Welcome to Burnaby! If you’re thinking about moving to Burnaby, planning is crucial to a seamless transfer. This is your go-to resource for information on housing, living expenses, travel, and other topics. Explore vital facts to prepare yourself for living in Burnaby. Hiring a reliable moving company in Burnaby will help ensure a smooth relocation procedure and confidently welcome you to your new chapter. This will make your move less stressful.
Welcome to Burnaby! If moving here is on your calendar, this guide will definitely be useful. You’ll find updated rent ranges, how SkyTrain zones work, quick neighborhood fit notes, and a short move timeline.
If your date is set, professional Burnaby movers can handle packing, access, and timing so you don’t spend the week troubleshooting. Each section below is written for action.
Quick Overview of Costs, Commute, and Timing Before Moving to Burnaby
Before we get into details, here’s a quick overview of important things to know before moving to Burnaby. Use it to check your budget, transit, and timing if your move to Burnaby is close or you’re comparing it with nearby cities.
- Rent ranges: one-bedrooms often list in the mid-to-high two-thousands; two-bedrooms run higher and move faster near stations. See the Cost Of Living section for sources and ranges..
- Transit: the SkyTrain’s Expo and Millennium lines serve most Burnaby neighborhoods. Buses are always 1-Zone; SkyTrain fares are zone-based, with evenings after 6:30 p.m., weekends, and holidays priced as 1-Zone across the system.
- Booking timeline: peak dates fill 3–6 weeks out. If you need an elevator or loading bay, reserve your slot early.
- Packing: order moving boxes Burnaby residents use, label at least two sides, and confirm strata rules for elevator padding and time windows.
- Permits: street occupancy or a curbside container may need a City permit. See the Permits section for the checklist. If your relocation to Burnaby plan includes a pod or container, apply early.
Cost of Living in Burnaby: Singles and Families
In 2025, one-bedroom rentals in Burnaby often list around $2,200–$2,450, and two-bedrooms around $2,700–$3,100, with station-adjacent towers trending higher. These ranges align with recent regional rent tallies for the Vancouver CMA.
- Single: With rent in a 1-bedroom outside the centre is about $3,100–$3,300 after you account for rent, utilities and internet, a 1-Zone TransLink pass, and a modest groceries basket. Without rent is typically $900–$1,050. Totals use: 1-BR outside-centre $2,225; utilities ~$182.83; internet ~$71; 1-Zone Monthly $111.60; groceries ~$520–$680 based on current item-level prices. Sources: Numbeo Burnaby (rents/utilities/internet, last update Sep 26, 2025) and TransLink 2025 fares.
- Family of 4: With rent in a 3-bedroom outside the centre, plus utilities, internet, two adult 1-Zone passes, and a family groceries basket is about $5,480–$5,780. Without rent is commonly $1,800–$2,150, depending on transit and food choices. Totals use: 3-BR outside-centre ~$3,666.67; utilities ~$220 (larger unit assumption); internet ~$71; two 1-Zone Monthly passes = $223.20; groceries ~$1,300–$1,600 (scaled from current item-level prices). Same sources.
Essential Living Costs In Burnaby:
Rent aside, if you’re preparing for a move to Burnaby, this is a sensible baseline for first-month planning of essential costs:
- Food expenses: about $520–$680 for one person and $1,300–$1,600 for a family of four in Burnaby, based on current item-level grocery prices reported for the city (late-2025).
- Transportation costs: about $81 for an individual light rider using ~30 1-Zone trips on Stored Value ($2.70 × 30), or $111.60 with a 1-Zone Monthly Pass; about $223.20 for families budgeting two adult 1-Zone Monthly Passes (kids 12 and under ride free on TransLink).
Data on living costs in Burnaby
| Cost of Living | One Person | Family of 4 |
| Total With Rent | $3,145 | $5,224 |
| Rent & Utilities | $2,433 | $3,551 |
| Food | $600 | $1,450 |
| Transport | $112 | $223 |
How Much is the Housing Cost in Burnaby?
Burnaby rents sit below the City of Vancouver but above most nearby suburbs. As of November 2025, typical 1-bedroom listings land around the low-to-mid $2,000s, while 3-bedroom city-centre units often post higher. Use the table below to scan current asking levels and compare city-centre vs. outside-centre options.
Utilities and Expenses In Burnaby
In addition to housing costs, consider other expenses such as utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. These can vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences, so it’s important to budget accordingly.
Data on Rent & Utilities
| Type of Accommodation | Description | Cost |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment | City Centre, ~40 m² (typical 1-BR) | $2,575 / mo |
| Cheap 1 Bedroom Apartment | Outside of Centre, ~40 m² (more affordable areas) | $2,225 / mo |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment | City Centre, ~80 m² (typical 3-BR) | $5,500 / mo |
| Cheap 3 Bedroom Apartment | Outside of Centre, ~80 m² (more affordable areas) | $3,666.67 / mo |
| Utility Bill (One Person) | Electricity, heating, water, garbage — 85 m² apt baseline | $182.83 / mo |
| Internet Plan | 60 Mbps+, Unlimited (cable/ADSL/fibre) | $73.33 / mo |
| Mortgage Interest Rate | Fixed 20-year, yearly % | 6.53 % |
| Apartment Price | City Centre, per 1 m² (converted from $929.37/ft²) | $10,004 / m² |
| House Price (Suburbs) | Outside of Centre, per 1 m² (converted from $612.68/ft²) | $6,595 / m² |
Expenses Of Transportation In Burnaby
If you’re moving to Burnaby, here’s what getting around Burnaby typically costs right now, including everything from SkyTrain and buses to taxis and fuel.
Public Transportation In Burnaby
Burnaby features a fantastic public transit network, comprising buses and the SkyTrain rapid transit system. Buses traverse various routes across the city, connecting Burnaby neighborhoods and key destinations.
The SkyTrain offers a fast and reliable mode of transportation, linking Burnaby to neighbouring municipalities like Vancouver and Surrey. Newcomers should familiarise themselves with transit routes and schedules beforehand to make sure their travel within the city goes without a hitch.
Private Transportation In Burnaby
Additionally, Burnaby residents have access to private transportation options, including taxis and rideshare services. These options give you that extra flexibility and convenience that individuals traveling to areas with limited public transit coverage or during late hours need.
While private transportation may lead to higher costs than public transit, it’s always good to have a wide range of private transportation options, especially after your relocation to burnaby.
Transportation data of Burnaby
| Category | Description | Cost |
| Local Transport Ticket | Adult 1-Zone single (Stored Value, Compass) | $3 |
| Monthly Ticket | Adult 1-Zone Monthly Pass (Compass) | $112 |
| Taxi Ride | Typical 8 km in-city ride (no wait time) | ~$21.20 |
| Gas / Petrol | Regular gas, Vancouver monthly avg (Sep 2025) | $1.715 / L |
What are the Prices of Food and Groceries In Burnaby?
If you’re moving to Burnaby, budgeting your food shop helps you track the overall Burnaby living cost before you sign a lease. The figures below reflect what residents are paying right now based on Numbeo’s Burnaby feed and current local retailer pricing, so you can plan this part of your Burnaby relocation guide with real numbers.
Food Prices In Burnaby
Food pricing in Burnaby broadly tracks Metro Vancouver. As of September 2025, Canadians paid about 4% more year-over-year for food purchased from stores, with faster gains in fresh vegetables, beef, sugar and confectionery.
For the coming year, most analysts still expect low-to-mid single-digit movement rather than the double-digit spikes seen in 2022–2023. Use the item list below to ballpark your weekly shop if you’re moving to Burnaby and watching overall Burnaby living cost.
Grocery Prices in Burnaby:
Pantry staples like rice, bread and shelf goods tend to be steadier, while produce and meat swing more with season and supply. Nationally, grocery inflation eased through 2024 but ticked higher again in 2025, and the Food Price Report projected about 3%–5% increases for 2025, which lines up with the recent CPI trend.
Expect modest single-digit changes into the next few quarters, then use the detailed table below for current per-item references as you plan a first-month shop and your Burnaby Canada cost of living.
Data of food prices In Burnaby
| Item | Description | Price (CAD) |
| Milk | 1 liter | $3 |
| Bread | 0.5 kg loaf | $4 |
| Rice | 1 kg | $6 |
| Eggs | 12 pieces | $4 |
| Cheese | 1 kg, local | $17.08 |
| Chicken Breast | 1 kg | $18.13 |
| Beef Round | 1 kg | $27.77 |
| Apples | 1 kg | $6 |
| Banana | 1 kg | $2 |
| Oranges | 1 kg | $5.93 |
| Tomato | 1 kg | $5.70 |
| Potato | 1 kg | $4.05 |
| Onion | 1 kg | $5.50 |
| Water | 1.5 liter bottle | $2.62 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi | 2 liters | $3.99 |
| Wine (mid-priced) | 750 mL bottle | $16.99 |
| Beer | ~0.5 liter tall can | $3.89 |
Prices of household essentials
| Item | Description | Price (CAD) |
| Cigarette Pack | Standard pack of 20 | $19 |
| Cold Medicine | 24-count day or night caplets | $13 |
| Hair Shampoo | 355 mL, everyday brand | $5 |
| Toilet Paper | 6 Mega Rolls | $9 |
| Toothpaste | 70–75 mL | $3.32 |
Weather Conditation In Burnaby:
Burnaby experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers, offering residents a pleasant living environment year-round. While winters are generally mild, do anticipate rainfall, especially during the fall and winter seasons.
That’s why it’s important to Invest in suitable attire and gear so that you’re comfortable and protected against the occasional rain showers. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city’s natural beauty without significant weather-related disruptions.
With proper preparation, individuals can make the most of Burnaby’s favorable climate, embracing the opportunities for recreation and leisure that each season brings. Be it strolling through parks in the summer or enjoying cozy indoor activities during the occasional rainy day, Burnaby’s weather adds to the city’s charm and livability.
By staying informed about weather patterns and taking necessary precautions, residents can fully enjoy the diverse experiences offered by Burnaby’s climate throughout the year.
Take Advantage of Burnaby’s Weather Conditions In each season:
Burnaby’s climate is mild, with rainier fall and winter months, comfortable springs, and warm, bright summers. If you’re moving to Burnaby, plan your tasks around the forecast so loading, parking, and elevator bookings line up with dry windows.
Keep floor protection and furniture covers ready in the wet season, and schedule larger drop-offs or donations on clearer days. The notes below highlight easy seasonal info so your plan fits the Burnaby lifestyle year-round.
Spring Season In Burnaby
As temperatures begin to rise and nature blossoms, take advantage of the mild weather by exploring Burnaby’s numerous parks and gardens. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, or cycling amidst the lush greenery.
Summer Season In Burnaby
Embrace the warm and sunny days by visiting Burnaby’s beaches, such as Deer Lake Park or Barnet Marine Park. Engage in water sports like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Attend outdoor festivals and events held throughout the city.
Fall Season In Burnaby
Despite the increase in rainfall, fall brings a spectacular display of colors to Burnaby’s landscapes. Take scenic drives to witness the autumn foliage at its peak. Participate in harvest festivals and farmers’ markets to enjoy locally grown produce.
Winter Season In Burnaby
While winters are mild, occasional rainfall creates a cozy atmosphere. Take refuge in Burnaby’s indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theatres. Embrace the holiday spirit with festive events and enjoy hot beverages at local cafes.
How Much are the Other Expenses In Burnaby?
Beyond the essentials, certain expenses, while not absolutely necessary, will most definitely be part of your spending habits. Things like gym memberships and leisure activities like cinema tickets to healthcare necessities such as doctor’s visits, these costs remain ever-present in your financial considerations, certainly affecting your budgeting decisions and everyday spending habits.
Comprehensive Cost Breakdown
| Category | Description | Cost (USD) |
| Gym Membership | 1-month subscription (adult) | $30 |
| Cinema Ticket | Admission for one person | $16 |
| Doctor’s Visit | Uninsured office visit | $106 |
| Haircut | Basic men’s haircut | $35 |
| Brand Jeans | Levi’s 501 or similar | $52.81 |
| Brand Sneakers | Nike mid-range running shoes | $91.36 |
| Daycare or Preschool | Private full-day, monthly | $519.34 |
| International Primary School | Annual tuition | $11,862 |
Pros and Cons of Moving to Burnaby, BC
Costs aside, here is a holistic view of what moving to Burnaby brings and its drawbacks.
Pros of Moving to Burnaby:
- Beautiful Nature: Burnaby offers picturesque parks, serene lakes, and majestic mountains, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and relaxation amidst nature’s splendor.
- Diverse Community: Thanks to its multicultural population, Burnaby celebrates a rich melting pot of cultures, inviting residents to indulge in diverse cuisines, vibrant festivals, and unique traditions from around the globe, fostering a sense of inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
- Job Opportunities In Burnaby: With a generally growing economy comprising a spectrum of industries such as technology, healthcare, and education, Burnaby presents a plethora of employment prospects, catering to various skill sets and career aspirations, fostering economic stability and growth within the community.
- Quality Education: Burnaby’s educational opportunities include top-notch schools, colleges, and universities renowned for their academic excellence and innovative learning approaches, making sure children receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future success and personal development.
- Convenient Transport: Navigating Burnaby and its neighboring areas is effortless, thanks to its efficient public transit system comprising buses and the SkyTrain rapid transit network, giving you easy connectivity and accessibility to essential services, amenities, and recreational destinations.
Related: Why People are Moving to Burnaby, BC: A Haven of Opportunity and Charm
Cons of moving to Burnaby:
- Expensive Living: Burnaby’s elevated cost of living, notably in housing expenses, may pose financial strain, requiring careful budgeting and financial planning to manage expenses effectively and maintain financial stability.
- Traffic Jams: Commuters in Burnaby often contend with traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, leading to longer commute times and potential frustrations for residents navigating the city’s thoroughfares.
- Limited Housing Choices: Securing affordable housing in Burnaby can prove challenging due to limited availability and high demand, requiring prospective residents to explore various housing options and consider alternative neighborhoods to find suitable accommodations.z
- Rainy Weather: Burnaby’s maritime climate brings frequent rainfall, particularly in the fall and winter months, which may dampen outdoor activities and require appropriate rain gear and planning to mitigate the effects of inclement weather.
- Crowded Areas: Busy hubs like Metrotown and Brentwood can feel crowded and loud. If you want quiet, focus on calmer Burnaby neighborhoods or nearby suburbs for a more peaceful day-to-day.
Where are the Best Neighborhoods in Burnaby?
Choosing the right neighborhood is one of, if not the most important, factors when considering a move to Burnaby, British Columbia. Each neighborhood offers its unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle, catering to different preferences and needs.
So, let’s take a deeper look at some of the best neighborhoods in Burnaby to help you find your ideal place to call home.
Top 5 Neighborhoods In Burnaby
1. Metrotown: A Hub of Convenience and Entertainment in Burnaby
Nestled in the heart of Burnaby, Metrotown stands out as a bustling urban center known for its incredibly accessible design and vibrant atmosphere. Here, residents enjoy easy access to an extensive array of shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions.
Metropolis at Metrotown, the largest shopping mall in British Columbia, serves as the focal point of the neighborhood, offering everything from high-end boutiques to casual eateries. With excellent transit connections and a diverse range of housing options, Metrotown appeals to professionals, families, and students looking for a dynamic urban lifestyle.
2. Brentwood: Where Urban Living Meets Suburban Comfort
Situated in North Burnaby, Brentwood offers a great balance of urban convenience and suburban peace and calm. This evolving neighborhood is undergoing rapid development, with sleek high-rise towers, modern amenities, and green spaces transforming the area into a sought-after residential destination.
Residents of Brentwood enjoy proximity to transit hubs, recreational facilities, and top-rated schools, making it an ideal choice for families, young professionals, and commuters.
With its vibrant community spirit and a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Brentwood offers a contemporary lifestyle within a welcoming suburban setting.
3. Highgate: A Family-Friendly Haven In Burnaby
Nestled in South Burnaby, Highgate exudes a sense of suburban charm and family-friendly appeal. This well-established neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, spacious parks, and a close-knit community atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging among residents.
Families are drawn to Highgate for its excellent schools, recreational facilities, and tranquil residential streets, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive.
With a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums, Highgate offers housing options to suit every lifestyle, from young families to empty nesters seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
4.Deer Lake: Where Nature Meets Luxury
For those seeking an oasis of natural beauty and upscale living, Deer Lake stands out as a premier destination in Burnaby. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the serene waters of Deer Lake, this prestigious neighborhood offers a lifestyle of luxury and tranquility.
Here, residents enjoy access to expansive parks, scenic walking trails, and recreational amenities, creating an idyllic retreat from the urban hustle. Architecturally stunning homes, gated communities, and exclusive waterfront properties characterize Deer Lake, attracting discerning homeowners seeking a refined living experience in harmony with nature.
5.Capitol Hill: Elevated Living with Spectacular Views
Perched atop a picturesque hillside, Capitol Hill offers residents breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, mountains, and beyond. This coveted neighborhood combines natural beauty with urban convenience, providing a peaceful retreat within close proximity to downtown Burnaby and Vancouver.
Capitol Hill boasts quiet residential streets, community parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
With its charming character homes, modern residences, and a strong sense of community spirit, Capitol Hill offers a lifestyle of elevated living and scenic serenity that captivates residents and visitors alike.
How Can Secure Moving Assist You in Moving to Burnaby?
Ready to move? Secure Moving makes moving to Burnaby simple. Whether you’re coordinating a local house moving in Burnaby or arriving from another city, we plan the route, lock your elevator window, and protect floors and doors so the building stays happy. If you want help before move day, our professional packing services handle materials, careful wrapping, room labels, and an unpack plan that puts the big items in place first.
What you get with our Burnaby movers:
- A clear move plan and exact start time
- Condo access handled the right way
- Disassembly and reassembly for beds and basics
- Stairs, long carries, and parking solved without drama
- Clean runners, corner guards, and a tidy exit
Prefer a lighter touch? We can load and transport while you pack, or do a full service from box drop to furniture setup. If you’re moving a team or planning an office relocation and need reliable office movers in Burnaby, start with a transparent quote and a schedule that fits your building rules.
If moving to Burnaby is on your calendar, make two quick checks, then book your crew. First, confirm your budget with our latest Cost of Living in Burnaby guide so rent, utilities, transit, and groceries line up with your plan.
Second, pick the service level that fits your week. We’ll handle everything, including boxes and tape to careful loading and setup, as our team keeps the day on time and your place clean. When you are ready, we will map the route, confirm building access, and give you a clear timeline so you can settle in fast.
