Victoria, BC
Victoria, BC, Canada is a lively, appealing city of about 94,000 people. It’s situated in the
southern portion of Vancouver Island. Victoria’s waterfront location makes it a popular
destination with travelers and also a fun, exciting place to call home. In a typical year, almost 4
million people visit the city to experience Vancouver Harbor, sunbathe at the lovely beaches,
gaze in awe at Craigdarroch and Hatley Castles, attend the many local festivals, golf at the
Vancouver Island Golf Trail and stroll in the area’s well-tended gardens.
Victoria is best known for offering the mildest, warmest climate in Canada. You’ll encounter
each of the four seasons in this city, but Victoria’s winters are rarely harsh. It occasionally snows
in Victoria. Summers tend to be pleasantly warm but not too hot.
The lovely weather makes it agreeable to spend time outdoors, and Victorians enjoy many
outdoor activities at the local parks, beaches, mountains and golf courses. Around Victoria
Harbor and the surrounding beaches, people enjoy opportunities to go swimming, kayaking and
stand up paddle boarding.
Victorians enjoy ample opportunities to shop, wine, dine and enjoy the robust local nightlife
scene. Shopping choices vary; they include charming one-of-a-kind shops, local food markets,
independent retailers and sizable shopping centers. 950+ nearby farms ensure the region’s food
security. Diverse local churches, mosques, synagogues, houses of worship and community
centers serve the population’s social and spiritual needs.
Victoria’s citizens tend to highly value education; nearly 43% of the city’s population holds a
university degree. The Greater Victoria School District offers 27 elementary schools, 10 middle
schools and seven secondary schools educating a total of about 18,000 students annually. Public
and private schools are both available. The University of Victoria is one of the city’s major
employers, but there’s a vibrant and active job market offering a broad diversity of opportunities.
Victorians also prioritize quality healthcare. Multiple hospitals and community health centers
serve the healthcare needs of the public; a couple of the most prominent area facilities include
Victoria General Hospital, Gorge Road Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital. Health insurance is
provided by BC’s Medical Service Plan (MSP). If you’re moving to Victoria from elsewhere, it’s
prudent to keep your current healthcare policy active for the first three months after you move
because there is typically a waiting period before your coverage under the new policy will
become active.
Just about everything you could possibly want or need is available in Victoria. Overall, Victoria
offers residents a high standard of living and a delightful quality of life.