Ottawa population expected to hit 1.68 million by 2051

Looking forward to updating its official plan, the City of Ottawa has released new population projections out to 2051.

According to a report from Hemson Consulting, prepared for the city, the population is expected to hit 1.68 million by 2051, a growth of approximately 530,000 residents from 2024.

“Population growth will be driven primarily by migration, particularly international immigration, with natural increase playing a smaller role over time as the population ages,” the city report says.

The Ministry of Finance projects that Ottawa will be the fastest-growing single or upper-tier municipality in Ontario over the next 25 years.

As it grows, the city says its age structure will change. While all age groups are expected to grow, the biggest growth is expected among working-age adults and seniors.

Growth in the senior population emphasizes a need for increased accessible housing, health care, transit and community services, the city says.

The report projects housing needs will increase to 691,550 dwelling in 2051, an increase of 257,752 from 2024.

But with demographics changing, the city says it will need to focus on building more of the “missing middle,” including duplexes, secondary suites and basement apartments.

While housing starts took a hit in 2025 compared to 2024, data from the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation shows that Ottawa stands out for the large share of its starts accounted for by row homes. This type of unit represents 20 per cent of the region’s housing stock.

While the population is aging, the city’s report predicts that people will stay in the workforce longer.

“About two-thirds of the population growth are within the typical working ages of 15 to 64, and more than 20 per cent of those 65 and over are projected to continue participating in the labour force,” it states.

Employment in the city is projected to grow significantly, reaching 994,600 jobs by 2051, a growth of 325,000 from 2024.