BC
vs
ON
Cost of Living: Vancouver vs Ottawa
Making a move? Compare the exact 2026 data for housing, food, and transit to see exactly how your lifestyle budget will change between these two cities.
The Verdict
Living in Ottawa is 24% cheaper than living in Vancouver overall.
To maintain your exact standard of living, a $100,000 salary in Vancouver is mathematically equivalent to earning $76,493 in Ottawa.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Vancouver
$2,800
25% cheaper
Ottawa
$2,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Vancouver
$460
7% cheaper
Ottawa
$430
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Vancouver
$180
31% cheaper
Ottawa
$125
Calculate Your Exact Salary
Ready to see how much you'll keep after taxes in ON? Use our Canadian Income Tax Calculator to get a precise breakdown.