When it comes to planting roots and raising a family, Ottawa stands out as one of the best provinces to raise a family in Canada. Known for its safety, green spaces, strong school systems and a welcoming sense of community, Ottawa is the perfect city for families looking to balance urban conveniences with suburban comfort.
Whether you’re relocating from out of town or moving within the city, choosing the right neighbourhood is crucial. Below are some of the top communities in Ottawa that consistently rank as the best neighbourhoods for families offering safety, amenities and a true sense of belonging.
Orléans
Orléans is located in Ottawa’s east end and has long been regarded as one of the best Ottawa neighbourhoods for families. Known for its bilingual culture, Orléans offers an excellent mix of English and French schools making it ideal for raising children in a multicultural environment. The area is home to numerous parks, splash pads and recreational centres like the Ray Friel Recreation Complex or Francois Dupuis Complex. Plus, with new developments and established communities alike, housing options are varied and relatively affordable.
Bonus: Orléans is also known for being one of the safest neighbourhoods in Ottawa which is always a key consideration for parents.
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Barrhaven
Often referred to as a “city within a city,” Barrhaven offers every family friendly amenity imaginable: highly rated schools, big box stores, walking trails and easy access to transit. It’s an established suburb with a reputation for well planned communities and modern homes. With numerous playgrounds and kid focused events year round, Barrhaven is designed with families in mind, and one of the best areas to live in Ottawa for families
Bonus: The area is only a 25 minute drive to downtown Ottawa, making it an excellent choice for commuters.
Kanata
As one of the most well established suburbs in Ottawa’s west end, Kanata is particularly attractive to families in the tech industry due to its proximity to Kanata North, Canada’s largest technology park. It boasts a variety of schools (public, Catholic, French and private), as well as family oriented neighbourhoods like Bridlewood and Morgan’s Grant. The Kanata Centrum and Tanger Outlets also offer great shopping and dining experiences.
Bonus: With ample green space and access to trails, Kanata provides a great balance between nature and city life.
Alta Vista
If you’re looking for a more central location without sacrificing a family friendly atmosphere, Alta Vista delivers. This mature neighbourhood features large lots with tree lined streets with easy access to Ottawa General Hospital and CHEO. It also has some of the best schools in the city including excellent French immersion options. Alta Vista appeals to families who want proximity to downtown while enjoying a quieter, more residential setting, making it one of the nicest neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Bonus: Its strong sense of community and central location make it one of the most desirable and safest neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Riverside South
A rapidly growing community just south of the airport, Riverside South is a rising star among Ottawa’s family friendly neighbourhoods. It’s known for newer homes, scenic walking paths along the Rideau River and an influx of young families. The upcoming LRT expansion will make this area even more accessible to downtown.
Bonus: With new schools being built and modern amenities close by, it’s a perfect place for families looking to grow.
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What Makes a Neighbourhood Family Friendly?
When considering where to live in Ottawa as a family, look beyond just the house itself. Here are a few key factors that make these communities shine:
- School Quality: Access to reputable elementary and secondary schools is often the top priority for parents.
- Parks and Recreation: Ottawa’s best neighbourhoods for families feature public parks, walking trails, splash pads, skating rinks and community centres.
- Safety: Many of the areas listed above consistently rank as some of the safest neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
- Affordability and Housing Options: A mix of detached homes, townhouses and condos can accommodate families of all sizes and budgets.
- Community Feel: Family focused events, active community associations and neighbourly spirit go a long way.
Choosing the best neighbourhood in Ottawa for your family depends on your lifestyle, work location, language preferences and budget. Whether you’re looking for an established suburb like Orléans, a growing community like Riverside South or the tech-savvy appeal of Kanata, there’s a perfect fit waiting for you.
As local experts who live and work in Ottawa, our team at the Pilon Real Estate Group is here to help guide you through your home search. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of each community, we’ll help you find more than just a house, we’ll help you find your perfect home.
Hoping to buy a family home in Ottawa? We’ve helped thousands of families navigate the process and we’re happy to help you too! Call 613.909.8100 or reach us by email at info@PilonGroup.com.
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