Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023
In this blog we cover the Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023. Ottawa has long been a favorite for those seeking quality of life. In 2023, it will continue to rank among the most desirable cities in Canada. The city offers a wide range of opportunities and attractions that make it an ideal location for everyone – from young professionals to families and retirees.
There’s something undeniably magnetic about Ottawa; it’s a place where the tranquility of nature meets the heartbeat of a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Imagine living in a city that boasts not just a rich historical background and political significance, but also an impressive array of outdoor activities and an unbeatable food scene – that’s Ottawa for you. If you’ve ever contemplated relocation, here’s why you should put Ottawa at the top of your list for 2023. Unearth the reasons why this city is more than just Canada’s capital, it’s a destination that offers an exceptional quality of life.
Booming Job Market in OTTAWA
Ottawa’s job market is robust and diverse, making it an attractive destination for a wide range of professionals. One of the most noteworthy aspects of Ottawa’s job market is its stability, largely due to the presence of the Federal Government, which employs over 110,000 people. In addition to public sector jobs, Ottawa boasts a thriving tech scene. Companies like Shopify, an e-commerce giant, have their headquarters in the city, contributing to its reputation as “Silicon Valley North”. The city is also home to more than 1,750 technology companies, employing more than 70,000 people. This industry is continually growing, with a 15% increase in tech jobs between 2015 and 2019. Furthermore, Ottawa’s healthcare sector provides numerous job opportunities, with world-renowned institutions such as The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Ottawa’s robust job market extends to various other sectors including finance, manufacturing, and tourism, making it a desirable place for anyone to kick-start or advance their career.
Diverse Residential Architecture and Neighbourhoods In Ottawa
Ottawa’s residential architecture is as diverse as its people, offering a wide range of housing styles that cater to different preferences and budgets. From the historical charm of Victorian and Edwardian-era homes in The Glebe to the modern, sustainable builds in Zibi, there’s something for everyone. For those desiring a suburban lifestyle, neighbourhoods like Kanata and Orleans offer spacious, single-family homes, many of which are newly built, while the downtown core is teeming with contemporary condos and lofts perfect for urbanites. The city’s commitment to sustainable living is evident in the EcoDistrict project, which aims to create Canada’s first carbon-neutral neighbourhood. The city’s neighbourhoods are not just diverse in their architectural styles but also in their cultural and community offerings. Little Italy, for instance, is renowned for its vibrant festivals and authentic cuisine, while Westboro is known for its outdoor lifestyle, with easy access to the Ottawa River and Gatineau Park. Furthermore, Ottawa was ranked as the second-best city in Canada for quality of life by Numbeo in 2021, further solidifying its appeal to potential residents.
Outdoor Lifestyle and Recreational Activities – Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023
Another of the Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023 – Ottawa is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with a multitude of recreational activities and natural attractions that provide residents with a balanced and active lifestyle. The city is home to over 800 parks and 150 kilometers of recreational paths, tailor-made for biking, walking, or running. It does not fall short when it comes to water-based activities either, with the Rideau Canal – a UNESCO World Heritage site – offering kayaking and canoeing in the summer and transforming into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink in winter. For those who enjoy hiking, Gatineau Park, located just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa, offers over 165 kilometers of trails against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Ottawa also boasts 230 outdoor rinks, 7 beaches, and 20 splash pads, offering endless opportunities for summer fun. Additionally, the city hosts various outdoor festivals throughout the year, such as the Canadian Tulip Festival in May and Winterlude in February. These recreational amenities and events, coupled with the city’s commitment to green living — with 40% of its area consisting of green spaces — make Ottawa an idyllic destination for those seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Capital City Advantages and Cultural Riches – Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023
Being a capital city, Ottawa is blessed with an enviable infrastructure, as well as a wealth of cultural and artistic offerings. The city’s infrastructure is designed to facilitate easy commuting, with a robust network of highways, well-maintained city streets, and a public transit system. Ottawa’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, known as the O-Train, and an extensive network of bus routes managed by OC Transpo make commuting somewhat stress-free. Additionally, the city’s Macdonald-Cartier International Airport and VIA Rail station provide excellent connectivity for intercity and international travel.
As for the city’s cultural richness, Ottawa is second to none. It is home to the National Arts Centre, one of the country’s premier performing arts venues, which hosted over 1,300 performances in 2019. The city’s vibrant arts scene also includes the Ottawa Art Gallery, home to a vast collection of works by local and international artists. Ottawa is renowned for its museums, boasting more than seven national museums, including the Canadian Museum of History, the largest museum in Canada, and the National Gallery of Canada, home to over 93,000 works of art. The city’s rich history is reflected in its UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Rideau Canal, and numerous historic monuments and landmarks.
The city’s cultural calendar is bustling with festivals and events throughout the year. From the renowned Winterlude, a celebration of Canada’s northern climate and culture, to the Ottawa International Animation Festival, the largest event of its kind in North America, there’s always something happening. The capital city also hosts one of the world’s most significant chamber music festivals, the Ottawa Chamberfest, attracting music aficionados from around the globe. Furthermore, Ottawa’s multicultural fabric is celebrated in annual cultural festivals such as the Lebanese Festival, GreekFest, and Italian Week, offering residents and visitors a taste of the city’s diverse cultural heritage.
The combination of robust infrastructure, rich arts scene, and vibrant cultural offerings make Ottawa more than just a capital city it’s a place where quality of life meets endless opportunities for cultural exploration and appreciation.
Family-Friendly Environment – Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023
Another of the Top 5 Reasons to Move to Ottawa in 2023 – Ottawa stands out as an exceptional city for raising a family, owing to its superior education system, abundance of recreational activities, vibrant multiculturalism, and much more. The city is home to many prestigious educational institutions, with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ottawa Catholic School Board consistently ranking among the top school boards in Ontario. Moreover, several reputable universities, including the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, provide excellent higher education opportunities. The city’s commitment to education is also reflected in its numerous libraries, science and technology museums, and programs that foster a love for learning in children from a young age.
As for recreation, Ottawa’s family-friendly parks, playgrounds, and splash pads are perfect for active families. The Children’s Museum in the Canadian Museum of History, with its hands-on exhibits, is a favorite among the younger crowd, while the Experimental Farm, a working farm in the heart of the city, provides a unique, educational experience for children of all ages. Various family events throughout the year, such as the Canadian Tulip Festival and Winterlude, ensure there’s always something fun for the family to enjoy together.
Ottawa’s multicultural fabric provides a rich, diverse environment for children to grow up in. With over 125 ethnic communities, children are exposed to a variety of cultures, languages, and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and tolerance. The annual Lebanese Festival, GreekFest, and Italian Week are just a few examples of cultural events that celebrate this diversity, offering families a chance to explore and appreciate different cultures.
Furthermore, the city’s low crime rate and excellent healthcare facilities contribute to Ottawa’s appeal as a fantastic place to raise a family. Ottawa’s focus on sustainable living and environmental conservation also ensures that the city your children grow up in will be preserved for future generations. From its top-tier education and myriad recreational opportunities to its multicultural environment and family-friendly facilities, it’s clear that Ottawa offers a nurturing, stimulating, and safe environment for raising a family.
Overall, there are several incredibly compelling reasons why moving to Ottawa in 2023 might be a prudent decision. From the unbeatable quality of life that encompasses a rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene to recreational activities, this city truly presents an enticing opportunity for newcomers. Furthermore, the thriving job market offers plentiful career prospects across various industries, ensuring a sense of stability and growth. The strong sense of community prevalent in Ottawa fosters connection and belonging, making it an ideal place to establish roots and form lasting relationships. Whether you’re seeking a change of scenery, a fresh start, or simply craving to immerse yourself in the immense charm and diversity that Canada’s capital has to offer, rest assured Ottawa caters to all.
