Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa for Families with Kids (2026 Guide)

Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa for Families with Kids — 2026

When choosing a neighborhood in Ottawa, families with kids should prioritize:

• Proximity to high-quality schools, both public and private.
• Access to parks and recreational spaces for outdoor activities.
• Safe, family-friendly streets with low traffic and a sense of community.
• Convenient public transit options for easy commuting.

Westboro

Price Range: $950,000 - $1,300,000

Westboro is a vibrant neighborhood known for its excellent schools, such as Broadview Public School and Nepean High School. The standout feature for families is its proximity to Westboro Beach and the Ottawa River Pathway, offering endless outdoor activities. Transit access is convenient with the Westboro Station on the Confederation Line providing quick downtown access. However, the downside is its higher home prices, which may not be affordable for all families.

Alta Vista

Price Range: $700,000 - $950,000

Alta Vista offers spacious homes and is home to some of Ottawa's best schools, including Canterbury High School, known for its arts program. Families will appreciate the numerous parks, such as Billings Estate National Historic Site and Alta Vista Park. OC Transpo routes 8 and 88 provide reliable transit options. The downside is that some areas lack the walkability found in more urban neighborhoods.

Kanata Lakes

Price Range: $800,000 - $1,100,000

Kanata Lakes is ideal for families seeking a suburban lifestyle with excellent schools like Earl of March Secondary School. The standout feature is its proximity to Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre and the numerous parks, such as Walter Baker Park. Transit is served by OC Transpo's rapid transit routes like the 61 and 62. The downside is the longer commute to downtown Ottawa, which can be a deterrent for some families.

The Glebe

Price Range: $1,000,000 - $1,500,000

The Glebe is a charming, historic neighborhood with top-notch schools, including Mutchmor Public School. Families will love the community events and access to Lansdowne Park. The area is well-served by OC Transpo routes 6 and 7. The downside is the premium price tag, which can be prohibitive for many families looking to buy their first home.

Riverside South

Price Range: $650,000 - $900,000

Riverside South is a growing community with modern amenities and schools like Steve MacLean Public School. The standout feature is its abundance of green spaces, including Claudette Cain Park. The new Trillium Line extension offers improved transit access to the city center. The downside is that the area is still developing, which might mean ongoing construction and fewer established community services.

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While Hintonburg and Centretown offer trendy lifestyles, they may not suit families with kids. Hintonburg's vibrant arts scene and nightlife can feel too bustling and less family-oriented. Centretown, despite its central location, often lacks the spacious homes and ample green spaces that families typically desire. Both neighborhoods also tend to have higher crime rates compared to more suburban areas, which can be a concern for families with young children.