NB
vs
BC
Saint John vs Vancouver Cost of Living (2026)
Vancouver is about 132% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $2,800 a month in Vancouver vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Vancouver is 132% more expensive than living in Saint John overall.
Saint John / month
$1,555
Vancouver / month
$3,440
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Saint John
$100,000
Take-home $71,215 · $5,935/mo
Needed in Vancouver
$231,811
Take-home $153,422 · $12,785/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Vancouver you'd need $131,811 more a year (+132%).
Take-home is after 2026 federal and provincial income tax, CPP/QPP and EI for an employee. Cost of living weighs rent, groceries and transit.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Saint John
$1,100
155% more expensive
Vancouver
$2,800
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Saint John
$380
21% more expensive
Vancouver
$460
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Saint John
$75
140% more expensive
Vancouver
$180
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