option to do then the next person told me that they are in the UK and they are very old and they place was going for $1000.00 fully furnished again but when I told them my lawyer would be the one doing the transaction I never heard from them again 🤷♀️
@@denisegwilliams8614sorry to hear,, that's a bummer. I've heard about scams like that before with friends.
If one day i have a chance to live abroad that might be vancouver. I love the city.
That's funny: I've been to this sushi place and was sitting at this exact spot :)
Love the energy of the host ! Awesome vid
A delusional communist.
I loved Vancouver when I lived there BUT as an American some Canadians hold reserves we Americans are all alike or what I encountered is alot of Vancouverites are passive aggressive. They start off friendly but when you get to know them they have another side to them.
I had really nice roommates and then out of the blue turn on me. I never experienced this before and it threw me off. I just wanted a roof over my head, friends and a life there. Some roommates had to make this unbearable.
The rent was very expensive for small roommate living
Good luck finding a room that take pets in a good part of town.
Cost of food is extremely costly! (I did good with going to "No Frills")
But walkability was nice
Scenary was nice
Transportation was wonderful!
Immigrating is confusing and difficult as an American (there is no American embassy to help)
But aside from living situations i enjoyed my time there
so true....
You didn't talk about the rain from fall through spring.
I lived in Vancouver from 2005 to 2016 and I couldn't stand it anymore. The high cost of living, housing and goods services and education became far to unbearable. I can't wait to finally leave BC as a whole. I'm doing a series of videos documenting my leave of BC on my channel.
go to edmonton
@@frankihatch I have considered Alberta but like many I'm waiting for this pandemic to end.
What do you do? Better luck anyway...
@@andriyshapovalov8886 About to work in autobody soon I'm close to moving to Kingston Ontario.
Amazing video - I should have been moving to Vancouver next week if it wasn't for COVID19. Praying for a speedy & healthy resolution for this disaster soon!
This city looks absolutely gorgeous, I'm definitely considering moving to study and live there. Also the food looks incredible!
do it, you have the ocean and the mountains beside each other. BC is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. The city is great because its small but feels big. You can literally walk across downtown in about half-hour.
@basebrat64 don't own a car cause the window smashing and insurance will bankrupt you...
Too many crackheads in the Fraser valley, it's brutal
The food? you mean the pizza slice shops???
@@JackSmith-kx7fe lol stop
Great city if you are rich or have a big paying job. If you like sunshine choose Toronto or Montreal. If you like long hot summers choose Windsor Ontario, it's the same latitude as Rome Italy.
It rains like crazy, everytime when I feel depressed because of school, job, family or friends. Most of the time it's raining and I feel like I'm in one of those movies. Like everytime something bad happens it RAINS. One or two times are fine, but almost everytime, I get more depressed man.
Keep your chin up mate!!
Where I live we get around 300 days of sun a year but it's still depressing.
@@yellowcat9568 WRONG
go skiing son
Vancouver is amazing, I enjoyed so much.
Don't waste your time and lose your friends... it is way way too expensive here...
most cannot afford to own a home or have children...
no it’s not
That's one of the main reasons why I left in 2016 and will be leaving BC as a whole when this pandemic slows down or ends.
great stuff..I'm the living witness as a resident of Vancouver..thank you for sharing
The first time I arrived in Vancouver in 2018, I was shocked. As soon as I left the airport door, I saw tissue, disposable glasses, and other garbage left in the city. The further I went, the more I saw them. Before I moved to Canada, I lived in Georgia, Armenia, Turkey, Serbia, The United States, and for a short time in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Netherland, Germany, and England, but I have never seen the amount of garbage that people leave in different Canadian cities. Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec are no less than Vancouver. I'm so sorry for Canada. Canadian and Canadian Governments don't care about this tragedy. I think everything that says about Canada as a clean and powerful culture is not true. You don't need to travel to Canada to see this. Just watch some videos about walking in downtown Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec. You will find the truth. Impossible for you to walk in a Canadian city and you don't see the dark side of that. Everywhere you will see garbage. You will never see like this in Europe or the United States
Their president is a communism fan what do u except?
Nearly half of people living in 'Couver are not Canadaians. That is the problem. Plus the majority out of this half came from countries with extremely low sanitary and hygienic standards.
@@the.blackest.russian As an immigrant, I respect your opinion. But this is not true. Whichever Canadian city you travel to, the dirtiest neighborhoods and areas have the least number of immigrants. If you look at the homeless people who throw the most garbage, you will not see a single immigrant among them. in Canada, I think people and government don't care about this problem. I lived for about 4 years in the US, and more than 90% of places in every city, even poor cities or populated cities are really clean because American people and their government absolutely care about cleanness. When I see litter in every Canadian forest or national park, it is so weird for me. I never ever didn't see it in the US.
As a guy who moved out from Calgary to Vancouver in 2014 it's only one thing you really need to know about Vancouver it's goddamn expensive if you can figure that out that's it. It's worth it.. you hear about how expensive it is but you don't really understand until you're here.
you ditched out on your share of the rent... send it to us or we'll eat your gold fish...
Move to Vancouver because you like nice weather, great scenery, outdoor activities, skiing, access to the ocean, close proximity to cross-border shopping and great Asian cuisines.
Do not move to Vancouver if your expectation is to have much money left after your monthly expenses, or to die wealthy, or to make many friends.
The above trade-offs are yours to decide.
Great Weather? Maybe for two months a year.
@@JackSmith-kx7fe Sounds like you don't live in Vancouver. The temperature doesn't usually go below zero in the winter time and it doesn't rain much at all between May and September's dry summers with most days being very sunny.
@@tonyk501 I live in the burbs. Close enough. If you think overcast is great weather....
@@JackSmith-kx7fe try living in edmonton
Rained 8 months of the year. Hasn’t reached 70F yet and we’re in June. Look at the weather report! It still shows rain all week. September 15 last year summer was done like a switch and rain went nonstops for months. It’s dark are dreary. I fucking despise it.
There's a lot of culturally diverse places in the world. Even Toronto and Montreal is considered culturally diverse. It's like mixing up spices. Culturally diverse is according to the blend of spices you have, and Vancouver has a lot of ASIAN spices. So definitely, within a year, if you wanna date, you probably meet an Asian girl within a year, unless you choose not to date Asians, and that's a choice for you too. But if you have no preference, you'll most likely date an Asian.
Another thing about Vancouver is there's a big health eating scene and yoga scene here. Health care is slow here but it's close to free because it's Canada.
Top schools in Vancouver include: UBC, SFU, CapU, Kwantlen, BCIT, Langara (upcoming college turning possibly into a uni), Douglas College, TRU if you like online education, Emily Carr if you like a challenging art school and you like Grandville Island and possibly acting and alternative lifestyle or something, if you just got out of high school with a passable grade like a C or C- grade and you want to hang with older international people with VISA drama, then VCC is the place to be, there's also a culinary school in Granville Island as well, Pacific Northwest Institute of culinary arts.
If you plan to live in Vancouver, most people start with basement suites, dorms if you're a uni student, a tiny apartment complex is also a place to start. Most places here, compared to other cities are really clean as apartment policies and building codes standards are pretty high. Same applies to restaurants. And most people here live a very comfortable lifestyle compared to most cities. But many do complain about living standards not living up to their expectations and yes, social securities can be difficult at first for many just started living in Vancouver, but with proper planning and being open to meeting the right kind of people, Vancouver is a good place to live.
No, don't move to Vancouver. Absolutely not. The views, the parks, the amenities are not going to provide affordable shelter.
Kevin John Duerme lol surprise surprise
I miss my hometown and the fresh air :)
Interesting.....having lived there, in Canada I would be considered the "least friendliest city", very difficult to meet new people and create friends; And when you live and visit Canada you realize that the East Coast of Canada with likely it's friendliest people is a bit of the opposite of Vancouver. Secondly, Toronto would likely be considered the most diverse population in Canada likely followed by Vancouver. And lastly , as for foodies. Montreal still tops Canada as the epicurean capital of Canada, where food is most important and very diverse .
why do you say it's difficult to make new friends and all, can you explain please? I'm trying to go to this city or Victoria
@@gioh8205 this city and my personal experiences and those of friends is that Vancouverites are quite "clique"....hard to make friends and break through....i left and many of my friends left because it just didn't feel right....Pretty city but in my view that's about it.
@@cdnbearguy what made it unfriendly in your opinion? Were the people generally not nice?
@@gioh8205 Victoria... definitely pick Victoria over Vancouver
Andre Gratton
Very true
Well done video. In order to save money in Vancouver, you may need to get a part-time job in addition to your full-time job. You may have to avoid going to bars and restaurants. It will help if you don’t smoke cigs or pot or drink more than a couple beer a week. Find friends with good habits like walking and photography and avoid friends with bad habits like getting drunk once a week. After you have saved a substantial amount of money and you have no debts…then you can splurge a little. Good Luck.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is what I heard. The winters are milder than the rest of Canada, but it rains so much, that it gets bone chilling.
yup... but leaving for the east is difficult once you get used to "dismal" winters.