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Home / 2026 / July / 03 / A guide to Kelowna’s off-campus housing for UBCO students

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A guide to Kelowna’s off-campus housing for UBCO students

July 3, 2026

Whether it’s your first year or fifth, navigating off-campus housing can be overwhelming. Good thing we’ve got a bank of great content to help you start!  

Where do I start? 

UBCO Residence is a great starting resource – here’s their guide on living off-campus. This guide goes through cost considerations, where to find housing, knowing your rights as a tenant, and what you need to do before moving in. 

What are the best neighbourhoods to live in near UBCO? 

The best place is subjective – it really does depend on what you value most. Consider if you like living in a quiet area, how close you want to be to grocery stores, if you want to step outside and see the beach – these are all things that can make or break the neighbourhood you might live in. 

Check out your options in this Guide to Kelowna Neighbourhoods on Instagram.

What’s it like living with roommates? 

First time moving in with roommates? Don’t know if you want to live on your own or with others? Wondering if your life will look like a sitcom? Some of those questions will be answered with this great video on our advice on having a great relationship with roommates.

How do I get to campus? 

Living off-campus is a great way to live life outside of being a student. You’ll have much more access to the rest of Kelowna. Learning the transit system will help you get from home to campus, and all the other fun things you have planned! Here’s a video on what you need to know about the Okanagan bussing system. 

What about groceries? 

Doing your groceries is an art that takes a lot of strategy. Here’s our advice on making the most out of your trip –  Groceries 101. 

How can I make the most of living off-campus? 

Lastly, going through this transition is a lot. There’s so much that goes into making sure all your Ts are crossed and Is are dotted. So, here are six life hacks for a successful off-campus housing experience. If you have more questions, you can always reach out for support! 

Happy house hunting! 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mia Mendoza is a transfer student in her fifth year of the Media Studies program and loves telling stories. She really enjoys personality tests, anything to do with pop culture, and trying new foods! Her favourite thing to do in Kelowna is taking long walks on the beach and buying overpriced coffee  <3 

Posted in New to UBC, UBCO Life, Uncategorized | Tagged bussing, housing, Kelowna, living off campus, moving, new students, Okanagan, renting, student life, student lifestyle, student living, UBC, UBC Okanagan, UBCO, ubco life, UBCO students

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