The 6 Best Areas to Stay in Greater Vancouver for Students

What Greater Vancouver Area Covers

The Greater Vancouver Area, also known as Metro Vancouver, encompasses the city of Vancouver and the surrounding municipalities, including Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse communities.

Top Universities in Greater Vancouver Area

• University of British Columbia (UBC)
• Simon Fraser University (SFU)
• Capilano University
• Emily Carr University of Art + Design
• British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)

1. Downtown Vancouver

Why the Area is Good: Downtown Vancouver is the heart of the city, offering a bustling urban environment with easy access to major attractions, dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It's ideal for students who want to be in the center of it all.

Universities Around the Area:

• Simon Fraser University (Harbour Centre Campus)
• University of British Columbia (Robson Square Campus)

How to Get to the Universities:

• Simon Fraser University (Harbour Centre Campus): Easily accessible by SkyTrain (Waterfront Station). Distance: ~1 km.
• University of British Columbia (Robson Square Campus): Accessible by bus and SkyTrain. Distance: ~1.5 km.

Attractions:

• Stanley Park
• Granville Island
• Vancouver Art Gallery
• Robson Street shopping

Approximate Rent:

• One-bedroom apartment: $2,600 - $2,800 per month
• Two-bedroom apartment: $3,800 - $4,000 per month

2. Kitsilano

Why the Area is Good: Kitsilano, or "Kits," is a trendy neighborhood known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and vibrant community. It's perfect for students who enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed atmosphere.

Universities Around the Area:

• University of British Columbia (UBC)

How to Get to the Universities:

• University of British Columbia: Accessible by bus. Distance: ~5 km.

Attractions:

• Kitsilano Beach
• Vanier Park
• Museum of Vancouver
• Granville Island

Approximate Rent:

• One-bedroom apartment: $2,400 - $2,600 per month
• Two-bedroom apartment: $3,200 - $3,400 per month

3. Burnaby

Why the Area is Good: Burnaby offers a mix of urban and suburban living with excellent amenities, parks, and shopping centers. It's a great option for students looking for a balance between city life and a quieter environment.

Universities Around the Area:

• Simon Fraser University (SFU)
• British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)

How to Get to the Universities:

• Simon Fraser University: Accessible by bus and SkyTrain. Distance: ~10 km.
• British Columbia Institute of Technology: Accessible by bus and SkyTrain. Distance: ~5 km.

Attractions:

• Metropolis at Metrotown
• Burnaby Mountain
• Deer Lake Park

Approximate Rent:

• One-bedroom apartment: $2,200 - $2,400 per month
• Two-bedroom apartment: $2,800 - $3,000 per month

Find accommodations here https://www.studentaccommodationone.com/ca/student-accommodation/burnaby/british-columbia

4. Richmond

Why the Area is Good: Richmond is known for its multicultural community, excellent dining options, and proximity to the Vancouver International Airport. It's a great area for students who appreciate cultural diversity and convenience.

Universities Around the Area:

• Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)

How to Get to the Universities:

• Kwantlen Polytechnic University: Accessible by bus and SkyTrain. Distance: ~8 km.

Attractions:

• Steveston Village
• Richmond Night Market
• Minoru Park

Approximate Rent:

• One-bedroom apartment: $2,000 - $2,200 per month
• Two-bedroom apartment: $2,600 - $2,800 per month

Find accommodations here https://www.studentaccommodationone.com/ca/student-accommodation/richmond/british-columbia

5. North Vancouver

Why the Area is Good: North Vancouver offers stunning views of the mountains and water, along with a variety of outdoor activities. It's perfect for students who love nature and adventure.

Universities Around the Area:

• Capilano University

How to Get to the Universities:

• Capilano University: Accessible by bus. Distance: ~5 km.

Attractions:

• Grouse Mountain
• Capilano Suspension Bridge
• Lonsdale Quay

Approximate Rent:

• One-bedroom apartment: $2,300 - $2,500 per month
• Two-bedroom apartment: $2,900 - $3,100 per month

Find accommodation on https://www.studentaccommodationone.com/ca/student-accommodation/north-vancouver/british-columbia

6. Surrey

Why the Area is Good: Surrey is one of the fastest-growing cities in Metro Vancouver, offering a mix of urban and suburban living with plenty of parks and community centers. It's a great option for students looking for affordable housing and a diverse community.

Universities Around the Area:

• Simon Fraser University (Surrey Campus)
• Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU)

How to Get to the Universities:

• Simon Fraser University (Surrey Campus): Accessible by bus and SkyTrain. Distance: ~2 km.
• Kwantlen Polytechnic University: Accessible by bus. Distance: ~5 km.

Attractions:

• Surrey Central City
• Bear Creek Park
• Historic Stewart Farm

Approximate Rent:

• One-bedroom apartment: $1,800 - $2,000 per month
• Two-bedroom apartments: $2,500 - $3,200 per month

Find accommodation here https://www.studentaccommodationone.com/ca/student-accommodation/surrey/british-columbia