Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Ottawa costs approximately $1,820 per month for one person including rent. That is 12% above the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $2,512, Ottawa is cheaper than typical for United States & Canada. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,469 per month, or $1,244 outside the centre. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $18.25 and a monthly transit pass $99. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 256 Mbps and Ottawa scores 83/100 on safety (very safe). Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Ottawa is a city in Canada, where a single person can expect to spend about $1,820 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1,469 per month, or $1,244 outside the centre. Internet is fast at around 256 Mbps median download speed. On safety, Ottawa scores 83/100 — very safe for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 79°F and winter highs around 28°F, with roughly 256 sunny days a year.
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A single person should budget around $1,820 per month in Ottawa, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs.
How much is rent in Ottawa?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Ottawa averages $1,469 per month, dropping to about $1,244 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $2,320.
Is Ottawa safe?
Ottawa scores 83/100 on safety, which is very safe. Tourist safety is rated 85/100.
How fast is the internet in Ottawa?
Median download speeds in Ottawa are around 256 Mbps — fast for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 35 coworking spaces in the city.
Does Canada offer a digital nomad visa?
Canada does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. US passport holders can usually stay 180 days visa-free.
What is the weather like in Ottawa?
Ottawa sees summer highs around 79°F and winter highs near 28°F, with about 256 sunny days and 144 rainy days per year.
