New Income Report Shocks Metro Vancouver Residents

A recent report has shed light on the uncomfortable truth about living in Metro Vancouver, listing some cities in the region among the least desirable for a comfortable lifestyle in all of Canada.

Coquitlam Takes the Top Spot for Discomfort

You may be shocked to discover that it's not the usual suspects—Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, or Richmond—that rank as the most uncomfortable place to live. Instead, Coquitlam has earned the dubious honor of being the least comfortable city in Metro Vancouver, landing in the fourth worst position nationally.

According to MoneySense, a single person in Coquitlam needs a staggering annual income of $104,928 to achieve a comfortable living. This translates into a hefty average monthly expenditure of $4,372.

North Vancouver and Burnaby Follow Close Behind

North Vancouver isn't far behind, sitting as the second least comfy city in Metro Vancouver and fifth in Canada. With skyrocketing rental costs, residents need an annual income of $103,512, with monthly living expenses averaging $4,313.

In Vancouver itself, a person needs an income of $102,576, and monthly costs hover around $4,274, making the city slightly more bearable than its neighbors.

Meanwhile, Burnaby finishes out this uncomfortable quartet, where one needs $102,312 annually and monthly expenses are $4,263—just $11 less than Vancouver.

Prince George Shines as the Best Option in B.C.

Interestingly, the report reveals that Prince George is the most comfortable city in British Columbia, requiring a more manageable annual income of $80,664 and monthly costs of $3,361.

Surprising Worst Cities Across Canada

It's also worth noting that the three most financially discomforting cities in Canada are all located in Ontario: Whitby, Milton, and Richmond Hill. These findings may puzzle many, revealing that high demand doesn't always equate to a higher quality of life.

More Than Just Numbers: The Bigger Picture

While these figures provide some insight, MoneySense reminds us that a comfortable income doesn’t always guarantee comfort. Factors such as personal debt, homeownership, and individual expectations play a crucial role in one's quality of life.

For a deeper dive into the data, MoneySense offers a complete list of Canadian cities ranked for livability.