In a city as diverse as Ottawa, finding the right area to settle with your family can be tricky. Indeed, there are over 80 Ottawa neighbourhoods to choose from, all with their unique characteristics, opportunities for recreation, and future development plans.
If you are faced with the conundrum of finding the perfect spot within the borders of the City of Ottawa, don’t worry! I can help you with this complete guide on Ottawa’s best neighbourhoods.
Sandy Hill: Where Urban Convenience Meets Serene Living
As part of Old Ottawa East, Sandy Hill is an attractive choice for homebuyers looking to stay within steps from the city’s downtown, without sacrificing the peaceful, serene lifestyle.
- Housing market: Sandy Hill’s housing market offers a mix of modern condos and historic homes, to suit any taste and style preference.
- Schools: Many families are drawn to the Sandy Hill area due to its proximity to excellent schools and universities, from Lisgar Collegiate Institute to Saint Paul University and the University of Ottawa.
- Amenities and recreation: In terms of amenities, Sandy Hill has everything you may wish for, including trendy shops, cafes, and cultural venues. Parks like Macdonald Gardens and Strathcona provide serene green spaces ideal for relaxation and recreation.
- Transportation: Located in the heart of the City of Ottawa, Sandy Hill boasts efficient transportation options, including cycling paths and numerous bus routes.
- Community and demographics: This Ottawa neighbourhood never gets boring, with regular local events boosting the sense of community among residents. It is important to note that proximity to universities makes Sandy Hill a popular destination for students. Nonetheless, the local demographic is diverse, with numerous families and professionals settling within the area.
- Safety and crime rates. While Sandy Hill is located in downtown Ottawa, the crime rates within the area are fairly low.
- Future development. Future development plans include green space improvements, improved public transport accessibility and cycling infrastructure, and new affordable housing projects.
Kanata: Modern Amenities and Natural Beauty
Located west of Ottawa’s downtown core, Kanata is the ultimate suburban destination for those looking for modern amenities without sacrificing the nature around them.
- Housing market: Kanata’s housing options include anything from modern condos to large single-family homes, suitable for single professionals and large families alike.
- Schools: A sought-after residential destination, Kanata is known for its quality schools like Kanata High School and École élémentaire publique des Sentiers.
- Amenities and recreation: Kanata boasts large community centres, shopping plazas, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Plus, the area has plentiful green spaces, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities like tennis or skating.
- Transportation: Located a bit further from downtown Ottawa, Kanata still offers easy access to major highways and public transportation, ensuring a smooth commute to the heart of the city.
- Community and demographics: Just like any other part of Ottawa, Kanata is known for its diverse demographics. However, first and foremost, it remains a family-centred area.
- Safety and crime rates: As a family-oriented area, Kanata remains one of the safest communities within the Ottawa region.
- Future development: Kanata has several exciting future development plans, including new housing construction, the development of additional parks and natural areas, and commercial expansion.
Orleans: A Blend of Urban Convenience and Tranquility
Known for its green spaces and unparalleled tranquillity, Orleans is located surprisingly close to Ottawa’s downtown.
- Housing market: Orleans’ housing market features a variety of options, from modern townhouses to spacious single-family homes.
- Schools: This family-friendly Ottawa neighbourhood is home to several highly-rated schools, both in French and English: from École secondaire catholique Béatrice-Desloges to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School.
- Amenities and recreation: Local amenities include shopping centres, restaurants, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Numerous green spaces and trails provide local residents with ample opportunities to spend time outdoors, alone or with family or friends.
- Transportation: Orleans is located within 15 minutes of Ottawa’s downtown, with easy access to major roads, highways, and public transport options.
- Community and demographics: This Ottawa neighbourhood presents a tight-knit community with a diverse demographic, ideal for quiet family living.
- Safety and crime rates: Orleans is known for its safety and low crime rates.
- Future development: Future development plans for the area include more community centres, green spaces, and housing projects.
Westboro: Dynamic Urban Living with Quaint Charm
Without a doubt, Westboro is among the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa—and not without reason. Only steps from the city’s downtown, Westboro is known for its classic village vibe, with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and grocery stores.
- Housing market: With its unique mix of urban lifestyle and quaint charm, Westboro is known for its unusual combination of historic homes and modern condos, appealing to any type of buyer.
- Schools: Westboro has a number of reputable schools that provide high-quality education and strong community involvement. Some of the best schools in the area include Westboro Public School, Notre Dame High School, Elmdale Public School, and more.
- Amenities and recreation: Westboro residents enjoy a broad selection of amenities, including trendy cafes, shops, and restaurants that meet any taste and reflect the area’s unique character. This Ottawa neighbourhood is also known for its picturesque green spaces, such as bicycle paths along Sir John A. Macdonald and Westboro Beach, as well as the beautiful Hampton Park.
- Transportation: Located only steps away from the key public transit stops and major roadways, commuting to and from the Westboro neighbourhood is easy.
- Community and demographics: Westrbooro fosters a strong sense of culture and community, with numerous art festivals and local events celebrated throughout the year. Its demographic presents a balanced mix of families, professionals, and retirees.
- Safety and crime rates: Westboro is considered to be a safe Ottawa neighbourhood, with low crime rates contributing to the area’s appeal.
- Future development: The area’s future development plans include new condos, additional commercial spaces, and more, thus enhancing its vibrant atmosphere even further.
Old Ottawa South: Rich Cultural Heritage by the Canal
A charming and compact neighbourhood located between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, Old Ottawa South is a truly unique and sought-after destination for homebuyers looking to become a part of a vibrant community.
- Housing market: Old Ottawa South is characterized by its charming heritage homes, duplexes, and modern townhouses.
- Schools: The area is home to several high-righted schools like Hopewell Avenue Public School and Glebe Collegiate Institute.
- Amenities and recreation: Access to the Rideau Canal means that local residents get to enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking or skating. At the same time, the proximity to Bank Street means that cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops are only minutes away.
- Transportation: Old Ottawa South boasts well-developed public transit routes, while Bank Street and other major roadways facilitate convenient drive to downtown Ottawa.
- Community and demographics: Living in Ottawa South, you may find a diverse group of people, including families, retirees, and young professionals.
- Safety and crime rates: Generally, low crime rates within the area contribute to a family-friendly environment and overall desirability of this Ottawa neighbourhood.
- Future development: Future development plans include expanding local businesses and enhancing public spaces while strongly emphasizing the preservation of the community’s heritage.
Hunt Club: Peaceful Suburban Retreat in the Southeast
Less expensive than some of the more central areas, Hunt Club is an excellent family-friendly Ottawa neighbourhood for young and growing families.
- Housing market: Within this neighbourhood, you will be able to find diverse housing options, including new construction and older detached houses, smaller townhomes, and modern condominiums.
- Schools: Hunt Club features a variety of reputable schools with strong academic programs, including St. Francis Xavier High School and Hunt Club Public School.
- Amenities and recreation: Local amenities include shopping centres and plazas, along with beautiful local parks like Greenboro Park and Hunt Club Park.
- Transportation: The area is well-served by public transport options; plus, it provides easy access to major roads like Hunt Club Road and the Airport Parkway.
- Community and demographics: Relatively affordable housing prices make the area attractive to young families and retirees.
- Safety and crime rates: Safe and quiet, Hunt Club offers a secure environment, ideal for families with children.
- Future development: Extensive development plans include improved amenities, new parks, and numerous residential projects.
Stittsville: Welcoming Suburban Haven in Ottawa's West End
Situated west of downtown Ottawa, Stittsville offers a peaceful and family-friendly suburban lifestyle.
- Housing market: Stittsville is known for its newly developed homes and townhouses, but you could also find older single-family homes in various pockets.
- Schools: This Ottawa neighbourhood is home to several reputable schools, including Sacred Heart High School and Stittsville Public School.
- Amenities and recreation: The Old Stittsville area features a range of shopping options at Stittsville Main Street, along with local eateries and recreational facilities. Numerous nearby parks are ideal for hiking and cycling during the warmer months.
- Transportation: Located approximately 30 minutes from Ottawa’s downtown, Stittsville is well-connected to major highways like Highway 416, along with several public transit options.
- Community and demographics: Numerous local events foster a close-knit community comprised of families, retirees, and young professionals.
- Safety and crime rates: Stittsville is among the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa in terms of safety, which makes it even more attractive for families.
- Future development: Future plans include improved infrastructure, expanded recreational facilities, and, of course, new housing developments.
Barrhaven: Family-Oriented Suburban Lifestyle in the Southwest
The sought-after neighbourhood of Barrhaven is often lovingly nicknamed “the haven” due to its peaceful, suburban lifestyle.
- Housing market: Barrhaven features all types of housing options, including condos, townhouses, and single-family homes. The area is rapidly expanding, with numerous new construction communities growing across the neighbourhood.
- Schools: Barrhaven is home to several quality schools, including John McCrae Secondary School and Barrhaven Public School.
- Amenities and recreation: The Barrhaven Town Centre offers a plethora of shopping options, while Chapman Mills Conservation Area and Cedarview Parks provide superb outdoor recreation.
- Transportation: Well-served by public transport routes and major roadways, Barrhaven is closely connected to downtown Ottawa and is only 30 minutes away on a traffic-free day.
- Community and demographics: Barrhaven features a diverse population, including families, retirees, and young professionals.
- Safety and crime rates: Thanks to its safe, welcoming environment the area is incredibly attractive to families with children.
- Future development: Plans for several new residential developments, enhanced public amenities, and improved infrastructure aim to support the quickly growing population of Barrhaven.
Dow's Lake: Unique Neighbourhood Along the Rideau Canal
If you are buying a home in Ottawa, consider the unique and picturesque neighbourhood of Dow’s Lake, located right along the scenic Rideau Canal.
- Housing market: Dow’s Lake is one of the most expensive areas in Ottawa, featuring a mix of spacious historic homes, along with modern condos and apartments.
- Schools: The neighbourhood is close to several reputable schools, including Lisgar Collegiate Institute and Elmdale Public School.
- Amenities and recreation: Known for its lush parks and stunning waterfront views, Dow’s Lake offers easy nature access and a wide range of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shops along Preston Street.
- Transportation: The area’s central location ensures easy access to major roadways, along with well-connected public transport options.
- Community and demographics. A relatively high real estate price point means that Dow’s Lake is often chosen by young professionals and high-income families.
- Safety and crime rates: While being a popular tourist destination, Dow’s Lake generally has low crime rates, which makes it attractive to would-be residents.
- Future development: The future development plans include enhanced public spaces, new recreational facilities, and a few high-rise residential buildings.
Before You House Hunt, Why Not Secure a Mortgage?
Looking for your dream home in Ottawa comes with plenty of options. Whether one of these neighbourhoods has caught your eye or you’re just starting out on your search, it doesn’t hurt to apply for a mortgage and see what you can afford. I’ve been helping families and individuals with their mortgage needs for nearly 20 years. Connect with me today, and let’s ensure you get into the best neighbourhood in Ottawa for your lifestyle.
