"Ain't for me": TikToker’s six reasons for leaving Victoria
One TikToker’s breakup letter to Victoria has the internet divided. While she’s packing her bags and bidding farewell to the island’s capital, plenty of Victoria locals (and former residents) have thoughts about her six reasons for leaving.
Here’s her list, alongside the collective eye rolls, nods, and heated counterpoints:
Rainy days aren’t the vibe
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While Victoria is officially classified as having a sub-Mediterranean climate (not sub-tropical, as she claims), she’s “done pretending it’s okay for everyone to live in seasonal depression.” The gloom of the winter months seems to have gotten under her skin.
“Couldn’t disagree more. Victoria is wonderful for those whose moods aren’t linked to the weather,” one commenter quipped, reminding us that Vitamin D supplements exist.
Another added, “I dream of Victoria weather — so much better than the Lower Mainland.”
Someone who’s lived on the island their entire life said, “Always tell people to visit from October to May before they move here.” Call it an insider tip!
Culture? (Apparently) not here
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The TikToker says Victoria lacks enough indoor events, music, and shows to keep things lively during the grey months, adding, “For someone without a family in their 20s to 40s, it’s hard to meet people for this reason.”
Some locals agree — but only to an extent. “I grew up in Vancouver. Live in beautiful Victoria. You make some valid points about cultural events,” said one commenter before hitting her with this: “But the weather? Half the rain of Van and mild weather all year. Love our climate!”
Others argued that the cultural scene isn’t dead; you just need to know where to look.
“Victoria is vibrant with culture and so is the Island,” wrote one resident. Maybe someone should drop her a map to the “right spots” she missed.
Vancouver costs without Vancouver perks
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“It’s as expensive as Vancouver without the city perks,” she claims, adding, “I don’t know how anyone my age will afford to buy a house here.”
She’s not wrong about the prices, but commenters were quick to remind her that Victoria is far from alone in the affordability crisis. Besides, if you’re measuring every city against Vancouver’s urban sprawl, nightlife, and amenities, you’re probably going to be disappointed.
The Seattle freeze
Banfield Park (@cityofvictoria/Instagram)
People in Victoria are “cliquey, flaky, and closed-hearted,” she laments. Meeting new people, it seems, has been a struggle. This isn’t an uncommon refrain. In the Pacific Northwest, it even has a name: The Seattle Freeze.
A Vancouver transplant chimed in, “As someone from there and someone who lives in Vancouver, people from those places only care about their existing friend groups. But there is a specific energy and elitism some people get in Vic.”
Others, however, pointed out that making friends anywhere takes effort — and that Victoria is home to plenty of welcoming folks if you’re willing to try.
A music scene that’s on life support
Victoria Event Centre/Provided
“Did I mention the lame music scene?” she reiterates for emphasis.
“You’re right about the music scene,” admitted one local DJ.
“We’ve had four of the main venues close this year. It’s getting worse every year.” That’s a tough pill to swallow, but others noted there’s still plenty of life left if you’re willing to dig deeper.
A no-go for globetrotters
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“Not an ideal place to live if you want to do international travel,” she added. Sure, island life doesn’t make quick jaunts to Paris or Bali easy, but that’s the trade-off for living on the edge of the Pacific.
Despite some agreement on certain points, the comments make one thing clear: Victoria’s charm isn’t for everyone, but its fans are fiercely loyal.
Whether you’re drawn to its rainy-day coziness, tight-knit culture, or slower pace of life, this island city still has room to grow — like any place.
As one commenter put it: “It’s on a rocky point at the bottom of an island — sorry it doesn’t have all the conveniences you need.”