Vancouver neatly blends natural beauty with urban living. The city promises a good lifestyle and has ample outdoor activities for students to enjoy. The best part of Vancouver is that it is one of the safest cities in Canada.
For students, Vancouver is the perfect place to study, learn and grow. The city has several top businesses which offer ample job opportunities for students, ensuring them a bright future. If you are new to the city and are looking for the best places to live in Vancouver, we’ve got you covered!
Table of contents
- Best Places to Live in Vancouver
- Downtown Vancouver
- West Point Grey
- Kitsilano
- Yaletown
- Gastown
- The West End
- South Vancouver
- Grandview
- Mount Pleasant
- South Granville
- White Rock
- Coal Harbour
- Top Factors to Consider When Choosing Where to Live in Vancouver
- Best Transportation Options for Students Living in Vancouver
- FAQs on Best Places to Live in Vancouver
Best Places to Live in Vancouver
The Urban and suburban settlements surrounded by the scenic beauty of towering mountains and the glistening waters make Vancouver a beautiful place to stay. The city has a harmonious coexistence between the people and nature. Vancouver is unique and ethnically diverse. There are several interesting facts about Vancouver including that it is the world’s third most liveable city.
This city in Canada has a lot to offer especially to students who travel every year to study at well-established institutions like the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. The city is historically rich with neighbourhoods like Yaletown and Gastown. Students can find the city’s attractions pleasing to the eye. There are various beautiful, comfortable and affordable student accommodation options in Vancouver.
Here are the top 12 best Places to Live in Vancouver:
- Downtown Vancouver
- West Point Grey
- Kitsilano
- Yaletown
- Gastown
- The West End
- South Vancouver
- Grandview
- Mount Pleasant
- South Granville
- White Rock
- Coal Harbour
Downtown Vancouver
Downtown is a vibrant district with several residential communities around the area. It is perfect for students studying at the University of Canada West (UCW) as the university comes under the district. The area has a fantastic skyline and is known for its nightlife. Downtown Vancouver is the place where students can have the experience of fast city life in a safe and secure environment.
There are many entertainment and sports venues which makes it ideal to live at nearby student housing in Canada. The area is also well known for the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. With art and entertainment all adorned in the district, it becomes impossible to resist the place.
How to Reach
Address: Downtown Vancouver, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Also Read: Do you know about the Top Part-Time Employment Opportunities for Students in Canada? This blog will give you an idea about it.
West Point Grey
West Point Grey is known for its old neighbourhoods and popular beaches. The area has many long-term residents and mansions. This side of the city is calm and close to Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks. The area also shares proximity with the University of British Columbia which is ideal for students who want to stay close to the college.
The Vancouver Public Library, West Point Grey Branch is also part of the area and can become a student’s favourite spot. The area is also a shopping district with a village-like environment with several independently owned small businesses.
How to Reach
Address: West Point Grey, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Kitsilano
Kitsilano is known for its famous Kits Beach and has an extensive range of outdoor activities. Kitsilano offers a stunning view of the city and the north shore mountains. The neighbourhood is also known for its organic food hubs that lure people in from far and wide. For students, this area can turn into a permanent hang with its closeness to several museums like the Museum of Vancouver, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and the Vancouver Maritime Museum.
How to Reach
Address: Kitsilano, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Also Read: Explore these amazing Museums in Canada for students to learn about the arts, history, and science in Ancient Canada.
Yaletown
Along the North of False Creek, Yaletown is one of the most lively and stylish neighbourhoods in Vancouver. Yaletown is an attractive residential area with high-rise glass buildings and concrete skyscrapers. This urban living does not interfere with the greenery of the area. Yaletown also has two of the biggest green spaces in the city. The David Lam Park and George Wainborn Park are perfect spots for students to play and relax.
How to Reach
Address: Yaletown, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Gastown
Gastown is the city’s oldest neighbourhood and was founded in 1867 by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton. The area has Victorian architecture and has managed to preserve its historic charm. Gastown as of today has one-of-a-kind galleries and exquisite culinary fares. The area is a national historic site and has a bustling urban centre. Some of the popular spots in Gastown include Steam-Powered Clock, Maple Tree Square and Victory Square.
How to Reach
Address: Gastown, Vancouver, BC, Canada
The West End
The West End is one of the best neighbourhoods for students to start their professional life. People choose this area as it is close to Downtown and has public transport connections. There are a variety of housing options for a student to choose from as the area is well established.
There are heritage houses and high-rise condos along with several types of apartments and art deco apartment buildings. The West End is where you will find the famous Inukshuk statue. There are also several outdoor adventure spots around and on the English Bay which is part of the vibrant West End.
How to Reach
Address: West End, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Also Read: Do you know about the many outdoor adventures in Canada? This blog will give you an idea about the top 5 Thrilling Outdoor Adventures in Canada.
South Vancouver
Courtesy: City of Vancouver government website
South Vancouver is a safe and family-friendly neighbourhood known for its parks and homes from the 1900s. The area is perfect for students as the accommodation is affordable and easily available. The area is ethnically diverse with over 60 percent immigrant population. There is also a Punjabi Market with over 300 shops including 24 jewellery shops. The Vancouver International Airport is near the area and the East/West Connector is also a short drive away.
How to Reach
Address: South Vancouver, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Grandview
Courtesy: City of Vancouver government website
Grandview is an ethnically diverse area in the northeastern section of the city. It is perfect for students who wish to find affordable accommodation amidst charming parks and old-growth tree-lined streets. The neighbourhoods in this area are family-friendly and have over eight libraries. Grandview is also well known for being well-connected with over 10 train stops. Victoria Park, Templeton Park and Garden Park are also part of this area along with the famous Trout Lake.
How to Reach
Address: Grandview, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Also Read: Do you know about the several cultural and recreational activities in Canada? This blog will give you an idea about it.
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is known for its heritage buildings and artistic residents. The neighbourhoods are known for celebrating art-focused festivals and are in proximity to the business district of Vancouver. College students can thus find this place to be ideally engaging with its art and history. The Mount Pleasant shopping district is another attraction of the area as it has beautiful wall paintings and creative, unusual businesses.
How to Reach
Address: Mount Pleasant, Vancouver, BC, Canada
South Granville
South Granville is a lively area with its beautiful neighbourhoods and busy shopping districts. The area is a walkable shopping and art gallery hotspot and has murals by local artists decorating the tree-lined streets. South Granville is home to the famous Stanley Theatre which is popular for delivering world-class performances.
The area has middle-class residential neighbourhoods and is close to the downtown area. For recreational purposes, students can always visit Shannon Park, Montgomery Park and Oak Park which are just a few of the many green spaces in South Granville.
How to Reach
Address: South Granville, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Also Read: Do you know about the Shopping Malls in Vancouver? This blog will give you an idea about it.
White Rock
White Rock is a seaside city with several parks and community services. The area is located beside the charming Semiahmoo Bay. White Rock is in the southwest of British Columbia and has over 21,939 residents. Students can easily fall for the beautiful seaside living that White Rock offers. The neighbourhoods here are friendly and very beautifully built with all modern services at hand. The famous Bear Creek Park is also close to the area.
How to Reach
Address: White Rock, Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada
Coal Harbour
The Coal Harbour is a beautiful waterfront area in Vancouver. The area is known for its fine dining and preserved natural spaces. Coal Harbour has both business areas and residential spaces which makes it easy for students to find jobs. Popular restaurants like The Nightingale, Tableau Bar Bistro in the Loden Hotel, and H Tasting Lounge and H2 Kitchen + Bar are part of Coal Harbour. On top of this, the area has a laid-back atmosphere which is suitable for students who wish to make the most out of their college life.
How to Reach
Address: Coal Harbour, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Top Factors to Consider When Choosing Where to Live in Vancouver
When choosing a place to live in Vancouver, students should consider proximity to their campus, budget, access to public transportation, neighborhood safety, and lifestyle preferences. Some neighborhoods are closer to the university, while others offer a better mix of affordability and amenities.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Proximity to Campus | Shorter commutes save time and transportation costs. |
| Budget | Living costs vary by neighborhood, from affordable to high-end. |
| Transportation | Areas near SkyTrain and bus routes provide easy access to campus. |
| Safety | Some areas are safer or have more student-friendly environments. |
| Lifestyle | Different neighborhoods offer distinct atmospheres and amenities. |
Best Transportation Options for Students Living in Vancouver
Vancouver offers multiple transportation options, including buses, SkyTrain, and biking routes, making it convenient to commute to universities and colleges across the city.
| Mode | Description | Cost (Monthly Pass) |
|---|---|---|
| SkyTrain | Quick and reliable metro | CAD 100 (students) |
| Buses | Extensive city coverage | Included with U-Pass |
| Bike | Bike-friendly lanes throughout | Free (own bike) |
FAQs on Best Places to Live in Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver, West Point Grey, Kitsilano, Yaletown and Gastown are the best areas in Vancouver as they are all close to universities and offer a blend of urban and country living.
West Point Grey is the best place to live in Vancouver for nature as it is close to two beautiful beaches the Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks.
Historically rich neighbourhoods like Yaletown and Gastown offer the best cultural experience. Vancouver is known to have a variety of culturally diverse areas. The South Vancouver area is ethnically diverse with over 60 percent immigrant population.
Vancouver is one of the safest cities in Canada and can ensure a safe and secure stay for students. Vancouver has very low crime rates and with numerous public safety programs, the area strives to maintain peace and order.
The University of British Columbia is one of the best universities not just in Vancouver but the entire city. Students from all around the world also come to study at universities like Langara College, Simon Fraser University, University Canada West, Emily Carr University of Art + Design and Vancouver Community College.
Popular neighborhoods for UBC students include Kitsilano, UBC Endowment Lands, and South Granville, each offering easy access to campus with varying levels of affordability and amenities
East Vancouver, Marpole, and Commercial Drive are some of the more affordable areas, providing budget-friendly housing options with access to public transit.
Yes, many students choose to share apartments or houses in areas like Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and East Vancouver to save on rent. With Fly Homes, you can check out some of the best student accommodations in Vancouver.
This was all about the best place to live in Vancouver. We hope that this blog has given you the insights that you need. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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