Vancouver, BC, is often hailed for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant community, but is it truly a livable city? We recently interviewed a local resident to get their take on what makes Vancouver worth calling home despite its high costs.
Balancing Affordability and Quality of Life
When asked if Vancouver is a livable city, the response was mixed. “It’s not an affordable city for a lot of people, but it feels like it’s kind of my baseline. So okay, it feels livable.” This sentiment captures the complex nature of living in Vancouver. While the cost of living is high, there are ways to make it work, and for many, the benefits outweigh the challenges.
What Makes Vancouver Worth It?
One of the key reasons residents choose to stay in Vancouver is the unparalleled access to outdoor spaces. “I appreciate the access to outdoor spaces. This is also just like where my community is. My family’s here,” the interviewee shared. From the beaches to the mountains, Vancouver offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments that enhance the quality of life.
Community and family connections also play a significant role. “I feel like a kind of attachment to making it a better place to live too. Maybe that’s from just having spent a good part of my life here.” Staying Connected and Engaged is huge. This sense of belonging and the desire to improve the city is a powerful motivator for many residents.
Making the Most of Vancouver
Given the high cost of living, residents often find themselves working long hours. However, staying connected with friends and participating in community activities can make a significant difference. “I think just being pretty intentional about staying connected with my friends and doing fun things together.
Embracing Local Experiences
Living in Vancouver offers unique experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. “I went for an ocean swim last night out at Kits Beach, and I had a moment of like, ‘oh, this is something you can do when you live here!’. Like, yeah, that’s so cool.” Moments like those highlight the unique lifestyle opportunities available to Vancouver residents.
Living in Vancouver presents a mix of challenges and rewards. Despite the high cost of living, the city’s natural beauty, strong community ties, and unique lifestyle opportunities make it a desirable place to call home.
Curious about more local insights on living in Vancouver? Watch the full interview and join the conversation! Link to video here.
Is Vancouver, BC Truly a Livable City? A Local Resident's Perspective
