Are you looking for the perfect place to call home in Ottawa?
Whether you’re a city professional seeking excitement or a family looking for a peaceful suburb, Ottawa has the right neighbourhood for you.
The city has many options. The Glebe has lively cafes and shops, while Kanata offers tech-friendly, family-focused streets. Ottawa’s different communities have something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa, helping you find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
The Glebe: A Lively and Historic Neighbourhood
The Glebe is a popular neighbourhood near downtown Ottawa, known for its lively vibe and easy access to everything the city offers. Its bustling mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes makes it a vibrant spot that attracts both residents and visitors.
The area is easy to walk around, and its closeness to the Rideau Canal makes it perfect for outdoor activities like biking, walking, or kayaking.
The neighbourhood’s charm comes from its mix of old and new buildings, including historic houses and modern apartments. It has many amenities like trendy shops, local stores, and various restaurants.
The Glebe also features many parks and green areas, perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. There is a strong community feel, with events and activities that unite people. Whether you want a cozy coffee shop or a scenic park, The Glebe has it all.
If you’re considering getting a home at The Glebe housing, it would be a great choice if you are into old fashion home styles as this area offers historic homes with character and modern apartments with the latest features. This mix makes it a great choice for families, young professionals, and retirees.
With its lively atmosphere, rich history, and wide range of amenities, The Glebe is one of the most appealing neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Westboro: Trendy and Family-Friendly Living
Getting a Home at Westboro offers a trendy, stylish lifestyle while being welcoming to families. Known for its chic boutiques and various food options, this neighbourhood attracts a lively crowd who enjoy city living and its energy.
The streets are lined with unique shops and cozy cafes, making it an exciting spot for those who love to explore. Its location near the Ottawa River adds a scenic touch, with great areas for kayaking, biking, and jogging along the water.
Westboro is also great for families, with plenty of parks, good schools, and family-friendly events. The neighbourhood is safe and easy to walk around. It also has excellent public transportation, convenient bus routes, and major roads nearby.
Housing options include modern condos and charming single-family homes, providing something for everyone. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or looking to downsize, you’ll find a place that suits your needs. The mix of trendy spots and family-friendly features makes Westboro a top choice for many people in Ottawa.
Sandy Hill: Historic Charm and Student Vibe
Sandy Hill blends historic charm with a lively, student-friendly vibe.
The area is famous for its beautiful heritage homes and tree-lined streets, which give it a sense of elegance and history. It features a mix of grand Victorian houses and cozy cottages, giving residents a picture-perfect place to live.
Sandy Hill is close to the University of Ottawa, making it a popular spot for students and young professionals. It offers affordable housing, a lively nightlife, and reliable public transport, making it a fun and easy place to live.
The Sandy Hill neighbourhood suits different budgets, welcoming students and young professionals. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants that attract a youthful crowd.
The well-connected public transportation system makes it easy to get around Ottawa from Sandy Hill. With its mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, Sandy Hill is a dynamic and convenient neighbourhood for many people.
Kanata: Suburban Living with Tech Hub Appeal
Kanata is a great place for families as it has many family-friendly features. The neighbourhood has big homes and quiet streets, making it safe and comfortable for children.
Shopping centers like Kanata Centrum and Tanger Outlets are close by. They have shops, restaurants, and entertainment. There are also many parks and recreation areas, so outdoor fun is always nearby. Kanata has top-rated schools and big tech companies like Nokia and Cisco. This makes it popular for both families and tech professionals.
Kanata is also a tech hub that attracts many professionals. The area has a good mix of families and tech workers, creating a supportive and active community.
Housing options in Kanata include modern townhouses and upscale single-family homes. This gives choices for different tastes and needs. The mix of a quiet suburban feel and tech job opportunities makes Kanata one of the best places to live in Ottawa.
Centretown: Urban Living in the Heart of Ottawa
Centretown is in the heart of Ottawa and is perfect for young professionals and singles. It is a busy urban neighbourhood with many amenities. This includes high-rise apartments, historic homes, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
The streets are always lively, with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Its location near major business districts makes it great for people who want an active social life without a long commute.
Centretown has many housing options, from modern apartments to charming historic homes. The area also has a vibrant nightlife, with bars, clubs, and live music venues that keep it lively at night.
The central location and variety of amenities make it one of the top spots in Ottawa for those who want a vibrant city life.
Orleans: Growing Suburb with Green Spaces
Orleans is a fast-growing suburb and one of the top neighbourhoods in Ottawa. It is known for its family-friendly features and many green spaces. It’s a great spot for outdoor lovers, with plenty of parks and recreational trails.
Residents have quick access to shopping centers, making it easy to find retail stores, groceries, and dining options nearby. It has affordable housing, good schools, and lots of green space. This makes Orleans a popular choice for first-time homebuyers and families looking for a spacious, quiet place to live.
The housing options in Orleans are varied and budget-friendly, attracting a mix of people. The suburb also has good public transportation, making it easy to commute to downtown Ottawa. With its mix of affordability, quality schools, and nature areas, Orleans is a popular spot for those settling in Ottawa.
New Edinburgh: Upscale Living with Historic Charm
New Edinburgh is a high-end neighbourhood with historic charm. It is near landmarks like the Governor General’s residence. It has heritage homes that showcase Ottawa’s history, with grand Victorian mansions and cozy Edwardian houses. The well-preserved streets and buildings give the area a timeless, classic feel, making it a favourite for those who love history.
Housing in New Edinburgh is mostly high-end, offering both historic homes and modern residences. It appeals to people who want either classic charm or modern comfort.
The neighbourhood is easy to walk around. It has several parks offering green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. With its historic beauty, luxury housing, and convenient amenities, New Edinburgh is one of the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Barrhaven: Family-Friendly Suburb with Modern Amenities
Barrhaven has affordable homes, good schools, and many shopping and dining options. It offers everything a family needs.
The housing options vary, with choices for different budgets. There are affordable starter homes and larger family-sized houses. It’s perfect for first-time home buyers and those needing more space.
The area has good public transportation. Several bus routes and easy access to major roads make commutes to downtown Ottawa and other parts of the city simple. Barrhaven’s combination of affordable homes, quality schools, and modern amenities makes it one of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Alta Vista: Spacious Homes and Suburban Tranquility
Alta Vista provides a quiet, suburban lifestyle close to downtown Ottawa. It is a residential area known for its spacious homes and large lots, offering families plenty of room.
It’s a great choice for those who value space and privacy, with options like mid-century bungalows and modern homes. The neighbourhood also has several good schools, making it ideal for families with kids. There are also many parks and green spaces for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Alta Vista offers convenient access to healthcare facilities, giving residents essential services nearby. The large lots allow for landscaping and outdoor fun, appealing to those who enjoy extra space.
Even though it has a peaceful atmosphere, Alta Vista is still close to downtown Ottawa. This lets residents enjoy a quiet lifestyle while staying connected to city conveniences. It’s perfect for those who want suburban peace with easy access to urban life.
Final Words
Ottawa’s neighbourhoods each have their own unique appeal. The Glebe offers vibrant charm and lots of amenities, while Westboro has a trendy, family-friendly vibe. Sandy Hill has historic homes and a lively student atmosphere. Kanata, on the other hand, blends suburban living with tech job opportunities.
Centretown is great for urban living, and Orleans combines fast growth with green spaces. New Edinburgh offers upscale living with historic charm. Barrhaven is perfect for families wanting modern amenities. Alta Vista provides spacious homes and a quiet suburban feel close to downtown.
Choosing the right neighbourhood depends on personal preferences. However, Ottawa’s variety ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether you want a busy urban area, a tech-focused suburb, or a peaceful space with room to grow, Ottawa has the perfect neighbourhood for you.
Find Your Ideal Ottawa Neighbourhood with Lyne & Dominique
Looking for the perfect place to settle in Ottawa? Whether you’re a city professional seeking an urban vibe, a family in search of a quiet suburb, or a young professional exploring lively spots, Ottawa’s diverse neighbourhoods have something for everyone.
Lyne Burton & Dominique Milne, your trusted local experts, know Ottawa’s communities inside and out—from the historic charm of New Edinburgh to the trendy appeal of Westboro. We provide personalized advice to help you find the neighbourhood that best matches your lifestyle and needs.
Reach out today and let us guide you in finding your perfect fit in Ottawa’s vibrant real estate market. Your ideal home and community are waiting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nicest neighbourhood in Ottawa?
The nicest neighbourhood depends on preference. However, The Glebe, Westboro, and New Edinburgh are popular for their amenities, walkability, and community feel.
Where is the richest community in Ottawa?
The richest community is Rockcliffe Park, known for its large homes, wealthy residents, and closeness to diplomatic missions and the Governor General’s residence.
What is the most walkable neighbourhood in Ottawa?
Centretown is the most walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and cultural spots all within walking distance.
What are the up-and-coming neighbourhoods in Ottawa?
Hintonburg and Westboro are up-and-coming, with new shops, growing amenities, and rising property values.
What are the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa for families?
Kanata, Barrhaven, and Orleans are great for families due to their good schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
What are the best places for young professionals to live in Ottawa?
Young professionals often prefer Centretown, Sandy Hill, and Westboro for their nightlife, food options, and cultural spots.
Which Ottawa neighbourhoods should be avoided?
Some areas may have higher crime or fewer amenities. It’s best to check current local resources or reviews for updated details.
Is there a detailed map of Ottawa’s neighbourhoods available?
Yes, detailed maps of amenities, schools, and community features can be found online or from local government resources.
What makes The Glebe a vibrant neighbourhood in Ottawa?
The Glebe has a lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, cafes, and easy access to outdoor activities on the Rideau Canal.
What amenities does The Glebe offer?
The Glebe has trendy shops, diverse dining, green spaces, and community events that create a strong local vibe.