A workforce of some 6,000 military and civilian workers provides a major element of Esquimalt's thriving economy. The municipality has an interesting housing mix, including single family homes, apartments, duplexes and townhouses, fitting all tastes and budgets. Many residences are located close to rocky beaches and ocean views. OAK BAY Oak Bay is a fully developed residential municipality of about 18,000 at the southeast tip of the Saanich Peninsula. Visually, Oak Bay is dominated by the Garry Oak trees that give the area its name, and by the sea, which is never far away.
Housing is predominantly single family, with prices reflecting a degree of exclusivity.
The Uplands District in the northern portion of the municipality is a mature area of estate properties, and is generally regarded as one of North America's finest residential neighbourhoods. Oak Bay offers both public and private schooling, and municipal recreation facilities are excellent. Approximately half of the university of Victoria campus is within the municipality as well. Oak Bay accommodates two private golf clubs, a yacht club and a large marina. The commercial heart of the municipality is Oak Bay Village, on a friendly main street, featuring a wide range of shopping and financial services.