Moving to a new city is always full of expectations—and surprises. Ottawa, Canada’s capital, is no exception. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a lifestyle change, there are a few things that catch newcomers off guard. Some are delightful, some are confusing, and some just take a little getting used to.
If you’re considering moving to Ottawa in 2026, here’s an honest look at what surprised me most after moving here and what you can expect.
1. Winter Is More Than Just Cold
You’ve heard Ottawa winters are cold—but the reality goes beyond temperature.
Snow is persistent: The city averages about 235 cm of snow annually. That’s enough to make you appreciate snow-clearing crews!
Winter is active: From skating on the Rideau Canal to cross-country skiing and outdoor festivals, winter doesn’t mean hibernation. It surprised me how much people embrace the season rather than hide from it.
Dressing smart is key: Layers, waterproof boots, and warm accessories aren’t optional—they’re essential.
The takeaway: Ottawa winters are intense but also vibrant and full of opportunity for winter adventures.
2. Ottawa Feels Both Urban and Suburban at the Same Time
When I first arrived, I expected a city that was either fully urban or completely suburban. Ottawa is a unique mix:
Downtown areas like Centretown and the ByWard Market are walkable, lively, and full of restaurants, cafés, and nightlife.
Suburbs like Kanata, Orleans, and Barrhaven are spacious, family-friendly, and quiet, with plenty of parks.
You can live close to work and nature at the same time, which was surprisingly convenient.
This duality makes Ottawa flexible for different lifestyles, from young professionals to families.
3. The Rideau Canal Is More Than a Landmark
Yes, everyone knows about the Rideau Canal, but I was surprised how central it is to everyday life:
In winter, it’s the world’s largest skating rink, perfect for dates or family outings.
In warmer months, people jog, cycle, and paddle along the canal paths.
Seasonal events and festivals often center around it, making it a hub of community activity.
It’s more than just a pretty photo spot—it’s a part of local culture.
4. Traffic Isn’t as Bad as I Expected
Coming from a bigger city, I braced for gridlock—but Ottawa’s traffic is manageable.
Peak times can get busy, especially on bridges from Gatineau, but nothing compared to Toronto or Montreal.
The LRT (Light Rail Transit) is growing and provides an alternative for many downtown commuters.
Biking is surprisingly easy in certain neighbourhoods, and winter cycling infrastructure is improving.
The surprise? Ottawa strikes a balance between mobility and city life.
5. Grocery Stores & Local Food Culture Are Unexpectedly Strong
I didn’t realize Ottawa had such a vibrant local food scene.
Farmers’ markets are fantastic, especially the ByWard Market and Parkdale Market.
Local cafés and bakeries like Arlington Five and Bread By Us make brunch or coffee a treat.
International groceries and specialty stores make it easy to maintain diverse diets.
Even though Ottawa isn’t known as a foodie city like Toronto or Montreal, the quality of local food was a pleasant surprise.
6. Nature Is Never Far Away
Ottawa is a city where urban life and nature coexist beautifully:
Gatineau Park is a short drive away, offering hiking, biking, and skiing trails.
Urban parks like Major’s Hill Park and Vincent Massey Park provide easy weekend escapes.
You don’t have to leave the city to feel connected to the outdoors.
I was surprised how easy it is to find quiet, natural spaces without leaving the metropolitan area.
7. Bilingualism Matters More Than I Thought
Even though Ottawa is officially bilingual, the practical impact of English vs. French can be surprising:
English is widely spoken, but knowledge of French opens doors in jobs, services, and local culture.
Some government and healthcare services operate primarily in French.
Social integration can be smoother if you’re at least conversational in French.
The takeaway: Being bilingual isn’t required, but it definitely enhances daily life.
8. Seasonal Events Are Everywhere
Ottawa embraces the seasons with festivals and celebrations:
Winterlude in February
Canadian Tulip Festival in May
Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill
Light displays during the winter holidays
I was surprised by how active the city remains year-round, with plenty of free and family-friendly events.
9. Community Spirit Is Strong
Perhaps the most unexpected thing? Ottawa has a very community-oriented feel:
Neighbours are friendly, even in dense downtown areas.
Local initiatives like farmers’ markets, community gardens, and winter skating bring people together.
Ottawa residents often prioritize quality of life over nightlife or fast-paced living.
This sense of connection makes the city feel welcoming, even for newcomers.
FAQs
Is Ottawa boring compared to Toronto or Montreal?
Not at all—its smaller size means community-focused events and outdoor activities are more accessible.
Is it expensive to live in Ottawa in 2026?
Housing is more affordable than Toronto, but costs are rising. Suburbs offer more value.
Do you need a car in Ottawa?
Not always—downtown living is walkable, but a car is convenient for suburbs and nature trips.
Is winter manageable for newcomers?
Yes, but you need proper clothing and a willingness to embrace outdoor activities.
Are there plenty of cultural activities?
Yes—festivals, museums, galleries, and music venues are abundant.
Conclusion
Moving to Ottawa comes with surprises—some big, some small—but the city quickly grows on you. From embracing winter activities to enjoying accessible nature, vibrant local food, and strong community spirit, Ottawa offers a lifestyle that balances work, family, and personal wellbeing.
If you’re moving here in 2026, expect to be pleasantly surprised by both the quality of life and the unexpected charm of Canada’s capital.
