I rarely meet Torontonians that have decided to give up the West coast for the fast paced city life, but I do have a few clients that prefer the hustle and bustle and choose to relocate. More likely though I’m approached by Torontonians looking to escape the city life, and looking for a great agent out West to get that outdoor lifestyle Vancouver can offer. But before you up a leave Ontario for a more balanced and perhaps healthier lifestyle, here’s a few things you need to know before you go!
Let’s start with the obvious. Housing in both cities is expensive, and neither is offering a discount. That said, Vancouver homes tend to be even more expensive on a price per square foot basis, especially when it comes to detached houses.
Condos? Slightly more attainable, but prices are still steep.
Toronto buyers will be familiar with bidding wars, high-density living, and escalating mortgage stress tests. That same energy exists in Vancouver, only now you’re also dealing with limited land availability (thanks to the ocean and mountains) and foreign buyer restrictions that have cooled—but not killed—the high-end market.
On average:
- A condo in downtown Vancouver is 10%–20% more expensive than a comparable one in downtown Toronto.
- Detached homes in Vancouver’s core often exceed $2 million+, pushing many buyers into townhomes or further into the suburbs.
Looking for more real estate real talk? Listen to our podcast, The Last Honest Realtor, available on our website or anywhere you get your podcasts!
Land Transfer Taxes & Fees: Toronto Actually Loses
Vancouver real estate comes with its own quirks—foreign buyer taxes, speculation taxes, and vacancy taxes, to name a few. But for most regular buyers, Toronto’s double land transfer tax is still heavier.
Let’s break it down on a $700,000 home:
Toronto (Ontario):
- Provincial + Municipal LTT: $20,950
- First-Time Buyer Rebate: Up to $8,475 (if eligible)
Vancouver (BC):
- BC Property Transfer Tax (PTT):
- 1% on the first $200,000 = $2,000
- 2% on $200,000–$700,000 = $10,000
- Total: $12,000
- First-Time Buyer Exemptions? Yes, but only for properties under $500,000 (partial up to $525,000)
So, if you’re not a first-time buyer, Vancouver actually wins this round.
Curious about Toronto vs. other cities? Check out these posts next:
- Montreal Vs. Toronto: What You Need to Know Before Moving
- Calgary Vs. Toronto: What to Know Before Making the Move
Climate: Rain or Snow—Pick Your Preference
Toronto winters are cold, grey, and often snowy. Vancouver? Mild and rainy. Neither is perfect—but depending on your tolerance for shovelling or soggy socks, one may appeal more than the other.
Vancouver Weather Snapshot:
- Winter: Rainy, average lows around 0°C to 3°C
- Summer: Comfortable and dry, highs around 23°C–26°C
- Bonus: No snow tires required (usually)
Toronto Weather Snapshot:
- Winter: Snowy, with January lows around -10°C
- Summer: Hot and humid, highs around 28°C–30°C
- Bonus: You get a noticeable change of seasons and way less rain!
Vancouver’s climate is gentler overall, but many new residents report “rain fatigue” during the long, grey months. On the flip side, outdoor enthusiasts love the year-round access to nature without the extreme cold.
Lifestyle & Commute: Outdoor Living vs. Hustle Culture
Toronto is a big city—busy, vertical, and often fast-paced. Vancouver, by contrast, feels more relaxed, with an emphasis on wellness, work-life balance, and nature.
Transit:
- Toronto has a more extensive transit system (TTC, GO Transit) for getting around without a car.
- Vancouver’s SkyTrain and TransLink network are clean and efficient—but the city is more walkable and bike-friendly, especially downtown.
Job Market:
- Toronto remains Canada’s financial and corporate hub.
- Vancouver’s economy is growing fast in tech, film, green energy, and real estate—but salaries can lag behind Toronto for some industries.
Day-to-Day:
- Vancouverites are generally early risers (and early sleepers).
- Weekends revolve around hiking, kayaking, skiing, and brunch.
- Toronto leans into nightlife, cultural events, and big-league sports.
Do you have more general relocation questions? Here are a few more posts you might find helpful:
- What to Ask Yourself Before Moving to Toronto
- The Ultimate Guide to Moving Across the Country
- What are the Best Neighbourhoods in Toronto
Should I Make the Move?
At Toronto Realty Group, we’re proud of the city we call home—but we also get it: Vancouver has a unique, west coast charm that’s tough to ignore.
If you’re chasing a slower pace, proximity to the outdoors, and a climate that skips most of winter, Vancouver is a fantastic option. Just be prepared for steep housing prices, lots of rain, and a higher cost of everyday living.
Before you go:
- Explore neighbourhoods like Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and North Van
- Understand BC’s additional housing taxes
- Let us find you the right real estate agent who knows the local zoning, tax implications and property values.
Final Thoughts:
Toronto is still Canada’s economic engine—but Vancouver offers a rare mix of urban living and natural beauty. If your priorities are shifting toward quality of life, the ocean air and mountain views might be worth the higher price tag and the umbrellas.
Need help planning your move?
Toronto Realty Group offers trusted referral partners, relocation insights, and coast-to-coast connections. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just dreaming of a change, we’re here to guide you through it.
Get in touch via the form below or contact us directly by calling 416.642.2660 or emailing admin@torontorealtygroup.com.
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