Moving to Vancouver for Work? Here's What Nobody Tells You

Let me be straight with you: Vancouver is an incredible city if you play your cards right. But it's not for everyone, and it's definitely not a place where you can wing it.

I've helped hundreds of people relocate here for work over the years. Some crush it. Others struggle. The difference? Discipline, planning, and realistic expectations.

If you're considering a move to Vancouver for your career, here's the honest breakdown you need before you commit.

The Opportunity Is Real—If You're in the Right Sector

Vancouver has a thriving job market, but it's not evenly distributed. The city rewards people with in-demand skills. Tech, healthcare, skilled trades, film and TV production—these sectors are hiring and paying competitively. Software developers can earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually. Healthcare professionals, skilled tradespeople, and marketing specialists also see solid compensation.

This isn't about hype. It's about matching your skillset to market demand. If you're bringing value in a growing sector, Vancouver offers real opportunity. If you're entering a saturated field or starting at entry-level pay, you'll need a longer-term strategy to make it work.

The bottom line: Secure the job first. Don't move here hoping it'll work out. That's not a strategy—that's gambling.

The Cost of Living: Let's Talk Numbers

Here's where most people get blindsided. Vancouver is expensive. Not New York expensive, but high enough that you need to budget carefully and strategically.

Monthly expenses you should expect:

• Rent (1-bedroom, desirable area): $2,500–$3,500/month

• Rent (suburbs or shared housing): Lower, but do your homework

• Utilities: $100–$150/month

• Groceries: $300–$500/month

• Transit pass: $100–$200/month depending on zones

If you're living modestly in shared housing and avoiding downtown, you can manage on roughly $1,700–$2,200/month for basics—before rent. Add rent, and you're looking at $4,000–$5,500/month all-in for a single person living comfortably but not extravagantly.

The truth is, housing will dominate your budget. This is why having a job locked down before you move isn't optional—it's essential.Check out our of cost of living calculator here.

Your Five-Year Plan: A Disciplined Approach to Relocation

I'm a big believer in the buy-and-hold mentality, and that applies to your career move too. Don't think of Vancouver as a one-year experiment. Think five years minimum. Here's your game plan:

1. Secure employment before relocating. Financial stability isn't sexy, but it's non-negotiable.

2. Start in the suburbs or commuter-friendly zones. You don't need to live downtown. Build equity in your career first, then upgrade your lifestyle.

3. Ditch the car if possible. Public transit here is solid. Owning a car adds parking, insurance, and fuel costs that eat into your cash flow.

4. Budget for the first 3–6 months carefully. Moving costs, deposits, and setup expenses add up fast. Have a contingency fund.

5. Network strategically. Vancouver rewards people who build relationships and add value. Show up, be consistent, and the opportunities follow.

This isn't complicated. It's about process, discipline, and long-term thinking.

Who Vancouver Works For (And Who Should Think Twice)

You'll thrive here if:

• You work in high-demand sectors like tech, healthcare, trades, or film

• You're comfortable renting and don't need a massive home right away

• You value work-life balance, outdoor access, and cultural diversity

• You're willing to grind for the first few years to build momentum

You might struggle if:

• You're entering with limited income or in a low-demand field

• You need a lot of space or expect homeownership immediately

• You don't have a job lined up and are hoping to "figure it out"

At the end of the day, Vancouver rewards preparation and punishes wishful thinking.

Final Thought: Do Your Homework

This city offers real opportunity, but only if you approach it strategically. It's not about getting lucky—it's about showing up with a plan, executing consistently, and giving yourself time to build.

If you're relocating for work and want to make smart real estate decisions once you're here, let's talk. I help people build long-term value, not chase short-term wins.

Ready to build a real strategy? Let's connect.

Roland Kym is the founder of Move to Vancouver Canada, dedicated to helping newcomers and homebuyers navigate the Vancouver real estate market with confidence. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the city’s neighbourhoods, he provides expert guidance, practical advice, and personalized strategies to make relocating or buying a home in Vancouver smooth and stress-free. Roland’s passion is connecting people with the right communities and properties to fit their lifestyle and goals.