VancouvervsSantiago
Overall
💰-31.3%
Vancouver is 31.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-56.3%
Housing is 56.3% lower
Dining
🍽️-33.3%
Restaurants 33.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-31.3%
Food shopping 31.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Santiago, Chile reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more affordable than Santiago by approximately 31.3%. 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 Santiago by 129%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,600, while the same in Santiago is approximately CLP 500,000.
Dining out in Vancouver is notably more expensive compared to Santiago. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Vancouver versus CLP 7,000 in Santiago.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$131 compared to CLP 33,000 in Santiago.
Purchasing power in Vancouver is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Santiago.
Grocery shopping in Vancouver is more expensive by approximately 45%. 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 Santiago, the same lifestyle would cost around CLP 286,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,443 monthly in Vancouver versus CLP 1,003,100 in Santiago. 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 Santiago 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 Santiago 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
Santiago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Santiago?
No, Vancouver is approximately 31.3% cheaper than Santiago. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Santiago?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 76% of your Santiago salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Santiago, you'd need about $38,095 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Santiago?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 129%, 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 Santiago for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Santiago?
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 Santiago, these figures are CLP 636,600 for singles and CLP 1,653,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vancouver and Santiago 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 Santiago to maintain your lifestyle from Vancouver
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