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Pros and Cons of Moving to Ottawa (2025)
Top 5 Pros and Cons of Moving to Ottawa, ON in 2025
Are you considering a move to Ottawa, Ontario in 2025? As Canada’s capital city, Ottawa offers a unique blend of urban convenience, rich history, and natural beauty. But is it the right place for you? Before making your decision, it’s important to weigh both the advantages and challenges of living in Ottawa.
At A Mile Above Moving, we’ve helped countless families and professionals relocate to Ottawa, and we know the ins and outs of life in this city. Here’s a balanced look at the top 5 pros and cons of moving to Ottawa in 2025.
✅ PROS of Moving to Ottawa
1. Affordable Compared to Other Major Cities
Ottawa’s cost of living is lower than cities like Toronto and Vancouver, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy or rent a home.
- Average Rent (1-bedroom apartment in downtown Ottawa) – ~$2,200/month (compared to $2,800+ in Toronto)
- Home Prices (2025 forecast) – $650,000 median home price (Toronto: $1M+)
- Public Transit Monthly Pass – ~$130 (cheaper than Toronto’s $156)
💡 Tip: If you’re moving on a budget, consider areas like Orleans, Barrhaven, or Kanata, where housing is more affordable.
2. Strong Job Market & Economy
Ottawa’s job market is booming in 2025, especially in:
- Government & Public Service – As Canada’s capital, Ottawa offers many stable government jobs.
- Technology Sector – The city is home to Kanata North Business Park, one of Canada’s largest tech hubs.
- Healthcare & Education – Ottawa has top-ranked hospitals and universities (Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Carleton University).
🔹 Unemployment Rate: Ottawa’s rate is consistently lower than the national average due to the strength of these industries.
3. A Safe & Family-Friendly City
Ottawa is one of the safest cities in Canada, with a low crime rate and family-friendly neighborhoods. It’s a great place to raise kids, with:
- Top-rated schools (French and English options)
- Plenty of parks and recreational activities
- A strong sense of community in suburban areas like Barrhaven and Stittsville
4. Stunning Nature & Outdoor Activities
If you love the outdoors, Ottawa is a dream city! It’s surrounded by parks, rivers, and hiking trails, making it easy to escape into nature.
- Rideau Canal – A UNESCO World Heritage site, great for boating in summer & skating in winter.
- Gatineau Park – Just 15 minutes away, offering hiking, camping, and scenic views.
- Biking Trails – Over 800 km of cycling paths make Ottawa one of Canada’s most bike-friendly cities.
🚴 Pro Tip: Living in areas like Westboro or Glebe gives you quick access to outdoor spots while staying close to downtown.
5. A Vibrant Cultural & Festival Scene
Ottawa may seem like a “government city,” but it’s full of festivals, nightlife, and cultural events.
- Winterlude (February) – Enjoy ice sculptures, skating, and winter fun.
- Canada Day (July 1st) – The biggest national celebration takes place in Parliament Hill.
- Bluesfest & CityFolk – Huge music festivals featuring international artists.
🎭 ByWard Market – The city’s go-to spot for restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
❌ CONS of Moving to Ottawa
1. Harsh Winters ❄️
Winters in Ottawa are long and brutal, with temperatures dropping to -30°C (-22°F).
- Heavy snowfall can make commuting difficult.
- Freezing rain & ice storms are common.
- Short daylight hours in December and January.
🌨 Tip: If you’re new to Canadian winters, invest in warm clothing and winter tires for your car!
2. High Taxes & Cost of Goods
- Sales tax (HST) is 13%, higher than in Alberta (5%).
- Property taxes are increasing, especially in suburban areas.
- Gas prices are higher than in smaller cities, often fluctuating between $1.50 – $1.90/L.
3. Traffic & Public Transit Challenges 🚗
Ottawa is still improving its public transit, but it’s not as efficient as cities like Toronto or Montreal.
- Light Rail Transit (LRT) Issues – Frequent delays and breakdowns.
- OC Transpo Buses – Can be unreliable, especially in winter.
- Highway 417 Traffic – Major congestion during rush hours.
🚦 Tip: If you rely on transit, consider living closer to downtown or along LRT routes for convenience.
4. Slower Nightlife Compared to Other Big Cities
If you’re coming from Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver, Ottawa’s nightlife might feel quieter.
- Fewer 24-hour restaurants and late-night spots.
- Bars close earlier than in Montreal or Toronto.
- The city is more family-oriented, so younger crowds often head to Gatineau for nightlife.
🍻 Tip: The best nightlife is in the ByWard Market, Elgin Street, and Lansdowne Park.
5. Competitive Housing Market 🏡
While more affordable than Toronto, Ottawa’s real estate market is heating up:
- Home prices are rising, making it harder for first-time buyers.
- High demand in areas like Westboro, Glebe, and Kanata leads to bidding wars.
- Rental vacancies are low, so finding a good apartment takes effort.
💰 Tip: If you’re renting, start searching early and consider suburban areas for better deals.
Final Verdict: Is Moving to Ottawa in 2025 Worth It?
✅ YES! If you’re looking for a safe, affordable, and job-secure city with access to nature and great schools, Ottawa is a fantastic place to live.
❌ Maybe Not… if you prefer warm climates, non-stop nightlife, or big-city energy like Toronto or Montreal.
🔹 Planning Your Move? Let A Mile Above Moving make your transition easy! Our team of experienced Ottawa movers is here to help you move stress-free.
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Pros and Cons of Moving to Ottawa
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The most affordable time to move in Ottawa is during the off-peak season from October to April. With lower demand, moving companies often offer discounted rates and greater scheduling flexibility.
