If you’re searching for an Ottawa neighborhood that blends affordability, convenience, and cultural diversity, look no further than South Keys. Known for its transit access, shopping convenience, and multicultural energy, South Keys has become a favorite among first-time buyers, young families, and newcomers alike. With the expansion of Ottawa’s O-Train network, this community is becoming one of the city’s most connected — and underrated — places to live.
1. Where Is South Keys?
Located in Ottawa’s south end, South Keys sits just off Bank Street, bordered by Hunt Club Road to the south and Heron Road to the north. It’s only 15 minutes from downtown and 10 minutes from the airport, giving residents quick access to both work and weekend escapes.
The neighborhood’s central hub, South Keys Shopping Centre, serves as both a retail anchor and a transit gateway — making this area a model for transit-oriented development (TOD) in Ottawa.
2. The Appeal: Affordable Urban Access
While downtown and central neighborhoods like the Glebe or Hintonburg often dominate conversations, South Keys offers far more bang for your buck.
Affordable homes and condos: Detached houses and townhomes here are priced significantly lower than central Ottawa equivalents.
Direct LRT connection: With the Trillium Line reopening, South Keys is becoming one of the few neighborhoods where you can live affordably and enjoy seamless rail access to downtown, Carleton University, and the airport.
Convenience-driven living: Everything you need — groceries, gyms, restaurants, and services — is within walking distance.
3. Real Estate Snapshot (2025)
Rental demand is steady, especially with students and airport employees seeking convenient access to work and transit. Investors often see South Keys as a cash-flow-friendly market within city limits.
4. Lifestyle & Amenities
Shopping & Daily Essentials
At the heart of the community is South Keys Shopping Centre, featuring major retailers like Walmart, Loblaws, Winners, and Cineplex. You’ll also find a growing number of ethnic grocery stores and eateries, reflecting the area’s multicultural makeup.
Parks & Recreation
Residents enjoy green spaces like:
Pushman Park and Paul Landry Park for playgrounds and sports fields.
Greenboro Trail Network, connecting to nearby walking and biking paths.
Proximity to Mooney’s Bay for summer picnics and water activities.
Dining Diversity
South Keys is one of Ottawa’s most culturally diverse dining districts, with cuisines ranging from Ethiopian and Vietnamese to Caribbean and Middle Eastern. You can grab shawarma, sushi, or samosas — all within a few blocks.
5. Transit-Oriented Living
The LRT Advantage
South Keys is already a major O-Train hub, linking multiple bus routes to the Trillium Line. The 2025 expansion makes it even more central, with:
Direct access to downtown in under 20 minutes.
A connection to the Ottawa International Airport via the new LRT South Extension.
Easy transfers to the Confederation Line at Bayview.
Car-Friendly, Too
Despite its transit focus, South Keys remains convenient for drivers thanks to nearby Airport Parkway and Bank Street, offering fast routes across the city.
6. A Multicultural Community with Heart
One of South Keys’ greatest strengths is its diversity. The community includes families, newcomers, professionals, and retirees from all walks of life. This mix has created a neighborhood where:
Multilingual schools and programs thrive.
Community events reflect cultures from around the world.
Local businesses offer international foods and products rarely found elsewhere in Ottawa.
It’s not uncommon to hear three or four languages spoken on a single walk to the grocery store — a testament to South Keys’ global character.
7. Schools & Family Appeal
South Keys is well-served by public, Catholic, and French schools, including:
Ridgemont High School
Roberta Bondar Public School
École élémentaire catholique Georges-Étienne-Cartier
Families also appreciate the abundance of parks, quiet residential streets, and access to after-school programs nearby in Greenboro and Hunt Club.
8. The Future of South Keys
The next few years promise major growth:
LRT South Extension completion will drive new development and attract more homebuyers.
Transit-oriented housing projects are planned near the station, adding modern condos and mixed-use spaces.
Redevelopment of aging retail zones could turn South Keys into a vibrant urban village with cafés, offices, and green spaces.
South Keys is no longer just a suburban shopping area — it’s emerging as a key growth corridor in Ottawa’s south end.
9. Who Should Move to South Keys?
South Keys is perfect for:
🚆 Commuters who want quick access to downtown via LRT.
🏡 First-time buyers seeking affordable entry into the market.
👨👩👧 Families who value parks and schools nearby.
🌎 Newcomers looking for a culturally diverse community.
💼 Investors targeting strong rental yields near major transit routes.
10. Why South Keys Is Worth Watching
If you’re looking for value, access, and diversity, South Keys offers something unique in Ottawa’s real estate landscape — it’s affordable today but well-positioned for tomorrow’s growth. With LRT expansion, new housing, and a community-driven spirit, South Keys is quietly becoming a model of modern, connected suburban living.
