VancouvervsSingapore
Overall
💰+15.8%
Vancouver is 15.8%more expensive
Rent
🏠+26.7%
Housing is 26.7% higher
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒+22.7%
Food shopping 22.7% more
Comparing the cost of living between Vancouver, Canada and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Vancouver is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 15.8%. 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 lower than in Singapore by 21%. A one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver's city center costs around CA$2,750, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,618.
Dining out in Vancouver costs about the same compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$25 in Vancouver versus SGD 13 in Singapore.
Public transportation in Vancouver is more expensive, with monthly passes at CA$137 compared to SGD 128 in Singapore.
Purchasing power in Singapore is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Vancouver.
Grocery shopping in Vancouver is more affordable by approximately 18%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Vancouver can expect to spend approximately CA$790 per month (excluding rent), while in Singapore, the same lifestyle would cost around SGD 766. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,764 monthly in Vancouver versus SGD 2,681 in Singapore. 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 Singapore, 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 Singapore 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
Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vancouver more expensive than Singapore?
Yes, Vancouver is approximately 15.8% more expensive than Singapore overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Vancouver compared to Singapore?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Singapore salary when living in Vancouver. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $57,895 in Vancouver for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Vancouver and Singapore?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 21%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Singapore offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Singapore provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Vancouver if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Vancouver vs Singapore?
In Vancouver, a single person needs approximately CA$2,990 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$6,464. In Singapore, these figures are SGD 3,534 for singles and SGD 7,568 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Vancouver and Singapore in 2026 shows notable 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 Singapore to maintain your lifestyle from Vancouver
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