Ottawa is the capital of Canada, a cultural icon, and an economic powerhouse that attracts people from all over the country and even abroad. This popularity translates to an average rent of $1,763 per month, which is higher than the national average of $1,755 a month in Canada.
To beat this higher-than-average rent price, explore the most affordable neighbourhoods in Ottawa to see what kind of lifestyle and benefits they offer.
Downtown: Cultural, Natural, and Professional Powerhouse
- Average Rent in Downtown: $1,954/month
- Popular Neighbourhoods: ByWard Market, The Glebe, Centretown, Lowertown
Downtown is the heart of Ottawa, where historic landmarks, nightlife, and company headquarters are packed in. In Centretown, you’re steps from offices and government buildings, with Parliament Hill in view. Enjoy a packed schedule in ByWard Market as there’s always someplace to be with restaurants, local art galleries, markets, and stalls. The Glebe has a small-town atmosphere that feels a world away from the skyscrapers of downtown. Carleton University and the University of Ottawa bring an inquisitive energy and academic edge to Downtown.
Things to do in Downtown
You’ll pass cultural landmarks, like Parliament Hill and the National Arts Centre, on your way to work or as you head to dinner. Take a break from the city by heading to the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the summer you can stroll under verdant trees on the canal-side pathways while in the winter it transforms into the world’s largest skating rink.
Market stalls and street art sit next to boutiques and specialty shops in ByWard Market for a close-knit community feel. And for those who love to learn, nearby museums cover everything from natural history and agriculture to Ottawa’s own story and the evolution of Canada’s economy.
East Central: Live Next to Riverside Greenery
- Average Rent in East Central: $1,852/month
- Popular Neighbourhoods: Vanier, Overbrook, Greenboro
East Central is an expansive area that encompasses a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its own charm. Vanier is known for its proximity to downtown across the Rideau River. To make daily life easy, Overbrook is next to major highways, transit, and shopping.
Things to do in East Central
Residents can explore the trails along the Rideau and Ottawa River, or spend an afternoon walking under flowering trees in Rockcliffe Park and the Rockeries. Local restaurants and shops cluster next to residential streets while major retailers call the St. Laurent Shopping Centre home. Nearby museums fuel curiosity of all interests, from aviation and space to science and technology, without having to go far from home.
Westboro: Modern Meets Eclectic by the River
- Average rent in Westboro: $2,038/month
- Popular Neighbourhoods: Britannia, Carlington
Westboro has the best of both worlds with newly-constructed high-rise apartments along major corridors and cozy apartments in long-standing buildings. Whether you want to walk to your favourite restaurant, jog along the Ottawa River, or enjoy the convenience of living next to grocery stores, Westboro has it within arm’s reach.
Things to do in Westboro
Richmond Road anchors the community with independent boutiques, bakeries, and locally owned restaurants that give the area its village charm — all just minutes from downtown. Green space is never far away with the Ottawa River Pathway running the length of the neighbourhood, past Westboro and Brittania Beach are popular summer spots.
Orleans: Carefully Crafted Living
- Average Rent in Orleans: $2,089/month
- Popular Neighbourhoods: Convent Glen, Chatelaine Village, Avalon
While technically outside of Ottawa’s city boundaries, Orleans provides a respite from the energy of downtown without losing access to city conveniences. There’s plenty of rentals to choose from to suit any lifestyle and budget. Check out modern townhomes in newly built neighbourhoods or apartments within walking distance of the river.
Things to do in Orleans
Beyond its residential appeal, Orleans has plenty of things to do. The Place d’Orleans mall anchors the neighbourhood’s retail scene, featuring national brands and chain restaurants. Petrie Island’s sandy beaches, kayak rentals, and birdwatching spots make it a weekend favourite for exploring the Ottawa River. The Shenkman Arts Centre provides live theatre, art exhibitions, and community performances year-round, while Millennium Park and its sports fields keep residents active.
Nepean Kanata: Up-and-Coming Suburbs
- Average Rent in Nepean Kanata: $2,099/month
- Popular Neighbourhoods: Barrhaven, Bells Corners, Glen Cairn
Nepean Kanata is made up of two cities that each bring their own personality to Ottawa’s west end. Nepean has a classic suburban feel with established neighbourhoods, leafy trees, and established apartments communities. Past Ottawa’s borders and rural fields, Kanata continues to grow with modern mid- and high-rises popping up next to an increasing number of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Things to do in Nepean Kanata
Nepean–Kanata also delivers plenty of ways to spend free time. Bayshore Shopping Centre and Tanger Outlets cover every kind of shopping fix, from big-name stores to outlet bargains. The Canadian Tire Centre, home to major concerts and hockey games, draws visitors from across the region, while the nearby Wesley Clover Parks hosts outdoor festivals, events, and tournaments. Nature lovers can spend hours on the numerous Greenbelt trails that stretch all the way to Ottawa or in the forests on the 457 hectares of South March Highlands Conservation Forest.
Live Where Canada’s History Meets Modern Living
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural energy of Downtown, the riverside calm of East Central, or the suburban charm of Nepean Kanata, Ottawa offers a neighbourhood for every lifestyle and budget. Ready to find your next home in Canada’s capital? Start your search on Apartments.com to explore available apartments in Ottawa, compare rent prices, and see what each neighbourhood has to offer.
FAQs
How much money do you need to live in Ottawa?
Since the average rent in Ottawa is $1,763, you should aim to make $5,876 a month or $70,512 a year if you want to spend no more than 30 percent on rent.
What language do they speak in Ottawa?
The main languages in Ottawa are English and French with the city offering services in both. While English is a bit more common, there are plenty of people who know and use French.
