Is Vancouver or Seattle more expensive?

It depends on what you mean by “more expensive.”

If you mean everyday out-of-pocket prices, the comparison can go either way depending on the category, neighborhood, and the USD/CAD exchange rate. If you mean affordability for residents, Vancouver is often harder on budgets because housing costs are very high relative to local incomes.

A simple way to think about it:

• Seattle: often has higher wages and many prices that are competitive or higher in absolute terms.
• Vancouver: often feels less affordable because housing is very expensive and salaries are generally lower.

So the short answer is: Seattle can be more expensive in sticker-price terms for some goods and services, but Vancouver is often more expensive in terms of affordability.

Because exchange rates, housing market conditions, and neighborhood differences can shift the comparison, it’s worth checking a current cost-of-living source if you need a precise answer for a move or budget.