Vancouver is consistently rated as one of the most expensive cities in the world to live. New vacancy tax regulations have seen reductions in accommodation costs since 2018. You can explore the most up-to-date cost estimates here. 

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• Finding a place to live: requires patience as there isn't a centralised online service to make things easier (eg: Trulia, Zoopla, Realestate.com.au). Rental properties are plentiful and generally become available on the 1st or the 15th of the month so plan accordingly. Prices are quoted monthly not weekly like in Australia.

  • Short-term rentals: many building restrict AirBnb and subletting for less than 30 days. The local government has restrictions to be mindful of. My suggestion is to book a month in a short-term rental. Alternatively stay with a friend (if allowed) or book a hotel when you first arrive until either the 1st or 15th of the subsequent month to give you time to find somewhere.

  • Medium-term rentals (< 6 months): there are private companies offering high-priced furnished solutions otherwise I suggest scanning craigslist and local Facebook Groups looking for someone needing a housemate or giving up their lease.

  • Long-term rentals (>6 months): you have plenty of options but finding the right one can be hard. Search through various real estate agents and companies managing apartment buildings. If you are coming for a professional appointment you could consider SabbaticalHomes.

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• Tips to keep costs down: although expensive it is possible to live a fantastic lifestyle in the lower mainland

  • Arrive outside the peak May-August season and you will save around 25% on your rental contract price

  • Having housemates keeps costs down

  • Unfurnished apartments are significantly cheaper

  • Use car sharing services and sublet your garage space for around $50-75/month

  • Be vigilant when applying for places on craigslist, you need to get in quick within 30-60 minutes of a listing going live

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• Mailing address and PO boxes: your mailing address will look slightly different to what you might be used to, the format is generally as follows: 123-4567 Imaginary Street, City, Postcode, BC

  • 123: this is the suite/unit number, eg: Suite 123

  • 4567 this is the street number, eg: 4567 Oak Street

  • City: Canadian 'cities' are smaller and do not represent the 'Greater Metropolitan Region' denomination of other countries. Eg: Vancouver (different city/municipality to Richmond even if only one street away)

  • Postcode: this six-digit code is similar to those found in Ireland, Netherlands and the UK and very different to those in India, Singapore, Australia and the USA. Postcodes in Canada are for very small areas so be sure to get yours right. Eg: VH6 4J1

  • PO Boxes: can easily be purchased at local Canada Post outlets (these are generally contracted areas within other stores) they come with two keys and are affordable (roughly $200/yr). Automatic notifications aren't available so you will need to check regularly. 24hr street-facing boxes are basically non-existent. You can also setup mail redirection ($85/year) if you move houses, a very good idea!

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• Types of accommodation: ​

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