Where are the Safest and Most Affordable Places to Live in Ottawa?

Combining safety and affordability may not seem realistic, but that is not the case in Ottawa. Crime rates are approximately 36% lower than the national average, and housing affordability is 35% less than the average cost worldwide. In most neighbourhoods in Ottawa, you won’t have to choose between one aspect of living over the other! When looking for an apartment, it’s important to reflect on your needs and budget while considering the different neighbourhoods available!

Downtown Ottawa

If you want to live in a city’s central hub but are concerned about safety, Downtown Ottawa may be your perfect match. While the downtown hub is slightly higher in crime than the more expensive neighbourhoods nearby, the crime rates in the area are still well below the national average. When looking at the cost of living, the downtown core is among the lowest in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. Downtown Ottawa is the city’s most accessible and walkable area. The LRT, transitway, highway, and most major bus routes are just steps away from most residences.

Ottawa West

Ottawa West is another area where you can find affordable apartments for rent while residing in quieter, safer and family-friendly neighbourhoods. The west end is best known for its vibrant communities, parks, sports fields, and schools. Two of the safest areas in Canada’s capital are Stittsville and Kanata, located at the edge of Ottawa’s west end. In addition to these options is the affordable Britannia area with river and city views, where rental prices start as low as $1,200. This neighbourhood is near the parkway with easy access to downtown and scenic trails along the Ottawa River for walking and biking.

Ottawa East

In the opposite direction from Ottawa West, Ottawa East is one of Ottawa’s fastest developing communities and an area increasingly popular for young families. It features two large shopping malls and convenient transit hubs for all major bus and rail routes. The cost of apartments has been slowly increasing in this area, but it is still well below the national average.

Ottawa South

Ottawa South covers a large area south of downtown and consists of many of the safest residential pockets in the city. This area is a great option for families featuring the perfect mixture of mature suburbs, new developments, and ample green space. It is also a popular location for young professionals who commute downtown for work. While it is one of the more expensive areas of the city, the cost is still lower than similar apartments in cities across the country.

Gatineau

Located across the river from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau is home to many attractions and nature, including the Canadian Museum of History and Gatineau Park. Those who live in Gatineau enjoy an affordable cost of living while still having the advantage of easy access to downtown Ottawa. This neighbourhood is well below the national average for crime rates. While renting prices in this area are also rising, it is still less expensive than most areas in Ottawa.

Many people are willing to pay a higher cost of rent to ensure that they live in a safe area. Ottawa is one of the safest places to reside in Canada, with crime rates being minimal compared to the more populated cities while still offering housing affordability. If you are considering making a move, now you know that there are a variety of options and neighbourhoods to choose from in Ottawa!