6 Best Neighbourhoods in Ottawa for Families

Written By Liam Swords

Moving to a new city is a big decision, especially when you have a young family to consider. Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is often ranked as one of the best places to live in the country. 

With its rich history, safe communities, and abundance of family-friendly amenities, it’s no wonder families from across Canada are relocating here. 

This guide will help you explore the best neighbourhoods in Ottawa to find the perfect fit for your family’s needs.

6 Best Neighbourhoods in Ottawa for Families

If you’re considering buying a house in Ottawa, you can rest assured that Ottawa is a great place for raising a young family. It’s safe, clean, and full of interesting things to do. Before diving into the best places to live in Ottawa, let’s highlight what makes Ottawa a top choice for families:

  • Safety: Before moving to Ottawa with your family, your first question might be, “is Ottawa safe?” The answer is “yes.” Ottawa consistently ranks as one of Canada’s safest cities, making it ideal for raising children.
  • Education: The city is home to excellent public, private, and French-language schools, as well as post-secondary institutions like the University of Ottawa and Carleton University.
  • Green Spaces: Ottawa boasts an extensive network of parks, trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Healthcare: With top-tier healthcare facilities and family doctors available, Ottawa ensures peace of mind for families.
  • Cultural Richness: From national museums to festivals, Ottawa offers a blend of activities to engage all ages.
  • Amenities: Shoppers Drug Marts on almost every corner throughout Ottawa’s neighbourhoods. There are also many pharmacies and four Costco locations.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Ottawa is lower than in Ontario’s other major cities. For example, average utilities cost per month in Ottawa for a family is around $270/month, while in Toronto it’s closer to $383/month.

Now, let’s explore my list of best places to live in Ottawa for families:

Kanata and Stittsville

Located in the western part of Ottawa, Kanata and Stittsville are some of the most popular suburbs of Ottawa for families. With ample job opportunities, great schools, and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to see why many consider Kanata one of the best places for families to live in Ottawa.

Just west of Kanata lies Stittsville, a charming and growing community. Known for its small-town feel with modern amenities, Stittsville is a top choice for families who want to be close to Kanata’s tech hub while enjoying a quieter lifestyle.

  • Average Price Point: $875,000 for a single detached home.
  • Key Features: Kanata and Stittsville offer plenty of green spaces, parks, and playgrounds. You can find many newly built homes and a strong sense of community.
  • Amenities: You’ll find excellent shopping options, including large retail stores and local shops, as well as several Costco locations to stock up on family essentials.
  • Education: Kanata is home to highly-rated schools, both public and private, making it a top choice for parents.
  • Careers: There are many tech startup companies in Kanata, and specifically on Terry Fox Drive. Kanata is often referred to as the Silicon Valley of the North due to its thriving tech industry. 
  • Transportation: Easy access to downtown Ottawa in about 25 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Community Highlights: Regular events like farmers’ markets and holiday festivals make Stittsville a lively place to call home. Kanata is also home to the Canadian Tire Centre, where the Ottawa Senators play. 

Barrhaven

Located in the southern part of the city, Barrhaven is a thriving neighbourhood perfect for young families. With numerous new subdivisions, excellent schools, and easy access to major roadways, Barrhaven has everything a family needs.

  • Average Price Point: $860,000 for a single detached home.
  • Key Features: Ample parks, recreation facilities, and community centres.
  • Amenities: There’s a Costco location in the southern part of Barrhaven.
  • Transportation: Barrhaven offers an abundance of routes into the city, reducing commute times.
  • Family Perks: The area features sports leagues, libraries, and daycare centres tailored to families.

Riverside South

Riverside South is another growing neighbourhood in Ottawa’s south end. Known for its family-friendly vibe, this area is packed with modern homes and convenient amenities.

  • Average Price Point: $860,000 for a single detached home.
  • Key Features: Proximity to the Ottawa airport and a variety of shopping options.
  • Community Perks: Riverside South boasts new schools, an extensive trail network, and plenty of outdoor spaces. The area is ideal for families who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Commuting Advantages in Ottawa’s South Side

One great benefit of living in the southern areas of Ottawa is the easy access to the city. The area offers multiple routes, allowing you to bypass traffic by switching streets or hopping onto the highway, rather than being stuck on a single, linear path.

In contrast, residents in Ottawa’s western and eastern areas may face more traffic congestion, as they lack the same “horseshoe” effect that the south provides for navigating around the city and finding alternative routes.

Orleans

In the eastern part of Ottawa, Orleans is a vibrant community that offers excellent value for families. The area’s affordability and amenities make it a great option for those relocating to Ottawa.

  • Average Price Point: $750,000 for a single detached home.
  • Transportation: Access to the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, which ensures a reliable commute into the city. By contrast, traffic on the 174 highway can be congested and unpredictable. 
  • Family Amenities: With plenty of new construction homes, parks, and recreational facilities, Orleans is a standout choice. 
  • Cultural Diversity: Orleans has a strong francophone presence, making it a great choice for bilingual families and those interested in a vibrant cultural landscape.
  • Key Features: One of Ottawa’s four beaches, Petrie Island, is located in Orleans. 

Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, located on Smyth Road.

Central / Downtown Ottawa

Areas like Centretown, The Glebe, and Hintonburg offer a vibrant urban lifestyle with numerous family-friendly activities. You’ll also find high-quality Ottawa condos for sale in these neighbourhoods.

While these downtown Ottawa areas may be more expensive and farther from amenities like Costco, they provide a wealth of engaging experiences for children. 

  • Average Price Point: $950,000 for a single detached home.
  • Key Features: Downtown is home to parks like Major’s Hill and Confederation Park, offering great outdoor spaces for families. The area is rich in cultural landmarks, shopping, and dining, with everything within walking distance.
  • Amenities: Easy access to the Ottawa Hospital and Children’s Hospital (CHEO). Education: Families benefit from excellent nearby schools and the University of Ottawa, offering both public and private educational options.
  • Transportation: The area has great public transit options, including the LRT and OC Transpo, and is just a short drive from the airport. 
  • Community Highlights: Downtown Ottawa hosts cultural events like Winterlude and the Canadian Tulip Festival, and has many green spaces for families to enjoy outdoor activities.

Gatineau

A major perk of living in Ottawa is the proximity to Gatineau Park, just across the border in Quebec. Easily accessible via bridges connecting Ottawa and Gatineau, this vast park offers abundant wildlife, lush greenery, and scenic trails for year-round outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or cross-country skiing.

Downtown Ottawa residents are especially close, and even from the suburbs, it’s only a 30–45-minute drive. Many activities, such as cycling and exploring trails, are free, while a small fee applies to specialized options like cross-country skiing. Gatineau Park is a true outdoor gem for families to enjoy.

If you’re thinking about moving to Ottawa, Gatineau might also be on your radar. When comparing Gatineau vs. Ottawa, it’s important to consider their cultural differences. 

Gatineau has a distinct Québécois culture, which may feel different from the broader Canadian experience. On the plus side, the cost of living and average home prices in Gatineau are generally lower than in Ottawa, though income taxes tend to be higher.

Suburbs of Ottawa

Ottawa’s surrounding suburbs offer families convenient access to the city’s core while providing a wide range of everyday amenities. While we’ve already highlighted some of Ottawa’s top suburban neighbourhoods, here’s a quick rundown of all the best suburban areas:

  • Kanata: A western suburb known for its family-friendly environment and modern housing developments.
  • Barrhaven: A newer, family-centric suburb with easy access to roadways, parks, and recreation facilities.
  • Nepean: Known for its highly-rated schools, the Nepean Sportsplex, and variety of restaurants.
  • Gloucester: A mix of residential communities and green spaces, providing residents with suburban comfort and urban convenience.
  • Rockcliffe Park: An affluent neighbourhood known for its historic charm, spacious estates, and lush greenery, offering a tranquil and prestigious living environment.
  • Vanier: A culturally diverse area with a rich Francophone heritage, Vanier features affordable housing options and amenities within walking distance.
  • Cumberland: Formerly part of a historic township, this rural suburb provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to urban amenities.

How to Choose the Right Neighbourhood

With its excellent quality of life, Ottawa is a city where families can thrive. When deciding where to live in Ottawa, consider these factors:

Proximity to Work

If you work downtown, living closer to the city core or near reliable transit routes may be a priority. However, nearly all the suburban areas of Ottawa provide easy access to the city centre. 

Riverside South stands out for offering convenient routes that make it easy to bypass traffic and access other parts of Ottawa.

Schools

Research school rankings and program availability in your desired neighbourhood. Ottawa offers impressive education options overall, with Kanata and Barrhaven standing out for their top-rated schools.

Housing Budget

Ottawa offers a wide range of price points, so knowing your budget will help narrow down options. If you’re exploring Ottawa homes for sale, suburban areas and Orleans provide more affordable choices compared with downtown neighbourhoods, where prices tend to be higher. 

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, consider making an offer on a home that aligns with your needs and budget.

Lifestyle Needs

Whether you value green spaces, community events, or access to shopping, each neighbourhood has its unique offerings. To find the best fit for you, spend some time exploring different neighbourhoods and talk to locals about what they enjoy most about living there. 

Looking for more space in a freehold home? You might want to explore suburban areas. If you’re open to a condo or townhomes for sale in Ottawa, closer to the city centre could be a great option for you.

Final Thoughts on the Best Areas to Live in Ottawa

Ottawa’s blend of urban amenities and suburban tranquility makes it an ideal choice for families. The best areas in Ottawa for families often include suburbs like Kanata and Stittsville, Barrhaven, Riverside South, Orleans, and Central / Downtown Ottawa. 

For an Ottawa first time home buyer, this city offers plenty of options to explore. Whether you’re drawn to the safety of neighbourhoods in Ottawa, the modern convenience of Ottawa suburbs, or the charm of established communities, there’s a place here for you. 

Ready to make the move? The Liam Swords TEAM will connect you with a knowledgeable Ottawa real estate agent who can help you find your dream home.

About the Author

Liam Swords

Ottawa Real Estate Agent

Liam Swords

Ottawa Real Estate Agent

Liam Swords is an accomplished real estate agent in Ottawa, having sold over 1,000 homes. As the team leader of Liam Swords Team, he combines extensive market knowledge with a commitment to client satisfaction.