If you’re house hunting in Ottawa in 2026, $600,000 is one of the most common buyer budgets — especially for first-time buyers and move-up buyers trying to balance space, location, and monthly affordability.
But what $600,000 buys you depends heavily on where you buy, what you buy, and what trade-offs you’re willing to make.
This guide breaks down what $600,000 realistically buys you in Ottawa in 2026, by property type and neighbourhood style.
The Big Picture: Ottawa in 2026
Ottawa remains more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, but pricing varies widely by:
Neighbourhood
Property type
Building age
Transit access
At the $600K level, buyers are usually choosing two of three:
Location
Space
Turnkey condition
Option 1: Condo Living (Urban & Central Areas)
What $600,000 Can Buy
Modern 1–2 bedroom condo
Newer or recently renovated building
Often includes parking and locker
Where This Is Common
Downtown / Centretown
Westboro condo pockets
Little Italy
Trade-Offs
Condo fees
Less square footage
Shared amenities and rules
This option suits buyers prioritizing walkability, lifestyle, and low maintenance.
Option 2: Freehold Townhomes (Suburban & Transitional Areas)
What $600,000 Can Buy
2–3 bedroom freehold townhouse
1–2 bathrooms
Small yard or outdoor space
Where This Is Common
Barrhaven
Orléans
Riverside South
Parts of Kanata
Trade-Offs
Longer commute
Less central amenities
This is often the sweet spot for first-time buyers wanting ownership without condo fees.
Option 3: Older Semis or Small Detached Homes
What $600,000 Can Buy
Older semi-detached or compact detached
Likely requires updates
Smaller lot sizes
Where This Is Possible
Select pockets of Nepean
Older areas of Orléans
Transitional neighbourhoods
Trade-Offs
Renovation costs
Maintenance responsibility
This suits buyers comfortable with projects and gradual upgrades.
What $600,000 Usually Doesn’t Buy
In most Ottawa neighbourhoods in 2026, $600K typically won’t buy:
Newer detached homes in central areas
Large lots close to downtown
Fully renovated homes in premium neighbourhoods
Understanding these limits early prevents frustration.
Monthly Cost Reality Check
Two homes priced at $600,000 can feel very different month to month.
Factors that change affordability:
Condo fees
Property taxes
Utilities
Maintenance
Always compare total monthly carrying costs, not just price.
Who $600,000 Works Best For
This budget often fits buyers who:
Are buying their first home
Want to stop renting
Are okay with trade-offs
Plan to stay 5+ years
Clarity matters more than stretching.
How Neighbourhood Choice Changes Everything
At $600,000, neighbourhood selection matters more than the home itself.
A townhouse in Barrhaven and a condo downtown may cost the same — but deliver completely different lifestyles.
Choosing the right area often matters more than buying the “perfect” house.
Want to See Real Examples?
Online searches don’t always show what’s realistic — or what’s coming soon.
If you’re working with a $600,000 budget in Ottawa, a shortlist of real listings and neighbourhoods that actually fit your goals can save time and frustration.
Happy to walk through what your budget can realistically buy in today’s market.
