Finding the Right Rental in the Right Neighbourhood: A Lifestyle Guide to Renting in Ottawa

Andrew Youssef
18.07.25 11:47 PM - Comment(s)

What to Consider When Choosing Your Next Apartment — and Why Location Still Matters

Whether you're a student, a remote worker, a newcomer to Canada, or simply craving a fresh start, finding the right rental in the right neighbourhood is key to loving where you live. It’s not just about square footage or whether the kitchen has stainless steel appliances (although that’s always nice). It’s about choosing a lifestyle — not just a lease.

At Ottawa Prime Properties, we believe that renting should feel empowering. That’s why we help you find more than just a place to live — we help you find a home that fits who you are and where you’re headed.

Why Neighbourhood Matters More Than Ever

Renters today are smarter, more intentional, and more lifestyle-driven than ever before. With remote and hybrid work allowing more flexibility, we’re seeing clients prioritize things like:

  • Walkability

  • Community vibe

  • Access to transit

  • Green space

  • Local cafes, gyms, and grocery options

It’s not just about living in Ottawa — it’s about living in the part of Ottawa that matches your vibe, your budget, and your goals.


Ottawa’s Most Renter-Friendly Neighbourhoods (And Why People Love Them)

Here’s a breakdown of the top neighbourhoods where we help renters find homes — plus what type of renter tends to thrive in each.

1. Centretown: For the Urban Professional

Centretown is one of Ottawa’s most sought-after rental areas — and for good reason.

  • Walkable to downtown offices, Parliament Hill, and the canal

  • Great mix of heritage buildings and modern units

  • Surrounded by shops, restaurants, and public transit

Who it’s great for:
Young professionals, government workers, couples

Listing Tip:
We often have 1- and 2-bedroom listings in this area.


2. The Glebe: For the Community-Driven Renter

Looking for charm, character, and a true neighbourhood feel? The Glebe is it.

  • Tree-lined streets and a vibrant main strip

  • Farmers' markets, yoga studios, independent cafes

  • Minutes from Lansdowne Park and Rideau Canal

Who it’s great for:
Families, creatives, renters seeking long-term stays

Bonus:
Many listings in the Glebe are in heritage homes or boutique buildings — unique layouts you won’t find in high-rises.

3. Westboro: For the Trendsetter

Westboro is stylish, social, and steps from the water.

  • Trendy shops, local breweries, fitness studios

  • Bike paths and riverfront walks

  • Modern condos and newly built apartments

Who it’s great for:
Tech professionals, fitness enthusiasts, dog lovers

Fun fact:
Westboro is often considered one of the most dog-friendly neighbourhoods in Ottawa.

4. Sandy Hill & ByWard Market: For Students and Night Owls

Want to be near campus, cafes, and nightlife? Sandy Hill and ByWard have you covered.

  • Close to University of Ottawa

  • Fast walk to bars, restaurants, and the market

  • Great mix of shared units and bachelor/1-bed options

Who it’s great for:
Students, international renters, young adults

Listing Tip:
This area sees fast turnover — reach out early to book viewings!

5. Gatineau (Hull): For Quiet, Affordable Living Close to Downtown

Just across the river, Gatineau offers lower rents, green space, and a calm pace — with downtown Ottawa only minutes away.

  • Affordable modern units

  • Perfect for hybrid workers or cross-river commuters

  • Bilingual community and relaxed vibe

Who it’s great for:
Professionals, downsizers, remote workers

Top Mistakes Renters Make When Choosing a Neighbourhood

Before you sign a lease, watch out for these common renter regrets:

1. Choosing Based Only on Rent Price
It’s tempting to go for the lowest rent, but saving $100 a month won’t matter much if you end up with a 90-minute commute or in an area that doesn’t feel safe.

2. Ignoring Commute & Transit
A great apartment is only great if you can get to work or school on time. Consider bus routes, walkability, or bike lanes — and always test commute times.

3. Overlooking Noise & Construction
Ask about nearby construction zones or busy roads. A stunning unit beside ongoing construction or a nightlife zone might affect sleep and sanity.

4. Not Considering Lifestyle Fit
You might love the look of a quiet, residential area but if you’re someone who thrives on energy, restaurants, and events, you might feel isolated.

5. Skipping the Tour
Photos rarely tell the full story. We always recommend a virtual or in-person tour to truly get a feel for the unit and the building.

Lifestyle-Driven Renting: Questions to Ask Yourself

Before choosing a location, ask yourself:

  • Do I want a quiet, residential feel — or city buzz?

  • How important is being near transit or bike paths?

  • Do I need pet-friendly or furnished options?

  • What do I want walking distance to? (Groceries, gym, cafés?)

  • Is this a short-term rental or a long-term lifestyle decision?

How We Help You Match with the Right Place

At Ottawa Prime Properties, we do more than just send you a list of available rentals. We take time to understand what you need — and then we do the heavy lifting.

Here’s what working with us looks like:

 ✅ DM us your move-in date, location preferences, and must-haves
✅ We send you a curated list of matching listings
✅ You choose to tour in person or virtually
✅ We walk you through the lease process
✅ You move in with confidence

Simple, modern, and personal — just how it should be.

What to Bring When You View a Rental

Whether virtual or in person, here’s what you should have ready:

  • Proof of income (letter of employment or recent pay stubs)

  • Government-issued ID

  • Rental references (previous landlord info or roommate testimonials)

  • Questions about lease, noise, internet, and parking

  • A checklist of your non-negotiables

What Our Renters Say

“I had been searching for a place for weeks. When I messaged OPP, I had 3 options within hours and was signing a lease within days.”
– Olivia M.

“They didn’t just help me find a place, they helped me figure out where I should be living. I ended up in Westboro and I love it.”
– Daniel K.

“Quick, honest, professional. That’s it.”
– Farah S.


Start Your Search Today

We work with renters at all stages:

  • New to the city

  • Relocating for work or school

  • Downsizing or upgrading

  • Looking for flexible or short-term leases

  • Needing pet-friendly or furnished units

Your new place might be just one message away.


Final Thoughts

Renting is about more than signing a lease, it’s about building a life.
Where you live impacts your daily joy, your peace of mind, and your future plans.

At Ottawa Prime Properties, we’re here to help you not only find the right space but the right place.

Let’s find your match.


Andrew Youssef