What It’s Really Like Living In Canada

After almost four years of living in Canada, I can confidently say I’m over the honeymoon phase (mostly). Yes, I still gaze at the incredible mountains and lakes and of course, I still fan girl over spotting a bear (from a very safe distance). But for me Canada is now home and I have settled into the flow of life here. 

So, what you might be wondering is: what is it actually like to live in Canada?

Well, the answer isn’t just snow and syrup (though trust me, there’s loads of both). Lucky for you I’m here to break down the real day-to-day experience and share what life is actually like.

Here’s the real tea on what it’s like to live in Canada as a young Brit abroad!

The Winter…

Let’s get things straight. Yes, Canada is cold and I mean really cold.

Most of my time here has been spent in Kelowna, British Columbia, which is known for its warm summers and relatively mild winters compared to the rest of Canada.

Now, the key word here is mild winters  but what does “mild” even mean to a Canadian? Think a casual -15°C (I’m serious). In Kelowna, for the most part, winters are fairly gentle with some snowfall but there have definitely been a few days where temperatures plunge below -25°C.

Before anyone says, “You haven’t even felt real Canadian cold,” I’ve spent winters visiting Alberta and Saskatchewan, so I know exactly what proper cold feels like.

While visiting Saskatoon a few winters ago, Wakaw Lake froze so solidly that we were able to ice skate right on it. Now that was a real Canadian winter in full swing, even though the locals kept telling us how lucky we were because the coldest day “only” hit around -35°C while I was there.

If you’re not a fan of freezing cold or heavy snow, stick to milder areas like Victoria or Vancouver Island. But trust me, you haven’t experienced a true Canadian winter until you’ve stepped outside and felt that bone-chilling, face-numbing cold that makes you question everything.

The Cost of Living – Surprisingly Pricey

Here’s one I definitely want to set straight. Before moving, I had this idea that Canada would be cheaper than the UK—maybe you’ve heard that too? And yes, some things are more affordable, like clothing, ….

But in my opinion, Canada is not a budget-friendly move, especially if you’re living in British Columbia like I am.

Even basic supermarket items are noticeably more expensive here compared to the UK. Things like cheese, fresh fruit and veg, bread, baked goods and Alcohol. Trust me, there are no £5 bottles of wine here!

Now onto rent and housing. Since moving to Kelowna, BC, I’ve lived in a few shared houses with roommates. Rent for just a bedroom (with shared kitchen and bathroom) has ranged from $900 CAD to $1,300 CAD per month. That’s not a full apartment, just a room. Wild, right?

And don’t forget the tipping culture, tipping in Canada is expected pretty much everywhere—15–20% is the norm at restaurants, cafés, hair salons, and even when getting takeout. It all adds up quickly.

The People – Friendly, But Hard to Make Friends?

Canadians really do live up to their reputation — people are genuinely friendly. Strangers say hi on the street, chat on the bus, and small talk is totally normal. Coming from the UK, where that would be… a bit weird, it was a fun surprise.

But while Canadians are polite and welcoming on the surface, building deeper friendships takes time, especially as an expat. I’ve found it particularly tricky to integrate into existing friend groups. Back in the UK, it’s more common to hang out in larger groups and welcome new people in but here it can feel a bit harder to break into those established circles.

Socializing also looks a little different here. Instead of spontaneous after-work pub trips like back home, it’s more common to hang out outdoors such as hikes, lake days, or weekend road trips. Which don’t get me wrong I absolutely love but it does make it harder to casually meet people, especially in winter.

I have found community in pockets through work, mutual friends, and shared travel experiences. But it’s taken time, and I still don’t have a tight friend group. If you’re curious about how I’ve navigated making new friends abroad, the struggles that came with it and how I eventually started to find my people, check out my blog post What I Wish I Knew Before Moving Abroad Alone.

Fashion

When it comes to fashion in Canada and here I’m mostly talking about British Columbia since that’s where I’ve lived, it’s all about a casual yet put-together vibe.

It’s not quite the full tracksuit and hoodie look you might see in parts of England nor is it just wearing a giant winter jacket year-round.

If you are unfamiliar with the “BC Girl fit” let me break it down for you. It’s a combination of Lululemon leggings, oversized hoodies and a wardrobe full of Aritizia pieces, perfect for a smart casual look even if it does break the bank…

Activewear is huge here, its basically everyday wear, wether youre getting coffee, going to the store, hiking and even … people love it.

Would I Recommend Moving to Canada?

Honestly — yes, I would.

Moving to Canada has completely changed my life. I’m so much happier, more outdoorsy, and always up for an adventure. But it hasn’t been perfect — making friends takes time, its expensive and hard to fit in right away.

Living abroad has helped me grow in ways I never expected. It forces you out of your comfort zone and into a completely new version of yourself. I’ve found so much joy in the everyday moments here, even the ones that feel wildly different to home.

Just like any country, Canada isnt perfect but if youre looking for an adventure snd opne to change Canada is an incredible place to live.

Thinking of making the move? Already abroad and feeling the highs and lows? I’d love to hear from you.

Follow along on Instagram/TikTok @simplysophie07, TikTok and check more real stories, tips, and relatable content on life abroad in your 20s .