Ottawa spans over 2,700 square kilometres. Therefore, picking the right neighbourhood matters as much as the unit itself. Transit access, walkability, school quality, and rental prices vary block by block.
Top 10 Rental Neighbourhoods
1. Centretown
Centretown is the most walkable neighbourhood in Ottawa. One-bedrooms average $2,050. In addition, you sit five minutes from Parliament Hill and ten from the Glebe. Specifically, it suits professionals who want zero commute.
2. The Glebe
The Glebe offers tree-lined streets, Lansdowne Park, and independent shops. One-bedrooms run $2,100. However, this sits at the higher end of the market. Still, the neighbourhood justifies it.
3. Westboro
Westboro lies west of downtown along the Ottawa River. For instance, it features outdoor gear shops, yoga studios, and the river pathway. One-bedrooms average $2,050.
4. ByWard Market
ByWard Market delivers nightlife, restaurants, and the central market. Studios and one-bedrooms dominate here. The average one-bedroom is $2,000. However, noise on weekends is the tradeoff.
5. Sandy Hill
Sandy Hill sits adjacent to uOttawa. The area feels student-heavy, yet pockets of quiet streets lie near Strathcona Park. One-bedrooms run around $1,800.
6. Hintonburg
Hintonburg lies west of Centretown. Specifically, it gentrified in the last decade with galleries, craft breweries, and the Wellington Street strip. One-bedrooms average $1,900.
7. Old Ottawa South
Old Ottawa South stays quiet and family-oriented. The Rideau River and canal border it. In addition, it sits close to Carleton University. One-bedrooms run around $1,850.
8. Little Italy
Little Italy offers Preston Street restaurants, Dow’s Lake, and quick LRT access. One-bedrooms run around $1,850.
9. Kanata
Kanata serves as a tech hub west of the city. For instance, renters find newer builds, garages, and more square footage. One-bedrooms run around $1,700.
10. Orleans
Orleans is an eastern suburb. In particular, it has a French-speaking community, good schools, and an LRT extension coming. One-bedrooms run around $1,650.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Ottawa neighbourhood for young professionals?
Centretown and Westboro top the list. Specifically, both stay walkable, transit-adjacent, and close to downtown offices and government buildings.
Where should families rent in Ottawa?
The Glebe, Old Ottawa South, Kanata, and Orleans work well. For instance, they offer good schools, parks, and larger units with multiple bedrooms.
What’s the cheapest Ottawa neighbourhood with good transit?
Orleans fits best. Specifically, one-bedrooms start at $1,550 with LRT service to downtown.