Moving to Vancouver: Your Insider’s Guide from the Atlas Agent Network

Planning a move to Vancouver? Whether you’re thinking of relocating across provinces, moving from another part of British Columbia, or arriving from abroad, Vancouver offers a unique blend of opportunity, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its diverse communities, thriving tech industry, and world-class setting between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver continues to attract people from across Canada and around the world.

A long-distance move—especially one that spans provinces or countries—takes more than just packing moving boxes. It requires careful planning, professional support, and local expertise. That’s where Atlas Van Lines Canada comes in. With over 60 years of moving experience and three trusted Atlas Agents based in the Vancouver area, we combine national reach with boots-on-the-ground knowledge and advice to help you relocate with confidence.

Meet Your Trusted Atlas Agents in Vancouver

Vancouver and the GVRD are served by three experienced Atlas Agents, each with a strong reputation for professionalism and community knowledge:

• Salmons Transfer
• Highland Worldwide (International Moving & Storage)
• AMJ Vancouver
• Ellis Moving & Storage
• LaPorte Moving & Storage
• Premiere Van Lines

Whether you’re moving into a high-rise condo downtown, a family home in the suburbs, or relocating internationally, our agents provide the care and coordination that define the Atlas Trusted Agent Network.

Welcome to Vancouver: A City of Diversity and Connection

Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia and the heart of the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD), home to over 2.6 million people. The city is renowned for its cultural diversity—more than half of residents are multilingual—and its reputation as a global gateway for education, business, and innovation.

With the North Shore Mountains rising to the north and the Pacific Ocean stretching west, Vancouver is one of the few cities in the world where you can ski, sail, and enjoy city life in the same day. It’s no surprise that so many people from Toronto, Calgary, and across Canada are asking, “Is moving to Vancouver a good idea?” For many, the answer is yes—thanks to the city’s balance of opportunity, lifestyle, and community.

Fast Facts

• Population: ~675,000 (city), ~2.6 million (metro area/GVRD)

• Languages: English is official, but Mandarin, Punjabi, Tagalog, and others widely spoken

• Climate: Mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers

• Layout: Vancouver is part of a network of municipalities including Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Langley, and more

Neighbourhoods and Communities

Each Vancouver community has its own character, amenities, and benefits. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or family, there’s a neighbourhood to fit your lifestyle.

Top Communities to Explore:

• Downtown Vancouver & Yaletown – High-rise living, restaurants, nightlife, and proximity to offices

• Kitsilano – Beachfront community, family-friendly, close to UBC

• North Shore (North Vancouver & West Vancouver) – Access to mountains, trails, and luxury homes

• Burnaby – Home to Simon Fraser University, Metrotown shopping, and diverse communities

• Richmond – A multicultural hub known for its food scene, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and family-friendly neighbourhoods

• Surrey & Langley – Fast-growing suburbs offering more space, new developments, and a mix of urban and rural living

Education, Employment & Quality of Life

Education

• University of British Columbia (UBC) – One of Canada’s top-ranked universities with global research impact

• Simon Fraser University (SFU) – Multi-campus university in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey

• BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) – Applied learning and technical programs

Key Industries

• Technology – Vancouver is a hub for gaming, film/TV production, software, and clean tech companies

• Tourism & Hospitality – A gateway for global visitors and cruise ship traffic

• Film & Media – Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver has one of the world’s busiest film industries

• Natural Resources & Trade – Port of Vancouver is Canada’s largest, connecting goods globally

Lifestyle Highlights

• Access to the Sea-to-Sky Corridor: Whistler, Squamish, and Pemberton just a short drive away

• Iconic destinations: Stanley Park, Granville Island, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain

• Outdoor recreation: skiing, hiking, kayaking, biking trails year-round

• A multicultural food scene with global recognition—from sushi to farm-to-table dining

Setting Up in Vancouver: What You’ll Need to Do

Your Atlas Agent will handle moving logistics for your furniture and other valuable stuff, but here is a checklist things to know and key steps to take once you arrive:

1. Health Care Registration
   Apply for the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP). There is a waiting period of up to 3 months for new residents.
   Website: gov.bc.ca/msp

2. Driver’s Licence and Vehicle Registration
   Exchange your licence and register your vehicle with ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia).
   Website: icbc.com

3. Update Your Address
   Notify CRA, Service Canada, banks, utilities, schools, and employers.

4. Utilities and Internet Setup
   • Hydro: BC Hydro

   • Gas: FortisBC

   • Internet/TV: Telus, Shaw, Novus

5. School and Childcare Registration
   Public: Vancouver School Board and other district boards in GVRD
   Independent/private schools are also common across the region

6. Municipal Services
   Garbage, recycling, and composting: vancouver.ca/services
   Local city websites provide schedules and apps for service reminders

Living Like a Local

Vancouverites are known for being active, eco-conscious, and community-driven. Once you’ve unpacked, explore some local favourites:

• Walk or cycle the Stanley Park Seawall

• Shop and dine at Granville Island Public Market

• Ski at Grouse, Cypress, or Seymour Mountains—just minutes from downtown

• Take a day trip along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler

• Cheer on the Canucks at Rogers Arena or the Whitecaps at BC Place

Why Choose Atlas for Your Vancouver Move?

• Over 60 years of long-distance and cross-border moving expertise

• Three locally based Atlas Agents with strong reputations: Salmons Transfer, Highland Worldwide, AMJ Vancouver, Ellis Moving & Storage, LaPorte Moving & Storage, and Premiere Van Lines

• Full-service packing, unpacking, and storage solutions

• Real-time tracking and secured, container transport

• Transparent, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees

Whether you’re comparing moving companies in Vancouver, relocating alone, or coordinating a cross-country or international move, the Atlas Trusted Agent Network has the trucks, resources and experience to get you there.

“At Atlas, we believe it’s not just the destination—it’s who you travel with.”

Get Your Free Moving Estimate Today

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Vancouver

Is moving to Vancouver a good idea?
It depends on your priorities around the pros and cons. Vancouver offers unmatched natural beauty, career opportunities in tech and film, and diverse communities. Housing costs are high, but many consider the lifestyle benefits and advantages worth it.

What are the benefits of moving to Vancouver?
Access to world-class education, outdoor recreation, a multicultural city, and career opportunities in growing industries.

Where can I buy moving boxes in Vancouver?
You can find moving supplies at hardware stores like Home Depot and Canadian Tire, or ask your Atlas Agent about professional-grade boxes and packing materials.

Why are people moving to Vancouver?
Many are drawn by job opportunities in tech and film, access to top universities, and the city’s balance of urban and outdoor living.

What tips should I know before moving to Vancouver?
Plan for the cost of living, research neighbourhoods in the GVRD, and be prepared for the mild but rainy winters.

What does moving to Vancouver cost?

The cost of moving to Vancouver depends highly on the amount of belongings moved, the distance moved, and the options selected (e.g. storage). Seek a quote from a service with a good reputation for complete up-front pricing and no hidden fees.

Can I move to Vancouver alone?
Yes—many newcomers move on their own for work or school. An Atlas Agent can provide full-service support to make the transition easier.