Living in Ottawa (Pros & Cons of Life in Ottawa)

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, offers a well-balanced lifestyle with a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. Whether you’re considering relocating or just curious about Ottawa living, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of living in Ottawa. From affordability and education to weather and nightlife, we cover everything you need to know about living in Ottawa.

Is Ottawa a Good Place to Live?

If you’re wondering, “is Ottawa a nice place to live?”, the answer is yes! Ottawa is consistently ranked as one of the best cities in Canada for families, professionals, and retirees. The city is safe, has excellent schools, and offers a high quality of life. As an Ottawa native, I can say that this is a very nice place to live and is well-balanced, especially for families.

Like any city, there are pros and cons of living in Ottawa. Let’s go over the top considerations if you’re thinking about relocating to Ottawa.

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Pros of Living in Ottawa

1. Less Expensive Than Other Major Cities

The cost of living in Ottawa is cheaper than in other major Canadian cities, with monthly expenses for a single person averaging around $1,200-$1,500 before rent. If you’re thinking of moving from Toronto to Ottawa, for example, you will find that Ottawa is more affordable in terms of housing, dining, and most everyday expenses. 

Housing Costs

The average home price in Ottawa is significantly lower than in Toronto or Vancouver, making homeownership more accessible to even first-time home buyers. As of recent market reports, the average home price in Ottawa is around $650,000, compared to $1.1 million in Toronto.

I encourage you to check out our Ottawa homes for sale page to get an idea of what’s out there. Whether you’re interested in buying a condo in Ottawa or a freehold property, we can help you find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Rental rates are also more reasonable, with a two-bedroom apartment averaging $1,900 per month, compared to $2,800 in Toronto.

General Cost of Living

• • Groceries: Groceries in Ottawa are nearly 2% lower than in Toronto and nearly 11% lower than Vancouver. For example, a gallon of milk in Ottawa averages $13 and $14.9 in Toronto. A pound of tomatoes in Ottawa is $2.27, but $3.07 in Vancouver. 

• Transportation: Transportation costs in Ottawa are about 6% cheaper than in Vancouver and about 7% cheaper than Toronto.

• Utilities: The average utilities cost in Ottawa is actually more expensive in Ottawa than in Vancouver and Toronto, which is largely due to colder winters in Ottawa. However, internet service in Ottawa is 4% less expensive than in Toronto and 12% cheaper than in Vancouver.

• Childcare: Monthly fees for a private Preschool or Kindergarten are $1,333 in Ottawa, but about $1,600 in Toronto and Vancouver.

Lifestyle Expenses

• Restaurants: Overall, restaurant prices in Ottawa are 5% lower than Toronto. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $55 per person in Ottawa, and $60 in Toronto and Vancouver. 
• Leisure & Recreation: Overall, leisure and lifestyle costs are usually more affordable in Ottawa. For example, a cinema ticket in Ottawa averages $15, but $16 in Vancouver and $16 in Toronto. A pair of jeans in Ottawa averages $73.46, but $92.08 in Vancouver and $76.77 in Toronto. 

2. Great Education

Ottawa is home to major post-secondary institutions and a range of strong education options for younger students:

Universities & Colleges

• Carleton University: Renowned for its journalism, public affairs, and engineering programs. Carleton also offers a wide range of other disciplines, including arts, business, and sciences.
• University of Ottawa: As a bilingual institution offering diverse programs in English and French, the University of Ottawa is recognized as the world’s largest English-French bilingual university.
• Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology: Algonquin College is recognized among Canada’s top research colleges, ranking third in research partnerships in 2022.

Public & Catholic Schools

• Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB): Provides comprehensive public education across the city.
• Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB): Offers quality Catholic education and is a publicly funded separate school board.

Private Schools

• Elmwood School: Elmwood School is an all-girls institution emphasizing academic excellence and personal development.
• Ashbury College: Ashbury College is a co-educational boarding and day school known for its rigorous academic programs.
• Turnbull School: Turnbull School focuses on providing a supportive learning environment for elementary and middle school students.

These institutions collectively contribute to Ottawa’s reputation for offering diverse and high-quality educational opportunities.

3. Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods

Ottawa ranks as the 2nd best city to raise a family in Canada by the Reader’s Digest Canada. With low crime rates, good schools, and numerous parks, Ottawa quality of life is exceptional for families. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa for families:

• Kanata & Stittsville: Western Ottawa suburbs known for great schools, green spaces, and a strong sense of community.
• Barrhaven: A rapidly growing southern suburb with family-friendly amenities, parks, and recreation facilities, plus convenient access to the city.
• Riverside South: A modern, well-planned community in the south, ideal for active families with its trails, parks, and easy commuting options.
• Orleans: A vibrant eastern suburb with affordable homes, strong francophone culture, and family-friendly amenities, including parks and beaches.
• Central/Downtown Ottawa: Urban neighbourhoods like The Glebe and Centretown offer walkability, cultural events, and top-tier schools, though at higher housing costs.

4. Safety

One of the biggest reasons to live in Ottawa is its safety. Ottawa ranks among Canada’s ten safest cities. For example, Numbeo gives it a safety index of 68.65, surpassing Toronto’s 56.48. 

According to Numbeo’s crime comparison, Ottawa ranks “High” for safety when walking alone at night, whereas Toronto is rated “Moderate.” The report also highlights that issues like car theft, general theft, and assault are “Low” in Ottawa but “Moderate” in Toronto.

While certain neighbourhoods may have slightly higher crime rates, they are generally limited in scope and do not significantly impact the city’s overall safety. Here are some of the few areas to avoid in Ottawa:

• Centretown/Somerset: Between Preston St and O’Connor & Hwy 417 and Albert
• Lowertown/Byward Market: Sussex to Cobourg & Rideau to Sussex 
• Vanier: Vanier parkway to St. Laurent & Beechwood to Donald 

Besides these few areas, Ottawa is very safe to live in. 

5. Employment Opportunities

Ottawa offers many job prospects, particularly in the following sectors:

• Government Jobs: The city is home to numerous federal government positions, making it one of the most stable job markets in Canada.
• Technology Sector: Kanata is a major tech centre, often referred to as “Silicon Valley North,” housing companies like Shopify and Nokia.
• Remote Work: Many residents work remotely for companies in larger cities while enjoying Ottawa’s lower cost of living.

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6. Healthcare

Ottawa’s healthcare system is well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of its population, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. Ottawa is home to some of Canada’s best hospitals, namely:

• The Ottawa Hospital: As one of Canada’s largest teaching hospitals, The Ottawa Hospital serves approximately 1.2 million people across Eastern Ontario. 
• Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO): Specializing in pediatric care, CHEO is located at 401 Smyth Road and provides comprehensive health services for children and youth. 
• Queensway Carleton Hospital: Serving Ottawa’s west end, this hospital is located at 3045 Baseline Road and offers a range of medical and surgical services. 
• Montfort Hospital: As Ontario’s only Francophone teaching hospital, Montfort provides bilingual services in both English and French. 

While securing a family doctor in Ottawa may involve a short to moderate wait time, the city’s healthcare infrastructure remains strong. Residents seeking a family physician can register with Ontario’s Health Care Connect program, which assists in connecting patients with doctors or nurse practitioners accepting new patients. 

For immediate medical needs, Ottawa offers numerous walk-in clinics and urgent care centres. Facilities like Appletree Medical Group provide walk-in services and virtual care options, ensuring accessible healthcare for residents without a family doctor. 

When compared to Gatineau, for example, Ottawa’s healthcare system is far superior. Some people choose to live just across the river in Gatineau for its lower cost of living, but end up regretting that decision because of its poor healthcare access. This region of Quebec faces a severe shortage of family doctors, with some residents waiting over two years for a physician. 

7. Convenient Airport

Ottawa International Airport offers a more streamlined and efficient experience compared to Toronto Pearson International Airport. Due to its smaller size, passengers at Ottawa International often benefit from quicker check-ins and shorter security lines. The airport provides numerous direct flights across Canada and to major international destinations.

In contrast, Toronto Pearson has faced challenges with customer satisfaction. A J.D. Power survey ranked it second-last among North America’s mega airports for customer satisfaction. Additionally, a 2022 study identified Toronto Pearson as North America’s most stressful airport.

These distinctions highlight Ottawa International Airport’s commitment to providing a more pleasant and efficient travel experience.

8. Greenspaces and Nature

Ottawa is home to a wealth of parks and trails. Even though Ottawa is Canada’s sixth most populous city, it is also home to the world’s largest publicly owned greenbelt (200 square kilometers). Ottawa’s commitment to conservation has created a city filled with scenic trails and expansive parks.

Popular Parks in Ottawa

• Andrew Haydon Park: Located on Carling Avenue at Holly Acres Road, this park features scenic views of the Ottawa River, walking trails, ponds, and a children’s play area. 
• Britannia Park: Located in the west end of Ottawa, this park offers a sandy beach, picnic areas, and access to the Ottawa River, making it great for swimming and family outings.
• Claudette Cain Park: Found in the Riverside South community, this park provides open green spaces, walking paths, and a serene environment for relaxation and casual strolls.
• Mooney’s Bay Beach and Park: Located on Riverside Drive, this popular spot features a large beach on the Rideau River, picnic areas, and a playground, perfect for family gatherings and beach activities. 
• Stuemer Park, Petrie Island: Located in the east end of Ottawa, this park offers sandy beaches, nature trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation, providing a natural retreat within the city.
• Walter Baker Park: Located in the Kanata area, this park includes sports fields, walking trails, and open spaces, catering to both active recreation and leisurely walks.
• Gatineau Park: Just north of Ottawa in Quebec, this expansive park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking and biking trails, picturesque lakes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Best Walking & Hiking Trails

Ottawa has plenty of great trails for all kinds of outdoor lovers. Here are some of the best ones:

• Klondike, North Dogsled, and Beartree Trail Loop
• Lime Kiln and Chipmunk Trails
• Mer Bleue Bog Trail
• Mud Lake Trail
• Parliament Hill Loop
• Rideau Canal, Eastern Pathway
• Rideau Canal Western Pathway (Somerset to Dow’s Lake Pavilion)
• Rockhopper Trail
• Shirley’s Bay Loop

9. Other Major Cities Near Ottawa

One of the great things about living in Ottawa is how close it is to other major cities. Ottawa’s location makes it easy to explore and experience the best of Eastern Canada. Here are some nearby big cities to visit and enjoy:

• Gatineau, QC: Just across the river from Ottawa, about a 20-minute drive or 10 minutes by public transit.
• Montreal, QC: About a 2-hour drive.
• Toronto, ON: Roughly a 5-hour drive.

10. Events and Nightlife

Ottawa comes alive after dark with seasonal events, sports, and vibrant nightlife that cater to all interests and energy levels. If you’re curious whether the Ottawa lifestyle is fun or “boring,” this list should give you a sense of the many ways to have fun in the city:

• Winterlude: This beloved winter festival features stunning ice sculptures, lively outdoor entertainment, and skating on the iconic Rideau Canal, transforming the city into a winter playground.
• Saunders Farm (Halloween & More): Known for thrilling haunted attractions each fall, the farm also hosts various seasonal celebrations throughout the year that bring the community together.
• Casino Lac-Leamy: Just across the river in Gatineau, this entertainment venue combines gaming tables, captivating live performances, and exceptional dining options.
• ByWard Market: This historic area is a lively mix of pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Enjoy live music at The 27 Club or The Heart & Crown Irish pub, or dancing at Berlin Nightclub. 
• Elgin Street: Known for its eclectic mix of bars and eateries, Elgin Street provides a more laid-back but engaging scene. 
• Lansdowne Park: The heart of Ottawa sports culture where the Redblacks (CFL) and 67’s (OHL) play, surrounded by restaurants and shops for pre- and post-game activities.
• Kanata: Home to Ottawa Senators (NHL) games and Crazy Horse, the area’s popular country bar that draws crowds from across the region.
• Entertainment Venues: There’s lots of escape rooms, cocktail bars, board game bars, and other Interactive entertainment venues throughout Ottawa.
• Cocktail Bars: The city boasts an impressive cocktail scene, from intimate speakeasies crafting artisanal drinks to sophisticated lounges with talented mixologists.

11. Sports Teams

Ottawa has a strong sporting culture, housing many major league teams at excellent stadiums and arenas. Here’s what you can expect:

• Ottawa Senators (NHL): Play at the Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata, a modern arena equipped with multiple restaurants and a fitness club.
• Ottawa 67’s (OHL): Host games at TD Place Arena in Ottawa, providing opportunities to interact with players and participate in community events.
• Ottawa Redblacks (CFL): Play at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, where fans can experience the excitement of Canadian football with enthusiastic crowds and engaging halftime shows.
• Ottawa Charge (PWHL): Ottawa’s women’s hockey team, playing at TD Place Arena.
• Ottawa Titans (Baseball): Play at Ottawa Stadium in Ottawa, offering a classic baseball setting with traditional concessions and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Atlético Ottawa (Soccer): Play at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa.

12. Better Commutes and Quicker Traffic

If daily commuting by car is a concern for you, I personally recommend living somewhere within 5 minutes of Ottawa’s major freeways, namely, the 417 (East/West) and the 416 (North/South). This ensures you can get anywhere in Ottawa within about 25 minutes. This makes commuting much faster than in Toronto or Montreal. 

According to some reports, the average commute time in Ottawa is 27 minutes each way, while Toronto averages about 55 minutes each way. Other reports like Numbeo’s traffic comparison say that Toronto’s traffic congestion is about 48% worse than Ottawa’s and that Toronto drivers experience nearly 8 times more extra time lost in traffic than Ottawa drivers. 

If you’re thinking of moving from Montreal to Ottawa, you’ll likely have a much better commuting experience. Montreal’s traffic congestion is about 23% worse than Ottawa’s, making Ottawa’s commuting situation much better.

13. Quiet Areas

Compared to Toronto, Ottawa is much quieter, making it an excellent choice for families looking for suburban living without excessive noise.

Of course, Ottawa does offer plenty of nightlife options when you want a fun night out, but these entertainment hubs remain separate from residential areas, ensuring peaceful neighbourhood living.

14. Culture and Arts

Ottawa has a rich cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and live performances throughout the city. Ottawa’s dynamic arts and culture scene continues to evolve, offering residents and visitors a rich tapestry of experiences to explore and enjoy. Here’s an overview:

Arts and Culture in Ottawa

• Ottawa Art Gallery: A premier venue showcasing contemporary and historical art.
• National Arts Centre (NAC): A central hub for performing arts in Canada.
• Ottawa Symphony Orchestra: Delivers captivating classical music performances, enriching the city’s cultural landscape.
• Winterlude: An annual winter festival held in Ottawa-Gatineau, featuring ice sculptures, performances, and cultural celebrations.
• Indigenous Cultural Events: Ottawa celebrates Indigenous heritage through various events that include storytelling, art exhibitions, and performances.

Theatre and Live Performances

• Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC): Renowned for producing contemporary and thought-provoking Canadian plays.
• Ottawa Little Theatre: One of Canada’s longest-running community theatres.
• The Gladstone: An independent theatre celebrated for its diverse and engaging performances.

Museums and History

Ottawa is home to numerous museums, including several of national significance:

• Canadian Museum of History: Located in Gatineau, just across the river from Ottawa, this museum offers an in-depth look into Canada’s past with interactive and engaging exhibits.
• National Gallery of Canada: Houses an extensive collection of Canadian and international art, including works by the renowned Group of Seven.
• Canada Science and Technology Museum: Features interactive exhibits suitable for all ages, exploring Canada’s scientific and technological innovations.

Urban and Street Art

• House of Paint: A vibrant festival celebrating hip-hop culture and urban art, featuring live graffiti, breakdancing, and musical performances.
• Vibrant Murals: Ottawa’s streets are adorned with colourful murals, particularly in neighbourhoods like Westboro, Hintonburg, and the ByWard Market, showcasing the city’s commitment to public art.

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Disadvantages of Living in Ottawa

Although I love Ottawa and think it has something to offer everyone, I also urge my clients to be realistic. No place is perfect. Let’s go over some potential cons of living in Ottawa:

1. Ottawa Is Boring

A lot of people think Ottawa is boring, probably because of its reputation for family-friendly suburbs. However, this isn’t entirely true, so I don’t consider this a real “con” of living in Ottawa. 

Ottawa has a vibrant nightlife, a thriving arts scene, and the interesting cities of Gatineau and Montreal are just a short trip away. When you’re in the mood for some fun, Ottawa has plenty to offer!

Ottawa might not be as fast-paced as bigger cities, but it’s far from boring. The city has a growing nightlife scene, especially in ByWard Market and Elgin Street, plus relaxed spots in neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy. 

2. Bilingual Culture

Ottawa has a strong bilingual culture, with both English and French widely spoken throughout the city. While you don’t need to speak French to get by, knowing the language can be helpful, especially in certain areas like Gatineau and Orleans.

However, the majority of people in Ottawa speak English, making it easy to navigate the city regardless of your language skills. The bilingual nature of Ottawa adds a unique cultural richness to the city, with French and English speakers often interacting seamlessly.

3. The Weather

Ottawa experiences distinct seasonal variations, with winters and summers that can be more extreme compared to other major Canadian cities.

It can get pretty cold in the winter, especially compared to cities like Vancouver and Toronto, where winters are milder. In Ottawa, temperatures typically drop below -20 °C, with January being the coldest month, averaging a high of -5 °C and a low of -15 °C.

On the flip side, summers can get quite hot. With July averaging a high of 26 °C and a low of 15 °C, it can feel much warmer than the cooler summers in Vancouver or Toronto.

4. More Expensive Than Smaller Cities

While Ottawa offers a high quality of life, its cost of living is higher than many of Canada’s smaller cities. For example, the cost of living in Ottawa is about 15% higher than in Kingston, Ontario and 8% higher than Windsor, ON.

However, Ottawa offers the best of both worlds: the opportunities and excitement of a major city, but also the space and convenience of suburban living. It remains significantly more affordable than Canada’s larger cities, making it an ideal choice for those who want a balanced lifestyle.

5. Construction

One potential con of living in Ottawa is the impact of large construction projects, such as the ongoing Light Rail Transit (LRT) expansion. While the project aims to improve public transportation in the long run, it has led to road closures, detours, and increased traffic in certain areas. 

For example, sections of Highway 417 and Corkstown Road have recently been affected by temporary closures, causing delays for commuters. Though these disruptions are temporary, they can be an inconvenience for residents navigating the city during construction.

Final Thoughts on Life in Ottawa

Hopefully this blog has helped answer your questions about whether Ottawa is a good city to live in. As a native Ottawan, I can honestly say that it’s a great place to work, live, and raise a family. 

Ottawa is more affordable than other major Canadian cities, and has great job opportunities, excellent schools, and plenty of green space to enjoy. The city has a small-town feel with big-city amenities, making it perfect for families, professionals, and retirees alike. 

While winters can be chilly and some areas are pricier, Ottawa’s overall quality of life is hard to beat. Whether you’re into outdoor activities, cultural events, or just looking for a quiet neighbourhood to settle down in, Ottawa has something for everyone. It’s definitely a place where you can thrive.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Ottawa, we can help. Our real estate agents in Ottawa from the Liam Swords TEAM offer 20 years of experience helping people find their dream home. If you’re not satisfied with your home, we’ll sell it for free within the first 12 months. Contact us today to get started.

Liam Swords

Ottawa Real Estate Agent

Liam Swords

Ottawa Real Estate Agent

Liam Swords is an accomplished real estate agent in Ottawa, having sold over 1,000 homes. As the team leader of Liam Swords Team, he combines extensive market knowledge with a commitment to client satisfaction.