LimavsVancouver
Overall
💰+90.5%
Lima is 90.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+185.7%
Housing is 185.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+114.3%
Restaurants 114.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+77.8%
Food shopping 77.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lima, Peru and Vancouver, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lima is more expensive than Vancouver by approximately 90.5%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Lima are lower than in Vancouver by 65%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lima's city center costs around PEN 2,000, while the same in Vancouver is approximately CA$2,600.
Dining out in Lima offers significant savings compared to Vancouver. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs PEN 15 in Lima versus CA$20 in Vancouver.
Public transportation in Lima is more affordable, with monthly passes at PEN 100 compared to CA$131 in Vancouver.
Purchasing power in Vancouver is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lima.
Grocery shopping in Lima is more affordable by approximately 44%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Lima can expect to spend approximately PEN 867 per month (excluding rent), while in Vancouver, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$698. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about PEN 3,035 monthly in Lima versus CA$2,443 in Vancouver. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lima to Vancouver, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Vancouver to Lima requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Lima
Vancouver
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lima more expensive than Vancouver?
Yes, Lima is approximately 90.5% more expensive than Vancouver overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lima compared to Vancouver?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.9x of your Vancouver salary when living in Lima. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Vancouver, you'd need about $95,238 in Lima for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lima and Vancouver?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 65%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Vancouver offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Vancouver provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lima if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Vancouver for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lima vs Vancouver?
In Lima, a single person needs approximately PEN 2,067 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about PEN 5,235. In Vancouver, these figures are CA$2,798 for singles and CA$5,943 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lima and Vancouver in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Vancouver to maintain your lifestyle from Lima
Calculate Salary Equivalence