ByWard Market: A Local’s Guide to Living Here

Written By Karlie Malone

Historic charm meets urban living in ByWard Market, one of Ottawa’s most iconic and lively neighbourhoods. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or someone who wants to live where the action is, this area delivers. With its cobblestone streets, open-air market stalls, and walkable vibe, ByWard offers a lifestyle you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

Why People Love Living in ByWard Market

  • Steps from Everything: Living in the Market means you’re within walking distance of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Centre, the National Gallery, and countless cafés, bars, and boutiques.

  • A True Urban Lifestyle: It’s rare to find a neighbourhood in Ottawa where you can walk to work, groceries, fitness studios, and nightlife — but ByWard makes it easy.

  • Local Energy: From street musicians and pop-up art galleries to the year-round farmers’ market, there’s always something happening.

  • Perfect for Car-Free Living: With transit hubs, bike lanes, and pedestrian-focused streets, this is one of the easiest places in Ottawa to ditch the car entirely.

Types of Homes in ByWard Market

Real estate in the Market is almost exclusively condos and lofts, many of them in modern glass buildings or stylish conversions of heritage structures. If you’re looking for a character-filled space with exposed brick or concrete, this is your spot.

  • Typical purchase price: $350,000–$750,000 for 1–2 bed condos

  • Luxury penthouses: Can exceed $1M depending on size and views

  • Rental market: Studio and 1-bedroom units range from $1,700–$2,400/month

Buildings like Claridge Plaza, The Galleria, 700 Sussex, and East Market Lofts are among the most sought-after addresses.

Who Lives Here

ByWard Market tends to attract:

  • Young professionals who work in the downtown core

  • Government employees and diplomats

  • Creative professionals and entrepreneurs

  • Students and academics (with uOttawa a short walk away)

The lifestyle here appeals to people who want to be surrounded by energy and convenience, without the need for a big yard or quiet suburbia.

Schools & Education

While ByWard is more urban and less family-focused, nearby schools include:

  • York Street Public School (Elementary)

  • Lisgar Collegiate Institute (Secondary, highly ranked)

  • École élémentaire publique De la Salle (French-language arts school)

  • University of Ottawa (within walking distance)

For families looking to stay central with school-aged kids, options are available — though many families will eventually look east toward Sandy Hill or south to Old Ottawa East.

Amenities & Highlights

  • Parks & Paths: Major’s Hill Park and Bordeleau Park offer quiet green space in the middle of the city. You’re also minutes from the Rideau Canal.

  • Shops & Essentials: From local produce and flower stands to the Rideau Centre’s retail staples, you won’t go without.

  • Food Scene: Ottawa’s best restaurants, cocktail bars, cafés, and bakeries are concentrated right here — think Play, Sidedoor, La Bottega, and more.

  • Cultural Hotspots: The National Gallery, Ottawa Art Gallery, and uOttawa theatre scene are right in your backyard.

Getting Around

ByWard Market has some of the best transit and walkability scores in Ottawa:

  • LRT Access: Rideau Station connects you to the Confederation Line

  • Walk Score: 98/100

  • Bike Infrastructure: Easy access to the Ottawa bike network and canal paths

  • Proximity: 5–10 minutes to Parliament, uOttawa, and the downtown core

If you're commuting by foot, bike, or transit — or working from home — ByWard is a dream.

What Does a Home Cost in ByWard Market?

Here’s a snapshot of current pricing (based on 2024–2025 data):

  • Average condo sale price: ~$495,000

  • Average days on market: 27

  • List-to-sale price ratio: 98–102% (some competition in well-priced units)

Want a breakdown of your specific unit’s value? We’ll give you a personalized estimate based on current sales and building trends.

Browse Homes for Sale in ByWard Market

View current listings, price drops, and new inventory in the Market right here:

Looking for a heritage loft, luxury penthouse, or starter condo? We’ll help you find it — or show you what’s possible in your budget.

Ready to Explore ByWard Market?

Whether you're buying your first condo or relocating closer to work, we can help you navigate this unique neighbourhood.

Reach out any time for a walk-through, tour, or just to talk about what living here might look like.

Karlie Malone
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