Ontario is loved by residents. So, if you are moving to Canada, Ontario is a top city to consider. Today, we will discuss what to know about living in Ottawa, Ontario. 

As the Nation’s capital city, Ottawa offers many career options to help you succeed financially when you arrive. Where you decide to reside in Canada will have a significant impact on your future. Therefore, you need to research what the city has to offer. It is vital to think about the housing market and your career alternatives and how they will affect your family and lifestyle. 

Ottawa is a large and diverse city in Canada, which is one reason why immigrants select it as a preferred destination. Below is all about living in Ottawa. 

How Many People Reside In Ottawa, Ontario? 

Ottawa is the second-largest city in Ontario and the sixth-largest city in Canada. It has a population of 1,017,449. The Ottawa – Gatineau metropolitan area has over 1.4 million residents. 

Ottawa has a young and diverse population. Over 65% of residents are between 18 and 49. There are over 200,000 people who were born outside the nation that call Ottawa home. 

How To Seek A Job and Build A Career In Ottawa

1. Local Economy Of Ottawa 

With the highest-educated workforce in Canada, Ottawa has engineers, scientists, and PhDs per capita more than any other city in the nation. It is also the nation’s highest due to a booming sector and high-tech industry. The unemployment rate is stable and is generally below the national average. 

In addition, Ottawa has a strong economy and offers a wide variety of opportunities for people with diverse backgrounds and interests. 

Key industries in Ottawa include: 

  • Tourism 
  • IT
  • Biotechnology and Life Science 
  • Professional Service 
  • Public Service 

2. Major Employers In Ottawa 

Ottawa is home to significant technology and healthcare companies. The Federal Government is the primary employer in the region. The following are a few top employers in Ottawa: 

  • Adobe Systems Canada Inc.
  • Bank of Canada
  • Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
  • CBC / Radio-Canada
  • Health Canada
  • Hydro Ottawa
  • The City of Ottawa
  • The Royal Canadian Mint
  • Statistics Canada
  • Trend Micro Canada Technologies Inc. 

3. Career Pathways In Ottawa 

Ottawa has consistently witnessed higher employment growth than other cities within Ontario. Its unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is lower than the national average of 6.1%.

The city’s top industries continue to be experiencing the most growth. Industries that are recruiting in the region include: 

  • Technology
  • E-Commerce
  • Government and Public Service 
  • Construction
  • Real Estate 

The Housing Market In Ottawa 

What to know about living in Ottawa, Ontario? Well, next is the housing market! 

While seeking a job in Ottawa is an integral step, finding a place to live is, too. It is common for new immigrants to take up short-term housing or rent an apartment before purchasing a home. 

1. Is Housing Expensive? 

There is no dearth of housing alternatives in the Ottawa region. Housing costs across the province are on the rise. Like other Ontario cities you might be considering, Ottawa housing costs are increasing. Also the cost to purchase a home in Ottawa is more affordable as compared to other larger cities like Toronto. As always, the neighborhood you choose to rent or buy will dictate the cost. 

2. Finding A Place To Rent 

New immigrants have numerous rental options. One can find places across the city. Ideally, you want to find a place that is close to your job, a place of worship, shopping, schools, and other significant locations. 

The following are the best locations to live for renters: 

  • The Glebe
  • Kanata
  • Orleans 
  • Old Ottawa South
  • Alta Vista 
  • Sandy Hills
  • Westboro 

3. Buying A Home

Ottawa’s housing market offers newcomers/ immigrants different housing options. For instance, around 40% of properties are detached homes. The remaining are a combination of townhomes, condos, apartments, semi-detached houses, etc. 

The cost of buying a home is on the rise in Ottawa. The average home price in Ottawa was $757,700 in the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 4.4% from the previous year. 

In addition, the median price of a single-family detached home increased by 4.5% over the last year to $869,300, and the median price to buy a condo increased by 4.6% to $401,500. 

Culture and Diversity In Ottawa 

1. Diversity 

Ottawa is a multicultural city that reflects the rich cultures and traditions of both French Canada and English. Around 50% of residents speak English, 30% speak French, and the remaining 20% speak other languages. 

Moreover, around 200,000 immigrants call the city home. Of these residents in Ottawa, 45% are from Asia and the Middle East, 11% are from Central and South America, 26% are from Europe, 14% are from Africa, and 4% are from the US. 

14% of residents say that their mother tongue is French. Similarly, 22% have a primary language other than English or French. 

2. Religion 

As a diverse city with a huge immigrant population, people practice different faiths in Ottawa. Around 65% are Christian, 6.7% are Islam, and 1.4% are Buddhist. 

Where To Get Medical Care In Ottawa 

The next topic under What to know about Living in Ottawa, Ontario is medical care. 

In case of an emergency, one can call 911. This number is the same regardless of where you live in Canada. The region has four hospitals: Queensway Carleton Hospital, The Ottawa Hospital, Montfort Hospital, and Children’s Hospital Of Eastern Ontario. 

People residing in Ottawa are eligible for the provincial public health program, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan. OHIP covers a wide range of medical services, such as check-ups, hospital visits, vaccines, eye exams, etc. However, it doesn’t cover the cost of prescription drugs. 

As a newcomer, it is vital to apply for provincial healthcare coverage immediately after you arrive. 

How To Find A Family Doctor In Ottawa? 

Newcomers or immigrants need to find a family doctor. They can supply medical advice, write prescriptions, and refer you to certain specialists. To find hospitals, doctors, and dentists in Ottawa, you can also visit Health and Support Services. 

Conclusion 

Living in Ottawa grants a unique blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty. As Canada’s capital city, it provides a rich lifestyle, historical landmarks, museums, and governmental institutions, thus offering a deep sense of heritage and community. In addition, the city offers a diverse neighborhood, excellent public services, and a high quality of life. With its bilingual nature, both English and French are widely spoken, fostering a multicultural environment. 

Ottawa also features beautiful parks, the scenic Rideau Canada, and various activities year-round. Whether you are enjoying the vibrant arts scene or the tranquil green spaces, Ottawa offers a welcoming and enriching living experience.