If you’re deciding where to live — or whether putting down roots in Ottawa makes sense — a recent ranking offers strong confirmation that Canada’s capital continues to be one of the best places to call home.
According to the Numbeo Quality of Life Index, Ottawa ranks #1 in Canada for overall quality of life, outperforming major cities from coast to coast.
This ranking isn’t based on opinion or hype. It’s driven by real data that matters to everyday life.
Numbeo evaluates cities using several core factors that directly affect residents, including:
Safety
Healthcare quality
Cost of living
Pollution levels
Traffic and commute times
Climate and environmental comfort
These elements are combined into a single Quality of Life score, offering a well-rounded view of what living in each city is actually like.
Based on the most recent Numbeo data, the top cities in Canada are:
Ottawa, Ontario – Exceptional safety, strong healthcare, stable employment, and balanced living costs
Nanaimo, British Columbia – Coastal lifestyle with manageable commute times
Victoria, British Columbia – Mild climate and strong lifestyle appeal
Quebec City, Quebec – High safety and good affordability relative to quality
Vancouver, British Columbia – Excellent amenities offset by higher housing costs
Calgary, Alberta – Strong purchasing power and healthcare access
Halifax, Nova Scotia – Community-focused living with reasonable costs
Edmonton, Alberta – Affordable housing and solid healthcare
Kelowna, British Columbia – Outdoor lifestyle and scenic living
Montreal, Quebec – Cultural depth and affordability among large cities
Ottawa’s #1 ranking reflects what many residents already know:
It’s one of the safest large cities in Canada
Healthcare access is strong and stable
Commute times are reasonable compared to other major cities
There’s a balance between career opportunities and family life
Housing remains more attainable than in many other top-ranked cities
For home buyers — especially first-time buyers and those relocating — Ottawa offers long-term stability without sacrificing lifestyle.
Rankings like this reinforce an important point: people aren’t just buying homes in Ottawa — they’re investing in quality of life.
Whether you’re moving from another province, transitioning from renting to owning, or simply planning your next chapter, Ottawa’s continued top ranking makes it a city worth serious consideration.
Quality of life matters. Safety, affordability, healthcare, and day-to-day livability all play a role in where people choose to live — and Ottawa continues to excel in all of them.
If you’re exploring what homeownership in Ottawa could look like for you, understanding the broader picture helps you make confident, informed decisions.
