If you’re relocating for work with family in tow, safety is likely at the top of your checklist. Whether it’s walking to school, accessing healthcare, or navigating public transit, feeling secure in your environment matters—and in Ottawa, safety is a defining feature. 

The capital of Canada is more than a government and tech centre—it’s one of the safest, most family-friendly cities in North America. From clean infrastructure to inclusive communities, here’s why more professionals are choosing to settle here with their families. 

1. Low Crime Rates and Strong Safety Rankings 

According to Statistics Canada’s most recent Crime Severity Index (CSI) data, Ottawa scores 55.8, compared to 69.2 in Toronto and 97.0 in Vancouver. 

This makes Ottawa 19% safer than Toronto and 42% safer than Vancouver based on overall crime severity. Incidents of violent crime and property crime are also consistently lower in Ottawa than in most other Canadian and U.S. urban centres. 

What contributes to this safety? 

• Community policing centres that build trust and accountability 
• Strong infrastructure and urban design considerations 
• A high degree of civic engagement and neighbourhood-based safety initiatives 

Residents report a strong sense of comfort in public spaces, including on transit and in parks, even after dark. 

2. Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods with Excellent Amenities 

Ottawa’s communities are designed with families in mind. Whether you’re seeking walkable neighbourhoods, access to bilingual schools, or proximity to parks and hospitals, there are many options tailored to young and growing families. 

Top family-focused neighbourhoods include: 

• Alta Vista: Tree-lined, peaceful, close to CHEO and The Ottawa Hospital 
• Westboro: Trendy yet residential, with schools, shops, and recreation centres 
• Orléans: A suburban hub with French and English schools, libraries, and green space 
• Barrhaven: Rapidly growing with newer homes, public transit, and community centres 
• Riverside South: Popular among dual-income families for its schools and transit links 

Use the Ottawa Neighbourhood Study to explore safety ratings, demographics, and local amenities by postal code. 

3. Stable Infrastructure and Clean Environment 

Ottawa’s status as a G7 capital means its public infrastructure receives sustained investment. Roads, schools, hospitals, and public spaces are well-maintained, and access to services is reliable. 

Key benefits include: 

• Clean drinking water, managed by a city-wide water purification and testing system 
• Air quality that is within the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) target goal, per IQAir 
• Well-connected healthcare system anchored by The Ottawa Hospital and CHEO 
• Efficient public services, from garbage collection to snow removal 

 

4. A Slower, More Balanced Pace of Life 

Ottawa offers all the opportunities of a big city but without the rush. With a population just over 1 million, it’s large enough to support a thriving tech ecosystem and diverse culture, but small enough that average commute times are just 26.1 minutes (compared to 33.3 in Toronto and 30.5 in Vancouver). 

This means: 

• Easier school drop-offs and daycare pickups 
• Less traffic-related stress 
• More time for sports, meals, and family activities 
• Better work-life balance overall 

Remote and hybrid work arrangements are also widely accepted across Ottawa’s tech employers, making the daily routine more flexible for caregivers. 

5. Diverse, Inclusive, and Supportive Communities 

Ottawa is a city that welcomes newcomers and celebrates cultural diversity. As per the 2021 census data, nearly 24% of residents were born outside of Canada, and over 100 languages are spoken in local homes. 

Family services reflect this diversity: 

• Bilingual (English and French) public school options across four school boards. Over 36% of Ottawa’s population speaks both English and French. 
• Cultural community centres and newcomer programs like OCISO and World Skills 
• Year-round multicultural festivals and events, including Winterlude and the Canadian Tulip Festival 
• Free and low-cost programs through the public library, recreation centres, and community hubs 

Many families moving from abroad report feeling welcomed and supported from day one. Ottawa’s inclusive policies and civic culture help children and parents integrate and thrive. 

Why More Families Are Choosing Ottawa 

Safety is just the start. In Ottawa, families find a rare combination of secure neighbourhoods, excellent infrastructure, bilingual education, accessible healthcare, and room to grow. Whether you’re starting a new chapter or planning a long-term future, this city offers peace of mind—and a high quality of life. 

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