Ottawa at a Glance

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About Ottawa

Founded in 1855, Ottawa is the capital of Canada and is located on the banks of the Ottawa, Rideau and Gatineau rivers. Canada’s fourth-largest city is a complementary blend of urban and rural lifestyles, old and new neighbourhoods, culture and heritage, business and government. Ottawa also has a high standard of living reflected in a multitude of accessible services, vibrant entertainment, exciting recreational activities, and thriving businesses.

City government

Ottawa City Council, under the guidance of Mayor Larry O’Brien and Councillors representing the city’s 23 individual wards, addresses community needs and priorities with services you can count on – from fire and police services, to public libraries, to clean water, to fast and efficient transit.
Learn more about your City government.

 

Quick facts at a glance

  • Population: 895,000
  • Area: 2,796 kilometres or
    1,080 square miles,
    90 kilometres east to west
  • Ottawa’s area is almost
    80 per cent rural
  • Ottawa can be found at:
    Latitude 45° 19’N and
    Longitude 75° 40’W
  • Approximately the same latitude as Venice (Italy), Bordeaux (France), and Sapporo (Japan)

More Ottawa facts

Quality of life

Family

A family-orientated city that gives back to the community, Ottawa offers a quality of life second to none. This includes world-class healthcare facilities, family services, high-quality public and private education, and a variety of post-secondary institutions. Residents also enjoy enriching cultural and historical choices like museums, art galleries and cultural facilities.

Entertainment

Ottawa’s entertainment options for both visitors and residents are as varied as the community itself – ranging from fine dining, festivals, sporting events, and attractions that celebrate the richness and diversity of this great city.

Recreation and leisure

The abundance of well-maintained parks (over 800), woodlands and recreational paths stand as a testament to the City’s commitment to the environment and connects urban, suburban and rural residents to its vast green space.

Ottawa’s focus on healthy living is also represented in a rich array of recreational facilities and programs like summer camps, tennis, public skating and swimming.

Business

Ottawa’s business and employment opportunities draw a wide range of people to a variety of jobs. From advanced technology, to government, research and development, health, education and trades, our workforce contributes to the local economy and markets all around the world.

Whether you are doing business with the City, or searching for exciting career opportunities, Ottawa is a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

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