Every city has neighbourhoods that get hyped up — featured on “best of” lists, recommended by real estate agents, and praised on social media.
Ottawa is no different.
But here’s the reality: what’s “amazing” for one person can feel overpriced or overhyped for another.
This isn’t about criticizing communities — it’s about setting realistic expectations. If you’re considering a move in 2026, here’s an honest look at neighbourhoods some locals quietly consider “overrated” — and why.
1️⃣ Westboro – Lifestyle Premium Comes at a Cost
Westboro is often described as Ottawa’s trendiest neighbourhood.
Why people love it:
Walkable main street
River access
Boutique cafés and shops
LRT connectivity
Why some say it’s overrated:
Detached homes often exceed $1M
Condo fees can be high
Limited parking
Crowded in peak summer
For some buyers, the “vibe” doesn’t justify the price premium when nearby areas offer similar access at lower cost.
2️⃣ The Glebe – Charming but Expensive
The Glebe is historic, beautiful, and highly sought-after.
Why it’s popular:
Character homes
Lansdowne access
Central location
Top schools
Why some question the hype:
Extremely high home prices
Limited inventory
Older homes may require significant maintenance
Busy during major events
You’re paying heavily for prestige and charm — which may or may not align with your budget priorities.
3️⃣ Downtown / ByWard Market – Exciting, But Noisy
ByWard Market is often marketed as the heart of Ottawa.
Why it attracts attention:
Restaurants and nightlife
Tourist attractions
Walkability
Why some residents regret moving there:
Noise
Parking challenges
Smaller condo units
Higher transient population
It’s energetic — but that energy isn’t ideal for everyone long-term.
4️⃣ Kanata – Suburban Comfort, Long Commutes
Kanata is known for tech jobs and suburban family living.
Why it’s attractive:
Good schools
Newer homes
Tech employment hub
Why some find it overrated:
Far from downtown
Car-dependent lifestyle
Limited nightlife or walkability
For families, it’s practical. For young professionals craving urban life, it may feel isolating.
5️⃣ Barrhaven – Great for Families, Less for Everyone Else
Barrhaven is another popular suburban choice.
Why it’s praised:
Affordable relative to central areas
Lots of new builds
Family-focused community
Why some buyers reconsider:
Traffic congestion during peak hours
Homogenous housing styles
Limited character compared to older neighbourhoods
It’s functional — but not necessarily unique.
The Real Question: Overrated for Who?
The truth is, no neighbourhood is objectively overrated.
It depends on:
Your stage of life
Your budget
Your commute
Your lifestyle preferences
A young professional may find Kanata boring.
A family may find it perfect.
Someone who values nightlife may love ByWard Market.
Someone who values quiet evenings may regret it.
Why These Areas Still Stay Popular
Even if some locals consider them “overrated,” these neighbourhoods remain in demand because they offer:
Strong resale value
Established amenities
Recognizable names
Perceived safety
Stable long-term investment potential
Popularity often drives pricing — not necessarily perfection.
What Buyers Should Focus On Instead
Instead of chasing hype, ask yourself:
How important is walkability?
How much commute time is acceptable?
Do you prefer character homes or new builds?
Is nightlife important?
Do you plan to stay long-term?
Sometimes less-hyped areas offer better value and stronger lifestyle alignment.
The Bottom Line
Ottawa doesn’t have “bad” neighbourhoods — but it does have neighbourhoods that may be oversold for certain buyers.
The most “overrated” area is simply the one that doesn’t match your priorities.
In 2026, as housing prices remain significant across the city, making a decision based on lifestyle fit — not hype — matters more than ever.
