The Nitty-Gritty of Moving to Ottawa and Thriving in Canada’s Capital
Ever had one of those moments where your friend decides to move to a city you love, and you find yourself unexpectedly thrown into relocation guru mode?
That was me when my pal Jen called up, breathlessly excited about moving to Ottawa. I haven’t seen her since my university days, so I was thrilled to reconnect and help her tackle this new chapter.
With visions of historical destinations and a picturesque 202-kilometer canal dancing in her head, she needed more than just enthusiasm – she needed a solid game plan.
Naturally, who better to guide her through the twists and turns of relocating to the capital than yours truly? So here’s the scoop: everything you need to know about making Ottawa your new home – without losing your cool (or your sanity)!
From going through the immigration process to familiarizing yourself with the city’s vibrant culture, I’ve got you covered every step of the way.
About Ottawa
Before moving to Ottawa, it’s only natural to want a glimpse into what the city has to offer. Let’s take a peek into the country’s bustling capital and uncover some fascinating facts along the way.
Size and Population
According to Britannica, Ottawa covers an area of 1,077 square miles (2,790 square km).
Based on recent data from Statistics Canada, 1,017,449 people live in Ottawa, resulting in a population density of 364.9 people per square kilometer. This means you can enjoy exploring the city without feeling too cramped.
There’s also a delightful balance between urban living and spacious green areas in the city, offering both vibrant neighborhoods and room to breathe.
Languages
A lot of people claim that Ottawa is a bilingual city, however, only 36.4% of residents speak both English and French. Meanwhile, 60.6% speak English only, while 1.4% speak French only.
1.5% of residents report speaking neither of the languages. This data is based on the 2021 census profile of Ottawa from Statistics Canada.
With that in mind, even if you only know English, you’ll still be able to communicate with the locals without a hitch.
Ottawa Life
Living in Ottawa feels like a mix of suburban and urban vibe. You can enjoy the tranquility of parks and quiet residential streets while still being just a short distance from bustling downtown areas, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
This unique blend offers residents the best of both worlds – peaceful living with easy access to the vibrant energy and convenient amenities of city life.
Culture and Lifestyle
Ottawa’s culture blends vibrant arts and history with a relaxed lifestyle. You’ll find lively festivals, diverse dining, and outdoor activities year-round.
The city’s bilingual nature fosters a unique cultural vibe, making it a welcoming place for both locals and newcomers.
Weather and Seasons
Ottawa’s weather is a rollercoaster with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, perfect for skating and skiing. Springs and falls offer mild temps and beautiful scenery, while summers are warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor fun.
Be ready for anything, and dress in layers!
Job Market
Ottawa’s economy thrives on government jobs, thanks to its role as the nation’s capital. But don’t overlook the tech scene – Kanata’s buzzing as “Silicon Valley North.”
You’ll also find chances in education, healthcare, and tourism. With a lower unemployment rate than the national average, Ottawa’s a prime spot for launching your career.
Networking is your secret weapon, especially if you’re eyeing roles in government or tech.
The Immigration Process
Step 1: Go through the immigration process
First thing’s first: if you’re not already in Canada, you’ll need to go through the immigration process.
The Government of Canada’s website tells you all about it. I suggest checking it out because there are multiple ways to get into Canada depending on what you’re applying for.
Whether you’re applying for family sponsorship, a start-up visa, caregiver, skilled worker, self-employed, refugee status, or another route, each pathway comes with its own specific requirements and procedures.
It’s essential to understand which category fits your situation and to gather all necessary documentation.
Visa Guide states that it takes 6 to 18 months to hear back from immigration, so it’s important to plan ahead and stay patient throughout the process.
Step 2: Collect all documents
Once you’ve navigated through the immigration process and received your approval, you’ll need to prepare for your arrival. Make sure you have the following: ‘
Getting Settled in Your New Life in Ottawa
There are various ways to get ready for your new life in Ottawa, depending on your purpose. Here are some suggestions, but feel free to tailor them to fit your own needs and preferences.
Get ahead with the Settlement Pre-Arrival Program
The Settlement Pre-Arrival Program is a fantastic resource for landing a job.
It offers courses to boost your workplace communication skills for a Canadian setting, sharpen your job search techniques, and connect you with helpful resources both before and after you get here.
Pack essential clothes
Ottawa’s weather can be fickle, so it’s important to pack accordingly.
Note that there are four seasons in Ottawa – winter, spring, summer, and fall – so the key is to be prepared for anything!
Brush up on your English and French
Ottawa speaks both English and French, so having a grasp of both languages can be quite handy. If you’re reading this, you’re likely already proficient in English, which is a great start!
Still, picking up a bit of French could be a useful addition to your skill set and make your experience in the city even smoother.
Know more about OC Transpo
OC Transpo is Ottawa and Gatineau’s public transit system. In order to get around the city, knowing how to use OC Transpo’s routes and services will be especially handy.
We wrote a guide all about it to help you get started!
Check out different housing options
Ottawa’s housing market has everything from historic homes to modern condos.
Renting is common, with various options available, while buying is more affordable than in other big Canadian cities. Condos suit young professionals, while families often choose townhomes or detached houses.
Discover where your next home is
The best neighborhood in Ottawa depends on your lifestyle and needs.
Young professionals might choose Centretown, The Glebe, or Hintonburg, while families may prefer Barrhaven, Orléans, or Kanata. Students will benefit from staying in Sandy Hill, Old Ottawa South, or Little Italy.
Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa to Live In
For Young Professionals
Centretown
Centretown is known for its accessible location, smack dab in the heart of Ottawa.
It’s brimming with a plethora of opportunities for nightlife, dining, shopping, and more.
Additionally, it’s also near a variety of amenities, making living in the city incredibly convenient.
The Glebe
The Glebe is a bustling neighborhood bursting with vibrant energy, featuring streets packed with shops, restaurants, and coffee shops, plus easy access to outdoor activities.
Its neighbors are equally exciting areas in Ottawa such as Chinatown, Downtown, and Little Italy, making The Glebe anything but boring.
Hintonburg
Hintonburg might just be Ottawa’s hippest destination, and I’m sure those with a penchant for art will love its ambiance.
Its youthful energy is thanks to its thriving arts scene, eclectic shops, and a community that embraces creativity and innovation.
For Families
Barrhaven
Known for its family-friendly vibe and close-knit community, Barrhaven has top-rated schools, parks, and plenty of community events, making it a top choice for those raising kids.
Orléans
On the east side of the city, Orleans is a suburb known for its green spaces, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to both English and French schools.
Kanata
A suburb with a strong community feel, Kanata offers spacious homes, excellent schools, and proximity to tech jobs, making it perfect for growing families.
For Students
Sandy Hill
Located near the University of Ottawa, Sandy Hill is popular with students. Plus, it’s also brimming with affordable housing options.
Old Ottawa South
A quaint neighborhood just south of the Rideau Canal, this area is within walking distance of Carleton University and offers a mix of student rentals and charming homes.
Little Italy
Little Italy is an exciting area renowned for its culinary adventures and bustling ambiance. It’s close to Carleton University, offering a blend of homey apartments and student housing.