Best Areas to Live in Ottawa (Moving Guide)

Ottawa is one of Canada's most livable cities — a federal capital with world-class museums, a four-season outdoor lifestyle, strong employment, and a diverse, welcoming population. But like any major city, Ottawa's neighbourhoods each have their own distinct character. Whether you're moving to Ottawa from another city or relocating within the National Capital Region, choosing the right neighbourhood makes a significant difference to your daily life.

As movers Ottawa who have helped thousands of families settle into homes across the city, the team at Aria Moving Group has seen which neighbourhoods attract which residents. Here's our honest guide to the best areas to live in Ottawa in 2026.

Westboro

What it's known for

Westboro is one of Ottawa's trendiest and most desirable neighbourhoods — a walkable, vibrant community along the Ottawa River, roughly 6 km west of downtown. Richmond Road is the main artery, packed with independent restaurants, boutique shops, yoga studios, and artisan coffee shops. The area is home to one of Ottawa's best beach parks, Westboro Beach on the Ottawa River.

Who it's best for

Young professionals, couples, and active families who want a walkable urban lifestyle without being in the downtown core. It's also popular with Carleton University and University of Ottawa staff. Housing ranges from renovated bungalows and infill townhomes to newer condo developments. Expect to pay a premium compared to suburban Ottawa.

The Glebe

What it's known for

The Glebe is a classic Ottawa neighbourhood — mature tree-lined streets, heritage homes, and a strong community identity centred around Bank Street. It sits just south of downtown and is walkable to Lansdowne Park (home to the Ottawa REDBLACKS and Ottawa Fury), Patterson Creek, and the Rideau Canal. The Glebe is also known for its excellent schools and active residents' association.

Who it's best for

Established professionals and families who want an urban feel with community depth. The Glebe attracts academics, government workers, and long-term Ottawa residents who appreciate heritage character and walkability. It's one of the pricier neighbourhoods in Ottawa, but homes hold their value exceptionally well.

Kanata

What it's known for

Located 20 km west of downtown, Kanata is Ottawa's technology hub — home to major employers like Shopify, Nokia, Ericsson, and numerous federal government agencies. The area has grown rapidly and offers a wide range of housing from affordable townhomes to executive-style single-family homes. Kanata has excellent schools, major retail centres (Tanger Outlets, Hazeldean Mall), and abundant green space.

Who it's best for

Families and technology workers who prioritize spacious homes, good schools, and suburban convenience over urban walkability. Kanata is one of the most common destinations for residential movers Ottawa — it attracts young families in particular who want space and community while staying connected to the city.

Orléans

What it's known for

Orléans is Ottawa's predominantly francophone suburban community on the east end of the city, about 20 km from downtown. It's a family-friendly area with excellent bilingual and French-language schools, newer housing stock, and a strong sense of community. The area has seen significant growth in the past decade, with new retail and amenity development following the population.

Who it's best for

Francophone families, federal government workers, and anyone seeking newer homes at more accessible price points than Ottawa's west end. Orléans offers good value and a genuine community atmosphere. Aria Moving Group serves Orléans extensively — it's one of our busiest areas for apartment movers Ottawa and residential family moves.

Barrhaven

What it's known for

Barrhaven is a large planned suburban community in the south end of Ottawa, known for its family-friendly environment, newer homes, and strong school options. Half Moon Bay, Longfields, and Cedarhill are popular sub-communities. The Barrhaven Marketplace provides retail amenities, and Highway 416 gives easy access to the rest of Ottawa and beyond.

Who it's best for

Growing families looking for newer homes with larger lots, good schools, and community infrastructure at competitive prices. Barrhaven has one of the strongest senses of community identity in Ottawa, with active community associations and family-oriented events throughout the year. It's consistently one of our most active areas for residential movers Ottawa.

Centretown

What it's known for

Centretown is the dense, walkable neighbourhood immediately south of Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market. It's characterized by mid-rise apartments, converted Victorian townhouses, and a dense street grid that makes it Ottawa's most walkable neighbourhood. Bank Street runs through it with an excellent dining and retail scene.

Who it's best for

Young professionals, government workers, and urban dwellers who want to walk or bike to work, restaurants, and entertainment. Centretown has seen significant condo development in recent years, making it attractive for both renters and first-time buyers. As apartment movers Ottawa, we handle dozens of Centretown moves every year.

Old Ottawa South

What it's known for

Old Ottawa South is a quiet, predominantly residential neighbourhood sandwiched between the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal, south of The Glebe. It has a village-like atmosphere with Billings Bridge as its commercial hub, excellent cycling infrastructure, and proximity to the University of Ottawa and Carleton. The Rideau River pathway system runs through the area.

Who it's best for

Academics, professionals with families, and anyone who values a quiet residential community with excellent transit and cycling access to downtown Ottawa. Homes here tend to be older but well-maintained, with mature trees and established gardens.

Hintonburg

What it's known for

Hintonburg is Ottawa's most arts-forward neighbourhood — a rapidly gentrifying community just west of downtown and adjacent to Westboro. Wellington Street West has transformed in recent years into a destination for independent restaurants, craft breweries, galleries, and music venues. It's Ottawa's version of a Brooklyn-style arts district.

Who it's best for

Creative professionals, artists, and young urban dwellers who want character housing (older bungalows, semi-detached homes) at slightly more accessible prices than Westboro, in a neighbourhood with genuine local culture. Hintonburg has seen significant price appreciation but still offers more value per square foot than many comparable Ottawa neighbourhoods.

Which Ottawa Neighbourhood is Right for You?

The best neighbourhood for you depends on your lifestyle priorities, family situation, budget, and commute requirements. As local movers Ottawa with experience in every part of the city, we're always happy to share what we've observed about different areas. Call us at 613-555-0100 or visit our locations page to learn more about specific areas.

Wherever you're moving in Ottawa, Aria Moving Group is ready to help. Get a free quote today and let Ottawa's most trusted local movers handle the logistics while you focus on settling into your new neighbourhood.