VancouvervsRio de Janeiro
Overall
💰-43.8%
Vancouver is 43.8%cheaper
Rent
🏠-65.0%
Housing is 65.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-49.3%
Restaurants 49.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-47.5%
Food shopping 47.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more affordable than Rio de Janeiro by approximately 43.8%. 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 Rio de Janeiro by 186%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Rio de Janeiro is approximately R$2,500.
Dining out in Vancouver is notably more expensive compared to Rio de Janeiro. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus R$30 in Rio de Janeiro.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to R$190 in Rio de Janeiro.
Purchasing power in Vancouver is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Rio de Janeiro.
Grocery shopping in Vancouver is more expensive by approximately 90%. 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 Rio de Janeiro, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,114. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,443 monthly in Vancouver versus R$3,899 in Rio de Janeiro. 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 Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro 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
Rio de Janeiro
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Rio de Janeiro?
No, Vancouver is approximately 43.8% cheaper than Rio de Janeiro. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Rio de Janeiro?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 70% of your Rio de Janeiro salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Rio de Janeiro, you'd need about $34,783 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Rio de Janeiro?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 186%, 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 Vancouver if you prioritize earning potential, or Rio de Janeiro for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Rio de Janeiro?
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 Rio de Janeiro, these figures are R$2,714 for singles and R$6,899 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vancouver and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro to maintain your lifestyle from Vancouver
Calculate Salary Equivalence