🏡 Top 5 Suburbs Near Ottawa for Affordable Housing and Great Lifestyle in 2025

Looking for affordable homes near Ottawa? Discover the top 5 suburbs in 2025 offering great value, quality of life, and easy city access.

Why More Buyers Are Choosing Ottawa’s Suburbs in 2025

In 2025, many homebuyers are turning their sights to the suburbs around Ottawa—and for good reason. With urban prices climbing and demand outpacing supply, suburbs offer:

• More space for your money

• Lower property taxes

• Quieter, family-friendly environments

• Easy commuting access via new transit expansions

Whether you're a first-time buyer, young family, or downsizer, Ottawa’s surrounding communities deliver comfort, convenience, and value.

What to Look for in an Affordable Suburb

Before diving into specific towns, here’s what makes a suburb both affordable and desirable:

Now let’s explore the top 5 suburbs near Ottawa to find affordable housing in 2025.

1. Embrun – Small Town Charm Just 25 Minutes Away

Located southeast of Ottawa, Embrun offers a close-knit bilingual community with a small-town feel—and big-time value.

Why Embrun Shines:

• Average home price: ~$550,000

• Commute to Ottawa: 25–30 minutes

• Best for: Families and first-time buyers

• Highlights: Splash pad, arenas, French-English schools, newer subdivisions

Embrun is growing fast but maintains its calm, rural charm. Perfect for buyers wanting more land and a strong sense of community.

2. Kemptville – A Growing Community with Nature and New Homes

South of Ottawa, Kemptville blends nature, heritage, and convenience.

Why Kemptville Works:

• Average home price: ~$580,000

• Commute to Ottawa: 40 minutes

• Best for: Families and retirees

• Highlights: Kemptville Creek, new shopping plazas, forest trails

The town is booming with new subdivisions and schools, while still offering peace and nature—ideal for hybrid workers or nature-loving families.

3. Russell – Peaceful Living with Modern Amenities

Often voted one of Ontario’s best small towns, Russell is just east of Embrun and consistently attracts buyers looking for space and affordability.

What Makes Russell Great:

• Average home price: ~$590,000

• Commute to Ottawa: 30–35 minutes

• Best for: Growing families

• Highlights: Dog parks, bike paths, excellent schools, strong resale value

Russell is clean, safe, and known for its tight-knit, well-organized community with a hometown feel.

4. Carleton Place – Suburban Growth with Historic Roots

West of Ottawa lies Carleton Place, a former mill town turned modern suburb with an artsy, riverside vibe.

Why It’s Popular:

• Average home price: ~$540,000

• Commute to Ottawa: 40–45 minutes

• Best for: Creative professionals, commuters

• Highlights: Mississippi River trails, farmers markets, art galleries

With tons of renovated homes, townhomes, and a thriving downtown, it’s a hotspot for buyers seeking a unique mix of heritage and hip.

5. Rockland – East-End Access with Waterfront Vibes

Rockland, along the Ottawa River, gives east-end buyers a chance to live near water—without the premium price tag.

Why Rockland Is a Hidden Gem:

• Average home price: ~$560,000

• Commute to Ottawa: 30–40 minutes

• Best for: Commuters and budget-conscious families

• Highlights: Marina, schools, bilingual culture, big box shopping

With continued growth, Rockland is becoming one of eastern Ottawa’s most accessible and versatile communities.

How These Suburbs Compare to Ottawa Neighbourhoods

These suburbs offer a price-friendly alternative without sacrificing lifestyle perks.

Real Estate Market Outlook in Ottawa’s Suburbs

• Suburban demand is rising due to affordability and hybrid work

• New developments in Embrun, Russell, and Kemptville will keep growing in 2025

• Infrastructure upgrades, including roads and school expansions, are boosting values

Many of these areas are also seeing small business growth, cultural events, and enhanced local healthcare options.

FAQs About Moving to Ottawa Suburbs

1. Are Ottawa suburbs good for first-time buyers?
Yes—more space, lower prices, and strong communities make them ideal.

2. Will I still have access to transit or amenities?
Most suburbs offer buses, carpool lots, or are within short drives to Ottawa transit hubs.

3. Are these areas growing?
Absolutely—many suburbs are adding schools, shopping, and health services.

4. Can I work remotely and live in a suburb?
Yes—these locations are popular among hybrid and fully remote workers.

5. Do suburbs have good schools and parks?
Yes—most are family-oriented with strong education and recreation infrastructure.

6. Are homes newer in the suburbs?
Often! Many have newer subdivisions built after 2010.

Final Thoughts: Is a Suburb Right for Your Ottawa Home Search?

If you’re looking for more space, lower costs, and a community vibe, these suburbs near Ottawa offer some of the best value in Ontario in 2025. Whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or just looking to escape the city without losing connection—Embrun, Russell, Kemptville, Carleton Place, and Rockland are all worth exploring.

The right suburb can be more than a budget-friendly option—it can be your perfect next chapter. 🏘️