Cost of Living in Burnaby

Burnaby, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a city that offers a harmonious blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty. As of 2025, understanding the cost of living in Burnaby is essential for individuals and families who are considering moving to this vibrant city. This comprehensive guide will investigate various aspects of living expenses, providing a detailed overview to assist in financial planning.

Overview of Burnaby’s Cost of Living

The average cost of living in Burnaby BC, varies based on lifestyle, household size, and personal preferences. On average, a single individual can expect monthly expenses totaling approximately $2,595, while a family of four may incur costs of around $5,681 per month. These figures encompass essential expenditures such as housing, food, transportation, and utilities.

1.     Housing Expenses

Housing is a significant component of the Burnaby living cost. Whether opting to rent or purchase, it’s important to understand the current market rates.

Rent and Utilities:

• Single Individual: Approximately $1,789 per month.
• Family of Four: Around $3,297 per month.

These costs include both rent and basic utilities, reflecting the city’s competitive housing market.

2.     Food and Grocery Costs

Food expenses in Burnaby are influenced by dietary habits and shopping preferences.

• Single Individual: Approximately $579 per month.
• Family of Four: Around $1,501 per month.

These estimates cover groceries and dining out, offering flexibility based on individual choices.

3.     Transportation Expenses

Efficient transportation is vital for daily commuting and overall quality of life. The cost of living in Burnaby Canada can be different according to the different types of transport:

Public Transit:

• One-Way Ticket: Approximately $3.52.
• Monthly Pass: Around $104.25.

Burnaby’s public transportation system is well-developed. It offers residents a cost-effective means of navigating the city.

Driving Costs:

• Gasoline: Approximately $6.98 per gallon.

Owning a vehicle requires additional expenses such as insurance, maintenance, and parking fees, contributing to the overall cost of living in Burnaby.

4.     Utility Costs

Monthly utility expenses are a necessary consideration for residents.

• Basic Utilities: Around $179 per month for a standard one-bedroom apartment.
• Internet Services: Approximately $76 per month for a 60 Mbps unlimited data plan.

These costs are relatively standard and should be factored into your monthly budget.

5.     Healthcare Expenses

Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system provides essential medical services to residents.

• Medical Services Plan (MSP): Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and certain surgeries.

For services not covered by MSP, such as prescription medications, dental, and vision care, residents may opt for private health insurance, ranging from $50 to $200 per month.

6.     Educational Costs

Burnaby is home to esteemed institutions like Simon Fraser University (SFU) and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT).

7.     International Students:

• Tuition Fees: Undergraduate programs at SFU range from $6,200 to $63,320 per year.

Additional expenses include housing, food, transportation, and personal items, which should be considered when calculating the cost of living in Burnaby for international students.

8.     Entertainment and Leisure

Balancing work and leisure is essential for a fulfilling lifestyle.

Monthly Leisure Expenses:

• Entertainment and Recreation: Approximately $124.
• Clothing and Personal Care: Around $40.
• Miscellaneous: About $150.

Burnaby boasts numerous parks, cultural centers, and recreational facilities, many of which are free or low-cost. They can enhance the quality of life without significantly impacting the Burnaby living cost.

Comparative Analysis: Burnaby vs. Vancouver

When evaluating the cost of living in Burnaby, it’s beneficial to compare it with nearby cities.

• Burnaby: Approximately $9,300 per month.
• Vancouver: Around $9,344.20 per month to maintain a similar standard of living.

This comparison indicates that Burnaby offers a slightly more affordable living environment than Vancouver.

Summary Table of Monthly Expenses

Note: These expenses for the cost of living in Burnaby, BC, are approximate and can vary based on individual lifestyle choices and economic factors. If you’re planning a move, choosing one of the best moving companies in Vancouver can ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation.

Cost of Living in Burnaby for International Students

Burnaby offers a vibrant environment for international students, but it’s essential to understand the cost of living to plan effectively. A single individual can expect to spend approximately $2,595 monthly, which includes rent and utilities. Without rent, monthly expenses are around $806. The cost of living in Burnaby for international students includes essential expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities. Food costs average $579 for a single person. Transportation expenses are relatively modest, with individuals spending $81.20 monthly. Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average $1,789 for individuals.

Is Burnaby Expensive to Live?

Burnaby, British Columbia, is considered more affordable than its neighboring city, Vancouver, but it remains one of the more expensive places to live in Canada. Is Burnaby expensive to live in? The average monthly cost of living for a single person in Burnaby is approximately CAD 4,407, which includes housing, transportation, groceries, and other expenses.  Housing is the largest expense, with average monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from CAD 2,350 to CAD 3,200, depending on the location within the city.

Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, average around CAD 182.83 per month for a 915-square-foot apartment. Transportation costs vary; a monthly public transportation pass is approximately CAD 85.80 while owning a car can add significantly to monthly expenses.

Conclusion

We investigated Burnaby’s living cost in this article. In conclusion, while Burnaby offers a high quality of life with its amenities and natural surroundings, it’s essential to consider the various factors contributing to the cost of living in Burnaby, Canada. If you are moving to Burnaby, use the moving services offered by Secure Moving company to have a smooth relocation.

Effortless Relocation with Secure Moving Company’s Services

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