If you’re considering moving to Ottawa, you may wonder what the cost of living in the city is. While the cost of living in Ottawa is relatively affordable compared to other major Canadian cities, it is still important to budget carefully and know what to expect.
In this blog post, we will break down the cost of living in Ottawa so you can better understand the expenses you are likely to encounter. We will cover everything from housing and transportation to food and entertainment. So whether you are moving to Ottawa for work or leisure, read on to get a better idea of the associated cost of living.
Housing Cost in Ottawa
The cost of housing in Ottawa is quite reasonable compared to other major Canadian cities. According to the latest data from the CMHC, the average price for a home in Ottawa is $352,000. Thus, the cost of places to live in Ottawa is significantly lower than other Canadian cities such as Vancouver ($1,042,000) and Toronto ($722,000). Renting is also a very affordable option in Ottawa, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment being just $905. This is again much lower than other major Canadian cities such as Vancouver ($1,588) and Toronto ($1,517). So, if you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Canada, Ottawa should be at the top of your list!
Average Cost of Utilities
The cost of living in Ottawa can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to utilities. The average monthly cost for utilities (electricity, gas, water, sewer) is $200. This can be a significant charge for some families depending upon the number of members, so it is important to budget accordingly.
There are ways to save on utilities, though. For example, you can sign up for budget billing with your utility provider, which evens out your payments throughout the year. You can also make energy-efficient home upgrades, such as installing LED light bulbs or weather-stripping your doors and windows. These small changes can make a big difference in your utility bills in the long run.
Cost of Public Transport in Ottawa
As of 2019, a monthly public transport pass in Ottawa costs $116. This price may seem high compared to other cities in Canada, but it is quite reasonable considering the quality and frequency of service in Ottawa.
The cost of public transport in Ottawa is quite affordable :
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- A single adult bus or train ride fare is $3.30 and a monthly pass costs just between $116 to $119.50.
- The fares are even cheaper for seniors and students at $2.60 for a single ride and $79 for a monthly pass.
If you need to use Toronto to Ottawa public transport regularly, it is worth getting a monthly pass.
Clothing Cost in Ottawa
The amount spent by you on clothing will depend on your style and wardrobe needs. According to a recent study, the average cost of clothing in Ottawa is $1,200 per year for one person. This includes both new and used/ thrifted clothing. If you are a thrift shopper, you may be able to get by on less than $1,200 per year. However, if you like to keep up with the latest fashion trends or have a large family, your clothing costs could be much higher.
There are a few ways to save money on clothing costs in Ottawa :
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- Shop at consignment stores or second-hand shops.
- You can also look for sales and take advantage of coupons and discounts.
- If you are willing to put in a little extra effort, you can try to find good deals by bargaining with store owners or sellers at flea markets.
Grocery And Personal Care Cost
Living in Ottawa can be expensive, depending on your lifestyle and where you shop. Here are some approximate estimates for common grocery and personal care items :
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- Milk : $3.50
- Bread : $2.50
- Eggs : $3.00
- Coffee : $2.75
- Toilet paper : $4.99
Personal care items can also add up quickly. Here are some prices for common items:
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- Shampoo : $5.99
- Conditioner: $4.99
- Soap : $2.99
- Toothpaste : $4.79
While these costs may seem high, there are ways to save money on groceries and personal care items. For example, many stores offer loyalty programs that give discounts on certain items, and generic brands are often more affordable than name brands. With a little planning, living comfortably in Ottawa without breaking the bank is possible.
Entertainment Cost
There is no shortage of things to do in Ottawa, and the city offers various entertainment options to suit everyone’s requirements. There is something for everyone, from live music and theatre to museums and art galleries.
The cost of entertainment in Ottawa will vary depending on your interests. A night out at the movies can cost around $15 per person, while a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will set you back about $60. Suppose you’re looking for something more low-key; in that case, there are plenty of free or affordable activities to enjoy. This can include options such as taking a walk through one of Ottawa’s many beautiful parks or visiting one of the city’s many museums.
Provincial Taxes Cost
According to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, the average Ontarian family pays $12,153 in provincial taxes yearly. These can be broken down further to understand how the government makes use of your taxes. A significant portion (42%) goes towards funding healthcare since Canada offers free healthcare. Education is the second largest expense at 22%. Other areas that your provincial taxes cover include:
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- Social services (13%)
- Interest on the debt (9%)
- Natural resources (4%)
- Law and justice (3%)
- Environmental regulations and requirements (2%)
There are also some additional taxes that you will need to pay if you live in Ottawa. These include the Ontario Health Premium, a monthly tax that helps pay for your health care, and the Ontario Provincial Sales Tax (PST), a tax on all purchases made in the province. You will also need to pay property taxes if you own a home or condo in Ottawa.
Average Cost of Living in the Canadian City of Ottawa
It is no secret that living in any big city can be expensive and Ottawa is no different. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of living in Ottawa, it is important to consider all necessary expenses, such as housing, food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment.
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- Housing : The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ottawa is $1,200. For those looking to purchase a home, the average price of a detached house is $352,000.
- Food : The cost of groceries in Ottawa is relatively inexpensive compared to other major cities. A basic grocery list for a family of four would cost approximately $120 per week.
- Transportation : Public transit in Ottawa is reliable and efficient. A monthly transit pass costs $116. For those who prefer to drive, gasoline costs approximately $1.42 per litre.
- Utilities : The average monthly cost for utilities (electricity, water, garbage) is $200. Internet service costs an additional $60 per month.
- Entertainment : There are many free or low-cost things to do for entertainment in Ottawa. However, if you enjoy going to restaurants or bars, expect to spend about $50-70 per person per night.
Why Should You Choose To Live in Ottawa?
Ottawa is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable place that still offers many amenities. The cost of living in Ottawa is relatively low compared to other major Canadian cities and there are plenty of things to do in your free time.
Here are some of the reasons why you might choose to live in Ottawa:
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- Affordable housing : Ottawa has a wide range of housing options, from apartments and condos to detached homes. The average price for a home is significantly lower than in Toronto or Vancouver.
- Low cost of living : Besides affordable housing, Ottawa’s cost is generally quite affordable. Utilities, transportation, and groceries are all reasonably priced, and there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in your spare time.
- Great for families : Ottawa is worth considering if you are looking for a family-friendly city. Many parks, recreation facilities, excellent schools, and childcare options exist.
- Close to nature : One of the best things about Ottawa is its proximity to nature. Just a short drive from the city centre, you’ll find yourself in the beautiful countryside with countless hiking and biking trails to explore.
- Vibrant arts and culture scene : Even though it isn’t as well-known as some of Canada’s other cities, Ottawa boasts a surprising amount of activity in the arts and cultural sector. There are several museums and art galleries available to visit.
Wrapping Up
Ottawa’s cost of living is quite reasonable, especially compared to other major Canadian cities. From major attractions to entertainment facilities to beautified neighbourhoods, Ottawa has it all Rent and food costs are relatively low, and plenty of affordable amenities and activities exist. That said, it’s still important to research carefully before buying/renting a property and moving to a new place.
You May Also Read :
| Ottawa Housing Market | Guide To Ottawa Housing Market |
| Moving to Brantford city | About Brantford City |
| Average Cost of Living in Canada | Facts of Average Cost of Living in Canada |
| Live in Toronto | Cost of Living in Toronto vs Calgary |
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
To live comfortably in Ottawa, you'll need to earn at least $3,195 per month. This will allow you to afford a decent apartment, eat out occasionally, and save for retirement. If you have a family or other financial obligations, you will need to adjust your budget accordingly.
According to Numbeo.com, as of September 2019, the total average monthly cost of living in Ottawa is $2,756.44. This includes the above listed estimated expenses.
The cost of living in Ottawa is quite reasonable, especially compared to other major Canadian cities. Rent is relatively affordable, and there are many options for affordable housing. Transportation costs are also quite reasonable, and there are many options for public transportation. The cost of food and groceries is also quite reasonable, and there are many great restaurants in Ottawa. Overall, the cost of living in Ottawa is quite reasonable, and it is worth moving to Ottawa.
In Ottawa, the average house price is $369,000. This is higher than the national average of $438,700 but lower than the provincial average of $496,600. The most expensive neighbourhood in Ottawa is Rockcliffe Park, where the average house price is $1,325,000. The least expensive neighbourhood is Vanier North, where the average house price is $296,000.
According to the most recent data from Statistics Canada, the average transportation price in Ottawa is $89 per month. This includes all costs associated with owning and operating a vehicle, such as gas, insurance, maintenance, and repairs.
Yes, Ottawa is a safe place to live. It consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Canada. According to the most recent crime statistics, the overall crime rate in Ottawa is down 3% from last year. Violent crime is also down by 5%. These numbers are good news for residents and show that Ottawa is a safe city to reside in. What salary do I require to live comfortably in Ottawa?
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