For Ottawa residents looking to ditch the car without sacrificing convenience, Hurdman stands out as one of the city’s most strategic and connected neighborhoods. Once known mainly for its transit station, Hurdman is fast becoming a residential hotspot, thanks to its unbeatable access to the O-Train, proximity to downtown, and riverside trails that appeal to young professionals, students, and commuters alike.
If your dream lifestyle involves walking, biking, or taking the LRT everywhere, then living in Hurdman in 2025 offers a glimpse of Ottawa’s car-free future — right now.
1. Where Exactly Is Hurdman?
Nestled just southeast of Ottawa’s downtown core, Hurdman sits at the crossroads of Riverside Drive, Highway 417, and Nicholas Street. It’s part of Ottawa’s Rideau River corridor, bordered by:
Lees Avenue and Sandy Hill to the north
Riverside Park to the south
Alta Vista and Old Ottawa East to the west
Its central position places residents within minutes of everything — from Parliament Hill to Lansdowne, the ByWard Market, and major employment centers.
2. The Heart of Ottawa’s Transit Network
If there’s one thing that defines Hurdman, it’s connectivity.
The Hurdman LRT Station is the main transfer hub of Ottawa’s O-Train Confederation Line, linking the east, west, and south parts of the city.
Key Transit Advantages:
1-stop ride to downtown (uOttawa & Parliament stations)
Direct link to Tremblay Station (VIA Rail terminal)
Easy transfer to bus routes serving Riverside South, Orléans, and Kanata
Future Stage 2 and 3 LRT extensions will make Hurdman even more connected
For professionals working downtown or at nearby hospitals and universities, living near Hurdman means a stress-free commute — and no parking hassles.
3. What It’s Like to Live in Hurdman
While historically a transit and office zone, the area around Hurdman is transforming into a transit-oriented residential hub.
Housing Options (2025 Snapshot):
New developments are emerging along Tremblay Road, Riverside Drive, and Industrial Avenue, designed around walkability, cycling paths, and sustainability.
4. Why Professionals Love Hurdman
🚆 Commuting Freedom
Forget about traffic jams or expensive parking. With the LRT at your doorstep, you can reach:
Downtown Ottawa – in 5 minutes
University of Ottawa – 1 stop away
St. Laurent Shopping Centre – 5 minutes east
Billings Bridge & Lansdowne – short bike ride via pathways
🌿 Green Space Meets Urban Life
Despite its central location, Hurdman sits amid greenery. The Rideau River Eastern Pathway runs right through the area, connecting to the Ottawa River Pathway and Dow’s Lake.
Cyclists, joggers, and nature lovers enjoy easy access to trails, community gardens, and quiet riverside spots for a midday escape.
🏙️ Urban Growth and Development
City planners envision Hurdman as a key “mobility-oriented community” — part of Ottawa’s long-term strategy to cluster homes, offices, and retail around major LRT nodes. Expect:
High-rise residential towers with mixed-use retail
New office and co-working spaces
Enhanced pedestrian and cycling connections
The transformation is well underway, positioning Hurdman as Ottawa’s next major urban hub.
5. Lifestyle: Ideal for Car-Free Living
Hurdman’s appeal lies in its simplicity — everything you need is within a short transit ride or walk.
Nearby Amenities:
Shopping: Train Yards Mall (Costco, Farm Boy, LCBO, restaurants)
Groceries: Farm Boy, Loblaws, and independent stores along Riverside
Fitness & Recreation: Ottawa Tennis Club, Hurdman Park, and indoor gyms nearby
Cafés & Dining: Old Ottawa East and Lees Avenue are adding trendy coffee shops and eateries
The area is quiet yet connected, offering an easy-going lifestyle that appeals to urban minimalists.
6. Who’s Moving to Hurdman in 2025?
The neighborhood’s profile is changing fast. Expect a mix of:
Young professionals working downtown or at uOttawa
Students who want walkable or LRT access to campus
Investors eyeing early entry into a fast-developing area
Empty nesters downsizing from suburban homes
Hurdman is especially popular among car-free residents, reflecting a growing trend toward transit-oriented urban living across Canada.
7. Hurdman Real Estate Outlook (2025–2030)
With more transit-oriented development (TOD) zoning expected, Hurdman is set for steady growth in both property values and rental demand.
Market Insights:
Condo prices have risen ~7% annually since 2022
Rental vacancy rates are tightening due to proximity to uOttawa and downtown
New mixed-use towers will introduce more modern housing stock
For investors, this makes Hurdman a prime location for long-term appreciation and consistent rental returns.
8. Pros and Cons of Living in Hurdman
9. Tips for Moving to Hurdman
Go car-free: Take advantage of transit and biking instead of paying for parking.
Explore nearby communities: Sandy Hill, Alta Vista, and Old Ottawa East offer more dining and shopping options.
Invest early: Prices are still lower than comparable downtown neighborhoods.
Watch for redevelopment news: New LRT-connected projects will continue to transform the area.
10. Final Thoughts: Ottawa’s Transit-Oriented Future Starts Here
Living in Hurdman in 2025 means embracing a smarter, more sustainable way of life. You’ll be at the center of Ottawa’s growing LRT network, steps from the river, and minutes from work or entertainment — all without ever starting a car.
As the city continues to prioritize transit-friendly neighborhoods, Hurdman is poised to evolve into a modern urban hub, blending convenience, affordability, and green living.
For anyone seeking the perfect balance of city access and simplicity, Hurdman isn’t just a place to live — it’s Ottawa’s blueprint for the future of mobility.
