Are you thinking about moving to Vancouver? Well, Vancouver is an excellent city for many immigrants. It is Canada’s largest city on the West Coast. Here’s all you need to know about living in Vancouver, British Columbia. 

Interestingly, it is wise for newcomers to research cities in Canada before selecting a new place to call home. Does the job market offer opportunities? Are there any housing alternatives? Questions like these will help you make the best decision depending on your lifestyle needs. 

The City of Vancouver is one of the top places/ destinations for newcomers to Canada, specifically from the Asia-Pacific region. That’s not surprising, as it is one of the most beautiful, serene, and livable cities in Canada and the world. It has a mild climate, cultural diversity, and an impressive natural setting, all found in a growing metropolitan city.

Vancouver is one of the most high-priced cities in the nation, but it is also the most liveable. Through its Vancouverism urban planning design philosophy, it plans to become the greenest city in the world. Read on to learn more!

About Vancouver, British Columbia 

Vancouver is a large urban city in Western Canada, part of the Lower Mainland area of British Columbia. It has the third-highest quality of living in the world and is one of the most diverse cities in Canada. This helps it attract new residents, tourists, and economic investors. 

The city was established on First Nations territory and built by immigrants from nations across the globe. The Fraser Gold Rush of 1858 first drew major interest in the region. Thousands of people migrated to the area from New Westminster and the United States.  

Thus, Vancouver is an international city surrounded by mountains, lush forests, Vancouver Island, and the fourth-largest port in the Americas. It is an outdoor lover’s paradise and a gateway to adventure. 

How Many People Reside In Vancouver, British Columbia? 

The next thing to know about living in Vancouver, British Columbia, is its population. 

Well, the City of Vancouver has a population of 631,486. The larger region, also known as Metro Vancouver, has 2,643,431 people. It is Canada’s eighth most populated city and the third-largest metropolitan area. Moreover, the city has the highest population density in Canada. Also, there are over 5,400 people per square kilometer. 

Thirteen of the province’s 30 most populated municipalities are in Metro Vancouver. They include the City of Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond, Burnaby, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and White Rock. 

Vancouver Local Economy 

Vancouver has a highly diversified urban economy with growing knowledge-based sectors and strong global linkages. Thanks to its location on the western terminus of Canada’s transcontinental highway and at the Pacific Rim and rail routes, Vancouver is one of Canada’s largest industrial centers. 

Forestry and mining companies have their headquarters in this city. In the recent years, the city has become an increasingly significant center for: 

  • Technology
  • Biotechnology
  • Software Engineer
  • Film
  • Green Economy
  • Digital Entertainment and Interactive Media 
  • Video Game Development 

The Vancouver Housing Market 

Where you choose to reside will have a major impact on your budget. When considering a neighborhood, look at the amenities in the area. For instance, see how the schools, grocery stores, childcare, and medical care are, and how much time it takes to commute there. Consider the real estate cost but also the value a neighborhood offers your family. 

Is Housing Expensive In Vancouver? 

Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in North America. It is the second most high-priced city to buy and rent in Canada, after Toronto. And the cost continues to rise. 

While newcomers/ immigrants are attracted to the downtown lifestyle, it comes with high costs. With affordable housing within the Vancouver metropolitan area, you might wish to consider living outside the city. 

Post-Secondary Education In Vancouver, British Columbia 

In order to study in Canada, one must consider elementary as well as post-secondary institutions in the province. 

Well, Vancouver is home to the world-class University of British Columbia, nationally renowned Simon Fraser University, and a wide range of excellent professional colleges. Also, Metro Vancouver is one of the best places in Canada to pursue higher education. 

Moreover, the University of British Columbia consistently ranks among the 40 best universities across the globe and is among the 20 best public universities. The other public universities are Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Capilano University, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. 

In addition, five private institutions are in the region, including University Canada West, Trinity Western University in Langley, NYIT Canada, and Columbia College. 

Where To Get Medical Care/ Help In Vancouver, British Columbia? 

The next thing to know about living in Vancouver, British Columbia, is how and where you can get medical care. 

Vancouver Coastal Health provides medical care across its 13 hospitals. The biggest hospitals in the network are Vancouver General Hospital, St. Paul’s Hospital, and Mount Saint Joseph Hospital.   

In case of emergencies, call 9-1-1. The number is the same regardless of where you live. 

Moreover, British Columbia has a government-funded health insurance plan called the Medical Services Plan. It is only for residents of the province who are Canadian residents, landed immigrants, or government-based refugees. You can get an MSP if you are an international/ foreign student with a study permit or if you have a work permit for six months or longer. 

The Medical Services Plan pays for health costs, such as doctor visits, treatments, medical treatments, etc. However, some health costs are not covered, including physiotherapists and dentists. For prescription drugs and services the MSP doesn’t cover, you can pay for added insurance plans. 

Conclusion

Vancouver, British Columbia, offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The city is known for its stunning landscapes, including majestic mountains, lush rainforests, and serene beaches, making outdoor activities a way of life. 

Well, the city boasts a diverse and multicultural population, contributing to vibrant arts, cultural scenes, and food. The mild climate, though rainy, is a draw for many, while the strong economy offers ample job opportunities. However, it is vital to consider the high cost of living, specifically housing prices, which can be a challenge. Thus, Vancouver offers an unparalleled quality of life for those who can afford it.   

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].