Posted by: Karim Ali
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How Does the Cost of Living in Ottawa Compare to Other Cities?
Thinking of moving to Ottawa? Understanding the cost of living is crucial. This 7-minute read compares Ottawa’s living expenses with other major Canadian cities to help you make an informed decision.
Detailed Comparison
Average Home Prices:
Ottawa’s housing market is relatively affordable compared to cities like Toronto and Vancouver. As of August 2024, the average price for a single-family home in Ottawa is around $734,300. In Toronto, the average price is over $1 million (Source: Toronto Real Estate Board), and in Vancouver, it’s closer to $1.2 million (Source: Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver). Montreal’s average home price is about $517,000 (Source: CREA Montreal), while Calgary’s is around $570,000 (Source: CREA Calgary).
Exterior Spaces
Renting in Ottawa is more affordable compared to other major cities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ottawa is about $2,010 per month (Source: Zumper). In Toronto, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $2,500 (Source: Rentals.ca), and in Vancouver, it’s approximately $2,700 (Source: Rentals.ca). Montreal’s average rent is about $1,700 (Source: Rentals.ca), and Calgary’s is around $1,800 (Source: Rentals.ca).
Property Taxes
Ottawa’s property tax rates are competitive, often lower than those in Toronto and Vancouver, making homeownership more affordable in the long run. In Ottawa, the average property tax rate is about 1% (Source: City of Ottawa). In Toronto, it is approximately 0.61% (Source: City of Toronto), and in Vancouver, it is around 0.25% (Source: City of Vancouver). Montreal’s rate is 0.81% (Source: City of Montreal), and Calgary’s is 0.74% (Source: City of Calgary).
Public Transit
A monthly public transit pass in Ottawa costs around $122 (Source: OC Transpo), which is more affordable than Toronto ($156) (Source: Toronto Transit Commission) and Vancouver ($181) (Source: TransLink). Montreal’s transit pass costs $94 (Source: STM Montreal), while Calgary’s is $112 (Source: Calgary Transit).
Utility Costs
The cost of utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 900 sq ft apartment in Ottawa averages around $150 per month, which is similar to the costs in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary (Source: Numbeo).
Internet Service
Internet service in Ottawa is competitively priced, averaging about $70 per month for a standard plan, which is similar to the costs in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary (Source: Numbeo).
Grocery Costs
Grocery costs in Ottawa are generally lower than in Toronto and Vancouver (Source: Numbeo). Basic groceries like milk, bread, and eggs are more affordable, making everyday living less expensive. Montreal’s grocery costs are similar to Ottawa’s, while Calgary’s are lower than Ottawa’s.
Dining Out
Dining out in Ottawa is reasonably priced. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about $15, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is around $70 (Source: Numbeo). In Toronto and Vancouver, the costs are higher, with inexpensive meals around $20 and three-course meals for two at $80. Montreal and Calgary have similar dining costs to Ottawa.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Ottawa, as in the rest of Canada, is publicly funded and largely free at the point of use (Source: Health Canada). This is the same in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary.
Education Costs
Public schooling in Ottawa is free, and the city boasts several excellent public schools. Private schooling costs are comparable to those in other major cities. For post-secondary education, institutions like the University of Ottawa and Carleton University offer competitive tuition rates (Source: University of Ottawa). Toronto and Vancouver have higher tuition rates compared to Ottawa, while Montreal and Calgary have competitive rates similar to Ottawa.
Recreation and Leisure
Memberships to gyms and sports clubs in Ottawa are reasonably priced, with monthly fees averaging around $50 (Source: GoodLife Fitness). In Toronto and Vancouver, the costs are higher, around $60 per month. Montreal’s gym membership fees are lower at about $40 per month, while Calgary’s are similar to Ottawa’s at $50 per month.
Cultural Activities
Ottawa offers a variety of cultural activities, including museums, galleries, and theatres. Admission prices are often lower than those in larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver (Source: National Gallery of Canada). Montreal and Calgary have similar cultural activity costs to Ottawa.
Job Market
Ottawa’s job market is robust, particularly in government, tech, and healthcare sectors. Average salaries are competitive, contributing to a good quality of life (Source: Statistics Canada). Toronto and Vancouver have very competitive job markets with higher salaries, while Montreal’s job market is competitive but with lower salaries. Calgary’s job market is strong and competitive with good salaries.
Safety and Environment
Ottawa is known for its safety and clean environment. Crime rates are lower compared to other major cities like Toronto and Vancouver (Source: Ottawa Police Service). Montreal and Calgary also have lower crime rates compared to Toronto and Vancouver.
Community and Amenities
Ottawa offers a strong sense of community with plenty of parks, community centres, and family-friendly amenities (Source: City of Ottawa). Toronto and Vancouver have diverse and extensive amenities, while Montreal boasts a rich cultural scene with good amenities. Calgary also offers good community amenities.
Summary
Ottawa offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. With reasonable housing costs, lower transportation and utility expenses, and a high quality of life, Ottawa is an attractive option for those looking to relocate. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a young professional, or a family, Ottawa provides a balanced and appealing lifestyle.
Bonus tips
1
Not sure how these number apply to your future expenses?
Utilize online tools to compare living expenses based on your specific lifestyle and needs.
2
Visit During Different Seasons
Ottawa experiences distinct seasons, so visit the city during different times of the year to get a feel for its lifestyle in various weather conditions.
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