Are you thinking about moving from Montreal to Ottawa? Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a change of pace, there are key differences between the two cities that you should consider before making the move. From real estate costs to commuting and lifestyle changes, here are five important things you need to know.
5 Things to Know When Moving from Montreal to Ottawa
From working with hundreds of clients, many of which have relocated to Ottawa from cities like Montreal, here are the most important things you need to know.
1. Lawyers vs. Notaries in Real Estate Transactions
One of the first differences you’ll notice when buying a home in Ottawa is that Ontario uses lawyers instead of notaries to handle real estate transactions. Unlike in Quebec, where a single notary can facilitate a sale, in Ontario, both the buyer and seller must have their own lawyer.
If you’re making an offer on a house, be prepared to budget around $2,500 for legal fees. This typically breaks down as follows:
- $1,200 goes directly to your lawyer for their services.
- $1,300 covers disbursements, administrative fees, and registration costs.
Having a lawyer ensures your interests are protected, but it is an additional cost to keep in mind when planning your move.
2. Land Transfer Tax Differences
When buying your first home in Ottawa, you’ll encounter Ontario’s land transfer tax, which is different from Quebec’s. There are two key distinctions:
- Cost: The land transfer tax in Ontario is slightly higher. For a $750,000 home, you’ll pay approximately $1,475 in Ontario, compared to $1,000 in Quebec, which is a $475 difference.
- First-Time Buyer Rebates: Ontario offers rebates of up to $4,000 for first-time home buyers, making it more affordable than Quebec, which does not offer any rebate at all.
This means that for first-time buyers, the actual cost of purchasing a home in Ontario may be lower than in Quebec due to available tax rebates.
3. Traffic, Construction, and Commuting
Many buyers moving to Ottawa from Montreal are concerned about traffic and construction. While Ottawa does experience congestion during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 3:30–5:30 PM on weekdays), traffic is generally lighter than in Montreal.
Major roads and highways, such as the Queensway (Highway 417), service Ottawa with fewer delays than Montreal’s notoriously congested road network.
While locals may feel that traffic is worsening, those relocating from Montreal will likely find Ottawa is easier to navigate.
4. Bilingual Opportunities in Ottawa
For those who are bilingual, Ottawa presents excellent job opportunities. Many positions within the federal government require bilingual employees, which can significantly expand your career options. Additionally, the city itself is very accommodating to French speakers. For example:
- Many restaurants, cafés, and businesses have French-speaking staff.
- Road signs, government offices, and official documents are available in both French and English.
- Ottawa’s downtown core and Gatineau, just across the river, offer plenty of French-language services.
For French speakers looking for work, Ottawa offers a strong advantage, particularly in government and public sector roles.
5. Nightlife, Dining, and Lifestyle Differences
Montreal is famous for its nightlife, festivals, and dining scene. While Ottawa may not have the same 24/7 energy, it still has plenty to offer, particularly for professionals and families looking for quality entertainment options.
Some highlights of Ottawa nightlife include:
- Bluesfest and Jazzfest in the summer
- Winterlude and skating on the Rideau Canal in the winter
- Gatineau Hills in the fall, just a short drive away
- Lac-Leamy Casino and boutique restaurants for upscale dining experiences
Those relocating from Montreal will find that Ottawa’s cultural scene may be quieter, but still offers plenty of enjoyable events and activities throughout the year.
On another note, if you’ve appreciated Montreal’s safety, know that Ottawa is safe as well. In fact, Ottawa scores just one point higher than Montreal according to Numbeo’s overall safety index.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Montreal to Ottawa?
The cost of moving depends on several factors, including transportation, housing, and utility costs. Here’s a breakdown:
- Housing Prices: The average price of a home in Ottawa is $660,000, compared to $543,000 in Montreal. However, first-time buyers in Ottawa benefit from a significant rebate. To get a clear picture of how much it costs to buy a home, contact our real estate team. We’ll help you understand your budget, avoid hidden fees, and find the best option.
- Hiring movers: Hiring movers from Montreal to Ottawa can range from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the amount of belongings and the moving company you choose.
- Moving Truck: Renting a moving truck costs around $500 to $1,000, plus gas.
- Utilities: The average hydro bill in Ottawa is approximately $120 to $180 per month, depending on the size of your home and usage.
- Cost of Living: Ottawa’s cost of living is generally lower than in Montreal, especially when it comes to rent and real estate outside the downtown core.
If you’re searching for homes for sale in Ottawa, take the time to explore different neighbourhoods and price ranges. While prices are on the rise, Ottawa remains more affordable than larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
Although housing in Montreal tends to be more affordable, Ottawa’s broader job opportunities, shorter commutes, and overall quality of life may make it the better choice for you. Also keep in mind that Ottawa condos can be a more affordable housing option compared to other property types.
Final Thoughts on Moving to Ottawa From Montreal
If you’re considering moving to Ottawa from Montreal, know that Canada’s capital city is full of great options. Some of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa for families include Barrhaven, Kanata, and Orleans, offering excellent schools, parks, and community amenities.
Need help finding the right home? An experienced Ottawa real estate agent from the Liam Swords TEAM can guide you through the process. As part of our commitment to helping buyers relocate, we offer our Love It or Leave It Guarantee; if you’re not satisfied with your home within the first 12 months, we’ll sell it for free.
Ready to make the move? Whether you’re buying a condo in Ottawa or looking at single-family homes, our deep knowledge of the local market allows us to guide you to the perfect choice. Contact us today to find out how much a home is worth and start your journey to Ottawa!