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Living in Ottawa vs. Toronto: Which is Better?(2024)
If you’re considering moving to Canada, you may be wondering which city is the best choice for you – Ottawa or Toronto?
Both Ottawa and Toronto are great cities, but they each have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide.
While most people think of Toronto when they think of Canada, Ottawa actually has a lot to offer too.
In fact, they’re both capital cities.
Toronto is the provincial capital of Ontario, while Ottawa is the federal capital of Canada.
But one of the biggest differences between Ottawa and Toronto is the cost of living.
While Toronto is expensive to live in, Ottawa is much more affordable.
There are other things to consider too, like climate, job opportunities, and the overall vibe of the city.
So, what’s the difference between these two cities? And which one is right for you? Here’s a closer look at living in Ottawa vs Toronto so that you can decide which one is right for you.
Weather
Ottawa
Ottawa has 4 distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Winters in Ottawa are long and can be very cold, with temperatures sometimes dipping below -20°C.
If you’re not a fan of the cold, Ottawa might not be the right city for you. But, if you enjoy snow sports like skiing and snowboarding, then you’ll love winter in Ottawa.
Spring and fall are both short but beautiful in Ottawa. The city comes to life in the spring with the tulips blooming and the trees starting to turn green.
Fall is also a great time to be in Ottawa, as the leaves change colour and there’s a festive feeling in the air leading up to Christmas.
Toronto
Toronto has a similar climate to Ottawa, with hot summers and cold winters. However, the winters in Toronto are not as long or as cold as they are in Ottawa.
The average winter temperature in Toronto is around -5°C, which is still pretty chilly but nowhere near as cold as Ottawa! If you’re looking for a city with milder winters, then Toronto might be a better choice for you.
Spring and fall are both short but beautiful in Toronto. The city comes to life in the spring with cherry blossoms in bloom and the trees starting to turn green.
Fall is also a great time to be in Toronto, as the leaves change colour and there are plenty of spots to see the fall foliage.
Size
Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital of Canada, and it’s also the fourth largest city in the country. Despite being a big city, Ottawa doesn’t feel too crowded.
Toronto
Toronto is the provincial capital of Ontario, and it’s also the largest city in Canada. Toronto is a very busy city, and it can feel quite crowded at times.
Cost of Living in Ottawa vs. Toronto
Ottawa
Ottawa is a great choice for people who are looking for an affordable city to live in. The cost of living in Ottawa is slightly above average, but still very affordable, especially when compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
You’ll be able to find affordable housing in Ottawa, and there are also plenty of free or low-cost things to do.
When factoring in other costs of living, such as groceries, utilities, transportation and childcare, you’ll need an estimated $4,500 per month for expenses.
Toronto
The cost of living in Toronto is quite high, and it’s one of the most expensive cities to live in Canada.
Housing is especially expensive in Toronto, and you’ll likely have to spend a lot on transportation as well.
Other costs, such as groceries, transportation, and childcare, are also quite high.
You’ll need an estimated $5,000 per month to cover all of your expenses in Toronto.
Housing Costs
Ottawa
Ottawa has lower housing costs when compared to other major Canadian cities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ottawa is $1,600, while the average monthly cost of a two-bedroom apartment is $1,900.
If you want to buy a house, the average price is $750,000.
Toronto
Housing costs in Toronto are higher, especially in the downtown area. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,100, while the average monthly cost for a two-bedroom apartment is $2,700.
If you’re looking to buy a house, expect to pay well over one million. The average price for a house in Toronto is around $1.3 million, but in the suburbs, prices may be slightly lower.
Salary
Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital of Canada, and it’s also a major political centre. As such, there are many government jobs available in Ottawa. However many of these jobs require bilingual skills, which raises the average salary slightly.
Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.
Toronto
Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and it’s also a major financial centre. As such, there are plenty of high-paying jobs available in the city. However, there is also a wider variety of jobs available, which factors into the lower average salary.
According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary in Ottawa is $4,400 while the average monthly salary in Toronto is $5,000.
Public Transportation
Ottawa
Ottawa has an extensive public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around the city. The Ottawa Public Transit Commission (OC Transpo) operates buses throughout the city, as well as a light rail system, the O-Train.
A monthly pass costs $125.50, and a single ride is $3.70.
Toronto
Toronto also has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, streetcars, and subways. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates public transportation in the city.
A monthly pass costs $156, and a single ride is $3.25.
Population
Ottawa
Ottawa is the fourth largest city in Canada, with a population of just over one million.
Toronto
Toronto is the largest city in Canada, with a population of 2.8 million people.
Lifestyle
Ottawa
Ottawa is a great city for people who want to live an active lifestyle. There are plenty of parks and green spaces, as well as biking and walking trails.
As the capital city of Canada, Ottawa is home to many different cultural attractions, and there is always something interesting going on.
Toronto
Toronto is a great city for people who want to live an urban lifestyle. There are many neighbourhoods to explore, each unique in their own way.
The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene and there is always something going on, whether you’re looking for concerts, festivals, or shows.
Food
Ottawa
As you would expect from the nation’s capital, the food scene in Ottawa is quite diverse.
There are many different restaurants to choose from, ranging from casual to fine dining and you can find cuisines from all over the world.
Toronto
Toronto is also known for its diverse food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. You can find just about any type of cuisine in Toronto, including some of the best international cuisine in Canada.
The city is also home to many different food markets, such as Kensington Market or the St. Lawrence Market, where you can find fresh and local produce.
Healthcare
Ottawa
Ottawa has an excellent health care system, with several hospitals and clinics to choose from. There are four main hospitals, including several specialty clinics.
Toronto
Toronto also has an excellent health care system, and is home to some of the best hospitals in Canada.
In fact, the top four hospitals in Canada are all in Toronto.
The city is also home to SickKids, which has been ranked the top pediatric healthcare centre in the world.
Things to Do
Ottawa
There are plenty of things to do in Ottawa, whether you’re looking for cultural attractions or outdoor activities.
As the capital city of Canada, there are many different museums and historical sites to visit.
Parliament Hill is a must-see, as is the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.
Or, if you’re looking to spend time outdoors, you can go for a walk or bike ride along the Rideau Canal, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Toronto
There are also plenty of things to do in Toronto.
The city is home to many different museums, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.
The CN Tower is also a must-see.
Toronto also has a vibrant arts scene, and you can find a show to suit any taste. Or, if you’re looking to spend time outdoors, there are many parks to choose from, such as High Park and Rouge National Urban Park.
Outdoor Activities & Hiking
Ottawa
If you’re looking to spend time outdoors, there are many different parks and green spaces to choose from.
Gatineau Park is a great spot for hiking and biking, and is just a short drive from downtown Ottawa.
For a more adventurous activity, try rafting on the Ottawa River.
Toronto
Toronto also has many different parks to choose from, such as High Park or Rouge Urban Park.
The city is also home to the Scarborough Bluffs, which offer stunning views of Lake Ontario.
Or you can head over to Toronto Island for a day of picnicking and swimming.
Nightlife
Ottawa
While Ottawa has a more laid-back nightlife scene, there are still plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.
For a more low-key evening, you can check out one of the city’s many pubs or breweries.
Or, if you’re looking for a livelier scene, head to Byward Market for a night out on the town.
Toronto
Toronto has a vibrant nightlife scene, with something for everyone.
You can find everything from upscale cocktail bars to dance clubs, and live music venues.
And, if you’re looking for a more low-key evening, there are also many different pubs and breweries to choose from.
Travel
Ottawa
Ottawa is a great city for travel, as it’s located just a short drive from Montreal and about a three-hour drive from Toronto.
It’s also home to an international airport, which makes it easy to get around.
Toronto
Toronto is home to the largest international airport in Canada, making travel from Toronto very easy. It’s centrally located, making it a great city for road trips.
Safety
Ottawa
Ottawa is a very safe city, and has been ranked one of the safest cities in Canada.
Toronto
Toronto is also considered a generally safe city, and is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in North America.
Education
Ottawa
Ottawa has many different educational institutions to choose from, with 13 different universities and colleges.
Toronto
Toronto also has many different educational institutions to choose from. In fact, there are 22 different universities and colleges in the city.
Language
Ottawa
Ottawa is a bilingual city, where you’ll find services in both English and French. Many jobs, especially in the public sector, require bilingualism.
Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.
Toronto
English is the predominant language spoken in Toronto, but you can also find many different languages being spoken throughout the city.
Hockey
Ottawa
If you’re a hockey fan, you’ll be happy to know that Ottawa is home to the NHL’s Ottawa Senators.
Toronto
Hockey is also big in Toronto and is home to the Toronto Maple Leafs, also an NHL team.
Toronto is right for you if…
- you’re looking for a big city with plenty to do
- you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene
- you’re looking for ethnic diversity
- you’re looking for easy access to international travel
Ottawa is right for you if…
- you’re looking for a more laid-back environment
- you’re looking for plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities
- you’re interested in a city with rich cultural attractions
- you’re looking for a cheaper cost of living
FAQs
Is it better to live in Ottawa or Toronto?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a more laid-back environment, Ottawa might be a better choice. However, if you’re looking for a city with more to do, Toronto might be a better choice.
Is it more expensive to live in Ottawa or Toronto?
Toronto is more expensive to live in than Ottawa.
Ottawa vs. Toronto for International Students
Both Ottawa and Toronto are great cities for international students. Ottawa is a bilingual city, which can be beneficial for those looking to learn another language. Toronto is also a great choice if you’re looking to be in a big city with plenty of things to do.
Is Ottawa colder than Toronto?
Ottawa is generally colder than Toronto, both in the winter and in the summer.
Is Ottawa a good city to live in?
Ottawa is a great city to live in. In fact, it’s consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in Canada.
Is Toronto a good city to live in?
Toronto is also a good city to live in, and is ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world.
Conclusion: Living in Ottawa vs Toronto
There is no easy answer when it comes to choosing between Ottawa and Toronto. Both cities have their own unique charms and there are pros and cons to living in each.
Ultimately, the decision of living in Ottawa vs Toronto will come down to your own personal preferences.
If you’re looking for a big city with plenty to do and more job opportunities, Toronto might be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back environment and a lower cost of living, Ottawa may be a better choice.
Whichever city you choose, you’re sure to have a great experience!
Related Posts:
- 30 Pros and Cons of Living in Toronto: Beyond the CN Tower
- 25 Pros and Cons of Living in Ottawa, Ontario
- Living in Vancouver vs. Toronto: Where Should You Move in 2022?
- Moving to Toronto from Montreal: Is it Worth it?
- 15 Best Cities to Live in Canada
- Average Cost of Living in Canada by Province [2022]
- Average Cost of Living in Canada by Province [2022]
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Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
