Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Ottawa to Quebec City in 2023
Have you ever thought of moving from Ottawa to Quebec City in 2023? Both cities are beautiful Canadian cities with different allures. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a vibrant city with a population of over 1 million people. It has plenty of attractions to explore like the Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park. There is also a great sense of energy and life that you can feel when strolling around the streets and parks in Ottawa.
Quebec City, on the other hand, is an old European-style city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. With a population of over 700 thousand people, it offers an array of activities such as visiting Old Quebec or taking part in local festivals like Winter Carnival or Carnival de Québec. You can experience both history and modernity when visiting this city as well as its beautiful landscapes along the St Lawrence River.
Relocating to Quebec City from Ottawa
Moving from Ottawa to Quebec City can be a big decision, but don't be overwhelmed by all the things you need to consider. We have taken the time to gather the five most important factors for a successful move, so you can focus on the planning and preparation. Let's jump right in and explore what's in store for your relocation!
Cost of Living
Quebec City is one of the largest cities in Canada, a beautiful place to live. Considering the differences between Ottawa and Quebec City, it is important to understand how expenses impact your lifestyle when you move from one city to another. Comparing them side by side in the table below can help you plan your move better.
| Category | Quebec City | Ottawa |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $185 / sq ft. | $309 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $250 / sq ft. | $304 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $750 / Month (for a 1 bedroom apartment) | $1,750 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $150-200 / Month | $150-250 / Month |
| Transportation | $88.50/Month for a regular adult monthly transit pass. | $119 / Month (Presto Card) |
| Car Insurance | $800 / Year | $1200 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $150 / Month | $250 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $250 / Month | $250 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $90 / Month | $100-150 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $45 / Month | $50-80 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 15\% Sales Tax. | 13% / Year |
Quebec City is the more economical option for those looking to move from Ottawa. Real Estate is much cheaper in Quebec City, with production homes costing roughly $125 per sq ft. less than in Ottawa and custom-built single-family homes costing around $50 per sq ft. less. The cost of housing is also significantly cheaper in Quebec City, with a one bedroom apartment costing around $1,000 a month less than in Ottawa. Utilities and insurance costs are roughly the same between the two cities. When it comes to transportation, getting around by transit is much more affordable in Quebec City with a monthly adult pass costing nearly $30 less than Ottawa's Presto Card option. Car insurance is also cheaper in Quebec City at around $400 a year less than Ottawa's rates. Entertainment and grocery costs are roughly the same between the two cities, although communication costs are slightly lower in Quebec City by about $10/month on average. Finally, health and fitness options are slightly cheaper in Quebec City at about $5/month less than Ottawa along with 15% sales tax compared to 13% sales tax in Ottawa.
Benefits of Moving to Quebec City
Quebec City is a destination for those who appreciate rich history and culture. It boasts many cultural events, beautiful architecture, and picturesque surroundings. Moreover, it is a bilingual city where both English and French are spoken; something that cannot be found in Ottawa.
Meanwhile, Quebec City also offers unique experiences such as viewing quaint villages nestled in the countryside or exploring ancient fortifications on its old citadel walls. There are also numerous parks with stunning views of rolling hills and lush forests – something not to be found in Ottawa.
Best areas to live in Quebec City
Choosing a neighbourhood to live in can be a challenging task, especially for big cities like Quebec City. With its many different areas, each offering its own unique charm and amenities, it can be difficult to decide which is the right fit for you. These neighbourhoods are some of the best places to call home in Quebec City.
Old Quebec
Old Quebec is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Canada, with a population of over 17,000. It is known for its cobblestone streets and winding alleys, surrounded by the iconic Citadelle de Québec and other historical landmarks. The area is just a short drive away from many of Quebec City's attractions like Place Royale, Grand Théâtre de Québec, Notre Dame des Victoires and Musée des Beaux-Arts du Quebec. Living in Old Quebéc means that you can enjoy all the city has to offer without sacrificing any natural beauty or culture — it truly offers an urban lifestyle with a wide range of activities for every type of person; whether you're looking to explore history or just wander around the neighborhood cafes and shops.
Saint-Jean-Baptiste
Moving to Quebec City in 2023? Get ready to explore Saint-Jean-Baptiste! This vibrant neighbourhood is located near the Plains of Abraham, the Parliament Hill and the Quebec City Convention Centre. Its central location makes it perfect for quick excursions to some of the most popular attractions such as Aquarium de Québec, Grand Théâtre de Québec and Old Port. Living in Saint-Jean-Baptiste means enjoying excellent urban amenities while being close enough to nature. It's an ideal spot for anyone looking to experience a truly unique Canadian lifestyle!
Montcalm
Montcalm is a vibrant neighborhood in Quebec City and home to many young professionals. It is surrounded by green spaces, modern restaurants and shopping malls. The nearest attraction is the old city of Quebec within walking distance. Located near great schools and easy access to public transport, living in Montcalm promises a perfect mix of urban lifestyle and natural beauty for anyone looking for an exciting place to call home.
Sillery
Sillery, the chic and modern neighborhood of Quebec City, is home to a diverse and vibrant population. The area has plenty to do, from shopping on Rue St-Jean to checking out the historic architecture. It's also just a short drive away from some of Ontario’s best attractions like Old Quebec or Montmorency Falls. Moving to Sillery offers access to all the cultural amenities that come with living in a major city while still providing a peaceful environment for raising families or just enjoying life in general. Everything you need is right here: great shops, charming cafes, green spaces and spectacular views! All these make Sillery an ideal neighbourhood for people relocating in 2023.
Saint-Louis
A lively neighbourhood located in the heart of Quebec City, Saint-Louis is a great place to call home. Nestled between two other vibrant neighbourhoods, Rivière-des-Prairies and Beauport, Saint-Louis offers easy access to all sorts of amenities and attractions. The area has plenty of parks and green spaces, as well as some interesting cultural attractions like Le Musée de la Civilisation. In addition, it's a stone's throw away from Old Quebec City so the sights and sounds are never too far away. With its bustling commercial district and picturesque views of the St. Lawrence River, living in Saint-Louis promises an exciting urban lifestyle that can't be found anywhere else.
Pros
- Quebec City's historic charms make it a compelling choice for anyone looking to move from Ottawa.
- Moving to Quebec City from Ottawa comes with the advantage of getting to enjoy a unique French culture.
- The lower cost of living in Quebec City compared to Ottawa makes it a great place for those planning to move.
Cons
- Moving from Ottawa to Quebec City can mean having to deal with more challenging weather conditions thanks to its harsher winters.
- Moving from Ottawa to Quebec City can be challenging due to the language barrier that arises as a result of French being the primary language there.
- The smaller job market in Quebec City compared to Ottawa can be a major disadvantage for those looking to move.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Ottawa to Quebec City?
Moving from Ottawa to Quebec City requires extensive planning and research, as there are a multitude of moving solutions available. The most common services include full-service movers who provide packing, loading, hauling and unpacking; self-service movers who provide the transportation equipment but not the labor; and truck or container rental services. Hercules Moving Company is a popular full-service option that Canadians trust for their long distance travels. However, when it comes to selecting a moving company, there are many choices available – each offering unique packages that suit different needs. Moreover, it's important to remember to check the company's online reputation and its registration with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). Doing so will help guarantee successful service delivery for one's move from Ottawa to Quebec City in 2023.
Conclusion
Summary: Relocating to Quebec City in 2023 is a great choice for those who want to experience both history and modernity. Moving from Ottawa to Quebec City offers an array of benefits such as a more economical cost of living, unique cultural experiences, stunning views and plenty of attractions. It is important to choose the right moving company and research different solutions available. Hercules Moving Company is one such professional service that will ensure a smooth move from Ottawa to Quebec City.
