Pros and cons of living in Victoria Canada (2024)

Have you been wondering what living in Victoria, BC is like? I’ve got you covered!

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is a highly desirable location. One of the biggest pros of living in the capital city of British Columbia is its natural surroundings. With picturesque mountains, pristine beaches, and lush forests just a short drive away, there’s always something beautiful to explore and discover. 

Living in Victoria, Canada is an experience worth sharing, especially because it’s a city I now call home with my boyfriend. Having previously lived in Nanaimo, another great place on Vancouver Island, I can confidently say that I love living in Victoria and it certainly has its own unique charm and allure. 

The mild climate also allows for year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports. In addition to its natural beauty, Victoria is also known for its rich culture and history. This can be seen through the numerous art galleries, museums, and annual cultural festivals that celebrate local traditions.

Of course, with these perks do come a few cons such as the high cost of living and expensive housing market but that’s the trade-off for this desirable location and laidback lifestyle. It’s the perfect place for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Let’s dive into a bit more detail on the pros and cons of living in Victoria.

1. Tons of natural beauty

The city’s stunning natural beauty, including picturesque landscapes, beaches, and parks, provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach, the city of Victoria is beautiful and has something for everyone to enjoy. There’s tons of wildlife to see on the island too!

One of my favourite things about the city is not only are you surrounded by the ocean but you’re also treated to stunning views of the Olympic Mountains in the United States. We can even see them from our own apartment! There are plenty of green spaces too, which earned Victoria the nickname, the “City of Gardens”.

2. Lots of outdoor activities

Another great thing about Victoria is there’s an unlimited array of things to do outdoors, you certainly will never be bored, particularly in the summer months! From exploring the scenic trails of the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park to whale-watching tours, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Victoria. 

Go for a leisurely stroll through the Butchart Gardens or along the Inner Harbour Pathway, walk to the waterfalls in Goldstream Provincial Park or spend the day birdwatching at Esquimalt Lagoon. The list goes on!

3. Mild Climate

Victoria boasts the mildest climate in Canada, making it an ideal place for those who prefer temperate weather and enjoy outdoor adventures without extreme temperatures.

The mild winters usually see minimal snowfall, and the summers are warm but not scorching.

However in recent years with the impacts of climate change, temperatures can fluctuate and it has been known to get quite hot here in the summer at times.

4. Plenty of great restaurants

Victoria is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse culinary scene with plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Some top spots to visit include Red Fish Blue Fish, a beloved waterfront spot known for its delicious fish tacos and sustainable seafood options. 

Another must-visit is Agrius Restaurant, where you can indulge in farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients and exquisite flavours.

For a taste of Italy in Victoria, Il Terrazzo is a top choice, offering authentic Italian cuisine in a charming courtyard setting. If you’re after something more casual then Fisherman’s Wharf is a fun place to visit, in the winter not all the food stalls are open so save this for when the weather warms up.

5. You can fly internationally from the local airport

The city is well-connected globally with international flights available from Victoria International Airport, making it convenient for residents to explore other parts of the world.  

The airport also offers direct flights to major Canadian cities, making it easy for visitors to access Victoria from various locations.

6. Strong sense of community

One of the standout features of Victoria is its strong sense of community, where residents often come together to support local businesses, participate in community events, and foster a tight-knit social environment.

7. Good schools  

Victoria’s got a great education scene with loads of good schools for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for top-notch elementary schools, middle schools or high schools, this city’s all about academic excellence and making sure students get the support they need.

Plus, for those thinking ahead, there’s The University of Victoria, Royal Roads University and Camosun College for post-secondary options.

8. Rich cultural scene

The city is renowned for its diverse arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, theatres, and festivals showcasing local talent and international works. There is always something exciting to see or experience in Victoria.

The Royal BC Museum, for example, showcases the history and culture of British Columbia through interactive exhibits and programs.

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria features a collection of Canadian and international art, while local theatres such as the Belfry Theatre and the McPherson Playhouse offer a wide range of performances.

9. The unemployment rate is low

Victoria’s low unemployment rate is a key advantage, making it one of the most favourable cities in Canada for job opportunities. As of March 2024, this was sitting at 4.8%.

The city’s booming economy and variety of industries mean there are plenty of jobs around, giving everyone a nice sense of security and financial peace of mind. Plus, when you mix that with all the other cool things this city has to offer, it’s easy to see why Victoria is such a desirable place to live.

10. Good public transport

Victoria’s got a super handy transport system that makes getting around a breeze. Whether you’re hopping on a bus, catching a ferry, or biking through the city, you’ll find it easy to get around.

The public transport here is pretty good, so you can zip to work or check out the sights without any hassle. Plus, if you don’t have a car, no worries—you can still get around comfortably and enjoy everything Victoria has to offer.

It is worth noting that due to there being one road in and one road out to a lot of the communities in Victoria if there is an accident or the Trans-Canada Highway closes for another reason, it can cause delays.

11. Quality healthcare

The quality of healthcare in Victoria is top-notch, in fact, it’s ranked as the number one province in Canada. The public healthcare system provides access to hospitals, clinics and specialists for all residents, ensuring that everyone has access to essential medical services when needed.

If you do not have MSP (Medical Services Plan for Residents) or private medical insurance, however, you will have to fork out for medical costs yourself. 

Do keep in mind that it can take quite a long time to secure a doctor and even harder to secure specialist appointments. This is not uncommon in many cities throughout Canada and unfortunately, it’s no different in Victoria.

12. Deep History

Victoria’s got this unique charm thanks to its deep historical roots and those picture-perfect old buildings. It’s like the city’s rich history is alive in its architecture, museums, and landmarks.

Strolling through some of Victoria’s old streets feels like a time warp, giving everyone a peek into its past and a real connection to its historical vibe. This historical vibe doesn’t just add to Victoria’s cultural scene; it keeps the city’s heritage and traditions alive and kicking.

Cons of living in Victoria BC

1.  High cost of living

Victoria is known for its relatively high cost of living compared to other Canadian cities, making it challenging for some residents to afford housing, groceries, and other everyday expenses. Food prices have been on the rise throughout Canada for a while now and this is definitely one of our biggest monthly expenses aside from rent. 

Victoria is also more expensive compared to other cities on Vancouver Island. We have lived in both Nanaimo and Victoria and can confirm that rent was cheaper in Nanaimo, fuel prices were also slightly lower.

2. Expensive housing market

The cost of housing in Victoria can be expensive, with rising prices that may pose a barrier to homeownership or renting for many individuals and families. 

Greater Victoria is one of Canada’s most desirable markets which has helped push real estate prices up and therefore makes it tougher for people to enter the market. 

3. Year-round tourist destination

While Victoria’s popularity as a tourist destination brings economic benefits, it can also lead to increased traffic, crowded attractions, and a potential strain on local resources during peak tourist seasons.

This can also drive up the cost of living for residents. However, it also means there are always plenty of activities and events happening in the city throughout the year.

4. Limited job opportunities

The job market in Victoria may be competitive, with fewer employment options available compared to larger metropolitan areas, potentially making it difficult for some residents to find suitable employment opportunities.

I work remotely and my boyfriend received a job offer before we moved so that made things a whole lot easier but the opportunities certainly are more limited compared to places like Vancouver and Toronto.

5. Rainy climate in the winter

Victoria is known for its mild, rainy climate, which may not appeal to those who prefer sunny or drier weather conditions for outdoor activities and daily living. 

From my time living on the island, however, the rainy season mainly seems to be limited to winter and early spring. Come late April or early May, you can expect lovely sunny days and a lot less rain. I also think that compared to Nanaimo, Victoria rains less and is slightly warmer. 

Perhaps it’s because I previously lived in Amsterdam and THAT was 110% the rainiest place I’ve ever lived so anything compared to that seems pretty mild. 

Where to live in Victoria, Canada

Victoria is considered one of the best places to live on Vancouver Island so you can’t really go wrong when it comes to deciding on where to live within Victoria however there are several neighbourhoods that stand out as desirable places to call home. Areas such as Fairfield, Oak Bay, and James Bay are popular choices due to their proximity to the ocean, beautiful parks, and charming character homes. 

Fairfield, for example, is known for its tree-lined streets, vibrant community feel, and easy access to amenities like cafes and shops. Oak Bay appeals to residents seeking a more upscale and picturesque setting with its well-maintained gardens and elegant architecture. 

James Bay, on the other hand, offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, making it an attractive option for those looking for a diverse and dynamic community. 

These neighbourhoods provide a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, making them some of the best places to live in Victoria.

Regions of Greater Victoria

• Victoria
• Fernwood
• Oak Bay
• Saanich
• Esquimalt
• View Royal
• Langford
• Colwood
• Sooke
• Sidney
• Highlands
• Central Saanich
• North Saanich
• Metchosin
• Gulf Islands

Things to do in Victoria

There are a ton of things to do on Vancouver Island and Victoria is no exception! There is so much to do in this city, especially when you take Greater Victoria into account.

Some of the best bits include exploring downtown Victoria’s historic charm or wandering through Oak Bay’s pristine gardens. If you’re into nature, hike through Saanich’s lush forests or chill at one of the many gorgeous beaches around. 

For the culture buffs, Fernwood and James Bay’s museums and art galleries offer a deep dive into history and creativity. And if you’re all about tasting the local vibes, the vibrant markets and lively community events in Victoria won’t disappoint. Victoria’s got it all for you to enjoy.

• Visit the iconic Butchart Gardens 
• Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Marine Circle Route for breathtaking views of the coastline and rainforests
• Explore the Royal BC Museum for a rich insight into British Columbia’s history and culture
• Embark on a whale-watching tour
• Enjoy afternoon tea at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel
• Indulge in a wine-tasting tour at one of the many vineyards in the Saanich Peninsula
• Rent a bike and cycle along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail

Getting to and from Victoria

To get to and from Victoria, Canada, there are a few transportation options available. One popular choice is taking the ferry, which offers a scenic journey from the mainland to Vancouver Island. If you’re travelling from within Canada then you’ll catch this from downtown Vancouver. 

The ferry ride provides stunning views of the surrounding water and mountains, making it a memorable way to travel. I really enjoy catching the ferry over to the island, it’s a great way to move here if you have quite a few bags because then you aren’t paying for extra luggage on a flight which can ramp up the cost!

Additionally, Victoria has its own airport, making flying into the city a convenient option for those looking to reach their destination quickly. The airport offers connections to various cities, making it accessible for travellers coming from different parts of the country or internationally. 

FAQs about living in Victoria BC