B.C. residents turn to bill-splitting strategies the most: Consumer Debt Index [Video]

It may come as no surprise to British Columbians but the rising cost of living in the province is forcing some to make tough sacrifices.

According to the latest MNP Consumer Debt Index, conducted quarterly by Ipsos, “British Columbians are more likely than any other province (38%) to report that they have turned to bill-splitting strategies—such as carpooling, buying in bulk, sharing subscriptions and childcare, and cohabiting with others.”

The report found that one in five British Columbians, 20 per cent, more than in any other province, said they were saving money by cohabiting with friends or family members or living with roommates.

British Columbians, about 35 per cent, said they eat less to save money.

“We’re seeing a bill-splitting boom in B.C. and across the country as people adapt to the high cost of living,” Linda Paul, a licensed insolvency trustee with MNP LTD in the Lower Mainland, said in a statement.

“These cost-saving approaches, …