Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Ottawa to Halifax in 2023
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to move from Ottawa to Halifax? Ottawa, the capital of Canada, boasts a population of over one million people and is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions such as the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada. It also has a vibrant arts and culture scene that makes it an ideal place for those looking for an active lifestyle. In contrast, Halifax is a vibrant port city with a population of just over 400,000 people. Its harbourfront is lined with historic buildings, museums and galleries that offer visitors plenty to explore. Plus its beautiful beaches are perfect for those who want to enjoy some relaxation in nature's embrace. Moving from Ottawa to Halifax can be quite an adventure!
Moving to Halifax from Halifax
Moving from one city to another requires a lot of planning and considerations. With so many factors to weigh in, it can be hard to pick the most essential ones. We've narrowed it down to the five most important considerations: Cost of Living, Benefits of Moving, Where to Live, Pros and Cons, and Best Moving Solutions. With all these in mind, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new home.
Cost of Living
Halifax, the capital of Province of Nova Scotia, is a small city compared to other major Canadian cities like Montreal and Toronto. Living in Halifax means lower expenses than what you are used to in other big cities but according to your lifestyle expenses can vary greatly; for instance, this table gives an overview of some different costs when moving from Ottawa to Halifax.
| Category | Halifax | Ottawa |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $250/sq ft. | $250 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $234/sq ft. | $309 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,186 / Month | $1200 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $150-250 / Month | $225 / Month |
| Transportation | $78.50/Month for a regular adult Halifax Transit Pass. | $119 / Month - Presto Transit Pass |
| Car Insurance | $891/Year | $1,200 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month | $100 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $300 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $90 / Month | $100 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-70/Month (Gym Membership) | $50-100 / Month. |
| Sales Taxes | 15% / year. | 13% / Year |
Moving to Halifax from Ottawa is generally more affordable. Real Estate Costs are the same in both cities, however, Halifax offers a much cheaper transit pass at $78.50 compared to Ottawa's $119 Presto pass. Car insurance is also cheaper in Halifax, costing an average of $891 per year compared to Ottawa's $1,200 per year. Entertainment expenses should be taken into consideration as well, with Halifax providing much better value at $200 per month versus Ottawa's $100 per month. Housing utilities and insurance are slightly more expensive in Halifax at a range of $150-250 versus Ottawa's set cost of $225, while grocery costs and health and fitness options are the same in both cities. Lastly, Halifax offers a lower sales tax rate of 15% compared to Ottawa's 13%.
Benefits of Moving to Halifax
Moving from Ottawa to Halifax has its benefits, as the latter offers a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities and cultural activities. Moreover, Halifax boasts an affordable cost of living and quality healthcare. Meanwhile, Ottawa may not have as many recreational and entertainment options as Halifax does but it does offer access to higher education – something that is lacking in the East Coast city.
Living in Halifax can provide you with more diverse experiences than what you get in Ottawa. From outdoor activities to cultural events, there are plenty of things to do here that you can't find elsewhere. Plus, everything is more affordable compared to Ottawa which makes living here even more attractive as an option!
Best areas to live in Halifax
Finding the best neighbourhood to live in Halifax can be tricky; many factors like commute, quality of life and amenities need to be taken into consideration. In order for those relocating from Ottawa to Halifax in 2023 to make the right decision, it's important to have an understanding of what makes each area unique. Below is a list of some of the top neighbourhoods that are worth considering when making your move.
South End
Moving to Halifax's South End neighbourhood in 2023 promises a unique experience. This friendly community is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, with picturesque views of the harbour from many points in the area. The Halifax Citadel is a historically significant site located just 10 minutes away, while lively nightlife opportunities are within walking distance. With its vibrant music and arts culture and diverse cuisine options, living in South End makes for an exciting lifestyle that many people dream of experiencing.
Downtown Halifax
Downtown Halifax is the historic core of Canada’s east coast largest city. The downtown area is surrounded by the harbour to one side and the Public Gardens to another. Within walking distance are many attractions, such as Alderney Landing, Maritime Museum of Atlantic, McDonald Bridge and Casino Nova Scotia. Residents here have easy access to restaurants, public transportation and entertainment venues—everything necessary for a comfortable life in a vibrant neighbourhood with a rich history.
Armdale
Moving to Armdale, Halifax is a great choice for those looking for a vibrant neighbourhood with plenty of amenities. The area is home to a diverse population and offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. It's also close to downtown Halifax, within walking distance of shops and restaurants, as well as parks and beaches. You can easily get around the city by public transportation or on foot while enjoying views of the harbour from nearby streets. Living in Armdale means having easy access to all the best that Halifax has to offer - from shopping to culture and entertainment - making it an ideal spot for anyone relocating in 2023.
Fairmount
Moving to Halifax in 2023? Consider making your new home in the vibrant neighbourhood of Fairmount. Framed by the Atlantic Ocean, shops and parks, Fairmount is a beautiful place to call home. With Downtown Halifax only 5 km away, you can enjoy all it has to offer quickly and easily. From your cozy abode in Fairmount you can take advantage of an array of activities at your doorstep; whether it's rooftop yoga or simply walking around admiring unique local art installations - it's all there for you! Live life on the edge while exploring nature scenes only minutes away from downtown downtown restaurants, cafés and cultural events - moving to Fairmount could be just what you need to feel right at home.
Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant is an attractive neighbourhood in Halifax, known for its combination of history and modernity. The area is home to several historic sites, including the Historic Houses of Point Pleasant Park. For culture lovers, the nearby Neptune Theatre provides a wide range of plays and performances. Shops, cafes, bars and restaurants can all be found within walking distance from any street in the area , making it easy to explore local offerings. Nature lovers will relish in being close to Point Pleasant Park and Long Lake Provincial Park where outdoor activities such as hiking are available year-round. With its mix of trendy restaurants, beautiful parks and convenient neighborhoods amenities, Point Pleasant is an ideal neighborhood for those looking for a fresh start after moving from Ottawa to Halifax in 2023 .
Pros
- The stunning coastline of Halifax is far more breathtaking than Ottawa, making it an ideal destination for those looking to witness the beauty of nature.
- The cheaper housing costs in Halifax make it a more attractive place to live compared to Ottawa.
- In Halifax, the reduced crime rate provides a safer environment compared to Ottawa.
Cons
- In Halifax, one of the main cons when moving compared to Ottawa is the much colder and lengthier winters.
- With fewer job opportunities available in Halifax than Ottawa, moving to the latter can be a more advantageous option for career-minded individuals.
- Moving to Halifax from Ottawa can be a challenge due to the limited public transportation available in comparison to Ottawa.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Ottawa to Halifax?
Moving from Ottawa to Halifax requires finding the right solution, especially when considering the distance. There are numerous moving companies operating in Canada that provide a full range of services for those looking to relocate. Hercules Moving Company provides a wide variety of services that include packing, transportation and storage. Additionally, there are many other companies who offer different services tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Meanwhile, it's important to remember that while there are many reputable moving companies out there, it's essential to check the company's reputation online as well as its registration with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Doing your homework before selecting a service provider can save you time, money and headaches down the road!
Conclusion
Moving to Halifax from Ottawa in 2023 has its own unique benefits. It's a great choice for those looking for an affordable cost of living and diverse recreational activities, which come with top-notch healthcare services. Although the city might not offer the same higher education opportunities as Ottawa, it promises a wide range of cultural events and outdoor activities that are perfect for those seeking an exciting lifestyle. Furthermore, with many neighbourhoods to choose from - such as South End, Downtown Halifax, Armdale, Fairmount and Point Pleasant - finding the right place to live is easy! Lastly, it's important to select the best moving solution that meets your individual needs. By doing your research upfront on reputable companies like Hercules Moving Company or other providers that are registered with CAMs you can ensure a stress-free move!
