When you think about moving to British Columbia, there are two places that will come to mind: Vancouver Island and Vancouver. Vancouver is home to game development, innovation and film production, while Vancouver Island, on the other hand, prides itself for the abundance of outdoor adventures and provincial capital buildings. 

 

If Vancouver and Vancouver Island are your dream destinations, choosing can be quite challenging. So if you want to find a perfect match for your lifestyle, budget and taste, start by finding out what these places can offer. This blog will help you make the right decision. 

Vancouver

 

Without a doubt, Vancouver is one of the most preferred cities because of its natural sites, job opportunities and panoramic views. If you decide to settle in Vancouver, here are some things you might need to consider. 

 

Pros

 

Mild Climate

 

 

Many people, especially retirees, are thinking of moving to Vancouver because of its mild climate. The winter temperatures in the city, on average, are 4°C to 6°C. 

 

Little Snow 

 

 

The fact that the snow doesn't stick around is one of the reasons you'll fall in love with this city. If it snows, the rain will immediately wash it away. 

 

Nature 

 

 

Embracing the unadulterated beauty of nature is possible if you're a resident of Vancouver. Since it sits between the mighty Rockies and the Pacific Ocean, expect to be spoiled by its astonishing landscape. From the breathtaking mountains to sandy beaches, Vancouver will always leave you in awe. 

 

Skytrain 

 

 

Your journey to work allows you to enjoy the sights of Vancouver when you ride a Skytrain. Though it was built for Expo 86, the expansion connected the initial track to accommodate 50 km of rail. 

 

Urban Planning

 

 

The term Vancouverism came to existence because the city's urban planning was so revolutionary. Vancouverism has been instrumental in adding more green spaces in most of the neighborhoods, retaining the views of the oceans and mountains while also incorporating a modern lifestyle. 

 

Cons

 

Expensive

 

Vancouver's high cost of housing is one of the major factors to take into account if you like to be a resident of this city. Since the land here is limited, the supply is low and the demand is high. With scarcity comes rising prices and when you factor in the taxes added to foreign housing, prices aren't expected to drop. 

 

Higher Crime Rate

 

While this doesn't necessarily mean that you have to look over your shoulders as crimes are everywhere, Vancouver still has higher crime rates compared to smaller cities. Being considered as one of the largest metropolitan areas in Canada, it's no surprise that it has one of the top 10 highest crime rates. On a positive note, violent crime rates in Vancouver have decreased in the last few years. 

 

Worst Traffic

 

The hustle and bustle of the city makes the traffic worse than other cities. If you want to beat traffic, you can consider walking to work or biking, but this would mean spending extra minutes or hours on your daily commute.

 

Vancouver Island 

 

Just like Vancouver, Vancouver Island has also been hailed as one of the best places to live in Canada. If you're contemplating moving to this place, you can weigh all these pros and cons. 

 

Pros

 

Water Sports

 

 

Some cities on Vancouver Island, especially Victoria, which is the southernmost city, is a perfect base for sailing, kayaking, and other water-based activities. So if you're into watersports, Vancouver Island, boasting the world's 50 largest islands, is your best bet. 

 

No Traffic

 

 

You'll also love Vancouver Island because it spares you from the headache of commuting in traffic. If you prefer to settle in the countryside in Yellow Point or Nanoose, you'll no longer have to worry about heavy traffic especially during winter months. 

 

Affordable Houses

 

 

Housing prices are lower compared to other areas in British Columbia. If you're starting out or downsizing, Vancouver Island offers you a wide range of housing options while also maximizing your lifestyle. 

 

Location 

 

 

The accessibility of shops, restaurants and other essential places allows you to spend some quality time with your family. There's a lot of real estate properties on the island that offer comfort and convenience. 

 

Cons

 

Higher Cost Of Living

 

While the housing prices might be lower compared to other regions, the living costs are still high considering the salary range. If you want to move to Vancouver Island, one thing you have to ask yourself is whether or not your salary enables you to live a decent lifestyle. 

 

Fewer Job Opportunities

 

Depending on the sector you're targeting, Vancouver Island also has fewer jobs. You can hardly find factories or larger employers. 

 

Limited Social Circles

 

Most cities on Vancouver Island have a laid back lifestyle. That is why social circles are also tight. If you're the type of person who wants to establish an active social life, Vancouver Island only provides limited opportunities to interact. 

 

Conclusion 

 

Both Vancouver and Vancouver Island have many benefits to offer to people who are considering relocating. Before you make a final decision, be sure to take your long-term goals into consideration.