Living in Meadowlands, Ottawa: A Neighbourhood Guide
Meadowlands is one of Nepean’s most established and accessible neighbourhoods — a perfect blend of affordable housing, convenient transit, and nearby amenities. Whether you’re a student, a growing family, or an investor, Meadowlands offers a mix of value, space, and walkability that’s hard to beat in Ottawa’s west end.
Where is Meadowlands?
Located just south of Baseline Road and west of Prince of Wales Drive, Meadowlands straddles the line between Nepean and Ottawa South, putting residents within easy reach of everything from downtown to the airport. The area is bordered by Fisher Avenue to the east and Merivale Road to the west, with Meadowlands Drive running through its core.
It's adjacent to popular neighbourhoods like Parkwood Hills, City View, and Carleton Heights, and is only a short drive to Carleton University or Algonquin College.
What Makes Meadowlands Appealing?
This neighbourhood stands out for three key reasons: affordability, central location, and housing variety.
Unlike newly built suburbs on the city’s outskirts, Meadowlands offers mature trees, wide lots, and homes with character — often at a more reasonable price. The area also features:
Excellent public transit routes
Walkable access to schools, shops, and restaurants
Proximity to downtown (15–20 minutes)
Family-friendly parks and recreation
It’s a practical choice for anyone looking to avoid long commutes and high condo fees.
Housing in Meadowlands
Meadowlands offers one of the broadest ranges of housing types in Ottawa’s west end. Options include:
Detached homes from the 60s and 70s with large lots
Split-levels and bungalows ideal for families and investors
Affordable townhomes and condos perfect for first-time buyers
Low-rise apartment buildings and student rentals
Renovated homes with major upside potential
Because of this variety, the neighbourhood attracts a diverse population, from retirees to new Canadians, students, and young professionals.
Schools and Education
This is a top spot for families and students alike, with access to highly-rated schools and post-secondary institutions. Highlights include:
St. Pius X High School (Catholic)
Merivale High School (Public)
Meadowlands Public School
Algonquin College (10 minutes away)
Carleton University (accessible via transit or quick drive)
Whether you're raising a family or renting to students, the location is strategic for education.
Transit and Commuting
Meadowlands is extremely well-connected by OC Transpo, with frequent buses along Meadowlands Drive, Baseline Road, and Merivale Road. From here, you can easily:
Reach downtown Ottawa in ~25 minutes by bus
Commute to Carleton University or Algonquin College
Access the 417 or Airport Parkway in minutes
Walk or bike to everyday essentials
It's a great location for people who rely on public transportation or want to reduce their car usage.
Shopping, Dining, and Amenities
Living in Meadowlands means you're never far from a grocery store, restaurant, or hardware shop. The area is surrounded by practical and popular amenities:
Merivale Road for everything from Loblaws to Home Depot
Baseline Road for more big-box stores and fast-casual dining
College Square just west for shopping and groceries
Local favourites like Shawarma Palace, The Works, and Vietnam Palace
Need a gym, dentist, coffee shop, or yoga class? You’ll find them within a few blocks.
Green Space and Recreation
Meadowlands may be urban, but it still has plenty of green space and recreation options. Notable features include:
General Burns Park with splash pads, fields, and walking paths
Viewmount Park and Gilbey Park for neighbourhood gatherings
Easy access to the Experimental Farm Pathway for cycling and jogging
Nepean Sportsplex and Walter Baker Centre nearby for pools, fitness, and arenas
You’re never more than a 10-minute walk from somewhere to enjoy the outdoors.
Real Estate Market in Meadowlands
From an investment standpoint, Meadowlands remains one of Ottawa’s most accessible west-end neighbourhoods. Here's what you can typically expect:
Townhomes and condos starting in the low-to-mid $400s
Detached homes in the $550K–$700K range depending on size and upgrades
Rental income potential from student housing or in-law suites
Slow but steady appreciation due to location and lot sizes
With older homes and a central location, renovators and investors often see this area as full of opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Meadowlands is ideal for those who want big-city convenience with suburban comfort — all without breaking the bank. It’s practical, central, and full of potential whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or someone looking to settle in a quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood close to everything.
📍 Meadowlands: Space to grow, value you can count on, and a location that works for real life.