Comprehensive Barrhaven Neighbourhood Guide
Nestled in Ottawa, Ontario, the captivating history of Barrhaven unfolds like the pages of a captivating novel, taking us on a journey through time from the earliest inhabitants to the bustling suburban hub it is today. The roots of Barrhaven stretch back to a time when First Nations peoples first graced its landscapes, leaving an indelible mark that would shape its destiny.
Statistic | Barrhaven | Ottawa |
Population | 81,179 | 1,058,126 |
Population density (sq km) | 2,739 | 365 |
Median age | 37.0 | 39.2 |
Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
Married couples | 75% | 70% |
Families w/ kids at home | 57% | 45% |
Speak English only | 67.3% | 59.3% |
Speak French only | 0.5% | 1.4% |
Barrhaven Neighbourhood History
The modern-day Jockvale Road, now a familiar artery of Barrhaven, once traced an ancient trail that meandered through untamed wilderness. This trail, a lifeline for its early inhabitants, bears witness to the footsteps of those who traversed it in ages past. From this trail, a story of continuity and transformation emerges—a path that evolved from a primal connection to nature to a modern thoroughfare.
As the 19th century dawned, Barrhaven witnessed the arrival of European farmers who saw the potential in its fertile soil. The landscape transformed as the region was parcelled into rural homesteads, each plot a testament to the dreams and aspirations of those who toiled the land. The diligent hands of these settlers sowed the seeds of transformation, paving the way for Barrhaven’s evolution.
In the late 1970s, a milestone was reached with the establishment of the Barrhaven Community Association (BCA). This pivotal moment marked the strengthening bonds of community, uniting residents under a common purpose. Among the figures who contributed to this communal tapestry was Paul Horne, a local school teacher whose dedication left an indelible mark on the area’s development.
Barrhaven Housing/Real Estate
Welcome to Barrhaven, a modern and vibrant community located just south of Ottawa‘s Greenbelt. If you’re looking for a place to call home that offers a combination of suburban tranquillity and urban convenience, Barrhaven is a perfect choice.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the many aspects that make Barrhaven a desirable place to live, including its beautiful houses for sale, excellent schools, convenient public transportation, abundant amenities, and a wide range of recreational and entertainment options.
A Comprehensive Guide to Living in Barrhaven
Barrhaven offers a diverse range of houses for sale, catering to various budgets and family sizes. This suburban neighbourhood, located in the southwest of Ottawa, is known for its modern and well-maintained homes. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade to a larger space, Barrhaven has something to offer.
The housing options in Barrhaven primarily consist of townhomes and single-family homes, with sizes ranging from cozy 1,000+ square feet to spacious properties perfect for growing families. Many of the houses available for sale are newer builds, offering modern features and eliminating the need for extensive renovations. With its strong sense of community and abundance of outdoor spaces, Barrhaven provides an ideal setting for families looking to settle down.
YEAR | AVERAGE PRICE | % CHANGE |
2016 | $362,870 | 3% |
2017 | $374,725 | 3.4% |
2018 | $402,373 | 7.5% |
2019 | $442,869 | 10.1% |
2020 | $538,505 | 21% |
2021 | $729,458 | 44.2% |
2022 | $660,771 | -11.8% |
Barrhaven Living: A Thriving Community
Barrhaven has been experiencing steady growth since the 1980s and 1990s and has a population of approximately 95,000 in 2021. Its appeal lies in its newer, high-quality houses that easily become long-term homes, the strong sense of community, and the abundance of outdoor spaces for kids and activities. Whether you’re a young family looking for more space or a professional seeking a peaceful retreat after a busy day, Barrhaven offers something for everyone.
Barrhaven Homes: Modern and Inviting
When it comes to housing options, Barrhaven does not disappoint. The majority of homes in the area are townhomes and single-family houses, ranging in size from cozy 1,000+ square feet to spacious homes perfect for growing families. Many of the homes available for sale in Barrhaven are newer builds, only a few years old, which is ideal for buyers who prefer modern features and avoid extensive renovations.
Top-Notch Schools in Barrhaven
Families with children will appreciate Barrhaven’s proximity to excellent schools. The neighbourhood is home to a variety of schools from the English, French, and Catholic school boards, providing parents with a range of educational choices. Here are some notable schools in Barrhaven:
Elementary and Intermediate Schools
Monsignor Paul Baxter Elementary School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 6.2/10
- Along with religious observations, this school has a long list of sports teams and activities for students.
- Board: Ottawa Catholic School Board
Adrienne Clarkson Elementary
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 7.5/10
- Opened in 2001, this school features triple-track programming and multiple extracurricular options.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
Berrigan Elementary School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 6.7/10
- Regular International Language classes are offered after school along with sports and clubs.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
Chapman Mills Public School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking; 8/10
- Opened in 2013, this young school offers a wide variety of after-school activities as well as leadership opportunities like student ambassadors and lunch monitors.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
École élémentaire publique Michaëlle-Jean
- Grades: K-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 7.9/ 0
- Offers an international baccalauréat program along with multiple music and language courses.
- Board: Conseil des École Publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario
École intermédiaire Pierre-Savard
- Grades: 7-8
- Fraser’s Ranking: 6/10
- The intermediate school shares space with the Pierre-Savard Secondary School, and offers pre-concentrated programming in relation to health and the environment.
- Board: Conseil Des École Catholiques Du Centre-Est
Half Moon Bay Public School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: NA
- Only 2 years old, this school is already known for being caring, collaborative, and creative.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
St. Patrick Elementary School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: NA
- St. Patrick is part of the St. Andrew’s Parish and has many programs in place for fostering positive relationships, including the PALS recess program and peer mentors.
- Board: Ottawa Catholic School Board
Mary Honeywell Elementary School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 5.6/10
- This school offers triple-track programming and four specialized system classes that are open to children across the district.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
Barrhaven Public School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 5.5/10
- English and French immersion programs, Safe School initiatives, and a wide range of clubs and sports for all interests are offered here.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
Cedarview Middle School
- Grades: 7-8
- Fraser’s Ranking: N/A
- Features bands, intramural sports, frequent fundraisers and Safe School initiatives.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
École élémentaire catholique Jean-Robert-Gauthier
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: NA
- This French Catholic school uses cutting edge technology like interactive whiteboards to engage students in learning.
- Board: Conseil Des École Catholiques Du Centre-Est
École élémentaire catholique Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau
- Grades: K-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 7.5/10
- This school has regular extracurriculars, but also makes a point of having special activities such as Francophonie Week, Carnival, and more.
- Board: Conseil Des École Catholiques Du Centre-Est
Jockvale Elementary School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 6/10
- Due to its location by the Ruth E. Dickinson Library and the Walter Baker Recreational Centre, students have the opportunity to partake in activities like skating and author meet-and-greets.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Elementary School
- Grades: JK-6
- Fraser’s Ranking: 7/10
- This school boasts strong partnerships with parents and the surrounding community, and is dedicated to providing a wholesome, 4-pronged education.
- Board: Ottawa Catholic School Board
Ottawa Christian School
- Grades: JK-8
- Fraser’s Ranking: N/A
- This growing school offers a variety of programs, including art, technology, music, and French.
Secondary Schools
École secondaire catholique Pierre-Savard
- Grades: 9-12
- Fraser’s Ranking: 6/10
- This French Catholic school offers multiple artistic events, specialized courses, and even online learning opportunities.
- Board: Conseil Des École Catholiques Du Centre-Est
Longfields Davidson Heights Secondary School
- Grades: 7-12
- Fraser’s Ranking: 7.7/10
- This school has an impressive infrastructure, including a 15,000-square-foot quad gym, the Alex Getty Auditorium, and an Atrium.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB
St. Joseph High School
- Grades: 7-12
- Fraser’s Ranking: 8.3/10
- Student clubs, with a particular focus on leadership, are important at this school. They have everything from peer-run groups to social justice initiatives to a book club.
- Board: Ottawa Catholic School Board
John McCrae Secondary School
- Grades: 9-12
- Fraser’s Ranking: 8.6/10
- Many elementary schools feed into John McCrae, which is located near the public library and Walter Baker Sports and Recreational Centre, giving students opportunities to utilize these resources.
- Board: Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
Mother Teresa High School
- Grades: 7-12
- Fraser’s Ranking:7.2/10
- Physical health is a big priority at this school, and as such they have an extensive sports program, including a female football team. They also have a large selection of clubs focused on things like the environment, community services, and the youth ministry.
- Board: Ottawa Catholic School Board
Barrhaven Real Estate Promotions
Barrhaven Commute
While Barrhaven’s suburban layout makes owning a car advantageous for getting around the neighbourhood and accessing other parts of the city, there are also convenient public transportation options available. OC Transpo, the local transit service, operates several routes in Barrhaven, providing residents with a reliable way to commute within the neighbourhood and connect to other areas of Ottawa.
Statistic | Barrhaven | Ottawa |
Workers who drive to work | 45.8% | 36.3% |
Workers who carpool | 3.9% | 3.3% |
Workers who take public transit | 13.0% | 12.3% |
Workers who bicycle | 0.5% | 1.6% |
Workers who walk | 1.6% | 4.6% |
Abundant Amenities in Barrhaven
Although Barrhaven is primarily residential, there are plenty of amenities within a short drive or bus ride from the neighbourhood. Barrhaven residents have easy access to major grocery stores like Sobeys, Loblaws, and M&M Food Market for their shopping needs. Additionally, the area boasts four main shopping centres: Barrhaven Town Centre.
Community and Entertainment in Barrhaven
At Barrhaven, community and entertainment thrive in perfect harmony, making it a sought-after destination for residents and visitors alike. This vibrant neighbourhood offers a plethora of events, clubs, and public facilities that cater to diverse interests and ensure a lively and engaging atmosphere. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a sports lover, or simply someone who enjoys community gatherings, Barrhaven has something special in store for you.
Annual Oktoberfest Barrhaven: A Festive Extravaganza
One of the highlight events in Barrhaven is the much-anticipated Annual Oktoberfest at Clarke Field Park. This delightful celebration brings together people from across Ottawa to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Bavarian culture. From lively music and traditional dances to mouthwatering German cuisine and refreshing beverages, Oktoberfest Barrhaven offers an authentic experience that leaves a lasting impression. Join in the festivities and celebrate the spirit of community in this grand event.
Farmers Markets: Fresh Local Delights
For those with a penchant for locally sourced, fresh produce and artisanal goods, Barrhaven’s Farmers Markets are a treat not to be missed. These vibrant marketplaces are a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of seasonal fruits, vegetables, baked goods, cheeses, and much more. Indulge your senses as you peruse the stalls, interact with local farmers and artisans, and savour the flavours of Barrhaven’s bountiful harvest. Farmer’s Markets are not only a great place to shop but also an opportunity to connect with the community and support local businesses.
Paint Nites: Unleash Your Creativity
If you’re looking to unleash your inner artist and spend an enjoyable evening with friends or family, Barrhaven’s Paint Nites are the perfect choice. These engaging events combine artistry and entertainment, guiding participants through the creation of a unique masterpiece while fostering a fun and relaxed atmosphere. No prior painting experience is necessary, as talented instructors provide step-by-step guidance. So grab a brush, immerse yourself in colours, and create a personal work of art that you can proudly display or give as a heartfelt gift.
Yearly Santa Claus Parade: A Magical Spectacle
Barrhaven’s yearly Santa Claus parade is a cherished tradition that brings joy and excitement to people of all ages. Witness the enchantment unfold as elaborately decorated floats, marching bands, and costumed characters parade through the streets, spreading holiday cheer and creating lifelong memories. Join the community as it comes together to celebrate the holiday season, and let the magical ambience of the Santa Claus parade ignite your festive spirit.
Fundraisers: Making a Difference Together
Barrhaven’s strong sense of community extends beyond festivities and entertainment. The neighbourhood takes pride in organizing various fundraisers throughout the year, supporting local charities, causes, and community initiatives. Whether it’s a charity run, a silent auction, or a gala event, these fundraisers offer a meaningful way to make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of society. Get involved, lend a helping hand, and experience the fulfilment that comes from working together for a common cause.
Easter Egg Hunt: A Delightful Tradition
Each year, Barrhaven hosts an exciting Easter egg hunt that brings joy and excitement to children and families. Join in the search for colourful eggs hidden in scenic parks or community spaces, creating unforgettable moments of laughter and delight. This cherished tradition fosters a sense of camaraderie and bonding among community members, as they come together to celebrate the arrival of spring and embrace the spirit of renewal.
Clubs and Activities: Unleashing Your Passions
Barrhaven is brimming with a wide range of clubs and activities that cater to various interests and hobbies. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a bookworm, or someone seeking to expand your horizons, you’ll find numerous opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. From sports clubs to book clubs, and cooking classes to language exchange groups, Barrhaven offers a vibrant tapestry of possibilities. Explore the Barrhaven BIA’s events and club calendar to discover the perfect avenue for your interests and embark on an enriching journey of personal growth and community engagement.
Public Facilities: Enhancing Quality of Life
Barrhaven takes pride in providing top-notch public facilities that cater to the needs of its residents. The Minto Recreation Complex stands as a state-of-the-art facility, offering a wide range of amenities including swimming pools, fitness centres, indoor tracks, and multi-purpose rooms. Whether you’re seeking to stay active, learn a new skill, or socialize with fellow community members, the Minto Recreation Complex has you covered.
For sports enthusiasts, the Walter Baker Sports and Recreational Centre is a haven of activity. With its ice rinks, soccer fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts, this facility offers ample opportunities to indulge in your favourite sports and stay active year-round.
The Ruth E. Dickinson Library serves as a vibrant hub of knowledge and culture, providing a vast collection of books, digital resources, and community programs for all age groups. Whether you’re seeking literary adventures, educational workshops, or a quiet space to study, the library welcomes you with open arms.
Barrhaven Guide
Barrhaven Neighbourhood Guide is presented to you by Jason Polonski– Ottawa’s Top-Rated Real Estate Agent. If you are considering buying or selling a property in Barrhaven or simply have questions, please reach out to Jason directly at (613) 601-9333 or by email at polonskiottawa@gmail.com.
Barrhaven Resources
- City of Ottawa – Barrhaven Ward: https://barrhavenbia.ca/barrhaven/
- City of Ottawa Parks & Recreation: https://ottawa.ca/en/recreation-and-parks/facilities/parks-and-green-space
- National Capital Commission (NCC) Greenbelt Pathway: https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/our-plans/greenbelt-master-plan
- Barrhaven Public Library: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/barrhaven-south-new-stop
- Barrhaven Food Cupboard: https://www.barrhavenfoodcupboard.ca/
- YMCA of Eastern Ontario – Barrhaven: https://eo.ymca.ca/
- Barrhaven BIA (Business Improvement Area): https://barrhavenbia.ca/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Barrhaven is a suburban neighborhood located in the southwest of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the fastest-growing communities in the city and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
The housing options in Barrhaven include single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The neighborhood is known for its modern and spacious houses, as well as its well-maintained parks and recreational facilities.
There are several schools located in Barrhaven, including John McCrae Secondary School, Longfields-Davidson Heights Secondary School, and Mother Teresa High School. The neighborhood is also home to several elementary and middle schools, both public and Catholic.
Barrhaven is home to a variety of amenities, including several parks and recreational facilities, such as the Walter Baker Sports Centre and the Nepean Sportsplex. There are also several shopping centers and restaurants located in the neighborhood, as well as a number of medical facilities, including the Queensway-Carleton Hospital.
Barrhaven is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes running through the neighborhood. The neighborhood is also located close to several major roads, including the 416 and 417 highways, which provide easy access to other parts of the city.
The average home price in Barrhaven can vary depending on the type of property and the location within the neighborhood. As of 2022, the average home price in the neighborhood is around $600,000 to $800,000, with some properties selling for over $1 million.