Why students choose Prince George
Prince George is the largest city in northern BC, home to the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and the College of New Caledonia (CNC). It’s the most affordable of BC’s main study cities, with smaller class sizes and a close-knit community.
Expect cold, snowy winters, with temperatures often well below freezing from December to February. Winter clothing is a necessary part of your budget.
Rent
Median asking rents in Prince George in October 2026:
| Home | Median rent per month |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,047 |
| 1 bedroom | $1,325 |
| 2 bedrooms | $1,495 |
Shared rooms are typically $600–$800 a month — roughly half of what students pay in Vancouver.
Transit
Buses are run by BC Transit. UNBC students on the Prince George campus pay a mandatory U-Pass fee as part of their student fees. Without a student pass, an adult 30-day pass costs $65 and a single fare is $2.75.
A realistic monthly budget
| Item | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Shared room | $700 |
| Groceries and some eating out | $620 |
| Transit pass | $40 |
| BC health fee (once on MSP) | $75 |
| Phone | $40 |
| Personal, social and other | $230 |
| Total | about $1,700 |
That’s roughly $20,500 a year before tuition — below IRCC’s minimum of $23,448, so you’ll still need to show the full IRCC amount for your proof of funds.
Good to know
- Prince George Airport (YXS) has daily flights to Vancouver.
- Part-time work exists but there are fewer options than in larger cities.
- Make sure your private insurance covers you until MSP starts.