Three students having a break between classes

Living in British Columbia, Canada

BC combines a spectacular natural environment with safe urban centres. From the rocky mountains and gulf islands to cities that offer world class arts and culture, British Columbia is Canada's premier destination for residents and tourists alike.

Overview
Where to Live
City or Town?
Exploring BC
Getting Around
Staying Connected
Banking & Other Services
Working in BC
British Columbia Links
British Columbia Weather
 

Your Stay in British Columbiaphoto courtesy Malaspina University-College

Coming to live and study in a new country is extremely exciting. It is important that you find a place to live while that feels like home. Here are some hints to help you feel comfortable during your time in BC.

Where to live

Homestay options: Staying with a host family is great way to experience life in British Columbia, especially for younger students who may be living away from home for the first time. Living with a family is a great way to experience and learn more about the culture and family life in BC while enjoying all the benefits of a comfortable home.

At school: Some institutions, secondary and post secondary, offer students a place to live on campus. The type of accommodation can range from a shared room with another student, to private rooms and even entire apartments or houses designed for students with families. Some facilities include kitchens so you can cook for yourself and others provide cafeteria style meal services. The cost of these different types of accommodations are different for each school and when you apply you should ask for information about the different housing choices that are available.

Off campus: A great way to enhance your education in British Columbia is to live off campus. In most areas it is easy to rent a room or an entire apartment. Some general tips about renting include

  • some places are furnished, some are unfurnished
  • you can find places that are for rent by the week, month or full year, some may require you to sign a lease
  • the cost is different in many places, but student accommodation is very common in BC
  • you will usually need to pay a deposit of 1 month's rent when you first move in
  • some places will include all your costs in the rent. Other places places may charge you for electricity, gas, cable and phone separately - make sure you ask!
  • local calls from a home phone are included with your phone line and there are many different long distance options to choose from
  • some places will be located near your school, other might be farther away. Make sure you ask about the different bus routes, where the grocery store may be and other services that are near by
  • many houses and apartments have washing machines and clothes dryers. Ask if these are included or if there is a place to do laundry

How to find a place to live

  • Local newspapers
  • Most campuses will having a housing services office where you can ask for information, many schools also have web sites with postings for accommodations
  • The international student office may also have information

Which part of British Columbia do I want to live in?

Click on the map below to learn more about the different regions in British Columbia