Exhibit 23.1


               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the  incorporation by reference in the Registration  Statements on
Form S-8 (nos. 333-76011, 333-89267, 333-94123 and 333-40682) and in the related
Prospectus  and the  Registration  Statements on Form S-3 (nos.  333-108809  and
333-105011) of Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. of our report dated April 19, 2004, with
respect to the  financial  statements  and schedule of Factory 2-U Stores,  Inc.
included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended January 31, 2004.

/s/ERNST & YOUNG LLP

San Diego, California
April 29, 2004