LifeCost Blog
Ottawa

Ottawa

Canada

Updated on August 05, 2025

Overview

Ottawa is the federal capital of Canada and the country's fourth-largest city. Located in Ontario, it's known for its government architecture, world-class museums like the National Gallery, and the historic Byward Market. It's a bilingual city with a rich political and educational culture.

Average cost of living€5,035.00
Quality of Life85/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€800.00
1-bed flat (center)€1,850.00
1-bed flat (outside)€1,450.00
3-bed flat (center)€2,900.00
3-bed flat (outside)€2,200.00

Utilities

Basic utilities€120.00
Internet€75.00
Mobile plan€65.00

Transportation

One-way ticket€3.85
Monthly pass€125.00
Taxi start€4.25
Gasoline (1 l)€1.45

Leisure

Cinema ticket€14.00
Fitness club€55.00

Education

Preschool (month)€1,200.00
Intl. primary (year)€15,000.00

Buying House

sqm in city center€6,500.00
sqm outside center€4,800.00

Advantages

  • National capital with excellent government job opportunities
  • High-quality education and healthcare system
  • Bilingual city (English and French)
  • Rich cultural offerings and museums
  • Efficient public transportation
  • Proximity to Toronto and Montreal

Disadvantages

  • × High cost of living, especially housing
  • × Long and cold winters
  • × Limited job market outside public sector
  • × Less nightlife compared to Toronto or Montreal
  • × Heavy traffic during rush hours