It’s possible to live comfortably in Vancouver for CAD$1100 per month. At CAD$750 per month, a VEC homestay would cover most of your basic expenses. Of course, it’s also possible to spend much more. The information below will give you an idea of what you can expect.
Transportation costs in Vancouver
Vancouver has a good public transit system. Most students use public transit.
It is usually the cheapest and easiest to buy a monthly pass. This pass will allow you to ride on all forms of transit, including buses, the SkyTrain, and the SeaBus.
There are three transit zones. If you live in Zone 1, the monthly cost is CAD$91. Most students, however, live in Zone 2, which is CAD$124 per month.
Entertainment costs in Vancouver
It typically costs up to CAD$20 for a ticket and snack at a movie theater. Major sports events and concerts can cost CAD$15 to CAD$60. There are a lot of fun free activities in Vancouver though, so you can probably have a good time for under CAD$200 per month. See our Vancouver activities pages for more detailed information.
Food costs in Vancouver
All meals are included with VEC homestays. If you will be living in an apartment, you should plan to spend CAD$250 to CAD$300 per month for food.
Medical costs in Vancouver
You will not have any expenses for emergency medical care, as long as you have good insurance. At CAD$60 per month, VEC medical insurance covers all normal costs, including prescription drugs and ambulances.
Medical costs for uninsured visitors to Canada can be very expensive though. Consequently, it is important to have good medical insurance.
Apartment rental costs in Vancouver
Average monthly apartment rents in Vancouver are as follows:
- Bachelor Apartment: CDN $700 – $900
- One-bedroom Apartment: CDN $800 – $1100
- Two-bedroom Apartment: CDN $1100 – $1400
- Three-bedroom Apartment: CDN $1300 or more
Lower rates for long-term students
If you pay for 12 weeks or more of tuition, you will receive a reduced tuition rate. If you later extend your program for any length of time, you will be entitled to pay your tuition at the currently reduced 12-week, 24-week, or 33-week rate. This also applies if you leave school and return.
Reduced tuition for permanent residents of BC
English Solutions is an innovative English Language Learning (ELL) program designed by Vancouver English Centre for the unique needs of Canada is growing and diverse immigrant community. Whether you are new to Vancouver or are a long-time resident, English Solutions understands the opportunities & challenges of building a secure life in Canada. Our program is focused on improving our students’ English skills at home & in the workplace, while building an understanding of Canadian culture.
The English Solutions curriculum challenges our students to understand how English is used in real life situations, not just within the confines of a classroom. This enriched learning model enables our students to successfully overcome day-to-day challenges, personally and professionally. For Permanent Resident Rates, please visit English Solutions This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers.
Free online currency converter
Fees are quoted in Canadian dollars. The Canadian dollar is quite low, in relation to many other currencies. A Canadian dollar is worth approximately 98 US cents. Consequently, Canada is an inexpensive place to study.