Having safe and comfortable shelter that people can access and afford is a basic need that contributes significantly to quality of life. How are we doing with respect to Housing? You told us: C-

Rental availability The total number of apartments in Greater Victoria in 2008 was 23,948 compared to 24,050 in 2007, a net loss of 102 apartments. Grade: D+
Source

Social housing waitlist In March 2009, there were 631 families, 347 seniors, 327 people with disabilities, 31 single people and 49 people needing wheelchair access on the social housing waitlist in the Capital Region. By comparison, in 2008 there were 919 families, 481 seniors and 437 people with disabilities on the waitlist.
Grade: D+
Source

Rental costs The average cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Greater Victoria in 2008 was $964 compared to $908 in 2007. Provincially, the cost of a two-bedroom apartment was comparable at $969, however the national average cost of $804 was significantly less. Grade: C-
Source

Residential building permits In the first quarter of 2009, 642 residential building permits were issued in the Capital Region, down significantly from 794 in 2008. Grade: C
Source

Rental vacancy The rental vacancy rate of two-bedroom apartments in Greater Victoria In April 2009 was 1.0%, up slightly from 0.3% in April 2008 and 0.8% in 2007. Grade: D+
Source

Annual Income Needed for a Starter Home in Greater Victoria
(in July of each year)
Source: Victoria Real Estate Board and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Photo: Artist - Martin Machacek