Ottawa vs. Muscat: Detailed 2026 Comparison

Ottawa demonstrates a clear advantage in safety, with a significantly higher Safety Index (94.93) compared to Muscat's (81.38). Healthcare accessibility also favors Ottawa, reflected in its substantially higher Health Care Index (85.92 vs. 63.28). Muscat's Climate Index (67.22) is considerably more favorable than Ottawa's (49.49), suggesting a more pleasant weather environment. While Ottawa's Quality of Life Index (70.41) is higher than Muscat's (55.65), Muscat's lower Pollution Index (35.95) indicates cleaner air quality than what would be expected given its lower overall quality of life score.

Muscat presents a significantly lower Cost of Living overall, with a substantially lower Cost of Living Index (45.21) compared to Ottawa's (66.49). Food costs show mixed results Muscat is notably cheaper for groceries (Ottawa: 113.33, Muscat: 56.67) but more expensive for eating out. Transportation costs differ significantly, with Muscat having much lower public transport fares (Ottawa: $6.75, Muscat: $1.30) but higher gasoline prices (Ottawa: $1.70, Muscat: $0.62). Utilities are slightly more expensive in Ottawa ($140.08 vs. $130.29), while internet costs are comparable.

Both cities present high housing costs relative to income. Ottawa has a higher Property Price to Income Ratio (7.63) than Muscat's (5.95), indicating more expensive housing. However, Ottawa's higher average net salary allows for better affordability despite this. The required minimum household income to cover housing costs is significantly higher in Ottawa ($5,900/month) compared to Muscat ($2,700/month). While both cities offer similar-sized apartments, the monthly rent for comparable 85m² apartments is substantially higher in Ottawa ($2,200) than in Muscat ($637).

Muscat offers significantly lower public transportation costs, with a monthly pass costing just $78 versus Ottawa's $675. While gasoline is cheaper in Muscat ($0.62/L) than Ottawa ($1.70/L), the higher vehicle purchase price in Muscat (new car: $25,000 vs. $32,000) partially offsets this advantage. Utilities for a standard apartment are slightly lower in Muscat ($130) than Ottawa ($1