Cost of Living in Coquitlam BC: Rent, Food, Transport, Updated Prices [2024]

Coquitlam, British Columbia, is a rapidly growing city that offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Located just 30 kilometres from downtown Vancouver. However, understanding the cost of living in Coquitlam BC is essential for students who are planning to move here. Also, they should estimate the main expenses anticipated in the cost of living in Coquitlam BC.

From housing to groceries, transportation to entertainment, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect in terms of expenses in Coquitlam, BC. Let’s explore in detail the cost of living in Coquitlam BC, so that students can be well-prepared for a smooth transition as they pursue their studies in Canada.

Cost of Living in Coquitlam British Columbia Overview

The average monthly cost of living in Coquitlam BC for a single person is roughly CAD 3536. This estimate includes rent, which is around CAD 2300 for a single-bedroom apartment whether in the city or outskirts of Coquitlam. Other expenses are food expenses which are about CAD 747 per month, and transportation costs which are around CAD 83.5 monthly.

One must understand that the total cost of living in Coquitlam BC for international students may vary depending on lifestyle, location of residence, and personal preferences. In the upcoming title, we will detail the living expenses and provide essential information for students planning to study in Coquitlam Province, Canada. This helps students manage their finances more effectively.

Check Out Cost of Living in Canada: Detailed Guide [2024]

Costs of Accommodation in Coquitlam BC

Monthly housing costs are one of the most significant contributors to the budget in the cost of living in Coquitlam. The cost of buying or renting a home in this city has been steadily rising due to its proximity to Vancouver and growing demand. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs around CAD 2300 per month.

If you are looking for something more affordable, moving to the outskirts of Coquitlam can reduce the rent amount. Gaining insight into the rental cost will help students to find accommodation that suits their needs and stays within their budget. Here is a summary of the average room rent for various types of apartments, whether located in the city centre or beyond:

Apartment Type	Location	Approx. Monthly Cost
1 bedroom	in the City Centre	CAD 2396
1 bedroom	Outside of Centre	CAD 2311
3 bedrooms	in the City Centre	CAD 4045
3 bedrooms	Outside of Centre	CAD 3205

Cost of a Utility in Coquitlam British Columbia 

Utility bills in Coquitlam are generally in line with the provincial average. Residents can expect to pay around CAD 144 per month for basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services for an 85m² apartment. Internet services will add another CAD 80 to CAD 100 per month, depending on the provider and speed. Utility costs are an important part of the cost of living in Coquitlam BC.

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Cost of Dining in Coquitlam BC

On average, students in Coquitlam spend around CAD 747 per month on food. However, frequently dining out in Coquitlam can contribute to higher living expenses in Coquitlam British Columbia. If students prefer cooking meals in their room or apartment in Coquitlam BC can be a more budget-friendly approach. 

By preparing their meals at residence, students can significantly cut down on extra expenses and better manage their overall cost of living in Coquitlam. Here is a breakdown of the average cost of dining at different types of restaurants in the city:

Type of Restaurant	Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant
Lunce, Inexpensive Restaurant	CAD 19.9
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course	CAD 70.6
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)	CAD 14
Cappuccino (regular)	CAD 4.78

Cost of Grocery in Coquitlam BC

Grocery costs in Coquitlam are moderate compared to other cities in British Columbia. On average, a single person can expect to spend around CAD 300 to CAD 400 per month on groceries, depending on their dietary preferences and shopping habits. Further which in turn, influences your overall cost of living in Coquitlam BC.

Cooking meals at home instead of dining out frequently will also contribute to lowering students’ overall food expenses. Below is a table that outlines the average grocery expenses in Coquitlam BC for those who plan to cook at home:

Grocery Product	Approx Price
Apples, 1 kg	CAD 6.02
Banana, 1 kg	CAD 2.75
Oranges, 1 kg	CAD 6.28
Tomato, 1 kg	CAD 7.67
Potato, 1 kg	CAD 3.61
Onion, 1 kg	CAD 4.88
Milk, 1 L	CAD 1.87
Bread, 0.5 kg	CAD 2.67
Rice, 1 kg	CAD 6.88
Eggs, x12	CAD 5.14
Cheese, 1 kg	CAD 12
Water, 1 L	CAD 1.35

Cost of Transportation in Coquitlam BC

Coquitlam is well-connected to the Greater Vancouver area through public transit, making it easier to commute without a car. The city is served by the SkyTrain’s Evergreen Extension, which connects Coquitlam to downtown Vancouver and other parts of the Lower Mainland.

The monthly public transportation pass cost in Coquitlam is around CAD 106. This includes unlimited travel on buses and SkyTrains throughout the Vancouver area. To aid in your planning, we have compiled average costs for various transportation options available in Coquitlam British Columbia, as shown in the table below.

Mode of Transport	Approx Cost
Ticket for Monthly Pass in a Public transport	CAD 106
Ticket for Local Public transport	CAD 3.09
Local tariff for the Taxi Ride of 8 km	CAD 18.7
1 L or 0.26 gal Gas / Petrol	CAD 1.78

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Miscellaneous Costs in Coquitlam BC

Apart from the major expenses like housing, transportation, and groceries, there are other miscellaneous costs to consider like membership gym, cinema or theatre tickets, apparel costs, and short doctor appointments when living in Coquitlam. 

Miscellaneous costs are covered on your overall living expenses in Coquitlam BC. It’s important to keep track of these smaller expenses as they can impact your overall cost of living in Coquitlam BC. Below is a table that details these common costs.

Miscellaneous	Approx Cost
Doctor’s visit	CAD 121
Gym Membership	CAD 32.9
Movie Ticket	CAD 10.1
Brand Jeans	CAD 56.7
Brand Sneakers	CAD 104

Cost of Living in Coquitlam BC Compared to Other Cities

Coquitlam British Columbia ranks 3rd among the 153 states or cities in Canada. Due to the expensive cost of living it ranks 6% of the most expensive cities worldwide. Knowing the cost of living in Coquitlam with respect to other nearby Canadian cities can help you make smarter financial decisions and manage your budget effectively. 

To give you a better idea, we compare Coquitlam’s cost of living with cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Surrey BC, Calgary and Canada. This comparison will help you see how Coquitlam stacks up in the living expenses category and guide students in choosing the best financial option for their situation.

Cost of Living City Wise	Average Cost of living	Comparison with Cost of Living in Coquitlam,  Ontario
Cost of Living in Toronto	CAD 3510	Lower than Coquitlam BC
Cost of Living in Vancouver	CAD 3494	Lower than Coquitlam BC
Cost of Living in Surrey BC	CAD 3280	Lower than Coquitlam BC
Cost of Living in Calgary	CAD 2879	Lower than Coquitlam BC
Cost of Living in Canada	CAD 2782	Lower than Coquitlam BC

Further, use our Cost of Living Calculator to find out how much you’ll need in your desired city. Estimate your study abroad expenses customised as per your preferred course, university, country, accommodation, and lifestyle.

Average Tuition Fees in Coquitlam BC

Coquitlam is home to a range of educational institutions, including public colleges, and universities. The city’s commitment to providing quality education is evident through its well-established schools and post-secondary institutions. Students can choose from a variety of programs, ranging from arts and humanities to sciences and technology. 

The education system in Coquitlam is designed to cater to the needs of both local and international students, offering a diverse and inclusive environment. Below we have given the average tuition fees at Coquitlam College and Vancouver Career College.

Institution Name	Approx. Tuition Fees (Annual)
Coquitlam College	CAD 18387
Vancouver Career College	CAD 16000 to CAD 42000

Several factors can influence the tuition fees in Coquitlam, BC. These factors include the type of institution, the program of study, and the student’s residency status. Additionally, students can explore financial aid and scholarships available from universities, which are detailed on the official websites of Canadian universities.

Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in Coquitlam BC

Coquitlam, BC, is a beautiful and dynamic city known for its quality of life and diverse opportunities. However, managing the cost of living in Coquitlam can be challenging, especially if you’re new to the area or budgeting for the first time. From housing to groceries, understanding how to effectively manage your expenses can help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Here are some practical tips for managing the cost of living in Coquitlam, BC.

Create a Detailed Budget

The first step in managing your cost of living is to create a detailed budget. This involves tracking your income and expenses to understand where your money is going. Include categories such as rent, utilities, transportation, food, and entertainment. By having a clear picture of your financial situation, you can make informed decisions and avoid overspending.

• Track Your Spending: Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor your expenses regularly.
• Set Realistic Limits: Allocate a specific amount for each category based on your income and financial goals.

Find Affordable Housing

To manage your cost of living in Coquitlam, consider these strategies for finding affordable accommodation: Renting a room in a shared house or apartment can significantly reduce your rental costs. Some areas in Coquitlam may offer lower rent prices compared to others. Research various neighbourhoods to find one that fits your budget. If you’re a student, check if your educational institution offers affordable on-campus or nearby housing options.

Optimise Transportation Costs

Coquitlam has a well-developed public transportation system, which can help you save on transportation costs. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Use Public Transit: Invest in a monthly transit pass to save on daily commute expenses. Coquitlam is well-connected by SkyTrain, buses, and other transit services.
• Carpool or Bike: If public transit isn’t convenient, consider carpooling with colleagues or friends. Alternatively, biking is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to get around.

Manage Utility Costs

Utilities like electricity, water, and the internet can add up quickly. Here are some tips to keep these costs under control:

• Conserve Energy: Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use. Use energy-efficient appliances to lower your electricity bills.
• Monitor Water Usage: Take shorter showers and fix leaks to reduce your water bills.
• Shop for Internet Plans: Compare different Internet service providers to find the most cost-effective plan that meets your needs.

Save on Groceries

Grocery bills can be a significant part of your monthly expenses. To save money on food, consider the following tips:

• Plan Your Weekly Meals: Plan your meals for the week and make a shopping list to help prevent unplanned purchases.
• Use Coupons and Discounts: Take advantage of grocery store coupons, loyalty programs, and seasonal sales.
• Buy Grocery in Bulk: Try buying non-perishable items like rice, beans, whole grains, etc. in bulk to save on unit costs.

Build an Emergency Fund

Having an emergency fund can provide financial security and help you manage unexpected expenses. Aim to save a portion of your income each month to build up a reserve for emergencies, such as medical expenses or car repairs.

Review and Adjust Your Budget Regularly

Regularly reviewing and adjusting your budget is essential to ensure you stay on track with your financial goals. Monitor your spending, assess your budget periodically, and make adjustments as needed to accommodate changes in your income or expenses.

• Evaluate Your Expenses: Review your budget monthly to identify areas where you can cut costs or make improvements.
• Update Your Budget: Adjust your budget to reflect any changes in your financial situation, such as a new job or a change in living expenses.

Conclusion

Managing the cost of living in Coquitlam, BC, requires careful planning and smart financial habits. By creating a detailed budget, finding affordable housing, optimising transportation and utility costs, and seeking financial assistance, you can effectively manage your expenses and enjoy your time in this vibrant city. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving financial stability and making the most of your experience in Coquitlam.

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FAQs on Cost of Living in Coquitlam BC

So, this was all about the cost of living in Coquitlam BC. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.