Old Ottawa South: A Local’s Guide to Living Here
Tucked between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, Old Ottawa South is a quiet, charming, and family-friendly neighbourhood with deep roots and a strong sense of community. It’s known for its walkable streets, early 20th-century homes, and proximity to both downtown Ottawa and Carleton University. If you’re looking for a neighbourhood with character, nature, and lifestyle balance, Old Ottawa South offers all three — right in the heart of the city.
Why People Love Living in Old Ottawa South
Charming Homes with Personality: Most houses were built between 1900 and 1940, giving the area a beautiful, historic feel that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city.
Waterfront Living: With the Rideau Canal to the north and the Rideau River to the south, you’re never far from a scenic walk, paddle, or skate.
A True Neighbourhood Feel: Expect kids biking to school, neighbours chatting on front lawns, and local businesses that know your name.
Walkable and Close to Everything: Steps from Bank Street shops, Carleton University, Lansdowne Park, and the Glebe — yet noticeably more peaceful.
Types of Homes in Old Ottawa South
Real estate in Old Ottawa South is mostly single-family detached homes with unique architecture, lush gardens, and lots of character. You’ll also find semi-detached homes, modest infills, and a handful of low-rise condo buildings closer to Bank Street.
Detached homes range from $850,000 to $2M+, depending on size and condition
Semis and infills typically fall between $750,000 and $1.3M
Condos and small townhomes are rare, but start around $500,000
Rental units include converted duplexes and basement suites, mostly occupied by students and faculty
Turnover here is low — most buyers move in and stay for years.
Who Lives Here
Old Ottawa South has a strong sense of community and tends to attract:
Families who want a central, walkable location with top schools nearby
University staff and students from Carleton, which borders the neighbourhood
Professionals and public servants commuting downtown or to nearby health and academic centres
Retirees and long-time residents who value quiet streets, greenery, and a neighbourhood that still feels like a village
Schools & Education
One of the reasons families love Old Ottawa South is its proximity to some of Ottawa’s most respected schools:
Hopewell Avenue Public School (K–8)
Southside Preschool and After School Program
Immaculata High School (just across the Rideau Canal)
Carleton University (directly adjacent to the south end of the neighbourhood)
There are also plenty of after-school programs, sports leagues, and library branches nearby to support active family life.
Amenities & Highlights
Parks & Nature: Windsor Park, Brewer Park, and the Rideau River Eastern Pathway offer trails, green space, and outdoor recreation for all ages
Bank Street Village: Independent coffee shops, bookstores, restaurants, and local grocers form the beating heart of the community
Recreation & Activities: Brewer Park offers tennis, soccer, a public pool, and skate park — while the Old Ottawa South Community Centre hosts year-round programming
Quick Access to Lansdowne: Just a short walk across the Canal to shops, restaurants, the stadium, and year-round events
Public Library: The Sunnyside branch is a favourite community hub
Getting Around
Old Ottawa South makes commuting and getting around the city easy — even without a car.
Walk Score: High — most errands, school drop-offs, and outings can be done on foot
Bike Paths: Connects directly to the Rideau Canal Pathway and the Rideau River Eastern Pathway
Transit Access: Served by several OC Transpo bus routes, with easy access to Carleton’s transit hub and the LRT at Carleton or Lansdowne
Driving: Quick drive downtown via Bronson, Bank, or Colonel By Drive, and easy access to Highway 417
What Does a Home Cost in Old Ottawa South?
Homes here rarely sit on the market for long. With such strong demand, especially from families and university-affiliated buyers, pricing has remained resilient.
Average detached home: $1M–$1.4M
Luxury and renovated homes: $1.5M–$2.2M+
Entry-level semis and townhomes: $700,000–$850,000
Condo units or rentals: Scarce, and typically above city-average price per square foot
Days on market: Often under 20 for well-priced homes
Inventory is low, and demand is strong — especially for homes within a few blocks of the river or Hopewell Avenue PS.
Browse Homes in Old Ottawa South
Whether you're drawn to the red-brick charm of a century home or the convenience of a newer infill, Old Ottawa South has a timeless appeal that never goes out of style. Every street has its own personality, and every home tells its own story — making this neighbourhood one of Ottawa’s most sought-after communities.
Ready to Explore Old Ottawa South?
If you’re searching for a quiet, connected, and character-filled neighbourhood that feels like a small town in the heart of the city, Old Ottawa South should be at the top of your list. From family life to retirement living, this neighbourhood makes it easy to stay for a lifetime.