Author: Julia Burden

Victoria, British Columbia, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and renowned university, has been grappling with a housing crisis that has left many students as well as families across the island struggling to find affordable accommodation. As a university student living in Victoria, I am privileged to have a place to live, but I am acutely aware of the challenges my peers are facing in securing suitable housing. This article will explore the housing crisis in Victoria from the perspective of a student who witnessed firsthand the struggles of fellow students trying to find affordable housing. 

Victoria’s housing crisis stems from a complex interplay of factors, including population growth, limited housing supply, rising property prices, and stagnant wages; “High prices and low vacancy rates have left many residents feeling priced out of homeownership — and for some, the rental market — on southern Vancouver Island.” says Emily Fagan, a CBC reporter in a 2023 article. The city’s popularity as a tourist destination and its appeal as a place to live have led to an influx of people, putting pressure on an already strained housing market. Additionally, the lack of affordable housing options exacerbates the problem, particularly for students who often have limited financial resources. For many students, the search for housing in Victoria begins well before the start of the academic year. Competition for rental properties is fierce, with vacancy rates hovering at historically low levels. As a result, students often find themselves facing high rental costs, substandard living conditions, or long commutes from more affordable areas. In an article written by a UVic international student “the majority of students are living well below the poverty line, and many use their income to pay for housing costs which can have a negative impact on students’ finances, mental health, and diet”. The housing crisis in Victoria has profound implications for university students. Affordability concerns not only affect students’ well-being but also their academic success and overall quality of life. Many students are forced to work multiple jobs or take on additional loans to afford housing, leading to increased stress and financial strain. Moreover, the lack of stable housing can disrupt students’ ability to focus on their studies and fully engage in campus life. For those who are unable to find suitable accommodation, the prospect of homelessness looms large, further exacerbating mental health issues and academic performance. 

In response to the housing crisis, student advocacy groups in Victoria have been actively campaigning for affordable housing solutions. These groups work to raise awareness of the challenges that university students are facing and push for policy changes at the municipal and provincial levels. In August of 2023, BC NDP leader, Jagmeet Singh met with a group of UVic students who are pushing for not only answers but solutions. Singh was prompted to visit the campus after receiving many pleas from students specifically in Victoria about the dire situation they are in when it comes to the cost of living- “It’s pretty desperate,” he said. “I want to give students some hope.” At the University of Victoria, only about 10% of students have access to student housing as it is only first year guarantee for student residence; this leaves about 20,000 students without guaranteed housing. One of the key demands of student advocacy groups is increased investment in purpose-built student housing. By partnering with universities and private developers, governments can create more affordable housing options specifically tailored to the needs of students. These developments not only alleviate pressure on the rental market but also provide students with access to supportive services and amenities that enhance their university experience. In the Times Colonist article Singh touched on the possibility of housing built specifically for students: “The idea of converting vacant commercial buildings into student housing could also be considered”. Additionally, student advocates are calling for stronger tenant protections and rent control measures to prevent exploitation by landlords and ensure housing affordability for all residents, including students. By advocating for policies that prioritise the needs of renters, students are working to create a more equitable and sustainable housing system in Victoria. 

Universities and colleges in and around Victoria also play a critical role in addressing the housing crisis. Recognizing the impact of housing insecurity on student well-being and academic success, universities across the country have begun to implement various support services and initiatives to assist students in the process of finding housing and navigating the rental market. The UVic website has a section for students looking for off-campus housing that provides resources for students looking for rentals, subletters and even a place to find roommates. Some universities have even partnered with local housing providers to secure affordable accommodation options for students, such as discounted rent in university-owned properties or designated student housing developments. Furthermore, universities are investing in campus infrastructure to accommodate the growing student population and reduce the demand for off-campus housing. By expanding on-campus housing options and facilities, universities can help alleviate pressure on the local rental market and provide students with a safe and supportive living environment. 

Addressing the housing crisis in Victoria requires a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration between government, universities, advocacy groups, and the community at large. While the progress has been made in recent years, much more needs to be done to ensure that all residents, including university students, have access to affordable and secure housing. First and foremost, governments must prioritise housing affordability as a key policy objective and allocate resources accordingly. This includes investing in the construction of new affordable housing units, implementing rent control measures, and strengthening tenant protections to prevent displacement and exploitation. Universities must also continue to expand support services for students, particularly those from marginalised communities who are disproportionately affected by the housing crisis. By prioritising student well-being and accessibility, universities can foster a more inclusive and supportive campus environment for all students. Community engagement and grassroots activism are essential for driving meaningful change and holding policymakers and stakeholders accountable. By amplifying the voices of those directly affected by the housing crisis, including students, advocates can push for systemic reforms that address the root causes of housing insecurity and create a more just and equitable society. 

While the focus of the housing crisis in Greater Victoria often centres around university students, it’s crucial to recognize that families in Victoria are also deeply affected by the exorbitant cost of living. For many families, the dream of homeownership in the picturesque city is becoming increasingly unattainable. Skyrocketing property prices and stagnant wages have created a housing market that is out of reach for the average household, forcing families to make difficult choices about where they live and how they allocate their financial resources. 

Families are forced to contend with the harsh reality of housing instability, as they struggle to find affordable rentals or face the prospect of being priced out of their neighbourhoods. According to a 2023 CBC report the average cost of a one bedroom rental in Victoria is $2,073. This is an astronomically high cost and not to mention that a one bedroom home or apartment is not accommodating for the majority families. The lack of affordable housing options also has ripple effects on family dynamics, as parents juggle multiple jobs and long commutes to make ends meet, often at the expense of quality with their children. Moreover, the housing crisis exacerbates the existing inequalities, disproportionately impacting marginalised communities who are already marginalised by systemic barriers. Indigenous families, newcomers, and low-income households are particularly vulnerable to housing insecurity, as they face discrimination in the rental market and limited access to affordable housing options. 

As a university student, witnessing the struggles of families in Victoria adds another layer of urgency to the need for systemic change. The housing crisis is not just a student issue; it is a community issue that requires collective action to address the root causes of inequality and ensure that everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. 

The housing crisis in Victoria is not only affecting students’ current living situations but also shaping their future prospects on the island. As graduation approaches, many students are faced with the daunting reality of whether they can afford to remain in Victoria or if they will be forced to relocate in search of more affordable housing options. For students who have forged connections and built connections and built lives in Victoria, the prospect of leaving can be disheartening. The city’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and tight-knit community make it an attractive place to call home. However, the harsh economic realities of the housing market often outweigh these benefits, leaving students with little choice but to consider their options elsewhere. 

The uncertainty surrounding post-graduation plans adds an additional layer of stress for students already grappling with the academic pressures and financial constraints. Many are forced to weigh their career aspirations against the practicalities of housing affordability, leading to difficult decisions about whether to stay and struggle or leave and start a new life elsewhere. Furthermore, the exodus of young talent from Victoria threatens to have long-term repercussions for the city’s economy and cultural vibrancy. As students opt to pursue opportunities in more affordable cities, Victoria risks losing its status as a hub for innovation and creativity, further exacerbating the housing crisis as demand for housing continues to outstrip supply. 

Ultimately, the housing crisis in Victoria has far-reaching implications for students’ futures and the future of the city itself. Without meaningful action to address housing affordability, students will continue to face barriers to education, career development and advancement, and quality of life, while the city risks losing its diverse and dynamic population. It is incumbent upon policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to come together to develop comprehensive solutions that ensure a sustainable and inclusive future for all residents in Victoria. 

Despite the pressing nature of the housing crisis in Victoria, there is a pervasive sense among students and residents alike that the government is not adequately prioritising this critical issue. While there may be lots of talk surrounding the importance of housing affordability, actions speak louder than words- concrete action and meaningful policy changes seem to be lacking.

The lack of government intervention perpetuates a cycle of housing insecurity and economic inequality, leaving vulnerable populations, including students and families, to bear the brunt of the crisis. Despite mounting pressure from advocacy groups and community members, policymakers have been slow to implement substantive measures to address the root causes of the housing crisis.

This perceived indifference from the government not only exacerbates the challenges faced by those struggling to find affordable housing but also erodes trust in the political system and institutions meant to serve the public good. Students and residents are left feeling disillusioned and frustrated, wondering why their concerns are not being taken seriously by those in power.

Furthermore, the government’s inaction on the housing crisis has broader societal implications, impacting everything from public health and education to economic stability and social cohesion. Housing insecurity contributes to a host of negative outcomes, including increased stress, decreased productivity, and widening disparities in health and well-being.

As a university student living in Victoria, I am deeply concerned about the long-term consequences of government inaction on the housing crisis. Without meaningful intervention and systemic reforms, the challenges posed by housing affordability will only continue to worsen, undermining the social fabric of our community and hindering our collective prosperity.

It is imperative that government officials at all levels prioritise housing affordability as a central policy objective and take decisive action to address this urgent issue. By investing in affordable housing initiatives, implementing rent control measures, and strengthening tenant protections, policymakers can help ensure that all residents of Victoria have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing. Only through concerted efforts and collaborative action can we build a future where housing is truly a right, not a privilege.

As a university student living in Victoria, I am greatly aware of the challenges posed by the city’s housing crisis. While I am fortunate to have a place to live, many of my peers are not as fortunate, struggling to find affordable accommodation in a competitive rental market. The housing crisis not only affects students’ financial well-being but also their academic success and overall quality of life. To address the housing crisis effectively, we must take a holistic approach that involves government intervention, university support, and community advocacy. By working together, we can create a more equitable and sustainable housing system that ensures access to safe and affordable housing for all residents, including university students. Only then can we truly address the root causes of the housing crisis and build a better future for our community. 

Author: Julia Burden