5.5 affordable areas to rent in the City of Vancouver
September 25, 2014
#1 Marpole:
With a three-per-cent vacancy rate, it is no surprise that Marpole is one of the most affordable areas as for as rental rates go, in the city. The average two-bedroom apartment is as low as $1,122. Talk about affordable! Generally speaking, the higher the vacancy rate, the lower the rental price and slower growth in rental rate. This is good news for tighter-budget renters, as they may be able to afford a bigger place. Marpole is one of Vancouver’s oldest communities with plenty of lowrise apartment buildings. So, if you’re looking for a charming heritage neighbourhood, look no further.#2 Mount Pleasant/Renfrew Heights:
This is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood — whether you’re a foodie, shopaholic or nightlife enthusiast, Mount Pleasant is a hub for gourmet restaurants, eclectic shops and extravagant lounges and bars . Proximity to downtown makes it suitable for families, young professionals and artists. As the second runner-up, the average two-bedroom apartment is $1,275. The neighbourhood is surrounded by mountains, which offer a gorgeous backdrop to the city’s skyscrapers. Mount Pleasant is truly a pleasant place to live, work and play.#3 Southeast Vancouver:
As the main gateway between downtown Vancouver and Richmond, this small but lively neighbourhood stretches along East 55 Ave., to East 52 Ave. The area is especially known for its bakeries, local produce shops and European-inspired delis. While Southeast Vancouver serves as a major commercial and retail centre, it also has a large residential market that is home to more than 110,00 families and young professionals. A two-bedroom apartment in this neighbourhood goes for about $1,282. The area is very diverse and welcoming, as it is a preferred living-destination among immigrants.#4 South Granville/Oak:
Known as one of Vancouver’s most prestigious shopping districts and culture hotspot, this neighbourhood is great for renters who are looking for a luxurious lifestyle. But it comes with a hefty price tag, as this community is more expensive than the other areas on our list. A two-bedroom apartment in this neighbourhood runs an average $1,610. But if you’re an art junkie, you might want to consider this city. The South Granville boasts more than 16 art galleries and of course, the annual outdoors art exhibition — The ArtWalk.#5 Kitsilano
This is a beautiful city located south of the English Bay. Although it is situated outside the downtown core, the city is well-serviced by public transportation—making commuting and exploring a breeze. Nicknamed “Kits” by locals, it is most known for the Kisilano Beach, a local hotspot among residents and tourists alike. Because Kits is dominated by highrise condos and apartment buildings, it has become a popular area to reside among young professionals, newly-weds and students. For such as a prime neighbourhood, the average two-bedroom apartment is $1620.
5.5 East Hastings:
Second to Marpole, this community also offers one of the cheapest rental rates in the city, as a two-bedroom apartment goes for an average of $1,179. The challenging nature of this weathered neighbourhood doesn't quite make our list, but there is some long-term hope for the area. In March, the city approved a $1-billion community improvement plan that promises to revitalize the area over the next 30 years. Renters can look towards the addition of 3,000 new rental units. Although this neighbourhood has character — to say the least — this $1-billion investment is sure to bring some change!About Tal Klachook
Tal Klachook is a journalism student at Carleton University. She is currently an Editorial Intern at Yellow Pages NextHome. Obsessed with all things related to cakes and social media, she enjoys learning and writing about the latest real estate trends.