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Written By
Corinna Frattini
Oct 9, 2025
•Ottawa
If you’re moving to Canada, Ottawa is one of the best cities to consider for renting. It combines affordability, career opportunities, and a high quality of life. As Canada’s capital, it offers a balance of city life, green space, and family-friendly communities. With so many Ottawa neighbourhoods to choose from, it’s an ideal destination for newcomers looking to rent and settle in. Discover where to live in Ottawa, unique neighbourhoods, lifestyles, rental prices, and amenities!
Ottawa is located in eastern Ontario, on the north bank of the Ottawa River, directly across from Gatineau, Quebec. It’s a vibrant, multicultural, bilingual city with a growing tech sector, excellent post-secondary schools (University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Algonquin College), and more affordable housing compared to Toronto.
Before choosing where to live, you may want to understand what everyday life in the capital looks like. Explore Living in Ottawa, Ontario for an overview of jobs, transportation, and what makes this city newcomer-friendly.
If you have recently arrived and need flexibility, consider short-term rentals or homesharing options. These options allow you to settle quickly while exploring neighbourhoods before signing a long-term lease.
Newcomer Tip: Use trusted platforms like Rentals for Newcomers (RFN) to find verified listings and avoid rental scams. Be cautious of landlords who ask for deposits before you see the unit, or request payment through untraceable methods. Always get a lease in writing and confirm landlord details.
$ Affordable: Under $1,600/month (Vanier, Orléans)
$$ Mid-range: $1,600 – $2,000/month (Sandy Hill, Old Ottawa South, Kanata, Alta Vista)
$$$ Expensive: Over $2,000/month (Glebe, Westboro, New Edinburgh)
| NEIGHBOURHOOD | ESTIMATED 2025 RENTAL RANGE* |
|---|---|
| Kanata | $$ Mid-range |
| Sandy Hill | $$ Mid-range |
| Old Ottawa South | $$ Mid-range |
| The Glebe | $$$ Expensive |
| Vanier | $ Affordable |
| Westboro | $$$ Expensive |
| Alta Vista | $$ Mid-range |
| Orléans | $ Affordable |
| Civic Hospital | $$ Mid-range |
| Dow’s Lake | $$ Mid-range |
| New Edinburgh | $$$ Expensive |
Ottawa offers many distinct neighbourhoods, types of housing and prices.
Downtown Ottawa has many high-rise and low-rise apartments, condominiums, and houses.
Central neighbourhoods such as the Glebe or Westboro offer a mix of housing including semi-detached and single-family homes, as well as townhouses.
Suburban neighbourhoods (outside the downtown core) have semi-detached and single-family houses, and townhouses.
Consider renting in neighbourhoods that balance affordability, amenities, and access to transit. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, whether you prioritize commuting, family-friendly amenities, or scenic lakefront living. Here are some top neighbourhoods to consider.
Click on the Google map of Ottawa to zoom in and find an area or neighbourhood that is right for you!
Yes, Kanata is a large, family-friendly suburb in west Ottawa, known for its parks, community centres, and tech industry hubs. Modern homes and green space make it ideal for families seeking suburban life with urban access.
Ideal for: Families, tech professionals
Vibe: Suburban, safe, community-oriented
Rental Range (2025 estimate): $$ mid-range
Access: 25–30 min to downtown; OC Transpo buses
Why newcomers like it: Excellent schools, abundant parks, proximity to Kanata North tech hub.
Yes, Sandy Hill is one of the most popular areas for international students. It’s home to University of Ottawa students and offers a mix of historic homes and apartments, with lively streets filled with restaurants and shops.
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GET FREE GUIDEBecause it’s right next to Carleton University. Old Ottawa South is a quieter, historic area next to The Glebe and Carleton University. Bank Street offers local shops and cafés, while parks like Brewer Park provide recreation along the Rideau River.
Ideal for: International students, academics.
Vibe: Quieter than Sandy Hill, with historic charm.
Rental range (2025 estimate): $$ mid-range.
Access: Bank Street shops, Rideau River parks, Carleton University campus.
Why newcomers like it: Affordable student housing, cultural venues like the Mayfair Theatre.
Yes, The Glebe is a trendy, historic neighbourhood south of downtown Ottawa with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and restaurants. It offers a mix of older homes and condos.
Ideal for: Young professionals, families.
Vibe: Upscale, walkable, with shops and entertainment.
Rental range (2025 estimate): $$$ expensive.
Access: TD Place stadium, Lansdowne Park, Bank Street restaurants.
Why newcomers like it: Vibrant lifestyle, community events, and proximity to downtown.
Yes, Vanier is known for affordability near downtown. Located on the east bank of the Rideau River is a historically francophone neighbourhood that is increasingly multicultural and affordable.
Ideal for newcomers seeking lower rent.
Vibe: Urban, multicultural, in transition (gentrifying).
Rental range (2025 estimate): $ affordable.
Access: Quick bus ride to downtown.
Why newcomers like it: Affordable rents, strong francophone and immigrant communities.
Westboro is a trendy, revitalized neighbourhood near the Ottawa River. It’s popular among professionals and retirees, offering a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces.
Yes, Ottawa is more affordable. An average 1-bedroom rent in Ottawa is $1,977, compared to over $2,295 in Toronto (Sept 2025).
Kanata, Orléans, Alta Vista, and Civic Hospital are family-friendly with schools and parks.
Sandy Hill (University of Ottawa) and Old Ottawa South (Carleton University) are most popular.
Finding a rental home in Ottawa means balancing lifestyle, budget, and convenience. The good news? Whether you’re a student, professional, or family, Ottawa offers a range of neighbourhoods to match your goals. Take time to research each area, compare prices, and plan ahead for financial success as you settle into your new home in Canada’s capital.
Before signing your lease, understand how renting works and what to expect as a newcomer.
👉 Start here: Rental Application Tips for Newcomers in Canada to Get Approved
WRITTEN BY
Corinna Frattini
Senior Editor and Content Director, Prepare for Canada
Corinna researches and writes content to help newcomers make informed decisions about housing, employment, banking, and aspects of settling in Canada. With a background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada. Her writing combines research, practical guidance, and clear language to support newcomers on their journey.
© Prepare for Canada 2025
Living in Ottawa, Ontario: Everything You Need to Know