Saving money by flying to class: A student’s ingenious solution to Vancouver’s rent crisis

In an inventive twist on battling the escalating cost of living, Tim Chen, a University of British Columbia (UBC) student, has devised a cost-effective strategy that defies conventional wisdom. Facing the daunting prospect of Vancouver’s median rent nearing $3,000 a month, a staggering 55 per cent above the national average, Chen opted out of the city’s rental market altogether. His solution? Taking to the skies.

Residing over 400 miles away in Calgary, Chen found that the economics of flying to Vancouver twice a week for his studies presented a surprising financial upside. At $150 for a round trip, his monthly outlay on flights totals $1,200—almost half the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver at approximately $2,100 a month.

Chen’s approach, blending practicality with a touch of audacity, raises eyebrows and sparks curiosity. “I thought, why don’t I just stay in Calgary and just fly here,” he explained to CTV News. “It’s a one-hour flight. That’s the same as taking a bus.” This statement underscores the relative convenience and efficiency of his travel method compared to local commuting options.

The story, highlighted in a CTV News segment and subsequently shared on Reddit, has attracted widespread attention and mixed reactions. Some commenters expressed concerns about the logistical challenges of frequent airport visits and the potential inflexibility of relying on flight schedules. However, many were intrigued by the financial logic and the added bonus of accumulating frequent flyer miles, which could lead to additional perks such as lounge access and flight upgrades.

Chen’s innovative commuting strategy not only offers a personal solution to the rental market crisis but also shines a light on the broader issue of affordability for students and young professionals in major cities. With over 72,000 students at UBC grappling with similar challenges, Chen’s story represents a unique response to a common dilemma.

This approach to university commuting exemplifies how out-of-the-box thinking can create practical solutions in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. As rental prices continue to climb, stories like Chen’s may inspire others to explore unconventional methods to navigate the financial pressures of urban living and education