Renting in Vancouver when you are new here
A practical guide to the Vancouver rental market for newcomers. Where to start your search, what to expect from rent, what is included, and how to make sure you do not overpay.
Vancouver neighbourhoods worth comparing
Vancouver has very different rents across neighbourhoods. These are reasonable starting points for newcomers. Run each through the calculator to see the current range.
Mount Pleasant
Vibrant east-side neighbourhood. Walkable, transit-connected. Rents close to the city average.
Commercial Drive
Diverse, community-focused. Slightly below the city average. Excellent SkyTrain access.
Burnaby
More affordable than the City of Vancouver. Strong SkyTrain links on both the Millennium and Expo lines.
New Westminster
Most affordable city in the metro region. SkyTrain connected. Worth comparing for newcomers who want value.
How rent works in Vancouver
Most Vancouver landlords ask for first and last month's rent before you move in. That means two months upfront. BC limits security deposits to half a month's rent.
In BC, annual rent increases are capped at the provincial guideline (around 3 percent) for all existing tenancies. Security deposits are limited to half a month's rent.
Always compare the rent to the Vancouver neighbourhood range for that unit type. City-wide averages hide huge variation.
Questions every newcomer should ask
- What is the total monthly cost including utilities? Heat, water, hydro, parking, and internet each affect the real number.
- How much is first and last month? Get the exact dollar amount in writing.
- When was the unit last renovated? Newer units rent above the area range.
- Is parking included or extra? Indoor parking can add $100 to $250 per month.
- What is the rent increase rule? In BC, annual rent increases are capped at the provincial guideline (around 3 percent) for all existing tenancies. Security deposits are limited to half a month's rent.
- Can I see the unit before signing? Never sign for a unit you have not seen in person or by live video.
Help other newcomers in Vancouver
If you signed a lease in Vancouver recently, sharing your rent anonymously helps the next newcomer compare fairly. Takes about a minute.
Submit my Vancouver rentFair Rent Canada · Newcomer rent guide · Vancouver. Sources: CMHC Rental Market Survey, Rentals.ca market listing data, anonymous renter submissions. Results are estimates for information only. Not legal, financial, or real estate advice.