Introduction – Why Ottawa Is a Great City for Students
Ottawa is one of Canada’s best cities for students thanks to its top universities, extensive transit system, safe neighbourhoods, and wide range of affordable rental options. Whether you’re attending Carleton University, the University of Ottawa, or Algonquin College, Ottawa offers vibrant neighbourhoods that fit every lifestyle and budget.
From lively urban areas to quiet suburban communities, this guide breaks down the best Ottawa neighbourhoods for students and what makes each one ideal.
1. Best Neighbourhoods for Carleton University Students
Carleton students benefit from being close to the Rideau Canal, Dow’s Lake, and some of Ottawa’s most charming communities.
Old Ottawa South – Walkable & Student-Friendly
Old Ottawa South is the top choice for Carleton students because:
It’s less than a 10-minute walk to campus
Full of cafés, restaurants, and grocery stores
Safe and community-oriented
Bank Street runs through the neighbourhood, making it lively but still peaceful.
The Glebe – Trendy, Safe & Close to Campus
The Glebe offers:
Beautiful historic homes
Quick bus routes to Carleton
Trendy shops and restaurants on Bank Street
Access to Lansdowne Park
It's a great choice for students who want walkability and amenities.
Carlington – Affordable Rentals & Easy Transit
Carlington is ideal for budget-conscious students:
Lower rent compared to central neighbourhoods
Direct bus routes to Carleton
Quiet residential streets
Growing student population
This area is perfect for shared housing or basement apartments.
Centretown – Urban Living with Good Transit to Carleton
Centretown offers:
Modern apartments
Lots of dining and entertainment
Easy access to OC Transpo routes 6 and 7
It's ideal for students who want a more urban lifestyle.
2. Best Neighbourhoods for University of Ottawa Students
Because UOttawa sits downtown, students have tons of convenient neighbourhood options.
Sandy Hill – The #1 Choice for UOttawa Students
Sandy Hill is THE student hotspot:
Steps from campus
Filled with student houses and rentals
Vibrant but safe
Easy walk to the Market and downtown
This is the most popular and convenient neighbourhood for UOttawa students.
Lower Town – Affordable & Culturally Diverse
Lower Town offers:
Cheaper rent than Sandy Hill
Lots of multicultural eateries
Short walk to UOttawa
It’s a great option for students who want affordability close to downtown.
ByWard Market – Lively, Convenient & Fun
The Market is ideal for students who love energy and nightlife:
Walkable to campus
Endless cafés, restaurants & shops
Many apartment rentals
It’s lively, fun, and full of personality.
Centretown East – Calm, Affordable & Close to Campus
This less-known pocket offers:
Quiet residential streets
Mid-range rents
Quick walk or bike ride to UOttawa
Perfect for students who want calm without sacrificing convenience.
3. Best Neighbourhoods for Algonquin College Students
Algonquin College is located in Nepean, surrounded by several student-friendly suburban areas.
Centrepointe – Modern, Safe & Near Campus
Centrepointe is a top pick because:
It’s walking distance to Algonquin
Safe and family-oriented
Offers condos, basement apartments & townhomes
The Centrepointe Library and parks make it welcoming for student life.
College Ward – Budget-Friendly Student Housing
This area directly borders the campus, offering:
Many student rentals
Shared housing options
Affordable prices
Students who want to live close to class without relying on transit love this area.
Nepean (Baseline Area) – Quiet Streets & Good Bus Access
This area is ideal if you want:
Affordable housing
Access to Baseline Station
A quieter suburban lifestyle
Transit is very reliable here.
Trend-Arlington – Suburban, Affordable & Close to Amenities
Trend-Arlington offers:
Lower rent
Green spaces
Easy bus routes to campus
Perfect for students who want a mix of affordability and comfort.
4. Average Rental Costs for Students in Ottawa
Rental costs vary by neighbourhood, but here’s a general guide:
Shared Housing (Most Popular for Students)
💰 $650–$950 per month (average)
One-Bedroom Apartments
💰 $1,350–$1,800 per month depending on proximity to campus
On-Campus Residences (Varies by School)
Carleton: ~$9,000–$13,000 per year
UOttawa: ~$8,000–$12,000 per year
Algonquin: ~$7,000–$10,000 per year
Living off-campus often offers better value for upper-year students.
5. Transit, Safety & Walkability – What Students Should Know
OC Transpo Access
All campuses have excellent bus connections:
Carleton: O-Train + multiple bus routes
UOttawa: LRT station + downtown buses
Algonquin: Major bus hub at Baseline
Nightlife Safety Tips
✔️ Walk in groups
✔️ Stick to well-lit areas
✔️ Use Night Bus routes
✔️ Keep an emergency contact saved
Walkability Scores (Approx.)
Sandy Hill: 90/100
The Glebe: 88/100
Old Ottawa South: 80/100
Centretown: 95/100
Centrepointe: 65/100
Urban neighbourhoods offer the easiest car-free lifestyle.
6. Tips for Students Looking for Housing in Ottawa
Start Early (Very Early!)
The best time to start renting:
February–May: For September move-ins
October–December: For January move-ins
How to Avoid Scams
✔️ Don’t send deposits before viewing
✔️ Use verified platforms
✔️ Watch for unusually low prices
✔️ Confirm the landlord’s identity
Best Websites for Rentals
Kijiji
Facebook Marketplace
PadMapper
UOttawa / Carleton housing groups
7. FAQs
Q1: What’s the most affordable student neighbourhood in Ottawa?
Lower Town, Carlington, and Nepean tend to offer lower rents.
Q2: Which neighbourhood is closest to UOttawa?
Sandy Hill sits directly next to the campus.
Q3: Is it hard for students to find housing in Ottawa?
It can be competitive, but starting early helps tremendously.
Q4: Is transit reliable for students without cars?
Yes — especially near universities and major bus hubs.
Q5: Are there safe neighbourhoods near Carleton?
Old Ottawa South and The Glebe are among the safest.
Q6: Do most students live off-campus?
Yes — especially after first year.
Conclusion
Ottawa offers a wide range of neighbourhoods ideal for students studying at Carleton, UOttawa, or Algonquin. Whether you prefer urban excitement, walkable communities, or quiet suburban streets, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. By understanding commute times, affordability, and neighbourhood vibe, students can find housing that fits their lifestyle and budget.
