Discover the top 10 family-friendly neighbourhoods in Ottawa for 2025. Explore schools, safety, amenities, and home prices in each area.
Why Ottawa is Ideal for Families in 2025
Ottawa, Ontario’s vibrant capital, has become a magnet for families seeking a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle. With its clean, safe streets, top-notch public services, and scenic green spaces, Ottawa offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. In 2025, Ottawa continues to shine as one of Canada’s best cities to raise children.
Families are flocking here thanks to:
Excellent education systems in both French and English
Expansive parks and riverside trails
Community-focused neighbourhoods with strong support networks
Growing transit options including the expanding O-Train LRT
Affordable housing options compared to Toronto or Vancouver
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or upsizing for more space, Ottawa offers something for every stage of family life.
What Makes a Neighbourhood Family-Friendly?
Before diving into the top neighbourhoods, here’s what makes an area stand out for families:
1. Westboro
A perfect mix of urban flair and cozy charm, Westboro is one of Ottawa’s trendiest neighbourhoods with a strong family-friendly side. Think artisan bakeries, tree-lined streets, and splash pads galore.
Top Schools: Churchill Alternative, Broadview PS
Highlights: Westboro Beach, boutique shopping, and the Farmers Market
Vibe: Hip, walkable, safe
It’s ideal for active families who love to be in the heart of it all while staying grounded in community life.
2. Barrhaven
Known as the "suburban dream," Barrhaven has evolved into a booming family hotspot packed with schools, sports complexes, and shopping plazas.
Top Schools: Longfields-Davidson Heights SS
Highlights: Minto Recreation Complex, Costco, Transitway access
Vibe: Modern, spacious, and growing fast
With newer developments and easy access to downtown via transit, it's perfect for growing families.
3. Kanata Lakes
Home to tech professionals and suburban bliss, Kanata Lakes blends prestige with practicality.
Top Schools: Earl of March Secondary School
Highlights: Centrum Plaza, Beaver Pond Trail, tech corridor proximity
Vibe: Upscale, peaceful, high-achieving
It’s an excellent choice for families wanting excellent education, green space, and access to high-income opportunities.
4. The Glebe
Historic charm meets lively community in The Glebe, one of Ottawa’s oldest neighbourhoods.
Top Schools: Mutchmor PS, Glebe Collegiate
Highlights: Lansdowne Park, Whole Foods, annual festivals
Vibe: Heritage-rich, tight-knit, dynamic
Families enjoy walkability, cultural events, and strong community bonds.
5. Alta Vista
Alta Vista offers mature trees, spacious yards, and proximity to healthcare services—ideal for multigenerational families.
Top Schools: Ridgemont HS, Canterbury HS (Arts)
Highlights: CHEO & Ottawa General Hospital nearby
Vibe: Quiet, classic, close to everything
Its mix of older charm and central location appeals to families valuing space and serenity.
6. Orleans (Fallingbrook & Avalon)
A favourite for bilingual families, Orleans delivers affordability, newer builds, and excellent French immersion programs.
Top Schools: École secondaire Béatrice-Desloges
Highlights: Millennium Park, Place d'Orleans Mall
Vibe: Affordable, diverse, community-focused
Families love the newer homes and vibrant cultural scene.
7. Riverside South
An up-and-coming gem, Riverside South is gaining serious traction with the expansion of the LRT.
Top Schools: Steve MacLean PS
Highlights: New homes, nature trails, short downtown commute
Vibe: Quiet, green, growing
Great for families who want peace and modern living with easy city access.
8. Rockcliffe Park
If prestige and privacy top your list, Rockcliffe Park is your dream neighbourhood.
Top Schools: Elmwood School, Ashbury College
Highlights: Embassies, mansions, private parks
Vibe: Elegant, elite, quiet luxury
Though pricey, it offers unmatched beauty and security.
9. Stittsville
Stittsville brings small-town energy with big-city convenience. Families here enjoy wide streets, spacious homes, and vibrant sports programs.
Top Schools: Sacred Heart HS
Highlights: Trans Canada Trail, Carp Road shopping
Vibe: Suburban charm, family-focused, growing fast
Perfect for active families wanting a tight community.
10. Beacon Hill
Nestled near the Ottawa River, Beacon Hill is an underrated treasure for families.
Top Schools: Colonel By SS (IB program)
Highlights: NCC trails, Gloucester Centre
Vibe: Peaceful, bilingual, affordable
Its proximity to nature and value homes make it a smart pick.
Tips for Choosing the Right Ottawa Neighbourhood for Your Family
Tour multiple areas at different times of day
Talk to locals or visit community Facebook groups
Use school catchment maps before buying
Balance commute times with lifestyle needs
Don’t forget future resale value
The Future of Family Living in Ottawa
Ottawa is only getting better for families:
New LRT lines in progress
More school expansions in suburbs
Improved green infrastructure and trails
Continued stable real estate growth
Whether you’re planting roots or relocating, 2025 is a fantastic year to explore Ottawa’s family neighbourhoods.
FAQs about Family Neighbourhoods in Ottawa
1. What is the safest neighbourhood in Ottawa for families?
Westboro and Rockcliffe Park consistently rank as some of the safest areas.
2. Where can I find French immersion schools in Ottawa?
Orleans and Beacon Hill are known for strong Francophone education options.
3. What Ottawa suburb offers the best value?
Barrhaven and Riverside South offer great home size-to-price ratios.
4. Which area has the best public schools?
Colonel By in Beacon Hill and Earl of March in Kanata Lakes are top-rated.
5. Is downtown Ottawa good for families?
Yes, especially The Glebe and areas near parks like New Edinburgh.
6. How much should I budget for a family home in Ottawa?
Expect $650K–$900K depending on area and size as of 2025.
Conclusion: Making the Move to Ottawa’s Best Family Neighbourhoods
Ottawa has something for every kind of family—from bustling city charm to suburban tranquility. By choosing the right neighbourhood, you're not just buying a house—you’re investing in a lifestyle that nurtures your family’s growth and happiness.
Thinking about making a move in 2025? Ottawa’s family-friendly communities are ready to welcome you home. 🏡
