How much does it cost to retire in British Columbia? The answer will depend on the type of retirement community or home care service you choose and the level of care you need. Once you have determined these factors, start researching the associated costs and find a home care service or retirement community that works with your budget.
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Closer look at BC senior care costs
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According to the CMHC’s Senior Housing Report, in 2018, the average cost of renting an independent living seniors’ housing space in British Columbia was $2,250 per month, one of the lowest averages in the country. The province had the highest average cost for "heavy care spaces" in all of Canada, with average cost being $6,011. Amenities are included quite often in the monthly rent, such as the cost of meals, utilities, and on-site medical services and a registered nurse.
Ages and stages of retirement
BC's 55 plus communities come in a wide variety of styles, including gated communities to ocean-front spots to secluded resort-like bungalow developments nestled deep in the interior. Costs range from $300,000 to more than $1 million for an investment in this carefree lifestyle.
British Columbia retirement residences, as surveyed below, range in cost between $1,500 and $6,000. If you choose to try and stay in your own home, home care costs in BC average between $15 and $75 an hour, depending on the type and level of care required.
The following tables provide a more detailed look at some costs based on care required. This is only an overview, and you will need to consult with individual BC retirement homes to find out what care and services are included, how their rates vary, and what your final costs will be for the suite and care type that you require.
When considering the cost of moving into a retirement home, remind yourself that all monthly costs are covered under one umbrella, including housing, maintenance, food and more.
Independent living seniors' care costs in BC
The following list surveys what retirement homes cost in a variety of locations in BC.
City
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Suite
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Sq footage
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Cost/mo (starting)
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1 br
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617 sq ft
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$2,775
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studio
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350 sq ft
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$2,690
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studio
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416 sq ft
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3,160
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Studio
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400 sq ft
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$1,954
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1 br
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539 sq ft
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$2,475
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1 br
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555 sq ft
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$3,500
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2 br
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669 sq ft
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$4,760
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Studio
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380 sq ft
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$3,700
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2 br +
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964 sq ft
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$8,370
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Assisted living costs
The minimum monthly rate you will pay for assisted living care in BC is $921.40 per month, as determined by the provincial government. For couples, the minimum monthly rate for living together is $1,485. However, the monthly client rate is based on the income of both you and your spouse, and this is subject to a minimum and maximum monthly rate. For families who can afford more, though, private care offers a variety of features and amenities you will not find in many other homes.
On a separate page, we take a fuller, more detailed look at assisted living costs in BC.
Long term care costs
Long-term care costs vary depending on the type of suite, duration of stay and length of stay. Spots in long-term care residences are determined solely by need.
Approximate long-term care residence costs:
Type of stay
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Daily - Monthly Rates
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Long-stay basic
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$54 – $1620
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Long-stay semi-private
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$62 – $1863
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Long-stay private
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$72 – $2167
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Short-stay
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$35 – $1053
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As you browse the list of retirement home options below, ensure you have a clear understanding of what type of services and amenities are included with your rent.
Listings below give specific rates:
Click here to refine this list
3630 Brown rd, west kelowna,
British Columbia, V4T7Y9
The Heritage Retirement Residence encompasses an active living & entertaining lifestyle with supportive & assisted living measures, Our highly skilled registered health care team will provide assistance when you need it.
3338 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver,
British Columbia, V6S 0A6
This beautiful Vancouver seniors' community offers a variety of private suites, along with community services including dining, wellness activities and more.
4088 Blundell Road, Richmond,
British Columbia, V7C 5V1
Like a condominium, you furnish your suite with the comforts from your home, including pets. At Gilmore Gardens, it's the people, residents and staff alike, that make this independent senior living community so special.
3235 Skaha Lake Road, Penticton,
British Columbia, V2A 6G5
The Concorde has a warm and welcoming atmosphere with comfortable dining & excellent views of the mountains, along with extensive program activities; The Concorde is perfect for an active living & entertaining lifestyle.
3920 198th Street, Langley,
British Columbia, V3A1E1
We believe that the desire for fulfillment and living a life with purpose does not diminish with a diagnosis of dementia. We focus on the possibilities of each person, supporting each to live with laughter, love and joy.
10775 Delsom Crescent, Delta,
British Columbia, V4C 0A8
Sunstone Rentals is the newest retirement community located in North Delta. A 70 unit independent living facility for those 55+, offers retirement community living for those downsizing.
7051 Moffat Road, Richmond,
British Columbia, V6Y 3W2
Courtyard Gardens offers an enriching community, with quality staff & friendly & caring environment. 107 Private & Subsidized suites in Assisted Living, 31 Private Pay Extended Care studio suites & 1 Respite Suite.
1550 West 49th Avenue,, Vancouver,
British Columbia, V6M 0B3
Located in Vancouver’s Kerrisdale neighbourhood, Granville Gardens offers residents the opportunity to stay active and live in a well-appointed urban community, surrounded by shopping centres, parks, community centres.
777 Belleville St., Victoria,
British Columbia, V8V OB6
2799 Yew Street, Vancouver,
British Columbia, V6K 4W2
A senior living community in Vancouver, BC offering luxurious seniors' apartments in an active community, along with assisted living and other options.
867 KLO Road, Kelowna,
British Columbia, V1Y 9G5
Living at Hawthorn Park Retirement Residence means you have choices & can customize the services you need, as you need them. We offer three lifestyle opportunities; supportive living, assisted living & complex care.
649 8th Avenue, New Westminster,
British Columbia, V3M 2R2
Thornebridge Gardens is one of New Westminster’s finest retirement residences, providing luxurious, worry-free surroundings with life enriching services that inspire healthy senior living. Many options are available!
10928 132 Street, Surrey,
British Columbia, V3T 3W7
At Camellia Residences, The nature of life here is like living in a well appointed all-inclusive resort, where incredible food and pleasant activities provide an environment for friendships and social interaction.
600 Fairways Place, Cobble Hill,
British Columbia, V0R1L1
Arbutus Ridge is a 50 + seaside community located minutes from Victoria via a beautiful drive over the Malahat. There are 646 homes distributed over a park like 150 acres interlinked with the Arbutus Ridge Golf Course.
13751 - 74th Avenue, Surrey,
British Columbia, V3W 1A8
Welcome to Arbourside Court, a retirement home in the heart of Surrey, BC. Proudly serving our senior residents since 2001. Many activities to enjoy and new friendships to be made, we are always bustling with laughter.
22301 Fraser Highway, Langley,
British Columbia, V3A 4H5
We feature comfortable, open-concept suites in Langley for seniors who want to enjoy their independence and the freedom of all-inclusive living.
1737 56 Street, Tsawwassen BC,
British Columbia, V4L 0A5
The Wexford offers all-inclusive, independent senior living one km from Tsawwassen town centre. Bright and spacious suites and costal-inspired living areas are beautifully accented by a rooftop garden and courtyard.
256 Government Street, Duncan,
British Columbia, V9L 1A4
Very wonderful group of friendly residents who love to do things together. Residents Group arrange entertainment, winemaking and wine & cheese parties each month. They are helpful and welcoming. Wedgwood feels like home!
917 Avrill Road, Victoria,
British Columbia, V9B 0T2
Cherish brings a new approach to senior living that has been called innovative and the way of the future. Our Independent Living rental suites and condominiums provide choices for estate preservation and peace of mind.
438 West King Edward Avenue, Vancouver,
British Columbia, V5Y2J4
438 West King Edward Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Y 2J4
Opal offers a full continuum of support from Independent Living, Assisted living all the way to Complex Care, allowing the opportunity for aging in place.
1345 56th Street, Tsawwassen,
British Columbia, V4L 2P9
Featuring bright suites surrounded by pedestrian pathways, and a two-acre water feature in Tsawwassen town-centre. Two choices in all-inclusive senior housing: independent living and a licensed Care Centre suites.
11657 Ritchie Avenue, Maple Ridge,
British Columbia, V2X 8X3
Named one of the top 3 retirement communities in Maple Ridge, Greystone is a premier Park Place residence, with the comfort and services you need to maintain your active lifestyle in a warm and welcoming community.
280 Government Street, Duncan,
British Columbia, V9L 0B5
At Sherwood House we offer active adult and independent retirement living, pet friendly, featuring delicious homemade meals, daily activities, weekly housekeeping in a secure environment in Duncan, BC on Vancouver Island
726 Valley Road, Kelowna,
British Columbia, V1V 0E9
The Vineyards approach to assisted living & memory care allows people to go about life as they always have, despite health changes. Beautiful suites & homemade meals. Discover for yourself why we say Life’s Better Here
455 Kingston Street, Victoria,
British Columbia, V8V 1V8
Built in 1998, the Camelot is located in the heart of James Bay. We offer a warm comfortable home environment in a quiet location, right downtown by the Inner Harbour. Rents include Dinners, Housekeeping, and Laundry.
1575 George St, White Rock,
British Columbia, V4B 0B6
At Oceana PARC, our residents thrive with access to physical and mental fitness programming, social activities, chef-prepared meals, transportation and more. Come discover why life is better at our new residence.
#100 3300 Valleyview Drive, Kamloopos,
British Columbia, V2C 0G9
The Residence offers service-oriented living at its finest. With a shopping plaza and stunning views, Orchards Walk is Kamloops’ premier new neighbourhood. Choose between spacious studios and one or two bedroom suites.
725 - 22nd Street, West Vancouver,
British Columbia, V7V 0B3
Westerleigh PARC offers refined retirement living in one of West Vancouver's most sought after addresses. Studio, 1- and 2-bedroom suites available.
#100 - 2180 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford,
British Columbia, V3G0B1
A spectacular new residential tower in Abbotsford, Mahogany Platinum combines convenience, livability and luxury for seniors looking for an independent lifestyle community. Only a few suites left.
5840 Glover Rd, Langley,
British Columbia, V3A 9K3
An oasis in the heart of Langley City, Magnolia Gardens features bright, spacious suites and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Two choices in senior living: 115 independent living suites, and a 40 suite licensed Care Centre.
135 West 15th Street, North Vancouver,
British Columbia, V7M 1R7
Summerhill PARC near the heart of Lonsdale and 15th Avenue in beautiful North Vancouver offers a highly social retirement community living experience. 1- and 2-bedroom suites available.
3633 Mount Seymour Pkwy, North Vancouver,
British Columbia, V7H 0A9
Located near Mt. Seymour in Vancouver's North Shore, Cedar Springs PARC offers retirement living within a beautiful natural environment. 1- and 2-bedroom suites available.
7230 Acorn Avenue, Burnaby,
British Columbia, V5E 4N9
Mulberry PARC is a welcoming home and community in the heart of Burnaby, BC with the largest 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom retirement home suites available.
4388 Garry St, Richmond,
British Columbia, V7E 2V2
Wisteria Place, beckons to active seniors seeking vibrant and satisfying daily life. Majestic views, park greenery, a Zen garden and Koi pond, bring nature, beauty, and peace. Let us welcome you home to life in harmony.
1789 Primrose Court, Kamloops,
British Columbia, V1S 0B7
12275-224th Street, Maple Ridge,
British Columbia, V2X 6H5
32331 - 7th Ave., Mission,
British Columbia, V2V 6T7
1831 Parkview Crescent, Kelowna,
British Columbia, V1X 7G7
45650 Patten Avenue, Chilliwack,
British Columbia, V2P 1S4
13853 102nd Ave, Surrey,
British Columbia, V3T 5P6
45555 Hodgins Avenue, Chilliwack,
British Columbia, V2P 1P3
32679 - 6th Ave., Mission,
British Columbia, V2V 1Y8
628 Tranquille Road, Kamloops,
British Columbia, V2B 3H6
1222 King George Blvd., Surrey,
British Columbia, V4A 9W6
9168 Corbould Street, Chilliwack,
British Columbia, V2P 8A1
150 W. 29th Street, North Vancouver,
British Columbia, V7N 0A1
8888-202 Street, Langley,
British Columbia, V1M 4A7
4108 Norfolk Street, Burnaby,
British Columbia, V5G 0B4
6676 203rd Street, Langley,
British Columbia, V2Y 2Z1
Seniors' care costs in BC can vary widely, based on a number of different factors. You can reduce retirement home costs by looking around and finding the option that suits you the very best. Consider how each of a variety of factors affects the costs, and how important any of these factors is to you. These include:
- Physical location of the retirement home
- Square footage of the suite, the number of bedrooms and other aspects of size
- Type of care offered. There is, of course, a great difference between assisted living and Alzheimer's care or memory care.
- The extra care required. This is sometimes included in the cost based on care, but in many cases, extra care is focused on a fee per care required. You will have to consult with individual retirement care homes to find out the difference between costs for bating assistance, transfer assistance and other extended care options.
Can we afford it? Can we afford not to?
Anyone moving into a retirement home in the province of British Columbia needs to be diligent in getting to the bottom of all the costs associated with each home or residence before you move in. You can expect homes to be transparent about this, of course, but talk to residents and get their feedback also. Be aware of potential changes to care costs and affordability, such as lease or rental increases or changes to your income or investments. See an overview of how others afford senior care.
Paying for seniors' care may be easier than you think. You will no longer be paying heat and hydro, property taxes and all other monthly and annual expenses that you pay as a homeowner living in your own residence. When many people finally sit down and figure it out, they are amazed at what they can afford.
Further resources
For information about subsidies, tax credits and support for seniors in British Columbia visit the Canada Revenue Agency. For greater details about your options, and other civic advice, visit the provincial government's website, Assisted Living in BC.
