Chicago, ILOttawa, Canada
You would need around 37.0% less money in Ottawa, Canada to maintain the same standard of living you have in Chicago, IL.
Overall Cost of Living
Ottawa, Canada is cheaper than Chicago, IL
1-Bed Rent (City Center)
Groceries (Monthly)
Average Net Salary
Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, Canada? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Ottawa, Canada is 37.0% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Ottawa, Canada's center costs around 1,480 USD, which is a staggering 38.5% less than in Chicago, IL. If you are retaining a remote income, the Remote Wealth team ranks this as a highly strategic move for wealth accumulation.
Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team
Our cost of living data for Chicago, IL and Ottawa, Canada is compiled using our rigorous verification methodology. We combine millions of data points from reliable sources to ensure you get the most accurate financial comparison for your relocation.
Read more about our team →Salary Comparator
Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Ottawa, Canada to maintain your current lifestyle in Chicago, IL.
You need in Ottawa, Canada
3,233 USD
Geo-Arbitrage FIRE
Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.
By moving from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, Canada and investing the 37% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 5.6 years earlier.
Budget Simulator
Instantly adapt your Chicago, IL budget to local Ottawa, Canada prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.
Investment Planner
You save 926 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Ottawa, Canada.
Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~155,568 USD in 10 years.