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 $1,712.22, 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) | $1,712.22 | $2,417.83 |
Cost of buying a property in Ottawa
| Area/Neighborhood | Average home price |
| Ottawa | $643,600 |
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 |
$255.58 |
| Internet
(60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) |
$86.58 |
| Total | $342.16 |
Numbeo (Sept 2023) & 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 gallon) | $11.04 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | $3.21 |
| Rice (white) (1 lb) | $1.99 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | $4.39 |
| Local Cheese (1 lb) | $8.07 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 lb) | $7.18 |
| Beef Round (1 lb) | $9.28 |
| Apples (1 lb) | $2.18 |
| Banana (1 lb) | $0.75 |
| Oranges (1 lb) | $1.73 |
| Tomato (1 lb) | $2.09 |
| Potato (1 lb) | $1.18 |
| Onion (1 lb) | $1.17 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | $2.97 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | $17.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) | $3.52 |
| Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) | $3.32 |
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 & Young) |
$3.70 |
| Per 1 day | $11.25 |
| Per 3 days | $27.75 |
| Per 5 days | $44.50 |
| Per 7 days | $52.75 |
| Monthly pass | $125.50 |
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 | $53.75 |
| Taxi 1h | $50.00 |
| 1 cinema ticket | $16.50 |
| Total | $120.25 |
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 | $83.21 |
Numbeo (Sept 2023), 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 in 2024:
| Category | Monthly cost |
| 1 bed apt rent outside city center | $1,712.22 |
| Groceries
Numbeo’s grocery list Numbeo’s grocery list ($81.07 multiplied by 4) |
$324.28 |
| Utilities
Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage |
$255.58 |
| Internet with 60 Mbps | $86.58 |
| Transit pass | $125.50 |
| Entertainment
Meal, taxi, movie |
$120.25 |
| Gym membership | $83.21 |
| Total | $2,707.62 |
