- Content verified by a local expert
As an experienced local expert who specializes in relocations, I can confirm that the article highlights Ottawa’s affordability compared to other major Canadian cities, with its lower housing costs and reasonable cost of living while offering a superior quality of life.
Ottawa is home to a highly educated population, especially within the government, IT, and diplomatic sectors, contributing to a stable and diverse economy. This combination of affordability, livability, and career opportunities makes Ottawa a compelling choice for professionals and families seeking both financial ease and advancement.
Housing costs in Ottawa
Ottawa’s housing market remains relatively stable and there are a lot of affordable neighborhoods to move to. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city is an affordable option at $1,779.01 and the cost of purchasing a house has seen only minor fluctuations compared to other years. When compared to Toronto, Ottawa typically offers lower and more consistent housing costs, making it an attractive destination for those looking to rent or buy a home.
Cost of rent in Ottawa, CA
| Area/Neighborhood | 1-bed apartment | 3-bed apartment |
| Ottawa (Outside of Center) | $1,779.01 | $2,509.39 |
Cost of buying a property in Ottawa
| Area/Neighborhood | Average home price |
| Ottawa | $648,900 |
Utility costs in Ottawa: Internet, electricity and water
Whether you own a house or rent in Ottawa, budgeting for utility costs is important. Ottawa’s varied climate, featuring cold winters and hot summers, significantly affects electricity consumption. Due to its rough winters, the average cost of basic utilities in Ottawa can even be slightly higher than in Toronto, as reported by Numbeo.
The monthly average cost of a basic utility package in Ottawa, which covers electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage, and Internet services, is described below:
| Utilities | Cost |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft Apartment | $239.39 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $71.22 |
| Total | $310.61 |
Numbeo (Aug 2024) & OEB (2023)
Grocery costs in Ottawa
In Ottawa, groceries are affordable. Plus, there are no taxes on basics like dairy, eggs, cereals, vegetables, meat, and fish when you shop at grocery or convenience stores. This makes it easy for residents to stick to their dietary preferences without overspending.
| Grocery items in Ottawa | Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | $3.19 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $3.74 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | $4.98 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | $4.31 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | $19.68 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | $17.52 |
| Beef Round (1kg) | $19.61 |
| Apples (1kg) | $5.82 |
| Banana (1kg) | $1.86 |
| Oranges (1kg) | $4.21 |
| Tomato (1kg) | $5.11 |
| Potato (1kg) | $3.43 |
| Onion (1kg) | $3.84 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | $3.16 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | $2.47 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | $20.00 |
The average monthly cost of groceries in Ottawa is $860.81.
*The grocery list on Numbeo was summed (without beer and cigarettes) and then multiplied seven times to meet a 2000 calorie per day diet.
Public transit in Ottawa
Public transit in Ottawa is provided by OC Transpo, which operates a combination of buses and the O-Train, Ottawa’s light rail train system. Tickets and day passes for the bus service can be obtained directly on the bus using cash as a payment method. Alternatively, for the O-Train, passes can be purchased at train stations, select pharmacies, and grocery stores, with both cash and credit card payment options available.
| Type of fare | Rate |
| Per ride (Adult & Youth) | $3.80 |
| Per 1 day | $11.75 |
| Per 3 days | $28.50 |
| Per 5 days | $45.75 |
| Per 7 days | $54.25 |
| Monthly pass | $128.75 |
Entertainment costs in Ottawa
Entertainment costs in Ottawa can vary widely, offering something for every budget. You can explore Parliament Hill and its iconic buildings for free. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River for outdoor activities. The Byward Market offers culinary delights, while Gatineau Park is a natural haven. Downtown Ottawa boasts diverse dining and shopping options. The city has entertainment for all.
Here are some insights into the average entertainment costs in Ottawa:
| Entertainment in Ottawa | Cost |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | $60.00 |
| Taxi 1h | $45.00 |
| 1 cinema ticket | $15.00 |
| Total | $120.00 |
Sales tax in Ottawa
In Canada, there are three types of sales taxes: the federal GST (5%), the provincial sales taxes PST (varies depending on the province), and the HST, which is a combination of the two. In Ontario, the HST is used, which is equivalent to 13% and applies to purchases of goods and services.
While some items, like basic groceries and sometimes feminine hygiene products, are exempt from sales taxes, the rate for other products depends on the specific province.
Government of Canada (Sept 2023)
Healthcare costs in Ottawa
When moving to Ontario, you should be aware of Ontario’s public health insurance, OHIP. This covers basic medical expenses through payroll taxes and federal support. However, for more comprehensive coverage, you have two options, you can choose to purchase private health insurance or use the one sponsored by your employer.
The cost and coverage of private health insurance depend on several factors, such as your age, gender, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, specific coverages, and the chosen provider.
| Type of healthcare | Cost |
| Employer-sponsored health insurance | $63.00 |
| Non-employer-sponsored health insurance | $61.32-$196.20 |
| Gym | $63.29 |
Numbeo (Aug 2024), Hellosafe (2023) & Insurance Business (Apr 2023)
Conclusion
Moving to Ottawa presents its unique challenges, including those related to the cost of living. However, with careful financial planning, you can fully embrace the experience of living in Canada’s capital city, known for its blend of cultural diversity and a rich history.
If you need assistance with your move, consider researching and hiring the best movers in Ottawa to make your transition smoother.
Check out this table for the average monthly expenses of living in Ottawa this year.
| Category | Monthly cost |
| 1 bed apt rent outside city center | $1,779.01 |
| Groceries | $860.81 |
| UtilitiesElectricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage | $239.39 |
| Internet with 60 Mbps | $71.22 |
| Transit pass | $128.75 |
| EntertainmentMeal, taxi, movie | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $63.29 |
| Total | $3,262.47 |
