Life in Prince George

Prince George offers a balance of convenience, affordability, and natural beauty. It’s a place where students can focus on their studies, connect with the community, and experience the best of northern British Columbia, Canada.

  • Population: around 80,000 
  • Location: Central British Columbia, where the Fraser and Nechako Rivers meet 
  • Distance from Vancouver: About a 1 hours and 20 minutes 
  • Climate: Four distinct seasons - warm summers, colorful autumns, snowy winters, and bright spring days 
  • Time zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST) 
  • Groceries: Large supermarkets and smaller international food stores available such us:
    • Walmart
    • Costco (You need a membership card)
    • Save-On-Foods
    • Buy-Low Foods
    • Real Canadian Superstore
  • Dining: Varieties of cafés, restaurants, and food shops offering local and international cuisine 
  • Shopping: Major retail stores, shopping centres, and locally owned shops 
  • Services: Banks, pharmacies, medical clinics, and postal services easily accessible
    • Banks in Prince George:
      • BMO Bank of Montreal
      • CIBC
      • RBC
      • Scotiabank
      • TD Bank
  • Recreation: Fitness centres, swimming pools, sports fields, and public recreation programs 
  • Community spaces: Public libraries, community centres, and parks
  • Markets: Seasonal farmers’ markets offering fresh produce and handmade goods 
  • Surrounded by forests, rivers, and lakes, ideal for outdoor recreation year‑round 
  • Hiking and biking trails within or near city limits 
  • Nearby parks and recreation areas for walking, skiing, snowshoeing, and kayaking
  • Summer (June - August): Warm, sunny days - great for hiking, camping, and community festivals 
  • Autumn (September - October): Mild weather and colorful fall scenery 
  • Winter (November - March): Cold temperatures and snow, perfect for skiing and winter sports 
  • Spring (April - May): Longer days, blooming trees, and outdoor events 
  • Active arts scene with galleries, museums, and local theatre productions 
  • Community festivals, concerts, and seasonal events held throughout the year 
  • Opportunities to participate in cultural organizations and volunteer initiatives 
  • Public art installations and workshops celebrating local creativity 
  • Cycling and walking: Multi‑use trails and sidewalks throughout the city 
  • Driving: Well‑maintained roads and accessible parking; winter tires recommended in colder months

Learn more about Prince George!