Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Ottawa to Saskatoon in 2023
Are you thinking of moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon in 2023? If so, you must be prepared for the many changes that come with a move across Canada. Ottawa is the capital city of Canada and it has a population of over 1 million people. The city covers an area of 2,779 square kilometers and is home to popular landmarks such as Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal. It is a vibrant city full of culture and history, making it an exciting place to live.
Saskatoon is located in central Saskatchewan, on the South Saskatchewan River. It has an estimated population of over 300 thousand people spread across its 251 square kilometers area. Saskatoon is known for its beautiful prairie landscapes, urban parks, art galleries and festivals that attract visitors from all around the world. This city offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or biking along its many trails throughout all four seasons!
Moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon
Moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon can be tricky. With so many factors to consider, such as Cost of Living, Benefits of Moving, Where to Live and Pros and Cons, narrowing down your search for the best moving solutions is a challenge. However, we have collected information on the 5 most important considerations when making this transition - giving you a head start in your move!
Cost of Living
Saskatoon is one of the largest cities in Canada and its increasing population means that you need to be aware of a few things before moving. The cost of living can vary drastically depending on your lifestyle so it's important to understand those differences when making the decision to move from Ottawa to Saskatoon in 2023; the following table provides an in depth comparison between the two cities.
| Category | Saskatoon | Ottawa |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $250 / sq ft. | $280 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $250 / sq ft. | $325 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $940 / Month | $1400 / Month. |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $250-350 / Month | $200-400 / Month |
| Transportation | $85 / Month for a monthly adult transit pass. | $119.50 / Month for a monthly transit pass called the "Presto Pass". |
| Car Insurance | $1,080 / Year | $975 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200-300/month. | $200 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $200 / month. | $400 / month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $100 / Month | $115 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $40-60 / Month | $70-100/month membership costs for gyms and fitness centers. |
| Sales Taxes | 5% / GST only. | 13\% / Year |
Saskatoon is more affordable than Ottawa in almost every category. Real estate prices are lower, housing costs around $460 less a month, transportation costs are almost half the price, car insurance is cheaper by $105 a year and entertainment, groceries and communication costs are also lower. The only exception is health and fitness expenses where Ottawa is more cost-effective. Additionally, Saskatoon has only 5% GST compared to 13% in Ottawa.
Benefits of Moving to Saskatoon
Saskatoon has much to offer for everyone and is becoming an increasingly attractive place for those looking to move from Ottawa. Not only does Saskatoon have great outdoor recreational opportunities, it also offers a booming economy with plenty of job opportunities due to its robust industry. Moreover, it has a diverse and vibrant community with a great quality of life. Meanwhile, in contrast to Ottawa, Saskatoon is blessed with bright and hot Summers and fun winter activities that are perfect for those who love playing in the snow or embracing winter sports. This makes it an ideal destination for those yearning for seasonal living but still want access to big city amenities at the same time.
Best areas to live in Saskatoon
Moving to a new city can be a difficult decision, and choosing the right neighbourhood to put down roots in Saskatoon can be even more challenging. Trying to pick an area that matches your lifestyle from limited information is not an easy task, so it's worth researching different neighbourhoods before settling in one. To help you out, we've compiled a list of the best areas to live in Saskatoon - all you need to do is pick the right one for your needs.
The Willows
The Willows is a thriving neighbourhood in Saskatoon, located on the east side of North Saskatchewan River. This suburb offers beautifully maintained parks and playgrounds for families with children as well as an abundance of outdoor recreational activities for all ages. The Willows is conveniently situated close to several popular amenities such as shopping malls and restaurants, making it a great area to call home. The distances to the nearest attractions vary depending on what one is looking for; there are some within walking distance while others are further out, but they are accessible by taking public transportation or a quick drive away. Living in The Willows means access to all that Saskatoon has to offer; from its vibrant culture and bustling downtown core to plenty of activities like bird watching, skateboarding or exploring nature trails nearby.
Arbor Creek
Arbor Creek is a vibrant and growing neighbourhood located in Saskatoon. With its many parks, schools, restaurants, and entertainment centres it's no surprise why it's so popular among families looking to move within the city. You can be sure to find plenty of activities right in your own backyard! What’s more, the neighborhood is home to green spaces such as Preston Park and East Point Park with plenty of outdoor activities within reaching distance. The vibrant life and convenient amenities make Arbor Creek an ideal place for those looking for a great community balance of work-play-life balance.
Varsity View
Located in the south-central side of Saskatoon, Varsity View is a neighbourhood with a population of 8,350 according to the 2016 census. The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo and Saskatchewan Polytechnic form the western border of Varsity View, while Clarence Avenue is located to its east. Within walking distance, you can find stores such as Walmart and British Home Hardware along with restaurants and banks. The University of Saskatchewan is just five kilometres away by car making it an ideal spot for students living off campus. With plenty to do and see nearby, living in Varsity View offers residents a suburban lifestyle with close access to downtown amenities and attractions.
Stonebridge
Moving to the Stonebridge neighbourhood in Saskatoon promises a unique experience. This vibrant area is filled with green spaces, trails and a park overlooking the cityscape. Whether you are looking to explore nature or take advantage of the nearby restaurants, coffee shops and pubs, Stonebridge is conveniently located within 10 minutes of downtown. The area boasts local businesses and history as well as opportunities for active living and community involvement – making it an ideal destination for those looking to move to Saskatoon in 2023!
Silverspring
Silverspring is a vibrant neighbourhood in the heart of Saskatoon, with many people from different age groups and backgrounds living together. The neighbourhood is surrounded by nature parks, art galleries, museums, cinemas and some of the best restaurants in Saskatoon. For those seeking adventure and adventure sports, there are plenty of options within walking distance such as rock climbing gyms, an outdoor swimming pool and BMX bike parks. The city centre is only 15 minutes away by car or bus for those who prefer urban life. Living in Silverspring means living in a friendly community with access to great amenities. Spend your days exploring park trails or relaxing with friends near the river walkway - you’ll never be bored!
Pros
- The lower cost of living in Saskatoon compared to Ottawa makes it an attractive destination for those wanting to move.
- The pro point when moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon is that there is less traffic, making the city more navigable and stress free.
- The best of Canadian outdoor activities can be experienced in Saskatoon, making it an ideal location for those looking to make the most of their move from Ottawa.
Cons
- The unforgiving winters in Saskatoon are much more severe than in Ottawa and can put a definite damper on your plans.
- Moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon in 2023 can bring some difficulty as the job opportunities in Saskatoon are much more limited than those available in Ottawa.
- Moving to Saskatoon from Ottawa can be a challenge, as the lack of social activities and isolation that comes with living in a smaller city can be difficult to adjust to.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Ottawa to Saskatoon?
Moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon can be a stressful process, but by selecting one of the many moving services available in Canada, you can make sure that your journey is as smooth and simple as possible. Many moving companies offer a range of services, from packing and shipping to complete relocation solutions. For instance, Hercules Moving Company offers customers a complete service package including packing materials and support for up to 12 months after relocation. Meanwhile, there are many other reliable companies that specialize in residential and commercial relocation with the potential for customized solutions. It is important to thoroughly research any company you choose before finalizing any deal; remember to check the company's reputation online and its registration with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). This will ensure your move is as safe and secure as possible.
Conclusion
Moving to Saskatoon in 2023 can be a great decision as it has attractive job opportunities and a booming economy. The cost of living is significantly lower than Ottawa, with many amenities such as housing, transportation and entertainment being much cheaper. There are also plenty of outdoor activities available throughout the year –not to mention that it has some of the best areas like The Willows, Arbor Creek, Varsity View, Stonebridge and Silverspring– making Saskatoon an ideal city for those looking for seasonal living yet still want access to big city amenities. Planning ahead is key when moving from Ottawa to Saskatoon and selecting the right moving company is essential for a stress-free process; Hercules Moving Company offers complete relocation packages with 12 months support guarantee providing reliable service all year round.
