Victoria, the “City of Gardens”, is a community of choice for its temperate climate, natural beauty, recreational sites and superior economic opportunities. For almost every citizen, local or newcomer, the decision to live here is a conscious one.

Population

Victoria’s population is just over 78,000, with nearly 345,000 in the Greater Victoria area.

Location

Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the largest of BC’s 6,500 islands. It is 100 kilometers from Vancouver and is easily accessible by car or boat from the mainland and the US. Ferries carrying foot passengers, automobiles, trucks and trailers make more than 100 daily crossings to and from the mainland, linking motorists to Vancouver, Seattle, Prince Rupert and Alaska. The transportation network also includes an international airport, helicopter and seaplane services, buses and passenger train service.

Schools

Victoria lies within School District 61, which offers a number of schools from K-12 as well as various alternative school programs and several French immersion programs. Private schools in Victoria include Glenlyon Norfolk School, Lighthouse Christian Academy and Saint Michael’s University School.

Recreation

Victoria is home to a number of recreation facilities such as the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre, the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre and Royal Athletic Park for both indoor and outdoor pursuits. Greenspace is prominent in Victoria; the over 70 parks in Victoria include ornamental gardens, natural ecosystems, sports and entertainment venues and playgrounds. Bike lanes, walkways and the CRD’s Galloping Goose Trail offer many transportation options to residents and visitors.

Economy

Victoria is a thriving city that continues to grow and expand. The population of Greater Victoria is expected to expand to 400,000 by 2020. Victoria is strategically located near the US markets and serves as a gateway to the Pacific Rim. Its many sea and air links have created a hub for business development and economic investment.

Victoria’s primary industries include technology, tourism, education, federal and provincial government administration and services. Victoria receives over 100 Cruise Ship visits every year and the Victoria Conference Centre is one of the busiest in North America.  Many of Greater Victoria’s attractions are renown throughout the world including the Butchart Gardens and the Royal British Columbia Museum. The Canadian Pacific Naval Fleet is based in neighbouring Esquimalt and the post secondary education sector featuring the University of Victoria, Royal Roads University and Camosun College are large employers in the area. The Victoria Times Colonist reported in 2007 that technology had overtaken tourism as the top performing economic sector in Victoria.