What is the average salary in Ottawa, Ontario in 2025? Knowing the average yearly salary in Ottawa is essential for anyone planning a career or evaluating job offers in the city. With Ottawa’s competitive job market, salaries vary across industries, but understanding these figures can help you calculate how much you’ll take home per year after taxes.
In 2025, the pay for jobs in Ottawa will differ depending on occupation, experience, and industry, from management roles to technology positions like software developers. Key factors such as household income, transportation costs, and the cost of groceries or entertainment are critical in determining what is considered a good salary in Ottawa. The average working person in Ottawa needs to earn enough to fund their lifestyle, which includes savings, housing, and other essential expenses.
This article offers an accurate breakdown of average salary data for Ottawa, with insights into compensation levels across various Canadian industries. Whether you’re exploring a new job opportunity or planning your financial future, this tool will help you quickly estimate the pay you can expect in Ottawa.
Average Salary in Ottawa, Ontario
The average salary in Ottawa is CAD 65,000 per year, or approximately CAD 33.33 per hour for full-time workers. This figure is sourced from and based on 10,000 reported salaries, offering a detailed comparison across various sectors. For many individuals, earning this amount provides enough to live comfortably in Ottawa. However, there is variation depending on experience.
Entry-level positions start at CAD 41,002 annually (about CAD 19.75 per hour), while experienced workers can make up to CAD 123,497 annually (approximately CAD 59.33 per hour). These differences in compensation highlight the equity gaps based on experience and gender, and show how one’s salary impacts the ability to live comfortably in the city.
The following list offers a breakdown of salary ranges in Ottawa for 2024, reflecting full-time positions:
Annual Salary (CAD):
- Average: $65,000
- Entry-Level: $41,002
- Experienced (High): $123,497
Hourly Rate (CAD):
- Average: $33.33
- Entry-Level: $19.75
- Experienced (High): $59.33
Monthly Salary (CAD):
- Average: $5,416.67
- Entry-Level: $3,417.00
- Experienced (High): $10,291.42
This comparison allows workers in Ottawa to use a salary calculator to estimate their compensation and determine if it’s enough to live comfortably. Depending on your job and experience, you could expect to take home anywhere between CAD 3,417 and CAD 10,291 per month, factoring in national and local benefits, as well as compensation planning.
What Affects Salary Expectations and Take-Home Pay in Ottawa?
When comparing salaries across Canada, compensation in Ottawa tends to be higher than the Canadian average salary, especially for full-time professionals in key sectors like healthcare and technology. Several factors influence how much an individual earns per year in Ottawa and how much they can expect to take home per month to pay for living expenses.
Job Role and Scope of Responsibilities
The type of job and its responsibilities directly affect earnings. Positions with more complex duties typically offer higher compensation as part of structured compensation planning.
Education, Experience, and Skills
Individuals with higher education levels, specialized skills, and extensive work experience often earn more than the Canadian average salary. These qualifications are crucial for full-time roles in competitive industries.
Industry and Type of Employer
Salaries can vary significantly depending on the industry. For example, public sector roles in Ottawa often offer reliable pay and benefits, while private and non-profit employers may have different compensation structures.
Unionization
Unionized employees usually benefit from collective agreements that result in higher and more predictable pay, making these roles a reliable option for compensation planning.
Cost of Living in Ottawa
What workers in Ottawa will get depends partly on the cost of living. Higher housing and transportation costs influence salary expectations, with employers adjusting compensation to meet local needs.
Government Regulations and Wage Standards
Employment standards and minimum wage laws set by the government impact baseline earnings and help shape fair compensation strategies across all sectors.
Market Supply and Demand
When there is high demand for a certain profession or skillset in Ottawa, salaries increase accordingly. This is especially true for roles in tech, healthcare, and construction.
Other Relevant Factors
Additional factors such as individual performance, the financial health of an organization, and annual salary adjustments contribute to what someone working full time in Ottawa will get annually.
Jobs in Ottawa: Pay by Occupation
The top jobs in the Ottawa area can offer salaries reaching up to $141,940 per year. There is a wide range of high-paying roles available in diverse industries, catering to varying qualifications and levels of experience. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to move up the ladder, the Ottawa job market provides plenty of opportunities.
Below is a list of some of the top-paying jobs in Ottawa, many of which offer annual salaries well above the median income. If none of these careers are the right fit for you, there are plenty of other opportunities to explore in the Ottawa area.
DevOps
- Sector: Technology / Software Development
- Yearly Salary Range: $95,262–$141,940
- Description: Combines development philosophies, tools, and practices to enhance the speed and reliability of software development and delivery within organizations.
Salesforce
- Sector: Technology / CRM Management
- Yearly Salary Range: $84,783–$138,129
- Description: Manages a customer relationship management (CRM) platform to help businesses optimize marketing, sales, customer service, and data tracking processes.
Travel Nurse
- Sector: Healthcare / Nursing
- Yearly Salary Range: $76,685–$120,982
- Description: Healthcare professional who temporarily works at healthcare facilities across different regions, providing nursing care in areas with staff shortages.
Nurse Educator
- Sector: Healthcare / Education
- Yearly Salary Range: $67,159–$95,262
- Description: A nurse with advanced education who teaches future nurses and provides continuing education to practicing professionals in academic or clinical settings.
Structural Engineer
- Sector: Engineering / Construction
- Yearly Salary Range: $65,254–$92,404
- Description: Designs, constructs, and maintains structures to ensure they are safe, durable, and compliant with building codes and regulations.
Scientist
- Sector: Science / Research & Development
- Yearly Salary Range: $60,015–$90,975
- Description: Works in science-driven industries, contributing to research and development in sectors like healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.
Computer Science
- Sector: Technology / IT
- Yearly Salary Range: $39,533–$89,546
- Description: Occupies roles such as software developer, hardware engineer, or IT specialist, utilizing technical skills for system design, development, and maintenance.
Underwriter
- Sector: Finance / Insurance
- Yearly Salary Range: $45,249–$83,830
- Description: Assesses financial risk for loans and insurance by evaluating credit history, financial behaviour, and risk profiles.
Respiratory Therapist
- Sector: Healthcare / Medical Therapy
- Yearly Salary Range: $51,441–$82,877
- Description: Provides respiratory therapy to patients with breathing disorders, often working in hospitals and clinics as part of a medical team.
Financial Analyst
- Sector: Finance / Investment
- Yearly Salary Range: $54,775–$77,162
- Description: Conducts investment research, evaluates financial data, and advises individuals or companies on financial planning and investment opportunities.
School Nurse
- Sector: Healthcare / Education
- Yearly Salary Range: $47,154–$70,493
- Description: Provides basic healthcare and health education to students within schools, promoting wellness and responding to minor medical concerns.
Telecommunications
- Sector: Technology / Communications
- Yearly Salary Range: $39,057–$65,730
- Description: Works in the telecommunications sector in roles such as sales, support, or network operations, enabling digital and voice communications over distances.
Home Inspector
- Sector: Real Estate / Construction
- Yearly Salary Range: $43,344–$65,254
- Description: Inspects residential and commercial properties to assess condition, safety, and code compliance, often during real estate transactions.
Side Jobs
- Sector: Various / Freelance
- Yearly Salary Range: $29,531–$62,872
- Description: Takes on side roles or freelance work, such as consulting, tutoring, or manual services, to supplement primary income.
Medical Lab Technician
- Sector: Healthcare / Laboratory
- Yearly Salary Range: $35,246–$60,967
- Description: Collects and analyzes samples in clinical laboratories to support medical diagnoses and treatment planning.
Credit Analyst
- Sector: Finance / Banking
- Yearly Salary Range: $42,867–$60,491
- Description: Reviews financial statements and credit reports to determine an applicant’s creditworthiness for loans or lines of credit.
French Tutor
- Sector: Education / Language
- Yearly Salary Range: $41,438–$58,109
- Description: Provides instruction in the French language, helping learners develop reading, writing, and speaking proficiency.
Excavator Operator
- Sector: Construction / Heavy Equipment
- Yearly Salary Range: $38,581–$54,299
- Description: Operates heavy equipment on construction sites, handling tasks like excavation, grading, and material transport.
Forestry
- Sector: Environmental / Natural Resources
- Yearly Salary Range: $33,341–$51,441
- Description: Works in forest management and conservation as a forester, wildfire crew member, or land technician to protect and maintain natural resources.
Dump Truck Driver
- Sector: Transportation / Construction
- Yearly Salary Range: $34,770–$46,202
- Description: Drives dump trucks to deliver or remove construction materials, such as soil or debris, to and from job sites.
School Bus Driver
- Sector: Transportation / Education
- Yearly Salary Range: $29,531–$40,010
- Description: Transports students safely to and from school, managing student behaviour and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations.
Painter
- Sector: Construction / Skilled Trades
- Yearly Salary Range: $29,531–$39,533
- Description: Paints and decorates interior and exterior surfaces of residential, commercial, and industrial properties with precision and attention to detail.
Armed Guard
- Sector: Security / Protection Services
- Yearly Salary Range: $27,625–$39,533
- Description: Protects people and property as an armed security officer, performing tasks like access control, surveillance monitoring, and emergency response.
Concierge
- Sector: Hospitality / Customer Service
- Yearly Salary Range: $26,197–$35,723
- Description: Greets guests at hotels or resorts, assists with luggage, transportation, and reservations, and provides personalized recommendations for local activities.
Meat Cutter
- Sector: Food Processing / Skilled Trades
- Yearly Salary Range: $25,720–$35,246
- Description: Specializes in the precise cutting and preparation of meat, following strict food safety guidelines and maintaining cleanliness in butchering environments.
What Is Considered a Good Salary in the City of Ottawa?
In Ottawa, a salary ranging from $75,000 to $90,000 or more is generally seen as a good salary, especially for individuals supporting a household or aiming to build savings. The average salary in Ottawa is about $65,000, reflecting common compensation for full-time positions across various industries. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living in the city, particularly housing, can be a significant factor.
Average Salary
The typical full-time employee in Ottawa earns around $65,000 per year, which provides a solid foundation for many working professionals in the city.
High-End Salaries
Incomes of $90,000 or more annually are considered well above average and are more common in senior roles or specialized fields.
Cost of Living
While salaries in Ottawa are competitive, housing, transportation, and other household expenses can make a noticeable impact on your budget, especially for those living in or near the city centre.
Take-Home Pay Estimate
An annual salary of $90,000 in Ottawa usually results in a net income of approximately $66,554 per year, or around $5,546 per month after taxes and deductions.
Household Income and Savings: Can You Fund Your Lifestyle?
Understanding how much a person in Ottawa will take home per year is essential when evaluating if your income can support your lifestyle. With an average yearly salary of roughly $65,000, many individuals must balance pay against rising costs in housing, transportation, and daily expenses. This section breaks down income levels, household needs, and how to calculate whether your salary is truly enough to live comfortably in Ottawa.
How Much a Person in Ottawa Will Take Home Per Year
- A full-time person in Ottawa will take home around $52,000 to $66,000 per year after taxes, depending on gross salary and deductions.
- With an average yearly salary of approximately $65,000, most workers receive about $4,300 to $5,500 per month after tax.
- Take-home pay varies based on occupation, compensation level, and benefit deductions such as retirement contributions or insurance.
Typical Household Income Needed to Live Comfortably in Ottawa
- A household income of around $110,000 to $130,000 per year is generally enough to live comfortably in Ottawa.
- Dual-income households with both earners making the average yearly salary can usually meet this threshold.
- Households with only one income may need to consider expenses more carefully or adjust lifestyle expectations.
Key Monthly Expenses That Impact Savings
- Rent or mortgage can range from $1,800 to over $2,500 per month, depending on location and unit size.
- Whether using public transit or a personal vehicle, costs can average $400–$700 per month.
- Grocery and Entertainment essentials often total between $1,000 and $1,500 per month, depending on household size and habits.
Planning Tools to Fund Your Lifestyle Effectively
- Use income calculators and budgeting tools to quickly estimate monthly spending based on your compensation.
- Consider how much you need per month to pay for housing, transportation, and savings without financial strain.
- Knowing your take-home pay and aligning it with your actual expenses helps ensure your salary is enough to live comfortably in Ottawa.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s economy continues to evolve, and understanding the average salary in 2025 is key to making smart career and financial decisions. Whether you’re a job seeker, a recent graduate, or planning a move to the city, knowing what professionals earn in Ottawa can help you evaluate job offers, negotiate salaries, and budget for living expenses. This guide explores wage trends, industry-specific earnings, and what income you need to live comfortably in the capital city of Canada.
Frequently Asked Question
How can a salary calculator help determine an average salary in Ottawa for full-time positions in 2025?
A salary calculator helps estimate your potential earnings in Ottawa for full-time roles, factoring in location, industry, and current salary trends for 2025.
Salary Estimates: The calculator provides an estimated salary range based on your job type and experience in Ottawa.
Adjustments for 2025: It accounts for projected changes in the job market, economic conditions, and inflation rates for 2025.
Tailored to Full-Time Positions: The tool specifically caters to full-time roles, ensuring that estimates match typical work schedules and income expectations.
What factors influence the average salary in Ottawa when considering management level roles in Canadian companies?
Several key factors impact the salary of management roles in Ottawa, reflecting the unique dynamics of the local job market.
Industry Type: The sector you work in—tech, healthcare, or government—can significantly affect the salary range.
Company Size: Larger organizations tend to offer higher compensation packages for management positions.
Experience and Education: More experienced managers or those with advanced qualifications typically earn higher salaries in Ottawa.
Economic Trends: Economic conditions in Canada, including inflation and job demand, also influence salary offerings.
How does the level of experience impact the average salary in Ottawa, and what reliable sources can help with this analysis?
Your level of experience directly influences the salary range for most positions in Ottawa, with more experienced workers earning higher compensation.
Entry-Level vs. Senior Roles: Entry-level positions earn less compared to senior roles or those with specialized skills and experience.
Industry Standards: Salary research from reliable sources like government reports and salary calculators can offer precise data based on experience.
Career Progression: As you gain more experience in Ottawa, your salary typically increases, reflecting your growing expertise and value to employers.
In what ways does equity play a role in determining the average salary in Ottawa compared to other Canadian cities?
Equity can impact salary structures, influencing how compensation is set in Ottawa and differentiating it from other Canadian cities.
Gender and Pay Equity: Ottawa, like other Canadian cities, is working towards pay equity, which affects how salaries are determined.
Internal Equity: Companies ensure fairness by offering competitive salaries based on roles and responsibilities, irrespective of the city.
Market Comparisons: Salary comparisons across Canadian cities help organizations maintain competitive, equitable pay structures for similar positions.
How can using a salary calculator in Canada help individuals understand their earning potential at different levels?
A salary calculator helps individuals assess their earning potential across various job levels, providing accurate projections for 2025.
Job Level Breakdown: It breaks down salary expectations for entry-level, mid-level, and senior roles, reflecting current market trends.
Industry-Specific Data: The calculator tailors estimates based on the specific industry and job functions you’re considering.
2025 Projections: The tool takes into account expected economic shifts, such as inflation and demand for certain skills, ensuring accurate salary forecasting for 2025.