Ottawa, ON
Renting Guide
Canada's capital city with a rich cultural scene and diverse neighborhoods.
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a vibrant city known for its political significance and cultural offerings. As the seat of government, it is a hub for policy and decision-making, while also being a center for arts, education, and culture. The city offers a high standard of living and a robust job market, attracting diverse residents. Despite its urban conveniences, many Ottawa neighborhoods retain a small-town charm, making it a unique blend of urban and suburban lifestyles.
Ottawa's history is deeply rooted in its role as a governmental center, but it has grown to become much more. It hosts numerous national museums, galleries, and institutions that contribute to its rich cultural landscape. The city is proudly bilingual, reflecting its location near the Quebec border and its commitment to embracing both English and French cultures. While bilingualism can be an asset in the job market, the city's diverse opportunities make it welcoming to all.
Housing Market
Ottawa has long been a preferred city for those seeking a balance of urban living and affordability compared to other major Canadian cities. However, the housing market is experiencing a shift with increased demand and limited supply, leading to competitive rental conditions. Prospective renters might consider exploring areas beyond Ottawa's core for more options.
Typical housing type:
Ottawa features a mix of detached homes, high-rise apartments, and row houses, offering diverse living arrangements to suit different needs.
Apartment Hunting
Ottawa offers a wide variety of rental options, from cozy apartments to spacious houses, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for Ottawa apartments for rent with modern amenities like carpeted or ceramic flooring, or high-rise condos in the downtown area with hardwood floors, you'll find plenty of choices. Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods to discover the perfect rental that suits your lifestyle.
If you're in search of a 1-bedroom apartment with a dishwasher and laundry facilities, or a chic downtown 2-bedroom condo, Ottawa has you covered. For those needing more space, consider a 3-bedroom townhouse or a 4-bedroom house. While student housing options may be limited, they often include utilities and other amenities.
Define your rental priorities and preferred neighborhoods, then dive into listings on your favorite rental sites to find the ideal property for your needs.
Explore Property Types
Canada’s capital has a lot more to offer than just politics, beavertails, and poutine. Ottawa has something for everyone. Take a look at the different properties found in Ottawa and see for yourself!
Apartments
Ottawa is one of Canada’s fastest growing cities, and the development reflects this. Ottawa Apartments for rent can be found in every corner of the city, so figure out what neighbourhood you want to live in and start searching!
Studios
Ottawa is one of Canada’s oldest cities and has charming old-fashioned style buildings to reflect that. Many Ottawa studio apartments for rent are converted family homes in the urban center, so you will find a unique place to live in exciting neighbourhoods!
Bachelors
Looking for an affordable place to live alone? Ottawa bachelor apartments for rent are spread out across the city but mainly concentrated in the downtown core. A good tip, check out neighbourhoods like Sandy Hill, Centretown and the Glebe to take advantage of bachelor apartments near all the amenities.
Basements
Ottawa has tons of residential neighbourhoods away from the downtown core. Ottawa basement apartments for rent are easy to find for someone looking for quieter surroundings in the suburbs. Just be sure to ask your upstairs neighbours about their lifestyle!
Duplexes
Many properties in Ottawa are converted family homes. So Ottawa duplexes for rent are always available! Always go for a tour and try to get a feel for the neighbours. You’ll be sharing a wall so noisy neighbours can get old really fast.
Houses
Ottawa is a great place for families to live and with three main suburbs, you are sure to find your perfect new home. Check out Kanata, Barrhaven, and Orleans for the best Ottawa houses for rent family friendly neighbourhoods.
Rooms
Ottawa is a popular destination for young professionals. Rather than renting a full apartment, an affordable option is to rent a room in a house or apartment. You can find rooms for rent in Ottawa around every neighbourhood, and they can be a great way to meet people if you are new to the city.
Condos
New developments are popping up all over the city adding to the already huge list of available properties for rent. Ottawa condos for rent come in all shapes and sizes ready for whatever lifestyle you live. Check out the building amenities to make sure you get the most out of your new home!
Look for the Amenities you want
Loving where you live is about more than just location. Filter your search by the amenities you want so your new apartment feels like home.
Wheelchair-accessible
Being in a wheelchair does not need to limit your possibilities when looking for a new home! Plenty of buildings in Ottawa have elevators and ramps to make life accessible for you. Check out Ottawa wheelchair accessible apartments for rent to find an apartment that's right for you.
Pool
Ottawa has beautiful waterways you can enjoy year round. But when it's time for a swim we recommend sticking to a pool. Check out Ottawa apartments that have a pool to find buildings that offer a place to relax after a long day.
Gym
It has been said that Ottawa is the Shawarma capital of the world. They may be delicious, but after gorging yourself on a tasty sandwich you may want to work some of it off. Luckily Ottawa apartments for rent that have gyms are in healthy supply!
Fireplace
There is nothing quite like a working fireplace to heat up your home, and with Ottawa being one of the coldest Capital cities in the world you may need it! Ask the landlords of Ottawa apartments with fireplaces if they are gas electric, or standard so that you can use them safely.
Dishwasher
Just cooked a meal with some amazing produce from the Byward Market? Ottawa apartments with a dishwasher are perfect for that post-feast clean up!
Balcony
Why miss out on the beautiful Ottawa skyline? Take a look at Ottawa apartments with a balcony to get a view of local parks, Parliament hill, the Rideau Canal, or the Gatineau Hills.
Air Conditioning
Ottawa might be a winter city, but that does not mean summers won’t get hot as well. Ottawa apartments for rent with air conditioning are perfect to keep you cool when the city starts roasting.
Washer-Dryer
Ottawa apartments for rent with a washer and dryer are always in demand. Be sure to ask your landlord or property manager about whether it is ensuite, or communal laundry facilities.
Specialty Housing Filters
Not all housing options are built the same, and not all living situations are either. It is important that your home fits your needs and lifestyle. Check out the options below to find the perfect fit.
Pet-Friendly
Ottawa is built to be a very pet-friendly city. You’ll easily find parks and recreation areas in every neighbourhood. Check out the pet-friendly rentals in Ottawa to find the one that matches your needs. Always ask the landlord about pet policies so you don’t get surprises down the road.
Furnished
Moving to Ottawa but have no furniture? There are plenty of options for you in Ottawa furnished apartments for rent. Not all furnishings are the same quality so ask for recent pictures and details on what the property offers.
Short-Term
Moving to Ottawa for a temporary work term? Short term rentals in Ottawa can be found easily. Oftentimes it will be a sublet or lease transfer. So make sure to speak to potential roommates before signing anything – you want to make sure your lifestyles match up.
Corporate-Housing
Ottawa has a rapidly growing economy, so you may find yourself relocating to the city for work. Corporate housing in Ottawa are communities and buildings with professional friendly environments. Ask about available amenities and furnishings as they are common.
Student-Housing
Ottawa has two universities and two colleges across the city. This means that every year tens of thousands of students will be searching for student housing Ottawa. Neighbourhoods like Sandy Hill, The Glebe, and Old Ottawa South are great places to start your search!
Cheap
Ottawa may be a big Canadian city, but the prices are much better compared to the more expensive destinations like Toronto and Vancouver. Cheap apartments for rent in Ottawa are available for the price conscious renter. Pro tip, Ottawa has plans to build on its already existing transit lines, so living near public transit can help offset more expenses.
Luxury
The city has a diverse rental market with affordable housing, student housing and tons of luxury apartments in Ottawa. Check for new builds in the urban neighbourhoods like Centretown and Hintonburg for a swanky place to call home.
The best thing about apartments for rent in Ottawa is the vast array of rental options available to you. You’ll have no problem finding everything from Ottawa houses for rent with carpeted flooring to high-rises with ceramic flooring, to downtown Ottawa apartments for rent with hardwood flooring.
Residents
Ottawa's population includes a diverse mix of students, families, and older adults. Students, often in their twenties, are drawn to the city's educational institutions and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and affordable dining options. Families in Ottawa vary in size and age, finding the city accommodating to different family dynamics.
The city also hosts retirees and older Canadians, including some Members of Parliament, who appreciate the city's amenities and cultural offerings. This demographic often enjoys the finer things in life, with a focus on comfort and convenience.
Life & Style
As the nation's capital, Ottawa is a city of political activity and educational excellence, boasting a lively atmosphere. The ByWard Market area is known for its vibrant nightlife with restaurants and clubs, while the city's cultural scene thrives with events at the National Gallery of Canada and the National Arts Centre. Ottawa also offers a charming small-town feel with markets, museums, and winter activities like skating on the Rideau Canal.
Transportation is convenient with robust public transit options and easy access to Gatineau, Quebec, for quick getaways. Ottawa's diverse cultural and recreational offerings make it an appealing choice for residents, despite the influx of summer tourists.
Neighbourhood
Discover rental opportunities in some of Ottawa's popular neighborhoods:
The city center is anchored by Parliament Hill, surrounded by the bustling Rideau Centre and Sparks Street for shopping. The ByWard Market offers a dynamic day and night scene with dining and entertainment. Ottawa's cultural landmarks, parks, and the scenic Rideau Canal enhance its appeal, while trendy areas like Wellington West and The Glebe offer unique living experiences.
Resources
Guides and Tips:
Renting in Ottawa: The Ultimate Guide for Tenants
12 Awesome Tips For Finding An Apartment In Ottawa
Apt 613: 10 Tips For Finding a Great Ottawa Apartment
Ottawa Blog Posts:
Top 8 Ottawa Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals
Best Apartment Buildings in Ottawa 2018
Top 10 Best Ottawa Neighbourhoods to Live In 2018
The 10 Most Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Ottawa
Top 10 Up and Coming Ottawa Neighbourhoods 2018
The Best Ottawa Neighbourhoods for Students