What is it like to live in Victoria, British Columbia?

Question

In terms of weather, expense, travel, activites and general quality of living?

Answer 1

Victoria, being the capital city of British Columbia is quite diverse in it's architecture ranging from Victorian mansions to new ultra modern homes.  It also has it's share of older, dilapidated house as well so it isn't all eye candy.  The cost of living in Victoria is much the same as Vancouver for purchasing a house but rents tend to be a little less expensive.  The cost of living as in food is pretty much the same as on the mainland.  The weather is very mild with easy winters (very little snow) but it does rain-that's why everything is so fresh and green.  You don't tan in Victoria, you rust.

The schools are great, The University of Victoria is world class as is Royal Roads University.  

Victoria is a very scenic city with lots of neat places to visit.  Good restaurants and clubs and very many senior retired people so watch out for the drivers.  They might have a left turn signal on fully intending to turn right.

Answer 2

I find Victoria a bit on the expensive side but it's great.

Very safe, beautiful and with mild weather.

Some people find it too quiet or too slow as compared to other cities but, for me, it's perfect.

Answer 3

Victoria is a nice city. Its downtown is small enough to walk around to do your shopping but it is notorious for parking problems in tourist season. The weather is good, it tends to be a little drier and windier than Vancouver, and the general area has about the longest growing season in Canada. Lots of beautiful gardens around.  House prices have shot up the last few years but aren't outrageous though that view depends where you're comparing to. There's lots to do, indoors and out, and there are lovely parks near downtown with ocean and nice views. If, by travel, you mean how to get out of Victoria, it has an international airport, a ferry to Vancouver and ferries to several points in Washington.