The Hidden Costs of Living in Surrey BC

Everyone says Surrey is “more affordable than Vancouver.” And sure, the home prices are lower. But what nobody tells you is how quickly the sneaky costs pile up once you live here.

I’m Darin Germyn, a local REALTOR® who’s helped families buy and sell in Surrey for years. I’ve seen way too many people get blindsided by expenses they didn’t budget for. This post will show you the real costs so you can move with your eyes wide open, not your wallet wide open.

Story: The Daycare Shock

A client once told me she toured more daycares than houses when buying in Surrey. She wasn’t joking. Full-time daycare runs $1,000 to $1,500 a month if you can even find a spot.

And if your kid loves soccer or gymnastics? Congrats, you’ve just joined the $2,000 a season club. Between gear, fees, and waitlists, family costs can feel like a second mortgage.

Reality Check: “Affordable” homes don’t mean affordable lifestyles.

Myth vs. Reality: Transportation

Myth: Living outside Vancouver saves you money.
Reality: You’ll likely need two cars.

Surrey is huge, transit is patchy, and unless you live beside a SkyTrain line, driving is your new reality. Add in gas prices among the highest in North America and ICBC insurance hikes just for living in Surrey, and suddenly saving money means spending hundreds more each month.

Pro Tip: Factor in two-car households when budgeting, even if you only plan on one.

Mini Scene: The Heating Bill Surprise

It’s a freezing January night. You’ve budgeted $100 for hydro. Then your bill shows up: $400.

Electric baseboard heating is common in Surrey condos and townhomes, and electricity costs almost double what natural gas does in British Columbia. One cold snap can wreck your monthly budget.

Quick Stat: Surrey homeowners paid around $2,300 in 2024 for water and sewer alone, on top of hydro.

Strong Opinion: The Strata Gamble

Strata fees look harmless until they’re not. I’ve seen owners hit with $90,000 “special levies” for repairs. That’s not a typo.

If you’re buying a condo or townhome, don’t just ask about the fees. Dig into the repair history and upcoming projects. A cheap strata can cost you dearly later.

Did You Know? Some stratas cover almost nothing. Others cover heat, hot water, even insurance. Always compare.

The Wrap Up

Surrey looks affordable on paper. But when you add daycare, transportation, utilities, taxes, and surprise bills, the numbers tell a different story.

The good news? If you plan smart, you can avoid the regret I see all too often. The market is changing, and people who prepare early get the advantage.

What if I have any questions about moving to Surrey or White Rock, BC?

Selecting an excellent real estate professional is key to a successful home purchase. The Germyn Group, with our deep understanding of South Surrey/White Rock and its real estate dynamics, is committed to guiding you every step of the way.

We invite you to book a consultation with us. During our meeting, we’ll discuss your needs, preferences, and any questions you might have about the real estate market.

As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that the right home is more than just a property; it’s a foundation for your future. With the Germyn Group by your side, let’s make your dream of homeownership a beautiful reality.