VancouvervsDubai
Overall
💰0.0%
Vancouver is 0.0%same cost
Rent
🏠-6.3%
Housing is 6.3% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-12.5%
Food shopping 12.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is similarly priced than Dubai. 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 Dubai by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Vancouver costs about the same compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Purchasing power in Dubai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Vancouver.
Grocery shopping in Vancouver is more expensive by approximately 14%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
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 Dubai, the same lifestyle would cost around AED 2,334. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,443 monthly in Vancouver versus AED 8,169 in Dubai. 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 Dubai 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 Dubai 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
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Dubai?
The cost of living in Vancouver and Dubai 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 Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Dubai salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $50,000 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 14%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Dubai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Dubai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vancouver if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Dubai?
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 Dubai, these figures are AED 7,334 for singles and AED 18,169 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vancouver and Dubai 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.
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