Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates, according to a recent report by Mercer.
The “2017 Cost of Living” study found that although rent in both cities has climbed, the rate at which rent has risen in Vancouver solidifies its position as the most expensive city in Canada for expatriates, well above Toronto.
Following behind Toronto came Montreal and then Calgary. Ottawa rounded out the list as the least expensive city in Canada for expatriates.
Although the cost of living continues to rise for locals, Canadian cities are considered relatively affordable when compared with the rest of the world. The survey found the most expensive cities for expatriates are in Asia and Europe.
“Although the cost of living in Vancouver or Toronto may be high for locals, both cities remain attractive destinations for expatriates placed by organizations outside the country,” Gordon Frost, partner and leader of Mercer Canada’s Career business, said in a press release.
“Global costs give us some perspective: compared with the rest of the world, even with a strong dollar, Canada remains relatively affordable.”
The annual survey is used by multinational corporations to plan workforce compensation, relocation and expansion strategies.