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

• Average 1-bed apartment rent: $985
• Average home price: $331,958

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.

 Local Logic (Aug 2024), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Royal Lepage (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apartment rent: $1,700
• Average home price: $423,000

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.

 Local Logic (Aug 2024), Facebook Rental Properties (Aug 2024) & Redfin (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apartment rent: $1,550
• Average home price: $480,000

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.

 Local Logic (Aug 2024), Facebook Rental Properties (Aug 2024) & Redfin (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apartment rent: $1,288
• Average home price: $482,000

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.

 Local Logic (Aug 2024), Zumper (Aug 2024) & Redfin (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apartment rent: $1,586.36  
• Average home price: $785,904

Vernon, BC, is a charming city nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and relaxed lifestyle. With its warm summers and mild winters, Vernon offers an ideal climate for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring world-class golf courses, beautiful lakes for boating and fishing, and nearby ski resorts for winter fun. 

The city has a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a growing arts and culture scene. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to retire or a family-friendly community with plenty of recreational opportunities, Vernon has something for everyone.

City of Vernon (2024), Local Logic (Aug 2024), Facebook Property Rentals (Aug 2024) & Heizmann Group (2024)