The District of North Saanich is located at the north end of the Saanich Peninsula, approximately 25 kilometres north of Victoria, British Columbia, on southern Vancouver Island.
North Saanich exists on the traditional territories of the WSANEC people. Specifically, the BOKECEN (Pauquachin) First Nation and WSlKEM (Tseycum) First Nation are an active and vital part of our community, and the District is committed to respectfully and appropriately engaging these nations in matters of common interest.
The District, surrounded on three sides by 40 kilometres of ocean shoreline, is home to the Victoria International Airport, and the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal.
This area historically emerged from several coastal focal points inward to the interior of the Peninsula. Today, the community-like neighbourhoods, which include Ardmore, Deep Cove, Curteis Point, Cloake Hill/Green Park, Dean Park, and the South East Quadrant, are on the periphery of a rich agricultural interior which is protected by the Provincial Agricultural Land Reserve. Agriculture is very important to the municipality, as evidenced in the number of farms, and road side produce and flower stands.
Facts and Statistics
| Incorporated | August of 1965 |
| Population | Approximately 12,000 |
| Size | 4,015 hectares (9,921 acres) |
| Location | On southern Vancouver Island, 25 kilometres (16 miles) north of Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia |
| Landmarks | Victoria International Airport and Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal |
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New to North Saanich
If you are new to North Saanich, we welcome you!
North Saanich, one of the most beautiful and diverse municipalities in the region, will usually be the first community visitors will experience when visiting. Both main travel entrance points on Southern Vancouver Island, the Swartz Bay Terminal for BC Ferries and the Victoria International Airport, are located here.
North Saanich has once again been recognized as one of the country's most livable places to call home, earning a spot on The Globe and Mail's 2025 Most Livable Cities ranking, published January 29.
This year, North Saanich ranked 61st out of 454 communities across Canada, placing it alongside communities such as Whitehorse, Yukon (60) and St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador (62).
The result represents a significant jump of 145 spots compared to last year, highlighting steady progress across a wide range of measures that contribute to overall quality of life.
The recognition also reflects broader strength across the Saanich Peninsula. Our neighbours in Sidney ranked 41st this year, climbing 39 places compared to last year's results: an encouraging sign of regional livability and shared community values.
The Globe and Mail's annual ranking moves beyond traditional discussions focused on housing prices or real estate markets. Instead, it asks a broader question: What truly makes a place a good place to live? The 2025 ranking evaluates communities using 58 variables across 10 key categories, including economy, housing, demographics, health care, safety, education, community, amenities, transportation, and
climate resilience. In response to reader feedback, this year's edition also introduced a population filter, allowing communities to be compared more meaningfully within similar size ranges: an important change for smaller municipalities like North Saanich.
While rankings rely on data, livability is also shaped by everyday experiences. For North Saanich residents, it often means access to natural spaces, a strong sense of community, proximity to services, and a balance between rural character and connected living.
"North Saanich truly is an oasis: a place where natural beauty, strong community connections, and a high quality of life come together," said Mayor Peter Jones. "This recognition reflects the care our residents have for this place, and the thoughtful work being done to protect what makes our community so special."
This national recognition reflects the ongoing efforts of residents, Council, staff, and community partners who continue to work together to protect what makes North Saanich unique while planning thoughtfully for the future.
Visit our Services page for information on services that the District provides.