Are you considering moving to the best places in British Columbia but concerned about the cost of living? Renowned for its enchanting natural beauty, lively cities, and high-quality lifestyle, British Columbia is an attractive destination. However, living in this picturesque city comes with a hefty price tag. People must realise that there are numerous cities with affordable houses in British Columbia where they can settle without emptying their pockets.
This blog will explore some of the most economical places to live in British Columbia. Whether you like busy cities, medium-sized towns, or quiet small communities, youโll find a budget-friendly option that fits your needs. Weโll look at different cities and towns, showing what makes each one special and why theyโre great for saving money while enjoying a good lifestyle.
Letโs journey through BCโs most economical living options and help you find the perfect place to call home.
Three Most Wallet-friendly Big Cities in British Columbia
Exploring affordable urban living in the best places in British Columbia can seem daunting, especially given the province’s popularity. Yet, some large cities provide an appealing mix of cost-effectiveness and quality of life. While large cities generally have higher living costs than smaller towns, these three cities are notable exceptions. They combine the advantages of urban living, such as abundant services, ample job opportunities, efficient public transportation, and specialised healthcare, with more affordable housing options. Unlike Vancouver or Victoria, these cities feature significantly lower average home prices, making them attractive to budget-conscious individuals.
In this section, we will highlight three of BC’s most budget-friendly big cities: Kamloops, Kelowna, and Nanaimo. Each offers distinct benefits, making them excellent options for those aiming to balance expenses and lifestyle by living in cheaper houses in British Columbia.
Kamloops
Kamloops is a riverside city located in the sunny interior of British Columbia. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers, offering activities for all four seasons. You can hike, ski, snowboard, golf, fish, visit beaches, and go boating. The city also has a lively local craft beer scene, nearby wineries, and many local sporting events to enjoy. Kamloops is growing fast, with a population of just under 98,000 and over 114,000, including nearby areas like Sun Peaks, Logan Lake, and Chase. Despite being a large city, it offers more affordable housing than Vancouver or Victoria. Kamloops provides excellent public transportation and healthcare services, making it a practical and economical place to live. Whether you enjoy the outdoors or the cityโs cultural offerings, Kamloops strikes a great balance between cost and lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to live in affordable houses in British Columbia.
Kelowna
Kelowna, located in the Okanagan Valley, is surrounded by provincial parks, pine forests, mountains, orchards, and vineyards. It’s an excellent spot for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike and is considered one of the best places in British Columbia. The area is known for its hot, dry summers and mild winters, making the weather a significant draw for many. Nearby Okanagan Lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding during the warmer months. Living in Kelowna also provides easy access to other attractive towns in the Okanagan region, such as Summerland, Penticton, Vernon, and Osoyoos. Even with its increasing popularity, Kelowna remains more economical than larger cities like Vancouver or Victoria. The city offers a rich lifestyle with various outdoor activities, fine dining, and a lively arts scene. Its efficient public transportation system and diverse job market make it appealing as a practical and cost-effective place to reside. Whether exploring the natural surroundings or enjoying cultural events, Kelowna offers a wonderful balance of affordability and quality of life. It is an ideal choice for those looking to settle in British Columbia.
Nanaimo
Nanaimo, situated on Vancouver Island, is home to nearly 100,000 people. This city offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. You can enjoy the stunning coastline, hike on various trails, or relax at the city’s bars and restaurants. Weekends are perfect for island hopping, with ferries departing from the downtown dock. You can also take a one-hour and 40-minute drive to Victoria for more adventures. Nanaimo is more affordable than larger cities, making it an attractive place to live. The city has a strong sense of community and excellent services, including good healthcare and public transport. Whether enjoying the waterfront, exploring nature, or enjoying the local social scene, Nanaimo offers a great balance of cost and quality of life, making it an ideal choice for those looking to live in one of the best places in British Columbia.
Best Intermediate Cities for Affordable Living in British Columbia
Cities with populations between 30,000 and 100,000 can be great places to live. They often offer a good mix of budget-friendly housing, job opportunities, and access to services. Here are three such cities in British Columbia:
Prince George
In Northern BC, Prince George is a dynamic city with a population of around 74,000. Known as the gateway to northern British Columbia, Prince George offers numerous outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and outdoor ice skating in winter. In the warmer months, multiple hiking trails await exploration. Prince George is a central hub for healthcare in the region and is conveniently located in BC. The Prince George Airport provides quick flights to major cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and Victoria, making travel easy. The city is blessed with over 1,900 hours of sunshine yearly, complementing its active outdoor lifestyle. Prince George’s housing is more affordable than many other medium-sized cities in BC, making it an attractive option for those seeking cost-effective living.ย
Vernon
Located north of Kelowna, Vernon is a charming city surrounded by three picturesque lakes, offering a population of around 40,000 and multiple outdoor activities year-round, including hiking, golfing, birdwatching, adventure sports, and boating. Despite its smaller size, Vernon benefits from its proximity to major urban centres. It is just a 50-minute drive from Kelowna and an hour and 30 minutes from Kamloops, providing convenient access to international airports and big-city amenities. The city combines the charm of a small town with the conveniences of city living, boasting lower housing costs than larger cities. Residents can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, and water sports, thanks to nearby Okanagan Lake and Silver Star Mountain Resort. Additionally, Vernon has a vibrant arts and culture scene, making it a well-rounded and inviting place to call home.
Penticton
Penticton, with a population of over 47,000, is one of the larger cities in British Columbiaโs interior, perfect for those seeking city amenities alongside a strong community vibe. The city boasts a vibrant mix of expats, remote workers, and entrepreneurs, supported by co-working spaces. Between Okanagan and Skaha Lakes, Penticton is near Kelowna, Peachland, and Naramata, offering easy access to outdoor activities, renowned wineries, local shops, and ski resorts. Known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and lively wine culture, Penticton offers affordable housing, making it an attractive place to live. The city hosts numerous festivals and events annually, enhancing its appeal. Whether you enjoy hiking, boating, or exploring wineries, Penticton is a top choice for getting reasonably priced houses in British Columbia.
Top Economical Smaller Towns in British Columbia
Smaller towns in British Columbia often offer some of the best opportunities for affordable living. Although these towns are farther from the province’s main metropolitan areas, the trend towards remote work has reduced the importance of being close to major cities. Here are three of the most affordable smaller towns in BC, each with its unique benefits and challenges:
Fort St. John
Fort St. John is a hidden gem in northeastern British Columbia, with a population of around 21,000. The town enjoys over 300 sunny days per year and boasts one of the highest average household incomes in the province. It offers a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, art galleries, and local breweries. Despite its remote location, over six hours from the nearest international airport in Edmonton, Alberta, Fort St. John provides excellent amenities such as good schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational centres. The townโs strong energy sector and abundant outdoor activities make it a desirable and cost-effective place to live.
Terraceย
Terrace, a lively and growing city in northwestern British Columbia, is known for its stunning natural scenery and diverse outdoor activities, including world-class fishing on the Skeena River, backcountry hiking, river rafting, and golfing. As the largest urban area in the region, with a population of about 12,000, Terrace offers a wide array of amenities, including shopping opportunities, diverse restaurants, and essential services. The local economy, supported by industries such as forestry, mining, and tourism, provides various employment options. With affordable housing, good schools, healthcare facilities, and a close-knit community atmosphere, Terrace is a welcoming and practical place to call home.
Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert, often called the “City of Rainbows,” is an affordable oceanside city ideal for those seeking a balance of culture and outdoor activities. This charming town features vibrant cafes, art galleries, fishing, hiking, and frequent wildlife sightings. As of March 2024, the average home price in the BC Northern region is $418,525, making it possible to own a reasonably priced home with stunning ocean views. With its unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and affordable living, Prince Rupert offers its residents a high quality of life.
Full Rankings of Inexpensive Best Places in British Columbia
Finding an affordable place to live in British Columbia can be challenging, but several cities and towns offer a balance of low housing costs and high quality of life. Here’s a comprehensive list of the most economical places to live in BC:
|
Rank |
City |
Region |
|
1 |
Fort St. John |
Northern BC |
|
2 |
Prince George |
North BCย |
|
3 |
Terrace |
North BCย |
|
4 |
Kamloops |
Kamloopsย |
|
5 |
Prince Rupert |
Northern BC |
|
6 |
Kelowna |
Okanagan |
|
7 |
Vernon |
Okanagan |
|
8 |
Powell River |
Powell Riverย |
|
9 |
Nelson |
Kootenay |
|
10 |
Dawson Creek |
South Peace River |
Finding Your Perfect British Columbia Budget Place
Living in British Columbia doesnโt have to be expensive. This guide has shown some of the most affordable places in the province, from big cities to smaller towns. Some options won’t stretch your budget if you like city life or a quieter place. With options for affordable housing and good amenities, it is easy to find houses in the best places in British Columbia that fit your needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The cheapest place to live in British Columbia is Dawson Creek, with an average home price of $277,850. This area offers affordable housing and a low cost of living.
Affordable living options are available in cities like Fort St. John, Prince George, and Terrace, where housing costs are lower than the provincial average.
Yes, BC is worth moving to if you value natural beauty, high quality of life, and diverse job opportunities. While some areas are expensive, some affordable cities and towns offer a good balance of cost and lifestyle.
East Vancouver is generally more affordable than other parts of the city. It offers lower housing costs while still providing access to amenities and public transport. Where is the cheapest place to live in British Columbia?
Where can I afford to live in BC?
Is it worth moving to BC?
Which part of Vancouver is the cheapest?
