British Columbia Cities Shine in Canada’s Best Places to Live

Two cities in British Columbia have been recognized among the best places to live in Canada, according to a recent report by Global Citizen Solutions. The ranking highlights a total of 15 municipalities, with both Vancouver and Victoria making the list, although they did not secure spots in the top five.

Calgary earned the top position, boasting an average salary of $58,243 and an average home price of $653,903. This evaluation considered various factors, including the largest industries in each city, average salaries, and housing affordability.

Victoria: A Thriving Capital

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, ranked sixth in the report. It has an average salary of approximately $54,007, with the average home price set at $961,000. The city is noted for its diverse employment opportunities in sectors such as technology, tourism, transportation, hospitality, and healthcare.

The report highlights Victoria as an attractive destination for young Canadians, stating, “Its career opportunities in tech, health, and tourism, combined with its affordability and unique blend of city life and natural beauty, make Victoria one of the best places to live in Canada for young adults.” Furthermore, Victoria’s natural surroundings were praised, enhancing its overall livability.

Vancouver: A City of Opportunities and Challenges

Ranked eighth, Vancouver reported a higher average salary of $69,512, but it also faces significant challenges with an average home price of $1,239,418. The report attributes Vancouver’s position on the list partly to its high cost of living and the unaffordability of housing.

Vancouver is recognized for its vibrant economy, with major industries including technology and innovation, tourism, natural resources, entertainment, and construction. Despite its high costs, the city is celebrated for its excellent transportation system, which includes buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus, making it easier to navigate urban life.

The report also points out that Vancouver is ranked among the top ten cities in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Global Livability Index, reflecting its overall quality of life despite economic challenges.

Overall, while both Vancouver and Victoria have been recognized for their livability, the high costs associated with residing in these cities pose significant challenges for current and prospective residents. The findings invite further discussion among locals about what these rankings mean for their communities.