Data updated Oct 8, 2026
Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 85)
Surrey sits in British Columbia's Lower Mainland, about 50 m above sea level in the America/Vancouver timezone, with a temperate climate that keeps winters mild and summers comfortable. The city is home to 568 thousand people, and its expat community is large and active. Newcomers often settle in South Surrey, Morgan Creek, or Fleetwood, where schools, parks, and everyday shopping make daily life straightforward. English is widely spoken, so language barriers are rare.
Rent shapes the budget here. A one-bedroom in the city centre runs $1,317/mo, while outside the centre it drops to $1,047/mo. Three-bedroom units average $2,678/mo in the centre and $2,109/mo outside it. Beyond rent, a single person spends about $1,022/mo, and a family of four about $3,676/mo. Utilities add $183/mo, internet $64/mo, and a mobile plan $37/mo. A monthly transit pass costs $107/mo, a gym membership $35/mo, an inexpensive restaurant meal $18 per person, a mid-range three-course meal for two $56, and a cappuccino $4. The average monthly net salary is $3,032/mo, and the cost of living index is 63/100 against New York City at 100. Budget tiers for a single adult, rent included, land at $2,700/mo, $4,200/mo, and $6,500/mo.
Safety is a strong point, with a safety index of 85/100 and a crime index of 15/100. Air quality is good at an index of 30. Healthcare quality is rated excellent, which matters for families and older residents alike. The overall expat score is 85/100, with a retiree score of 77/100 and a FIRE score of 74/100.
For longer stays, the Canada Super Visa (Parents & Grandparents) supports family reunification, while the Canada Digital Nomad Visa suits remote workers. The nearest airport is YVR, 10 km away. Average internet speed is 120 Mbps, and the digital nomad score is 85/100. Surrey fits budget-conscious singles, mid-range professionals, families, retirees, and remote workers who want a safe, well-connected base with a large expat community.
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A category breakdown is not available for Surrey yet. We publish a breakdown only when every category can be priced from local data, rather than showing figures we cannot stand behind.
A 1BR in the center runs about $1316.83/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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See how Surrey's cost of living compares with Fort Frances, Ontario
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Surrey is a very safe Canadian city with low violent crime rates and strong community policing. Property crime exists but remains well below North American averages. Main concerns are petty theft in commercial areas and occasional vehicle break-ins—standard precautions suffice. Avoid isolated areas late at night, though this is more about common sense than genuine danger. For Americans accustomed to major U.S. cities, Surrey will feel notably safer. The city's suburban character, diverse neighborhoods, and reliable law enforcement make it an excellent choice for remote workers or retirees seeking security without sacrificing urban amenities.
See how Surrey's healthcare compares with Fort Frances, Ontario
Oceanic climate; data reflects the Greater Vancouver region.
Surrey offers a diverse community with quick access to Vancouver's dynamic urban life.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Regus - Surrey - Central City | Located in the Central City area, this Regus location offers standard coworking amenities and is conveniently situated near transit and shopping. It's a reliable option for those seeking a professional and accessible workspace. |
| Spaces - Surrey Central | Located in the heart of Surrey Central, Spaces offers a modern and stylish coworking environment. It's a good option for those who appreciate a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to amenities and transportation. |
| The Hive Surrey | The Hive Surrey, located in the Newton area, provides a community-focused coworking space with a range of membership options. It's a good choice for those seeking a collaborative environment and local connections. |
| Innovation Boulevard | Located near Surrey Memorial Hospital, Innovation Boulevard offers a collaborative workspace geared towards health-tech and innovation. It provides a unique environment for those in related fields, with access to resources and networking opportunities. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Surrey long-term? Canada Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live legally.
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See how Surrey's digital nomad life compares with Fort Frances, Ontario
A diverse and sprawling suburb of Vancouver. It is a major choice for families looking for more space and affordability than the city core.
Areas of Surrey that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Urban, modern, rapidly developing
Surrey's downtown core, City Centre offers modern condos, shopping, and access to SkyTrain. It's popular with younger professionals and students. While convenient, it can be noisy and lacks the established charm of older areas. Good transit options.
Suburban, family-friendly, convenient
Guildford is a large, established area with a major shopping mall and diverse housing options. It's popular with families and offers good schools. While convenient, it's car-dependent and lacks a distinct character. Good for those who want amenities nearby.
Diverse, multicultural, affordable
Newton is a diverse and multicultural area with a large South Asian population. It offers more affordable housing options compared to other parts of Surrey. While it has a vibrant cultural scene, it can feel less polished and has some areas with higher crime rates. Good bus transit.
Coastal, relaxed, retiree-friendly
Technically part of Surrey but often considered separately, South Surrey offers a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle. White Rock, in particular, is known for its pier and ocean views. It's popular with retirees and offers a slower pace of life. Can be pricier and further from Vancouver.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1317/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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