Employer Guide
Relocating to the University of Victoria
The University of Victoria (UVic) is one of Canada's leading research universities, located in the Gordon Head neighbourhood of Saanich. If you are joining UVic as faculty, staff, or a graduate student, this guide covers the best neighbourhoods and housing options.
Recommended Neighbourhoods
Gordon Head
Adjacent to UVic campus. Family-friendly, excellent schools, parks. 5-10 minute walk or bike ride. Average price: $950,000.
Saanich (Quadra / McKenzie)
Close to campus with diverse housing options. 10-15 minute commute. Good schools and amenities.
Oak Bay
Upscale neighbourhood near campus. Ocean views, excellent schools. 10-15 minute drive.
Victoria (Fairfield / Fernwood)
Urban neighbourhoods with character. 15-20 minute bike ride or bus. Walkable amenities.
Average Commute
From Gordon Head: 5-10 minute walk or bike. From central Saanich: 10-15 minutes by car or bus. From Oak Bay: 10-15 minutes. From downtown Victoria: 20 minutes by bus (UVic is well served by multiple bus routes). From Langford: 30-35 minutes. Many faculty and staff bike to campus, and the Galloping Goose Trail connects to UVic.
Housing Prices
Gordon Head averages $950,000 for single-family homes. Saanich offers a range from $750,000 to $1.2M. Oak Bay is more expensive at $1.3M average. Graduate students and junior faculty often find condos and rentals in the $400,000-$600,000 range or $1,500-$2,500/month in rent. UVic has limited faculty housing, but waitlists are long.
Things to Know Before Moving
- UVic offers relocation assistance for new faculty. Check with your department for details.
- The campus is bike-friendly with covered bike parking. Many staff cycle year-round thanks to the mild climate.
- Gordon Head and Cadboro Bay are the most popular neighbourhoods for UVic faculty and staff.
Joining UVic in Victoria?
Andrew and his team have helped UVic faculty and staff find homes near campus. Book a free consultation.
Call or Text
1-250-589-2897