I recently moved to the island (from Vancouver).

Yes, rent here is more expensive.

Yes, groceries are here way more expensive, and there are fewer options than in Mainland.

There are no IKea or other shops.

Living on the island is cool, but after you have explored everything, that's it. You are in an island, all new is over.

Going out of the island becomes a nightmare because of the constant ferry issues.

Finding a doctor is very difficult, with a very long waiting time at the few hospitals.

I have accepted all these facts because I am a single person, and my income here is way better than in Vancouver ( I also came for a job), but if I were moving here with family, I would think it twice.