Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Jan 14th 2016, 9:49 pm
#16
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Have you ever been to Duncan? I would want $80k a year for moving there, Hicksville!
OP do not consider Duncan in any circumstance, going over the hat is not for the faint hearted in winter, the ambience is like a Hull caravan site. Seriously!
OP do not consider Duncan in any circumstance, going over the hat is not for the faint hearted in winter, the ambience is like a Hull caravan site. Seriously!
Jan 14th 2016, 10:23 pm
#17
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
All relative to what your used to.
80,000 would put you just under the median income for Victoria for a family.
I'll move anywhere in southern Canada for 80,000 just putting it out there....lol
80,000 would put you just under the median income for Victoria for a family.
I'll move anywhere in southern Canada for 80,000 just putting it out there....lol
Jan 14th 2016, 10:35 pm
#18
"In cruce vincam"
Joined: May 2010
Location: Mill Bay, Vancouver Island
Posts: 3,232
Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
I don't mind Duncan. I think it's quite quaint. Reminds me of the town in Back to the Future. I believe it's the smallest "city" in Canada. If you don't have to work in Victoria, the Malahat is not an issue on a daily basis. It's rarely closed due to weather. In fact I can't remember it ever closing because of the weather. Now accidents, that's another matter.
Jan 14th 2016, 11:14 pm
#19
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
I don't mind Duncan. I think it's quite quaint. Reminds me of the town in Back to the Future. I believe it's the smallest "city" in Canada. If you don't have to work in Victoria, the Malahat is not an issue on a daily basis. It's rarely closed due to weather. In fact I can't remember it ever closing because of the weather. Now accidents, that's another matter.
Jan 14th 2016, 11:53 pm
#20
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Location: Mill Bay, Vancouver Island
Posts: 3,232
Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
The road itself has a few potholes that could do with attention and sometimes the fog can be pretty dense. But then again, slow down and none of these issues has to be dangerous.
Jan 15th 2016, 2:13 am
#21
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Joined: Nov 2012
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
After almost writing off returning to Canada (left age 8 and lived in England the last 30+ years although a Canadian Citizen) after over a year of no progress in getting my husband to consider options for immigration/returning citizen, he has finally considered that Victoria, BC could be an option that might warrant further investigation (he likes the fact it has a moderate climate and some history). However, at the initial stage of investigating, based on the average salaries for our jobs in BC (Project Co-ordinator / Web Designer), we would have a combined family income of approximately C$80,000. I am just wondering how realistic it would be for a family of 4 (kids currently aged 10 and 14) to have a reasonable standard of living on that kind of combined income. Obviously we might earn more or less than the average based on our work experience / qualifications but it seemed a good place to start.
Currently, we live in a 4-bed, 2-bath, house with an integrated garage and large garden. Is it possible for us to afford something of a similar size (or slightly ismaller 3-bed house) near Victoria and still have 2 cars (if needed) and a week's vacation each year (usually camping to be honest with a more expensive holiday every 3-5 years)? I've seen that the general cost of living is fairly comparable to what we have in England via Wiki article
Any help appreciated, or if this has recently been asked, could anyone direct me to the relevant thread. Thanks.
Currently, we live in a 4-bed, 2-bath, house with an integrated garage and large garden. Is it possible for us to afford something of a similar size (or slightly ismaller 3-bed house) near Victoria and still have 2 cars (if needed) and a week's vacation each year (usually camping to be honest with a more expensive holiday every 3-5 years)? I've seen that the general cost of living is fairly comparable to what we have in England via Wiki article
Any help appreciated, or if this has recently been asked, could anyone direct me to the relevant thread. Thanks.
It is beautiful but no fun having no money to spend (even with all that beauty).
Car insurance is expensive compared to what we paid in the UK. It all eats up one wage!
Jan 15th 2016, 3:18 am
#22
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
There's nothing wrong with the road, it's the idiots that drive on it. Great bug SUVs with obligatory fog lights on all the time, screaming along at way over the speed limit. Tailgating cars to intimidate them out of the way. Or quite a few of the accidents are caused by morons performing illegal maneuvers or racing to jump lights. Or trying to turn across the traffic when there isn't enough time.
The road itself has a few potholes that could do with attention and sometimes the fog can be pretty dense. But then again, slow down and none of these issues has to be dangerous.
The road itself has a few potholes that could do with attention and sometimes the fog can be pretty dense. But then again, slow down and none of these issues has to be dangerous.
There are specific spots where the majority of the accidents happen, Lions Bay is one of the biggies, but if you just slow down and follow the speed limit, well you won't have issues.
In winter SUV's and trucks are the speed idiots, and they seem to think truck + snow = I don't need to slow down.
In summer motorcycles are the issue.
Jan 16th 2016, 2:07 am
#23
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
I think as has already been said, it really depends on expectations. An income of $80k in Victoria isn't huge, but it's manageable. I think it's also relative to where you're coming from and the lifestyle you're used to. If you live in an expensive area of the UK already and money is tight, then Victoria is probably going to be a bit cheaper. If you live in a quiet, less expensive rural part of the UK, where house prices are comparatively low, then Victoria (and its surrounding towns/areas) might seem expensive. I personally don't agree that moving to Canada for the same money you can earn in the UK is pointless, it's a lifestyle choice too. Personally, I like the openness and space we enjoy here. I like the people. I like the ocean. I like the quieter roads and less congestion. I like the schools. In fact I like lots of things and I wouldn't swap them for the same, or even more money, back in the London we left. Money is important because it pays for things and keeps a family functioning, but it doesn't have to be the be all and end all of whether to move or not.
Jan 16th 2016, 3:09 am
#25
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Joined: Mar 2014
Location: Okanagan
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Good post. I agree with your synopsis of the situation in Victoria. We wanted to live in the Okanagan but since we have got used to living on the Island we are not so sure. It all depends on your expectations. From what I have seen a lot of people live on a lot less that that on the Island. The stress levels are also much lower. You don't need a boat, RV, cabin etc. they are going to be a luxury of the past for a lot of Canadians in the future - the boomer generation have seen to that! Just remember what the BC government has just decreed - we don't want to put housing controls in place in the LM to risk the nest eggs of the boomers retirement pots.
Jan 16th 2016, 5:12 am
#26
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Nearly all the accidents were single motorcycle accidents with no other vehicles involved, and crotch rockets. The Harley riders are not generally an issue, its the hot shot speed rockets that are.
One example from this past summer. No other vehicles involved, cyclist lost control.
These are the issues on this highway every summer.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/mot...822/story.html
Speed likely a factor in fatal crash on Sea-to-Sky
From 2013 but happens several times every summer. Lead cycle in this case was doing double the 80/km limit, they just got caught speeding, no accident.
6 motorcycles nabbed for speeding on Sea to Sky Highway - British Columbia - CBC News
I do agree some accidents are caused by careless car drivers, but these single motorcycle accidents and police catching cycles going 140+ and well drive the S to S on a nice summer day going 100, and you will be passed by these riders like your standing completely still.
These riders not only put their lives at risk, but others as well, and of course can end up closing the highway for hours by speeding well over what is safe.
One example from this past summer. No other vehicles involved, cyclist lost control.
These are the issues on this highway every summer.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/mot...822/story.html
Speed likely a factor in fatal crash on Sea-to-Sky
From 2013 but happens several times every summer. Lead cycle in this case was doing double the 80/km limit, they just got caught speeding, no accident.
6 motorcycles nabbed for speeding on Sea to Sky Highway - British Columbia - CBC News
I do agree some accidents are caused by careless car drivers, but these single motorcycle accidents and police catching cycles going 140+ and well drive the S to S on a nice summer day going 100, and you will be passed by these riders like your standing completely still.
These riders not only put their lives at risk, but others as well, and of course can end up closing the highway for hours by speeding well over what is safe.
Jan 16th 2016, 5:14 am
#27
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
In general or for professionals? I like that region of BC, but looking online never seems to be a whole lot of jobs.
Jan 16th 2016, 11:26 am
#28
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Thanks for all your responses (even the off topic section on traffic and motorbikes was interesting 
). This is why I'm using this forum to get a balanced view. In terms of lifestyle, we aren't planning on getting a boat anytime soon although may consider hiring one for a vacation should we get to Canada. Our kids are involved in Scouts and Air Cadets so their extra curricular activities aren't an issue as I understand both of them are available in Victoria. I am also a Brownies leader over here (Girl Scouts but you probably already know that) and that may be a way of getting to know people if I choose to do the same in Canada.
I will certainly have another look at average wages and see if I can get more detail on Victoria specific salaries and job opportunities so thanks for that. I may also try to get some work experience as a project manager (and possibly qualifications) as that will improve my job and income prospects. I also need to sort out paperwork as my Citizenship photocard shows a 7 year old girl so may need updating.
I think my next step (as well as further research) will be to try and organise a vacation in BC to get a better idea of what to expect. I spent my early years in Fernie, and whilst I don't intend returning there (unless industry has changed from logging and mining) it might be fun to show my kids where I lived if we had enough time to take it in (as well as some tourist bits and pieces).
Finally, with regard to Project Management, does anyone know if Prince 2 and Agile are useful skills to have in terms of employment prospects, and is my Prince 2 Foundation qualification likely to be recognised. I also have a BSc in Applied Computing and my husband's degree is a BSc in Computing (Computer Communications) for reference.
). This is why I'm using this forum to get a balanced view. In terms of lifestyle, we aren't planning on getting a boat anytime soon although may consider hiring one for a vacation should we get to Canada. Our kids are involved in Scouts and Air Cadets so their extra curricular activities aren't an issue as I understand both of them are available in Victoria. I am also a Brownies leader over here (Girl Scouts but you probably already know that) and that may be a way of getting to know people if I choose to do the same in Canada.I will certainly have another look at average wages and see if I can get more detail on Victoria specific salaries and job opportunities so thanks for that. I may also try to get some work experience as a project manager (and possibly qualifications) as that will improve my job and income prospects. I also need to sort out paperwork as my Citizenship photocard shows a 7 year old girl so may need updating
.I think my next step (as well as further research) will be to try and organise a vacation in BC to get a better idea of what to expect. I spent my early years in Fernie, and whilst I don't intend returning there (unless industry has changed from logging and mining) it might be fun to show my kids where I lived if we had enough time to take it in (as well as some tourist bits and pieces).
Finally, with regard to Project Management, does anyone know if Prince 2 and Agile are useful skills to have in terms of employment prospects, and is my Prince 2 Foundation qualification likely to be recognised. I also have a BSc in Applied Computing and my husband's degree is a BSc in Computing (Computer Communications) for reference.
Jan 16th 2016, 8:21 pm
#29
"In cruce vincam"
Joined: May 2010
Location: Mill Bay, Vancouver Island
Posts: 3,232
Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Thanks for all your responses (even the off topic section on traffic and motorbikes was interesting ). This is why I'm using this forum to get a balanced view. In terms of lifestyle, we aren't planning on getting a boat anytime soon although may consider hiring one for a vacation should we get to Canada. Our kids are involved in Scouts and Air Cadets so their extra curricular activities aren't an issue as I understand both of them are available in Victoria. I am also a Brownies leader over here (Girl Scouts but you probably already know that) and that may be a way of getting to know people if I choose to do the same in Canada. I will certainly have another look at average wages and see if I can get more detail on Victoria specific salaries and job opportunities so thanks for that. I may also try to get some work experience as a project manager (and possibly qualifications) as that will improve my job and income prospects. I also need to sort out paperwork as my Citizenship photocard shows a 7 year old girl so may need updating . I think my next step (as well as further research) will be to try and organise a vacation in BC to get a better idea of what to expect. I spent my early years in Fernie, and whilst I don't intend returning there (unless industry has changed from logging and mining) it might be fun to show my kids where I lived if we had enough time to take it in (as well as some tourist bits and pieces). Finally, with regard to Project Management, does anyone know if Prince 2 and Agile are useful skills to have in terms of employment prospects, and is my Prince 2 Foundation qualification likely to be recognised. I also have a BSc in Applied Computing and my husband's degree is a BSc in Computing (Computer Communications) for reference.
). This is why I'm using this forum to get a balanced view. In terms of lifestyle, we aren't planning on getting a boat anytime soon although may consider hiring one for a vacation should we get to Canada. Our kids are involved in Scouts and Air Cadets so their extra curricular activities aren't an issue as I understand both of them are available in Victoria. I am also a Brownies leader over here (Girl Scouts but you probably already know that) and that may be a way of getting to know people if I choose to do the same in Canada. I will certainly have another look at average wages and see if I can get more detail on Victoria specific salaries and job opportunities so thanks for that. I may also try to get some work experience as a project manager (and possibly qualifications) as that will improve my job and income prospects. I also need to sort out paperwork as my Citizenship photocard shows a 7 year old girl so may need updating . I think my next step (as well as further research) will be to try and organise a vacation in BC to get a better idea of what to expect. I spent my early years in Fernie, and whilst I don't intend returning there (unless industry has changed from logging and mining) it might be fun to show my kids where I lived if we had enough time to take it in (as well as some tourist bits and pieces). Finally, with regard to Project Management, does anyone know if Prince 2 and Agile are useful skills to have in terms of employment prospects, and is my Prince 2 Foundation qualification likely to be recognised. I also have a BSc in Applied Computing and my husband's degree is a BSc in Computing (Computer Communications) for reference.
Jan 16th 2016, 8:24 pm
#30
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Re: Family Income approx C$80,000 - Victoria BC
Sparks, Brownies, Guides, are all very popular on the Island. My wife is some sort of High Priestess in the local chapter here in the Cowichan Valley (just to the North of Victoria). I must admit I don't really understand the funny handshakes and the ritual chanting, but the girls all seem to have a really good time and it's certainly a great way to meet like minded people.