Living in Vancouver
Living in Vancouver is a rewarding experience. However, there are numerous options available and students are encouraged to begin their search early. Below are a variety of options to support the search. Students are encouraged to go through a reputable housing management company to protect themselves from fraud or mistreatment from landlords.
Exclusive housing for UCW students
University Canada West has partnered with 4stay* and GEC* to offer UCW students a variety of housing options for rent near the University campuses, including both private and shared accommodation exclusively for University Canada West students.
4Stay Exclusive Housing
From $995 Per Month
UCW has partnered with 4stay to provide exclusive housing for UCW students. Students have the option to choose both private or shared accommodation.
UCW students can stay in one of two prime locations:
- 510 Richards St., Vancouver in downtown Vancouver
- Shared Room: $1,200/month
- Private Room: $1,550/month
- 4655 Main St., Vancouver in the vibrant Main Street neighbourhood
- Shared Room: $995/month
- Private Room: $1,300/month
Please review this flyer for more details about the UCW exclusive accommodations, which are fully furnished. The minimum stay is three months, but students will have the option to extend into subsequent terms.
4stay also has additional housing options for students. With 4stay, it is easy to search online for fully furnished apartments with all utilities included, private rooms, shared rooms and entire homes for a term, a year, month-to-month or short-term rentals. Also, students can find a roommate from UCW to live with.
GEC Exclusive Housing
From $950 Per Month
UCW has partnered with GEC to offer UCW students shared accommodation exclusively for University Canada West international students in one of the largest off-campus student residences in Vancouver. GEC Pearson is also one of GEC’s most equipped residences, with an on-site gym, social lounge, caretaker and maintenance staff. UCW students can get an exclusive rate for these accommodations.
UCW students can stay in this prime location:
7657 Cambie Street, Vancouver in the South Vancouver neighbourhood
- Shared Room: $950/month
- Private Room: $1650/month
Please review this flyer for more information about GEC Pearson. GEC also has additional housing options for students. Visit their website to learn more or email [email protected] and be sure to mention that you’re a UCW student.
Other Housing Options
Homestays
Homestays are a great way to learn about Canadian culture and immerse yourself in a local family. Many students find benefits to homestays as it is generally cheaper than renting and often some, or all, of your meals are included. UCW’s partnership with 4stay* also offers homestays.
Other homestay options include:*
Vacation Rentals
International students often find vacation rentals to be a convenient choice for short to medium-term stays. You can discover a variety of rental options on popular platforms like Airbnb*, Vrbo* and Booking.com*. These rentals can offer a home-away-from-home experience, allowing you to enjoy the privacy and amenities of a fully furnished space while exploring the beautiful city of Vancouver.
Lease & Subletting
Many landlords prefer yearly leases. However, make sure you know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Two good resources are The Tenant Survival Guide* and free online Renting it Right courses*.
Here are some sites to help your search:*
Avoiding Scams
When embarking on the exciting journey of moving to a new city and renting for the first time, it’s crucial to be vigilant and avoid potential scams. Start by researching the rental market thoroughly, including typical rental rates. If a rate is very cheap, it is probably too good to be true. Always deal with established landlords or property management companies and be cautious of individuals asking for large upfront payments or personal financial information before you’ve seen the property in person. Trust your instincts and insist on visiting the rental unit before making any commitments. Additionally, verify the lease agreement carefully and, if possible, consult with locals or fellow tenants for insights and recommendations.
Further tips on avoiding a scam can be accessed below:*
- 10 red flags to identify a rental scam | DailyHive
- Avoiding Rental Property Scams | Consumer Protection BC
- Rental Scams | BC RCMP
- Rental Scams | Renting It Right
- Renting your first apartment or home | Financial Consumer Agency of Canada
Living Costs in Greater Vancouver
You can find the average ongoing living expenses in different areas of Greater Vancouver on the Cost of Living page.
*Disclaimer
UCW does not verify, approve or endorse the information or listings on the websites linked above. Please use caution when searching for housing and read the section below as well as additional resources listed for avoiding scams.
University Canada West neither endorses nor is affiliated with any homestay, short-term rental, or long-term rental providers, except for 4Stay. This information is provided as a resource for University Canada West students looking for homestay and other accommodation services and is intended to provide only general information and guidance.
Every student is responsible for reviewing the terms and conditions of any homestay or housing arrangement and understanding their housing needs. University Canada West assumes no liability for any disputes arising from homestay or other services related to accommodation. Each student and their family are responsible for researching possible accommodation providers and ensuring that they are satisfied with the terms and conditions of these arrangements.
