🇨🇦 Cost of Living in Ottawa - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$64,610 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.4% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$6,378 (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend15.3% (2024)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.9% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Ottawa is generally moderate, with daily expenses ranging from $60-150 USD per day for a backpacker to $250-400 USD per day for a mid-range traveler.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-150 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-300 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$250-400 USD
CurrencyCAD
Tipping Customexpected (15% in restaurants and bars)
How Expensive Is Ottawa?
Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, has a cost of living that is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in North America. While it is not as expensive as cities like Toronto or Vancouver, it is still more expensive than many smaller cities in Canada. The cost of living in Ottawa is influenced by its proximity to the US border, its status as a national capital, and its strong economy. Compared to global averages, Ottawa is more expensive than many cities in Asia and Latin America, but it is still relatively affordable compared to many cities in Europe and North America.
The cost of living in Ottawa is also influenced by the city's strong tourism industry, which drives up prices for accommodations and attractions during the peak summer months. However, visitors can still find affordable options for accommodations, food, and activities, especially during the off-season. Overall, Ottawa is a great destination for travelers who want to experience the best of Canadian culture and history without breaking the bank.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$30-60
dorm rooms and basic amenities
Mid-Range Hotel
$100-200
clean and comfortable rooms with standard amenities
Luxury/Resort
$250-400
high-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$1,200-2,500
city center vs outside, furnished or unfurnished
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$10-15
Casual Restaurant
$20-30
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$50-80
Fine Dining
$100-150
Beer (local)
$6-10
Coffee
$2-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-3
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-3
Taxi (per km)
$2-5
Domestic flight
$200-500
Fuel (per liter)
$1-2
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
1,000
1,500
2,500
Food
500
800
1,200
Transport
100
200
300
Utilities
150
250
350
Entertainment
200
400
600
Total
2,050
3,250
5,150
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting Ottawa during the off-season (October to April) to save on accommodations and attractions.
Take advantage of the city's many free museums and galleries, such as the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.
Use public transportation instead of taxis or rental cars to get around the city.
Eat at local eateries and cafes instead of mid-range or fine dining restaurants.
Look for discounts and promotions on attractions and activities, such as the Ottawa Tourism website or the city's visitor center.
Consider purchasing a Presto card, which can be used to pay for public transportation and some attractions, for a discounted rate.