Living in the National Capital

Not familiar with the region? By joining the Hub team, you can enjoy Ottawa’s exceptional quality of life. On the border between Ontario and Québec, Ottawa is the seat of the Canadian government and offers all of the advantages of a capital city, while remaining a welcoming city with a human face.  

The Ottawa region is known for its economic stability, national museums, art galleries and theatres; its gastronomic scene; its abundant green spaces and bicycle paths; its affordable cost of living and low unemployment rate; and as city whose streets are safe to walk.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike through forest or enjoy one of the region’s many lakes, just 15 minutes from downtown. Every year, three million visitors flock to Gatineau Park, which covers 361 square kilometres, to immerse themselves in varied natural landscapes that change with the seasons.
 
The region is also home to many colleges and universities, both in Ottawa and in Gatineau, its Québec neighbour. The private sector, particularly the high-tech industry, is alive and well thanks to its synergistic relationship with the federal government. Both English and French are spoken in Ottawa, but people who are fluent in both languages often have an advantage when looking for a job.

Ottawa’s well-developed road network and public transit system make it easy to get around. Ottawa’s international airport links the capital to the world’s major cities: New York is a 90-minute flight, and Paris is eight hours away. From the train and bus stations, travellers can set off on a relaxing journey to Montréal (2 hours) or Toronto (4 hours).