Ottawa vs. Oakville: Get Away from the GTA
You’re looking into post-secondary education? Is choosing a school harder than you anticipated? We get it. There are so many different things to consider, especially if you’re thinking of moving away. If you’re stuck between Oakville and Ottawa, let us enlighten you. These are both awesome places but Ottawa might be a better fit for you. Here’s why:
Party hard or chill out?
Ottawa’s got killer nightlife. A short walk around the ByWard Market can prove it. In the mood for a pint and cheesy mountains of nachos? Check out Patty Boland or one of our many other pubs. Wanna dance the night away to Lady Gaga with drag queens by your side? Try The Lookout or any other club! Not feeling the club you’re in? Cross the street. Ottawa makes bar-hopping easy!
Not into clubbing? Cool. We have more where that came from. Ottawa has great museums (that offer student discounts), groovy music festivals, and a whole lot of green space to relax in. Whether it’s skating, hiking, skiing, tubing, biking, or running, there’s a place for it in Ottawa.
No money? No problem
With so many fun new things on your to-do list, you’ll need some cash. That’s great because Ottawa has one of the most attractive job markets in Canada right now. We ranked first on the BMO Capital Markets list thanks to our strong employment growth, low jobless rate, impressive median income, and more. Basically, we’ve got jobs to spare! You can check these stats out here.
Stay safe
Leaving the nest can be pretty scary. We want you to feel safe. That’s why Ottawa is the place to be. Ottawa is one of the safest cities in Canada according to Maclean’s Most Dangerous Places list AND it was voted as Top Student City back in 2017 with the leading factor being friendliness. The people here are as nice as the city itself. You’ll fit right in.
Do what makes you happy
Moving away is often better than staying home. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the GTA. Live your best, stress-free life. There’s a whole new world to discover, and all new people to befriend! You know absolutely everything about where you’re from. Why not try something a little different—broaden your horizons.
In all seriousness, Oakville and Ottawa are both rockin’ places to live and study in, and you’ll have an incredible adventure no matter where you go. Only you know what makes you happy. Follow your heart, and ignore the haters. Our (very biased) opinion is only here to guide you. Good luck, friend! We believe in you.
Chelsie McHugh is a third-year Advertising and Marketing Communications student. She’s a funny, fiery redhead with a passion for writing.
