Vancouver or Surrey BC: Which is the Best City to Live In?
π Why More People Are Choosing to Move from Vancouver to Surrey, BC π
Vancouver, BC – the crown jewel of Canada’s West Coast. It's world-renowned, stunning, and vibrant. But in its shadow, another city is rapidly gaining popularity—Surrey, BC. Surrey isn't just growing—it's thriving! In fact, it's projected to surpass Vancouver in population within the next decade.
So, why are more people deciding to leave Vancouver and call Surrey home? Let’s explore!
π‘ Lower Cost of Living
π° Affordable Rent & Real Estate
Vancouver's housing costs are famously steep. Surrey offers significant relief:
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Rent prices are 30% lower on average.
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One-bedroom units range from $1,450–$1,800 per month.
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Real estate, especially detached homes, is typically 25–35% cheaper.
π Reduced Daily Expenses
Surrey also boasts lower everyday costs:
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Monthly expenses (excluding rent) average nearly 10% less than Vancouver.
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Groceries and dining out are noticeably more affordable.
If you're not actively enjoying Vancouver's pricey perks, Surrey makes financial sense!
π Convenient Transportation & Commuting
Surrey has evolved from a suburb to a connected city:
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SkyTrain from Surrey Central to Vancouver downtown takes only 30–35 minutes.
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New SkyTrain extensions planned by 2028 to Cloverdale and Fleetwood.
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Most residents own vehicles, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
Surrey's vast area means there's ample space for continued growth.
π² The Great Outdoors at Your Doorstep
Surrey—formerly known as the "City of Parks"—features over 250 parks, perfect for nature lovers.
π³ Popular Outdoor Spots:
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Crescent Beach ποΈ
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Green Timbers Urban Forest π²
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Bear Creek & Cloverdale Athletic Parks β½
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South Surrey Athletic Park π
From hiking to biking, outdoor adventures are always nearby.
π£ Incredible Food & Restaurant Scene
Surrey’s diverse population creates a vibrant culinary scene offering something for everyone:
π½οΈ Local Gems Include:
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Diamond Sweets
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Green Lettuce
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Afghan Chopan
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Gateway Pizza π
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Tommy’s Jerk πΆοΈ
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Nagoya Sushi π£
From cozy cafés to high-end dining, Surrey is a hidden foodie paradise.
π Rich Culture, Community & Exciting Events
Surrey embraces diversity through vibrant community celebrations:
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Fusion Festival π
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Cloverdale Rodeo π
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Canada Day in Cloverdale π¨π¦
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Surrey Art Gallery & Museum π¨
Enjoy a strong community spirit not always found in bigger cities.
π‘οΈ Crime, Safety & Perception
Surrey’s safety is often misunderstood. Crime rates have significantly decreased, with violent crime dropping 15% recently. Like all major cities, it has some areas safer than others.
β Safer Neighbourhoods:
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Grandview Heights
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Fraser Heights
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Ocean Park
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South Newton
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Clayton Heights
Always research neighborhoods carefully to find the best fit for your lifestyle.
ποΈ Promising Future Growth & Development
Surrey is rapidly transforming with significant investments:
π§ Upcoming Developments:
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1,600 homes near Gateway SkyTrain ποΈ
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Proposed UBC campus π
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New Cloverdale Hospital π₯
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Surrey Medical School π©Ί
These exciting projects make Surrey ideal for homeowners and savvy investors alike.
π€ So, Should You Move to Surrey?
If Vancouver's high costs and busy lifestyle feel overwhelming, yet you want city amenities nearby—Surrey is the perfect blend of affordability and convenience.
Surrey offers space, growth potential, and a balanced lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to Vancouver’s excitement.
π Ready to Explore Surrey?
If you’re considering moving to Surrey and want to explore which neighbourhoods would suit you best, I’d be happy to help!
π Book a Call with Me: Schedule a Consultation
π’ Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: Living in the Lower Mainland
π‘ Looking for Homes in Surrey: Surrey Homes for Sale
π Download our FREE Surrey Relocation Guide: Ultimate Surrey Relocation Guide
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