British Columbia (BC), especially cities like Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna, is a popular destination for international students—but also one of the most expensive places to live in Canada. Finding affordable housing as a student can be challenging, but with the right strategy and resources, it’s possible to find a safe and budget-friendly place to live.
Start Your Search Early
The rental market in BC is highly competitive, especially near major universities like UBC, SFU, and UVic. Start looking at least 2–3 months before your arrival. For September intakes, begin searching by May or June.
Why it helps: Early search gives you more options, better pricing, and reduces the risk of falling for scams due to last-minute pressure.
Consider On-Campus Housing
Many universities and colleges in BC offer on-campus residences, which can be more affordable than private rentals, especially for first-year and international students.
Pros:
Fixed cost (utilities included)
Safe and close to classes
Community atmosphere
Cons:
Limited availability
Often fully booked months in advance
Explore Student-Friendly Platforms
Use websites and apps specifically designed for student housing or shared accommodations:
Places4Students.com – partnered with many BC universities
BC Housing Listings – some offer subsidized or co-op housing options
Craigslist & Kijiji – popular but use with caution (watch for scams)
Facebook Groups – e.g., “UBC Student Housing,” “Vancouver Rentals,” “SFU Housing”
Consider Shared Accommodation
Sharing a house or apartment with roommates is often the most affordable option.
Average rent in 2025 (shared units):
Vancouver: $750–$1,200/month
Victoria: $600–$1,000/month
Kelowna: $550–$950/month
Look Outside the City Core
Living in the suburbs or satellite cities can save you hundreds of dollars per month. Consider areas like:
Burnaby, Surrey, Coquitlam (near Vancouver)
Langford or Saanich (near Victoria)
Rutland or West Kelowna (near UBC Okanagan)
Use public transit (U-Pass BC is discounted for students) to commute affordably.
Set a Realistic Budget
Account for rent, utilities, groceries, and transport when calculating affordability. Aim to spend no more than 40–50% of your monthly budget on housing.
Be Aware of Scams
Common red flags:
Landlord refuses video calls or in-person visits
Asking for payment via crypto or gift cards
Offers that seem “too good to be true”
Use trusted sources and always sign a rental agreement.