City Profile
Dauphin, British Columbia
Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Dauphin, a city in Manitoba, Canada, is nestled along the Vermilion River, west of Dauphin Lake, serving as a regional hub for the Parkland area. Historically, it gained prominence as a vital center for grain transportation after its incorporation as a town in 1901. While agriculture remains a part of its economic fabric, the city has evolved beyond its initial agricultural focus. Dauphin is characterized by its distinct seasons, offering comfortable, long summers and frigid, snowy winters, with partly cloudy skies throughout the year. The city fosters a strong sense of community, attracting residents with its blend of historical roots and natural surroundings.
British Columbia, Canada's westernmost province, is characterized by its diverse geography, including rugged coastlines, mountains, and forests, fostering a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. The economy is robust and diversified, with key industries such as forestry, mining, technology, film and television production, tourism, and a significant port in Vancouver. Living in British Columbia generally offers a high quality of life, though it is one of Canada's more expensive provinces, particularly in urban centers like Vancouver and Victoria. The climate varies dramatically across the province, with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers in coastal areas, while interior regions experience hotter summers and colder, snowier winters.
How this 39/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 28 / 100 | 28.0 | 30% | 8.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $44,384 Income needed to live here: $45,792 Unemployment rate: 6.6% | 31.8 | 20% | 6.4 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.2% Job growth rate: no usable reading | 30.0 | 15% | 4.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 60 / 100 | 60.0 | 10% | 6.0 |
| Overall score | 38.7 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 1 (fast), q=76), last refreshed
7 August 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
Featured Events
Happening in Dauphin
Featured and sponsored events in Dauphin.
Local Directory
Businesses in Dauphin
Featured local businesses in Dauphin.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Dauphin is notably more affordable than the national average, coming in at 8% lower than the Canadian average. This affordability is significantly influenced by housing costs, which are 14% lower than the national average. The overall cost of living index takes into account various daily expenses, including housing, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and utilities, providing a comprehensive view of expenses in the city. For a single individual renting in Dauphin, the estimated average monthly cost of living is $3,816 USD.
Income
Salary Insights
Dauphin's job market is characterized by a median household income of $60,800 CAD, which translates to approximately $44,384 USD based on the 2024 exchange rate. The average annual salary in the city is around $45,120 CAD, or about $32,933 USD. The unemployment rate in Dauphin stands at 6.6%, which is lower than the national average, suggesting a relatively stable local job market. While specific leading industries for 2026 were not detailed, agriculture has historically been a cornerstone of the region's economy and continues to be a significant sector. The short average commute time of 11 minutes further indicates a localized job market and easy access to employment opportunities within the city.
The average salary in Dauphin is $32,933 per year. You would need approximately $45,792 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Dauphin is largely car-dependent, with residents experiencing a short average commute time of just 11 minutes. This suggests that most destinations within the city are easily accessible by personal vehicle. While specific public transit and walkability scores for Dauphin were not available, the prevalence of car usage aligns with provincial trends, where 86.5% of commuters in Manitoba primarily used a car, truck, or van in May 2024.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Dauphin
Community Q&A
Questions about Dauphin
What people ask about living in and moving to Dauphin, British Columbia.
Are there public schools for K‑12 in Dauphin?
Yes, Dauphin is served by a public school district that operates several elementary and secondary schools covering kindergarten through grade 12. The district’s website provides information on school boundaries, enrollment procedures, and program offerings such as French immersion or special education. Parents can also view school performance data and contact the district office for tours or to discuss any specific n...
How safe is Dauphin for families?
Dauphin’s safety score is 28 out of 100, indicating a higher level of reported incidents compared with many Canadian communities. This figure often reflects property crimes such as theft and break‑ins rather than violent offenses. The city works with the regional police service on community policing initiatives, neighbourhood watch programs, and public safety campaigns. When choosing a neighbourhood, consider proximi...
What kinds of jobs are most common in Dauphin?
Employment in Dauphin is centered around sectors such as natural resources, retail, health services, and municipal administration. Many positions are offered by local government, schools, and small to medium‑size businesses that serve the community. For job seekers, the city’s employment centre and regional job boards list openings across these fields. Networking through community events and checking the provincial l...
Is Dauphin a good place to retire?
Dauphin can be appealing for retirees due to its lower cost‑of‑living index (92) and modest average rent, which helps stretch a fixed income. The city offers senior‑focused services such as community‑center programs, accessible healthcare at the local hospital, and recreational activities suited to older adults. However, the safety score of 28 suggests a need for vigilance regarding property security. Climate is typi...
How does Dauphin's cost of living compare to the rest of Canada?
Dauphin’s cost‑of‑living index is 92, meaning it is slightly below the national average of 100. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation tend to be a bit cheaper than in larger Canadian cities, while housing costs are moderate at the $1,317 average rent level. When planning your budget, factor in the average annual salary of $32,933, which is modest compared with national figures. Using a co...
What public transit options exist in Dauphin?
Dauphin is served by a municipal transit authority that operates a network of fixed‑route buses covering the main residential and commercial areas. Schedules, route maps, and fare information are available on the city’s transportation web page. For areas not directly served, there are regional taxi services and ride‑share options that operate on a call‑out basis. If you need to travel outside the city, intercity bus...
Where can I find medical care in Dauphin?
Healthcare in Dauphin includes a community hospital that provides emergency, surgical, and inpatient services, as well as outpatient clinics. Primary care physicians operate out of local medical offices; you can request a family doctor through the provincial health authority’s registration system or by contacting the clinic directly. The city’s health‑service directory lists available providers, walk‑in clinics, and...
What recreational activities are popular in Dauphin?
Dauphin offers a range of outdoor recreation such as hiking trails, parks, and nearby lakes for fishing, boating, and winter sports. The city maintains community centres that host sports leagues, fitness classes, and cultural events like local festivals and art exhibitions. Seasonal activities include snowshoeing and cross‑country skiing in winter, and community markets and concerts in summer. Information on upcoming...
What should I know before moving my household to Dauphin?
When moving to Dauphin, start by arranging a change of address with Canada Post and updating your driver’s licence and health card at the provincial service centre. Research local moving companies that specialize in long‑distance relocations, and compare quotes that include loading, transport, and unloading. Because the average rent is $1,317, budget for first‑month rent and a security deposit. Check utility provider...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Dauphin?
The average rent in Dauphin is about $1,317 per month, which reflects a typical one‑bedroom unit. Rental rates can vary depending on location within the city, the age of the building, and included utilities. To get current listings, check local rental websites, the city’s housing portal, or community bulletin boards. It’s also useful to contact property management firms that operate in the area for up‑to‑date availab...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Dauphin? Add your own.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Dauphin
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Dauphin with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing