Suburbs in Ottawa
Suburbs in Ottawa | Complete Guide
Discovering Ottawa’s Suburbs: A Guide for Homebuyers and Investors
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is renowned for its high quality of life, strong economy, and vibrant culture. While downtown Ottawa has its charm, the city’s suburbs offer an attractive blend of affordability, space, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or looking to downsize, Ottawa’s suburban neighbourhoods provide an array of options suited to various lifestyles and budgets.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular suburbs in Ottawa, highlighting their features, housing markets, and key amenities.
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Suburbs in Ottawa Summary
- Kanata
- Barrhaven
- Orleans
- Stittsville
- Manotick
- Greely
- Riverside South
Why Choose a Suburb in Ottawa?
Moving to a suburban area in Ottawa comes with several benefits:
- Affordability: Many suburban homes are more affordable compared to downtown properties.
- Spacious Living: Larger lots, detached homes, and townhouses dominate the suburban market.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Safe neighborhoods, good schools, parks, and recreational facilities.
- Convenient Commutes: Easy access to public transit and highways for commuting to downtown Ottawa.
- Strong Investment Potential: Many suburbs are experiencing rapid growth, making them great choices for real estate investment.
Now, let’s explore some of the top suburban areas in Ottawa.
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1. Kanata
Kanata, one of Ottawa’s largest and fastest-growing suburbs, is known as the city’s technology hub. It is home to Kanata North Business Park, which hosts numerous tech companies, making it an excellent choice for professionals working in the industry.
Housing Market:
A mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos.
Newer developments with modern amenities.
Average home prices in Kanata range from $600,000 to $1.2 million (as of 2025).
Key Features:
Highly-rated schools and family-friendly parks.
Shopping hubs like Kanata Centrum and Tanger Outlets.
Proximity to the Canadian Tire Centre, home of the Ottawa Senators.
Ideal for: Tech professionals, families, and investors looking for a rapidly growing area.
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2. Barrhaven
Barrhaven is a suburban paradise for families, offering excellent schools, parks, and a strong sense of community. It’s one of Ottawa’s fastest-growing suburbs, with many new developments and commercial establishments.
Housing Market:
Primarily single-family homes, townhouses, and some condos.
Average home prices range from $550,000 to $1 million.
Plenty of new builds and modern housing developments.
Key Features:
High-ranking schools like John McCrae Secondary School.
Excellent shopping centers including Marketplace Barrhaven.
Easy access to Highway 416 for quick commutes.
Ideal for: Families looking for a suburban lifestyle with top amenities.
3. Orleans
Orleans, located in the east end of Ottawa, is known for its strong Francophone community, excellent schools, and affordable housing options. It offers a great balance between suburban life and city convenience.
Housing Market:
Affordable detached homes, townhouses, and condos.
Average home prices range from $550,000 to $950,000.
Several new developments expanding the area.
Key Features:
Beautiful waterfront views along Petrie Island.
Large shopping centers like Place d’Orleans.
Strong bilingual community with many French-language schools.
Ideal for: Families, bilingual professionals, and retirees looking for affordability.
4. Stittsville
Stittsville, located just west of Kanata, is a peaceful and community-focused suburb with a small-town feel. It is known for its beautiful parks, walking trails, and friendly atmosphere.
Housing Market:
Predominantly single-family homes with some townhouses.
Average home prices range from $650,000 to $1.1 million.
Plenty of new developments and custom homes.
Key Features:
Close to Kanata’s tech park but quieter and more residential.
Excellent local schools and family-oriented amenities.
Growing commercial sector with new shopping and dining options.
Ideal for: Families and professionals who want a peaceful environment with urban conveniences nearby.
5. Manotick
Manotick is one of Ottawa’s most prestigious suburbs, known for its upscale homes, scenic river views, and small-town charm. Located along the Rideau River, it offers a mix of historic homes and modern luxury estates.
Housing Market:
High-end properties, including waterfront estates.
Average home prices range from $900,000 to $2 million+.
Limited townhouses and condos, mostly detached homes.
Key Features:
Beautiful waterfront properties and green spaces.
Historic attractions like Watson’s Mill.
Upscale dining and boutique shopping options.
Ideal for: Luxury buyers, retirees, and those seeking a tranquil, picturesque lifestyle.
6. Greely
Greely is a rural suburb offering large estate-style lots, making it perfect for buyers who want more space. It’s a growing area with custom-built homes, making it attractive for luxury seekers.
Housing Market:
Large estate homes on oversized lots.
Average home prices range from $800,000 to $2 million.
Custom-built homes with high-end features.
Key Features:
Private and quiet environment with natural surroundings.
High-end golf courses and recreation facilities.
Quick access to major roadways leading to downtown Ottawa.
Ideal for: Luxury homebuyers and those who prefer a rural-suburban lifestyle.
7. Riverside South
Riverside South is one of Ottawa’s newest and fastest-growing suburbs. Located near the upcoming LRT expansion, it offers modern housing developments and convenient commuting options.
Housing Market:
New and modern single-family homes and townhouses.
Average home prices range from $600,000 to $1 million.
Rapidly expanding infrastructure and amenities.
Key Features:
Easy access to downtown via the LRT extension.
Beautiful parks, trails, and waterfront areas.
Excellent schools and a growing retail sector.
Ideal for: Young professionals, families, and investors seeking growth potential.
Which Ottawa Suburb is Right for You?
Choosing the right suburb in Ottawa depends on your lifestyle, budget, and priorities. Here’s a quick summary:
Best for Tech Professionals: Kanata
Best for Families: Barrhaven
Most Affordable: Orleans
Best for a Quiet Lifestyle: Stittsville
Luxury Living: Manotick or Greely
Fastest Growing: Riverside South
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in one of these Ottawa suburbs, working with an experienced Ottawa REALTOR® like Jason Polonski can help you navigate the market and make the best decision.
Ottawa Suburb Conclusion
Ottawa’s suburbs offer a diverse range of living options, from affordable family-friendly communities to luxurious estates. With strong growth potential and excellent amenities, investing in an Ottawa suburb is a smart choice.
Looking to buy or sell in Ottawa? Contact Jason Polonski, a top-rated Ottawa REALTOR®, for expert guidance and exclusive listings.
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Full-Service Ottawa REALTOR®
The article Suburbs in Ottawa was brought to you by Jason Polonski, a top-rated Ottawa REALTOR® dedicated to helping homebuyers and sellers navigate the real estate market with confidence. With extensive knowledge of Ottawa’s suburban communities, Jason provides expert advice tailored to your unique needs, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighbourhood, an investment opportunity, or a luxury home.
Ottawa Suburbs Resources
- City of Ottawa Official Website
- OC Transpo (Ottawa’s Public Transportation)
- Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB)
- Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB)
- Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
- Parks and Recreation – City of Ottawa
- Crime Mapping – Ottawa Police Service
- Walk Score
- - Ottawa Top Neighbourhoods
- - Safest Neighbourhoods in Ottawa
- - Affordable Neighborhoods in Ottawa
- - Luxury Neighborhoods in Ottawa
- - Living in Ottawa Guide
- - Ottawa Housing Guide
- - Ottawa Real Estate Market Trends
- - Cost of Living in Ottawa
- - Should I Sell My House First or Buy First?
- - Pros and Cons of Living in Ottawa
- - Ottawa Best Private Schools
- - Selling & Buying a Home at the Same Time
- - Ottawa Luxury Homes Realtor
- - Downsizing in Ottawa
- - What to Do If Your House Isn’t Selling
- - Ottawa Neighborhoods for Downsizing
- - Ottawa Neighborhoods for Newcomers
- - Best Areas to Live in Ottawa Without a Car
- - Best Ottawa Neighborhoods for Dog Owners
- - Ottawa Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals
- - Suburbs in Ottawa
- - Best Family Neighborhoods in Ottawa
Suburbs in Ottawa (FAQs)
Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans, and Riverside South are often popular choices due to their affordability, abundant parks, recreational facilities, and strong school systems. Consider your specific needs and priorities regarding school type (public, Catholic, French immersion), proximity to amenities, and desired housing style when making your decision. Researching school ratings and visiting local parks can also be helpful.
Affordability can fluctuate based on market conditions, but generally speaking, Barrhaven and certain areas of Orleans tend to offer more affordable housing options compared to Kanata or more centrally located suburbs like Nepean. Look for townhouses or smaller single-family homes to maximize affordability. It’s always a good idea to consult with a real estate agent for the most up-to-date information on pricing trends in different areas.
Commuting to downtown Ottawa from the suburbs varies depending on the suburb and your mode of transportation. With the expansion of the LRT (Light Rail Transit) system, commuting from suburbs like Orleans, Riverside South, and areas of Kanata has become more efficient. OC Transpo bus routes also connect most suburbs to downtown. Consider factors like traffic congestion, parking costs, and the reliability of public transportation when planning your commute. Working remotely, even part-time, can also significantly impact your commuting needs.
Orleans, located in the east end of Ottawa, has a significant French-Canadian population and a vibrant francophone community. You’ll find many French-language schools, community centers, and cultural events in Orleans. Other areas of Ottawa, while not exclusively French-speaking, also offer French immersion programs in their schools, providing opportunities for children to learn and practice French.
Beyond price, consider these crucial factors:
Schools: Research school ratings and programs, and visit schools if possible.
Commute: Evaluate your daily commute to work, school, and other activities.
Amenities: Consider access to grocery stores, healthcare facilities, recreational facilities, and other amenities that are important to you.
Community Feel: Visit the suburb at different times of the day and on weekends to get a sense of the community atmosphere. Attend local events or talk to residents to learn more about the neighbourhood.
Future Development: Investigate planned developments in the area, as new construction can impact traffic, amenities, and overall community character.
Safety: Research crime statistics (using the Ottawa Police Service tool, cautiously) and talk to residents about their perception of safety in the area.
