I make $82K in PR—but living in downtown Vancouver still feels impossible

At 32, a Vancouver PR/marketing account manager pulls in $82,200 a year ($77,000 salary plus $5,200 in passive income) and says she’s at the high end of her pay band—yet the downtown premium still stings. She recently traded up to a pricier, walkable neighbourhood, offsetting some costs by ditching most driving and parking. Her budget lives in a spreadsheet, concerts and festivals are the non-negotiable splurge, and manicures don’t make the cut. 

Money worries linger—rent and groceries feel “astronomical”—so she’s padding RRSPs and a TFSA while keeping a tight grip on lifestyle creep. Her definition of “rich” is simple: not trading time for money. She quietly envies the earning power of U.S. content creators, but for now, discipline rules: track every dollar, stick to the plan, and let the good times roll—within budget. 

• Age: 32 
• Location: Vancouver 
• Industry: PR/Marketing 
• Role: Account manager 
• Pronouns: She/her 
• Total annual income: $82,200 

Income 

• • Annual salary: $77,000 
  • Passive income: $5,200 
  • Benefits: Extended healthcare, professional development stipends 

Do you feel fairly paid for what you do?  

Yes as I’m on the higher end of the pay range for my role.

Name one item you splurge on, regardless of your budget.  

Concerts and festivals  

What’s something you refuse to spend money on?  

Getting my nails done 

Do you use a financial advisor, app, spreadsheet—or vibes?  

Spreadsheet 

How has living in your city/neighbourhood impacted your financial choices?  

I recently moved into a neighbourhood that’s more expensive, but the lifestyle is somewhat worth it. It’s walkable so I save money on gas and parking.  

Do you ever find yourself concerned about money or financial security? If you’re comfortable sharing, what contributes to that?  

I’m always concerned about money. The cost of rent and groceries in downtown Vancouver is astronomical. 

How, if at all, are you approaching retirement planning right now?  

I’m putting money into RRSP and TFSA.  

Is there a job you secretly admire for the pay or lifestyle?  

Content creators in the US 

How do you define financial success? What does being “rich” mean to you?  

Not trading my time for money.  

What’s one lesson you’ve learned about work and finances that you think others in your industry could benefit from?  

Always keep a budget and spreadsheet. When you get a raise, don’t let lifestyle creep ruin your finances. 

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