VancouvervsAustin
Overall
💰-5.0%
Vancouver is 5.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-18.8%
Housing is 18.8% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Austin, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more affordable than Austin by approximately 5.0%. 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 Vancouver are higher than in Austin by 23%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Austin is approximately $2,000.
Dining out in Vancouver costs about the same compared to Austin. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus $16 in Austin.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to $41 in Austin.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Vancouver can expect to spend approximately CA$698 per month (excluding rent), while in Austin, the same lifestyle would cost around $531. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,443 monthly in Vancouver versus $1,859 in Austin. 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 Austin 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 Austin 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
Vancouver
Austin
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Austin?
The cost of living in Vancouver and Austin is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Austin?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Austin salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Austin, you'd need about $47,619 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Austin?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 23%, 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?
Austin 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 Vancouver if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Austin for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Austin?
In Vancouver, a single person needs approximately CA$2,798 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$5,943. In Austin, these figures are $2,131 for singles and $4,659 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vancouver and Austin in 2025 shows moderate 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 Austin to maintain your lifestyle from Vancouver
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