The city of Ottawa is a prosperous and forward-looking capital with a dynamic yet stable economy. While public administration remains its cornerstone, growth is also driven by thriving high-tech industries, healthcare, education, innovation, and tourism.
Whether you’re moving to Ottawa from another Canadian province or relocating internationally, the city offers economic stability, diverse job opportunities, and an excellent quality of life.
A City Powered by the Public Service
The public service is Ottawa’s largest employer, reflecting the city’s role as the capital and administrative centre of Canada. Approximately 155,000 federal public service employees work in the National Capital Region (NCR), which includes Ottawa, Ontario, and Gatineau, Quebec. This represents about 42.3% of the total federal public service workforce in Canada.
Stable public sector jobs mean reliable incomes, strong infrastructure, and a robust service industry to support them. This base contributes to Ottawa’s relatively low unemployment rate of 5.5% (based on recent data, compared to a national average of 6.7%).
A Thriving Tech Hub
Beyond government employment, Ottawa has a flourishing technology sector, earning the nickname “Silicon Valley North.” The city is home to more than 1,700 tech companies, including Shopify, Nokia, Adobe Systems, and Solace, as well as a strong start-up ecosystem. Many firms are clustered in Kanata North Technology Park, where over 33,000 employees work across more than 540 companies.
For professionals seeking tech jobs in Ottawa, opportunities exist in software development, AI, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and more. Entrepreneurs will also find a supportive environment for launching or expanding technology ventures.
Healthcare
The health sector is another key pillar, employing over 18,000 people in Ottawa. Major employers include hospitals, clinics, care homes, public health institutions, and numerous federal health-related agencies. This makes Ottawa especially attractive for healthcare professionals relocating from abroad or moving within Canada.
Education and Research
Education plays an important role in Ottawa’s economy, supported by a highly educated workforce. Leading academic institutions such as Carleton University and the University of Ottawa act as innovation hubs, driving research in engineering, data science, environmental studies, health sciences, and more.
Families moving to Ottawa benefit from access to quality education, while businesses gain from a skilled talent pool that supports economic growth.
Tourism and Culture: An Economic Boost
Tourism is another major contributor to Ottawa’s economy. The city’s museums, festivals, and historic sites attract nearly 10 million visitors annually, generating around $2.6 billion in spending. The sector supports approximately 35,000 jobs in hospitality, retail, transportation, and entertainment.
Rural Economy
Ottawa has the largest rural economy among Canada’s major cities, contributing more than $1 billion in GDP. Agriculture accounts for about $400 million, with additional contributions from retail sales, forestry, mining, rural tourism, and small business services.
Why Canadians and Newcomers Choose Ottawa
With its economic stability, growing tech sector, excellent schools, and work-life balance, Ottawa consistently ranks as one of the best places to live and work in Canada. Workers benefit from shorter average commute times, abundant green spaces, outdoor activities, and a family-friendly environment. The public service provides a stable foundation, while technology and innovation drive further growth.
This balanced economic landscape, combined with a high quality of life, makes Ottawa not only a prosperous city with diverse job opportunities but also a vibrant and welcoming place to call home.