Ottawa spans over 2,700 square kilometres. 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
The most walkable neighbourhood in Ottawa. One-bedrooms average $2,050. You are five minutes from Parliament Hill, ten from the Glebe. Ideal for professionals who want zero commute.
2. The Glebe
Tree-lined streets, Lansdowne Park, and independent shops. One-bedrooms run $2,100. Higher end of the market but the neighbourhood justifies it.
3. Westboro
West of downtown along the Ottawa River. Known for outdoor gear shops, yoga studios, and the river pathway. One-bedrooms average $2,050.
4. ByWard Market
Nightlife, restaurants, and the central market. Studios and one-bedrooms dominate. Average one-bedroom is $2,000. Noise on weekends is the tradeoff.
5. Sandy Hill
Adjacent to uOttawa. Student-heavy but pockets of quiet streets near Strathcona Park. One-bedrooms around $1,800.
6. Hintonburg
West of Centretown. Gentrified in the last decade — galleries, craft breweries, Wellington Street strip. One-bedrooms average $1,900.
7. Old Ottawa South
Quiet, family-oriented, bordered by the Rideau River and canal. Close to Carleton University. One-bedrooms around $1,850.
8. Little Italy
Preston Street restaurants, Dow’s Lake, quick LRT access. One-bedrooms around $1,850.
9. Kanata
Tech hub west of the city. Newer builds, garages, more square footage. One-bedrooms around $1,700.
10. Orleans
Eastern suburb. French-speaking community, good schools, LRT extension coming. One-bedrooms around $1,650.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Ottawa neighbourhood for young professionals?
Centretown and Westboro. 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. Good schools, parks, and larger units with multiple bedrooms.
What’s the cheapest Ottawa neighbourhood with good transit?
Orleans. One-bedrooms start at $1,550 with LRT service to downtown.