VancouvervsCopenhagen
Overall
💰+10.0%
Vancouver is 10.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠-12.5%
Housing is 12.5% lower
Dining
🍽️+26.7%
Restaurants 26.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+6.3%
Food shopping 6.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Copenhagen, Denmark reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more expensive than Copenhagen by approximately 10.0%. 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 Copenhagen by 14%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Copenhagen is approximately DKK 12,000.
Dining out in Vancouver offers significant savings compared to Copenhagen. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus DKK 120 in Copenhagen.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to DKK 750 in Copenhagen.
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 Copenhagen, the same lifestyle would cost around DKK 4,448. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,443 monthly in Vancouver versus DKK 15,568 in Copenhagen. 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 Vancouver to Copenhagen, 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 Copenhagen to Vancouver 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
Copenhagen
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Copenhagen?
Yes, Vancouver is approximately 10.0% more expensive than Copenhagen overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Copenhagen?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Copenhagen salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Copenhagen, you'd need about $55,000 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Copenhagen?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 21%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Copenhagen offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Copenhagen provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vancouver if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Copenhagen for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Copenhagen?
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 Copenhagen, these figures are DKK 13,448 for singles and DKK 31,568 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vancouver and Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen to maintain your lifestyle from Vancouver
Calculate Salary Equivalence