I think the sum would be of more interest than a weighted average. The specific comparison between Vancouver and Seattle is almost meaningless for various reasons:
- Nobody rents furnished accommodation in Vancouver, BC. It's almost unheard of.
- You can buy your TV across the border and bring it over (same for microwave).
- Food will generally be more expensive in Vancouver.
- Gas will be more expensive in Vancouver.
- If you buy a house here expect to pay a lot more in Vancouver for a comparable property.
- Taxes are higher (though you do get services in return).
EDIT: As someone who is pretty familiar with both areas I would expect it to be cheaper to live in the Greater Seattle area vs. the Greater Vancouver area. There's a lot of YMMV though.
- Nobody rents furnished accommodation in Vancouver, BC. It's almost unheard of.
- You can buy your TV across the border and bring it over (same for microwave).
- Food will generally be more expensive in Vancouver.
- Gas will be more expensive in Vancouver.
- If you buy a house here expect to pay a lot more in Vancouver for a comparable property.
- Taxes are higher (though you do get services in return).
EDIT: As someone who is pretty familiar with both areas I would expect it to be cheaper to live in the Greater Seattle area vs. the Greater Vancouver area. There's a lot of YMMV though.