Living in Parkwood Hills, Ottawa: A Local’s Guide
Parkwood Hills is one of Ottawa’s hidden gems for families, first-time buyers, and long-time residents alike. Nestled in the city’s southwest end, this established neighbourhood combines quiet, tree-lined streets with exceptional proximity to shopping, schools, and transit — making it one of the most conveniently located communities in the Nepean area.
What Makes Parkwood Hills Unique?
Parkwood Hills was developed in the 1960s and 1970s, giving the area its signature blend of mature trees, spacious lots, and classic mid-century homes. Unlike newer subdivisions, the neighbourhood has a well-established charm and a true sense of community. You’ll find kids playing outside, neighbours chatting over fences, and long-time residents who’ve called Parkwood Hills home for decades.
It’s also one of the few Ottawa neighbourhoods where you’ll find a diverse mix of housing types — from detached bungalows and two-storey homes to affordable row houses and high-rise rentals. This blend keeps the area vibrant and accessible to all stages of life, from student renters to growing families and downsizers.
Homes in Parkwood Hills
The homes in Parkwood Hills are known for their solid construction, larger-than-average yards, and functional layouts. Common features include:
3–4 bedroom side-splits and back-splits
Brick bungalows with finished basements
Townhomes built in the 70s and 80s
A growing number of renovated properties
Condo townhome complexes offering affordability
Because the area has been around for a while, buyers often find more square footage for the price compared to newer builds further outside the core.
Schools and Education
Parkwood Hills is a top pick for families thanks to its access to well-rated schools, including both public and Catholic options. Highlights include:
Merivale High School (offering the International Baccalaureate program)
Meadowlands Public School
St. Gregory School (Catholic elementary)
Frank Ryan Intermediate School
Algonquin College just a short drive or transit ride away
The presence of top-tier high school programs and bilingual education options gives parents peace of mind when planning for the future.
Parks, Recreation, and Amenities
You don’t have to go far to enjoy green space in Parkwood Hills. The area is home to several parks and recreational hubs:
Parkwood Hills Park with sports fields, play structures, and open space
Charlotte Lemieux Park — perfect for dog walks and casual strolls
Nepean Sportsplex just minutes away with pools, gyms, and skating rinks
Easy access to the Experimental Farm Pathway for running, biking, and nature
Parkwood Hills also has its own community centre and is served by OC Transpo routes, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.
Shopping and Everyday Conveniences
One of Parkwood Hills’ biggest advantages is its central location. You're never more than a few minutes away from major shopping areas like:
Merivale Road — home to grocery stores, restaurants, banks, and box stores
College Square for big-name shops and transit hub connections
Baseline and Meadowlands retail corridors
Farm Boy, Metro, and Real Canadian Superstore nearby
This isn’t a neighbourhood where you need to drive 20 minutes to grab a carton of milk — convenience is truly part of the lifestyle.
Who Lives in Parkwood Hills?
The community is a healthy mix of:
Young families attracted by affordability and school access
Retirees who appreciate the quiet, walkable streets
Students and professionals due to the rental mix and transit access
Immigrant families drawn by the multicultural atmosphere and accessibility
There’s a distinct sense of diversity and friendliness here — a place where people actually say hello when you pass them on the sidewalk.
Real Estate Market Snapshot
Parkwood Hills is considered one of the best value-for-dollar neighbourhoods in Nepean. The market here typically features:
Detached homes from the high $500s
Townhomes and condos starting in the $400s
Rental units and investment properties at lower price points
Steady resale value due to the location and school zone appeal
Because of its location and variety of homes, Parkwood Hills remains in demand regardless of market trends.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a neighbourhood in Ottawa that offers space, charm, great schools, and unbeatable convenience — Parkwood Hills should be on your radar. Whether you're buying your first home, upsizing for a growing family, or looking to invest in a rental, this is a smart, strategic choice.
📍 Parkwood Hills: Classic Ottawa charm meets modern-day convenience.