Finding Student Housing
Finding a place to live within Victoria can be a scary thing. Whether you are leaving residence, relocating, or just moving to Victoria as a student, you may not know where to begin. Fear not! Below you will learn about the options you have as a student and the steps to living on your own within Victoria.
Locations Within Victoria
Victoria, BC, offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own character and proximity to the University of Victoria.
Gordon Head, located just 5 minutes from UVic, is popular with students, offering rental prices averaging around $1,800–$2,200 for a one-bedroom apartment.
Fernwood, located 15 minutes from UVic, has an average rent of $1,900–$2,300 for a one-bedroom unit.
Downtown Victoria, approximately 20 minutes from UVic by bus, offers urban living, with rent prices averaging $2,200–$2,800 for one-bedroom apartments.
Oak Bay, a quiet, upscale neighborhood about 10 minutes from UVic, has rental costs averaging $2,000–$2,500 for a one-bedroom.
James Bay, near the Inner Harbour and about 25 minutes from UVic, has rents that average $2,100–$2,600.
Average rent and options
In Victoria, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is between $2,000 and $2,500 per month, making it one of the more expensive rental markets in Canada. For students, several options are available that cater to various budgets.
On-campus housing at the University of Victoria provides affordable options, with prices ranging from $850 to $1,300 per month, depending on the type of accommodation, such as dorm rooms or shared apartments. However, securing on-campus housing for students above the first year can prove challenging. Unless you apply to be a residence advisor, this option is unlikely.
Off-campus student housing, including shared houses and apartments near UVic, can range from $900 to $1,500 per room. For those looking for a more independent living experience, some private student residences offer furnished rooms with additional amenities, averaging between $1,200 and $1,800 per month.
Where to Find Student Housing
Blow is a list of different websites that can be used to find housing within Victoria. Some of these websites are tailored towards students and others are generic rental sites.
UVic Off-Campus Housing
UVic Off-Campus Housing
Craigslist Victoria
Craigslist Victoria
Kijiji Victoria
Kijiji Victoria
PadMapper
PadMapper Victoria
Facebook Marketplace and Groups
Facebook Marketplace
RentFaster
Rent Faster Victoria
UsedVictoria.com
UsedVictoria.com
Student Housing Canada
Student Housing Canada
Places for Students
What to Look Out For
When searching for a rental in Victoria, BC, you should be mindful of several key factors to ensure you find a suitable and secure living arrangement. First, it's essential to check the legitimacy of the listing, as scams can often be found on popular rental sites like Craigslist or Facebook. Always avoid sending money before viewing the property in person. Never wire funds to anyone claiming to be a landlord currently living in a foreign country. If something seems off with the conversation, trust your gut. You should also consider the proximity of the rental to the University of Victoria, as this affects commute time and transportation costs. It's important to review the lease carefully for any hidden fees, such as utilities or maintenance charges, which may not be included in the advertised rent. Rental conditions, like whether the unit is furnished or pet-friendly, should also align with the student’s personal needs. Finally, ensure that the building and neighborhood feel safe, particularly if late-night commuting or studying is common.