Top 5 Cheapest places to live in British Columbia with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,888
• Average property buying cost: $424,000

Cranbrook is a city located in the southeastern corner of BC, in the Kootenay region. Surrounded by spectacular mountains and landscapes, it offers recreational opportunities nearby, such as parks like Cranbrook Community Forest, hiking trails, trails ideal for mountain biking and lakes. The city boasts a mix of modern amenities and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. It is an ideal choice if you prefer a peaceful vibe, as it is not as noisy as a busy city.

The household composition is primarily single-person and single-family, with housing types mainly consisting of single-detached houses and some apartment buildings. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,888, and the average property price is $424,000 as of December 2023.

Local Logic (Nov 2023), Zumper (Dec 2023) & Redfin (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,023
• Average property buying cost: $657,000

Located in the Okanagan Valley, Vernon is surrounded by rolling hills and green spaces that provide stunning views of Kalamalka and Okanagan Lakes, with beautiful beaches. The parks feature lakefront campgrounds, hiking trails, and are dog-friendly. Walking is safe and pleasant due to its walking trails and easy hikes.

The household composition primarily consists of single individuals, ranging from their 50s to 80s. The housing types are apartments, and condominiums, with only a few single-detached houses. As of December 2023, the average property price is $657,000 and 1-bed apartments are renting for around $2,023.

Vernon (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Nov 2023), Zumper (Dec 2023) & Redfin (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,050
• Average property buying cost: $375,000

Prince Rupert, a port city on the north coast of BC, with picturesque scenery, forests, and beautiful Pacific Ocean views. The city offers walkable trails like Rushbrook and Moresby, along with excellent seafood restaurants that reflect its rich maritime heritage. Most areas in Prince Rupert are known for their tranquility.

Households are equally divided between single-family and single-person arrangements, with the primary housing types consisting of single-family homes, duplexes, and some apartments. As of December 2023, the average property price is $375,000 and 1-bed apartments are renting for around $1,050.

Prince Rupert (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Nov 2023), Zumper (Dec 2023) & Redfin (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,250
• Average property buying cost: $379,000

Prince George, BC, the “Northern Capital”, features 106 km of trails and 1,500 hectares of green spaces along the Fraser and Nechako Rivers, enhancing residents’ quality of life. Parks have something for everyone: families, sports lovers, and dog lovers. Despite its remote location, it is well-connected by road and air, with the nearby Prince George International Airport and a quick 1 hr 20 min flight to Vancouver, BC.

The majority of households consist of single individuals, along with some single families, residing in a mix of single-detached houses, apartments, and condominiums. As of December 2023, the average property price in Prince George is approximately $379,000, with 1-bedroom apartments renting for around $1,250.

Prince George (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Nov 2023), Zumper (Dec 2023) & Redfin (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $935
• Average property buying cost: $237,900

Dawson Creek, a city in northeastern BC, takes its name from the creek that runs through it. Renowned for its natural surroundings and forests, such as Chamberlain Heritage Nature Park, the city is a haven for nature lovers. Despite some noisier areas, especially near the airport (YDQ), the overall atmosphere remains peaceful.

The city’s demographic primarily consists of single individuals and families in their 20s to 30s. Residents can indulge in various recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife exploration. The predominant housing type is single detached houses. As of December 2023, the average property price is $237,900, and the cost of renting a 1-bed apartment is around $935.

City of Dawson Creek (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Nov 2023), Zumper (Dec 2023) & Realtor (Dec 2023)