Is Ottawa a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Ottawa receives an overall livability score of 2.7 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include above-average household incomes, low crime rates. Areas to be aware of include high housing costs, above-average unemployment. Ottawa has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Ottawa is $102,000, which is significantly higher than the national average — 36% above $75,149. This places Ottawa among higher-income communities. At 10.3%, unemployment is notably high. 8.9% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 26 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Ottawa is $624,000, making it a premium housing market at 121% above the U.S. median of $281,900. Renters pay a median of $1,380 per month. The price-to-income ratio of 6.1x means housing costs are stretched relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
Ottawa is a very safe community with a violent crime rate of 72 per 100,000 residents — well below the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 49 per 100,000, 97% below the national average.
Education
25.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 23.0% have completed high school.
Climate & Weather
Ottawa has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 45°F. Winters average 17°F in January while summers reach 71°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 42.7 inches, including 60.4 inches of snow.