Introduction – Starting Fresh in the Nation’s Capital
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, but settling in the right community makes a world of difference. Ottawa—Canada’s capital—is one of the most welcoming and diverse cities in the country. With great schools, strong job opportunities, and vibrant multicultural neighborhoods, it’s no surprise that many newcomers choose to make it home. This guide highlights the best Ottawa suburbs for new Canadians in 2025.
What Makes a Great Suburb for Newcomers?
When choosing where to live, most new Canadians look for:
Affordable housing
Access to public transit
Strong schools and childcare
Multilingual services and support
Cultural and faith-based communities
Employment opportunities nearby
Fortunately, Ottawa offers several suburbs that check all these boxes.
1. Orleans – Family-Friendly and Diverse
Orleans, located in the city’s east end, is one of Ottawa’s most popular suburbs for newcomers.
Why it’s great for new Canadians:
Plenty of French and English school options
A mix of detached homes and affordable townhouses
Access to multicultural churches, mosques, and temples
Active community centres and newcomer programs
Direct bus and LRT access to downtown
2. Barrhaven – A Growing Suburb with Community Spirit
Barrhaven is one of Ottawa’s fastest-growing suburbs, especially popular with families from a wide range of cultural backgrounds.
Highlights:
Affordable newer homes and rental options
Close-knit communities with parks and recreation centres
Numerous places of worship and cultural associations
Schools offering ESL support and French immersion
Good transit connections and future LRT expansion
3. Kanata – Tech Hub with a Global Outlook
Kanata, west of downtown Ottawa, is known as the city’s tech and innovation district. It attracts skilled newcomers from around the world.
Perks for new Canadians:
Job opportunities in tech, engineering, and IT
New developments and diverse neighborhoods
Access to excellent schools and public libraries
Growing number of cultural food markets and international restaurants
Major employers located nearby, reducing commute times
4. Alta Vista – Central and Established
Alta Vista is a well-established neighborhood that offers a balance of city access and suburban calm. It’s home to many embassies, diplomats, and long-time Ottawa families.
What makes it ideal:
Wide variety of housing styles, including bungalows and apartments
Excellent access to healthcare, schools, and transit
Close to downtown and the General Hospital campus
Welcoming community organizations and multicultural events
5. South Keys/Greenboro – Transit-Oriented and Diverse
This south Ottawa community offers great affordability and is served by the O-Train and major bus lines, making it ideal for newcomers without a car.
Reasons to consider it:
Strong mix of condos, rentals, and townhomes
Ethnically diverse population with active community groups
Walkable access to shopping, services, and schools
Multiple language support in nearby institutions
Quick access to downtown, universities, and airport
6. Riverside South – Peaceful, New, and Expanding
A newer suburb south of the airport, Riverside South is appealing to families seeking quiet streets and brand-new homes.
Best features:
Family-friendly subdivisions and modern layouts
New schools, parks, and shopping developments
Close to places of worship and newcomer services
Well-planned infrastructure with future transit upgrades
Tips for New Canadians Choosing a Suburb
Visit different areas at different times of day before deciding
Look into nearby ESL programs, settlement services, and employment centres
Consider access to cultural grocery stores and public transit
Ask about newcomer support at local schools and libraries
Work with a real estate agent who understands immigration and settlement needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ottawa a good city for immigrants?
Yes. Ottawa is one of Canada’s most diverse cities, with supportive services and inclusive neighborhoods.
Q: Are there settlement services in the suburbs?
Yes. Many community centres and libraries offer newcomer help, language support, and job services in the suburbs.
Q: Which suburb has the most diversity?
Barrhaven and South Keys are among the most ethnically diverse. Kanata and Orleans are also rapidly growing in diversity.
Q: Is it expensive to live in these suburbs?
Compared to other major cities in Canada, Ottawa suburbs offer more affordable housing with a high quality of life.
Q: Will my children have access to good schools?
Yes. Ottawa has strong public and Catholic school systems, many with ESL and French immersion support.
Q: How do I get around if I don’t drive?
Suburbs like Greenboro and South Keys offer good public transit. The LRT is expanding to better connect all areas of the city.
Conclusion – A Fresh Start in the Right Community
Choosing the right suburb is one of the most important steps for a new Canadian settling in Ottawa. Whether you're looking for affordability, community support, strong schools, or public transit, there’s a neighborhood here for you. Ottawa’s suburbs aren’t just places to live—they’re places to build a future.
