The Ottawa Reality Check
Ottawa is defined by stability. With the federal government as the largest employer, the city sees fewer economic swings than other hubs. However, the cost of living has crept up.
In 2026, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,050 per month. While not as expensive as Toronto, it's a significant jump from a few years ago.
Did you know?
A salary of $100,000 in Ottawa results in approximately $6,050 of monthly net income, the same as Toronto (same provincial tax rates).
Salary Brackets by Industry
| Job Title | Entry Level | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|
| Policy Analyst (Gov) | $70,000 | $115,000 |
| Software Engineer (Kanata) | $75,000 | $150,000+ |
| Registered Nurse | $72,000 | $108,000 |
| High School Teacher | $62,000 | $104,000 |
| Administrative Assistant | $52,000 | $78,000 |
| Civil Engineer | $70,000 | $125,000 |
Data aggregated from 2025-2026 market reports and MTC internal data.