Student Moving Guide: Moving to Vancouver for University

Moving to Vancouver for school is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming. Here's everything you need to know from our team, who move hundreds of students every year.

Finding Student Housing in Vancouver

On-Campus vs Off-Campus

On-campus housing (UBC, SFU) fills up fast. Apply as early as possible — ideally 6–12 months before your start date.

Off-campus options:

• Basement suites in Point Grey, Burnaby, or East Van
• Shared houses (look on Craigslist, Padmapper, Facebook Housing groups)
• Student co-ops through UBC or SFU

Average Student Rents in 2026

• Shared room: $900–$1,400/month
• Private basement suite: $1,600–$2,200/month
• 1-bedroom apartment: $2,000–$2,800/month

What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)

Bring:

• Bedding, towels, and kitchen basics
• Laptop and study essentials
• Canadian power adapters if coming from abroad
• Rain gear (trust us)

Leave Behind / Buy in Vancouver:

• Large furniture (rent furnished or buy used on Facebook Marketplace)
• Excess clothing (Vancouver has great thrift stores)
• Heavy appliances

Moving on a Student Budget

1. Move mid-week — movers charge less Monday–Thursday
2. Book 4–6 weeks ahead — last-minute August/September bookings are the most expensive
3. Ask about student discounts — SS Moving Services offers special rates for students
4. Downsize before you move — fewer boxes = less time = less cost
5. Pack yourself — professional packing is optional; DIY packing saves money

Moving Day Tips for Students

• Confirm elevator booking with your new building
• Have cash or a card ready for the tip (movers appreciate it!)
• Take photos of your new place before moving in (document any existing damage)
• Get tenant insurance — it's about $20/month and protects everything you own

Getting Around Vancouver as a Student

• Get a Compass Card for TransLink (bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus)
• UBC students get a U-Pass bundled with tuition
• Vancouver is very bike-friendly — consider a second-hand bike

Student-friendly movers in Vancouver! SS Moving Services offers affordable student moving packages. Get your student moving quote here.