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Calgary vs Ottawa – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Calgary, Canada and Ottawa, Canada? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Calgary has a monthly cost of $4,870, which is 8.1% lower than Ottawa's $5,300.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Calgary offers 150 Mbps, while Ottawa provides 70 Mbps making Calgary's connection 114.3% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Calgary is currently 18°C 🌧️, while Ottawa is experiencing 26°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Calgary has a safety score of 79.0 , while Ottawa scores 87.0 .

Costs
$4,870
per month
Internet
150
Mbps
Weather
18° 🌧️
High today
Costs
$5,300
per month
Internet
70
Mbps
Weather
26° 🌤️
High today
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Overall

62.0
Overall Score
63.0

Quality of Life Ottawa wins

79.0
Safety
87.0

Ottawa is 8% better

85.0
Healthcare
88.0

Cost Calgary wins

42.0
Cost of Living
32.0

Calgary is 10% better

Climate Ottawa wins

70.0
Air Quality
82.0

Ottawa is 12% better

Infrastructure Ottawa wins

78.0
Internet Speed
87.0

Ottawa is 9% better

Social

55.0
Nightlife
50.0

Calgary is 5% better

68.0
Culture
72.0
64.0
Food Scene
70.0

Ottawa is 6% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Calgary Ottawa Difference
Monthly Total $4,870 $5,300 -8.1%
Daily Average $162 $177 per day

Housing

Item Calgary Ottawa Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $1,150.00 per month $1,350.00 per month -14.8%

Daily Life

Item Calgary Ottawa Difference
Coffee $3.50 per cup $3.50 per cup 0.0%

Transportation

Item Calgary Ottawa Difference

Utilities

Item Calgary Ottawa Difference
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Final Verdict: Calgary vs Ottawa

Ottawa ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 1.0% higher than Calgary overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $4,870 vs $5,300
  • Daily Expenses: $162 vs $177
  • Calgary is 8.1% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Calgary leads with 114% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Ottawa has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Calgary Wins In:
  • Cost of Living (10% better)
  • Nightlife (5% better)
Ottawa Wins In:
  • Safety (8% better)
  • Air Quality (12% better)
  • Internet Speed (9% better)
  • Food Scene (6% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Ottawa if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Safety. However, Calgary might be preferable if Safety is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.

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