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Thinking about finding a home in Old Ottawa East or Old Ottawa South? These two charming neighbourhoods, nestled along the Rideau River, offer a unique blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit. In Old Ottawa East, you’ll find tranquil parks, scenic river views, and a tight-knit community vibe, while Old Ottawa South boasts its own distinctive character with lively shops, local cafes, and easy access to urban conveniences. Whether you’re strolling through tree-lined streets or enjoying the serene riverfront, these neighbourhoods offer a perfect balance of quiet retreat and bustling activity.
If you’re ready to explore your next home in Old Ottawa East or Old Ottawa South, let me show you why these neighbourhoods are the perfect places to settle. From their rich history to their welcoming communities, there’s a home here waiting for you to discover.
Trying to decide if Old Ottawa East / Old Ottawa South or any of Ottawa’s other wonderful neighbourhoods is right for you and your family? Check out our Moving to Ottawa page for an overview of the city!
Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South are two of Ottawa’s most charming communities, each offering its own unique character. On the one hand, Old Ottawa East is known for its beautiful waterfront along the Rideau River, offering peaceful parks and a strong sense of community. While Old Ottawa South is equally appealing, with a vibrant atmosphere that blends historic homes, local boutiques, and a family-friendly environment. Both neighbourhoods enjoy close proximity to downtown Ottawa while maintaining their own distinct, laid-back lifestyles, making them ideal for those seeking a balance between urban access and residential tranquillity.
The Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) formally recognizes Old Ottawa South, Old Ottawa South/Rideau Gardens, and Ottawa East as the formal names for these neighbourhoods. However, we typically just refer to them as Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South, respectively. With the infamous Rideau Canal on the west-end and the Rideau River on the east-end of this pocket of land, this area is defined by its scenic waterways and picturesque views. The Rideau Canal and Rideau River not only offer breathtaking scenery but also provide year-round recreation, from paddleboarding in the summer to skating in the winter. These natural boundaries help create the close-knit, village-like feel that residents cherish, while still being just minutes away from downtown Ottawa. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful riverside walk or exploring the vibrant community hubs, Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South embody a perfect mix of nature, history, and urban living.
West of Old Ottawa East / Old Ottawa South:
North of Old Ottawa East / Old Ottawa South:
East of Old Ottawa East / Old Ottawa South:
South of Old Ottawa East / Old Ottawa South:
Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South offer an exceptional quality of life, combining the charm of residential tranquillity with the energy of a vibrant community. Tree-lined streets, green spaces, and proximity to both the Rideau Canal and Rideau River create an environment that feels like a peaceful retreat, yet you’re never far from the city’s conveniences. Whether it’s weekend farmers’ markets, local coffee shops, or boutique stores, residents enjoy a lifestyle where everything they need is within walking or biking distance. It’s a perfect blend of nature and urban amenities, making it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Community spirit thrives in these neighbourhoods, with active neighbourhood associations like the Old Ottawa East Community Association (OOECA) and the Old Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA) at the heart of local engagement. These associations work tirelessly to organize events, advocate for local issues, and maintain the unique charm and character of the neighbourhoods. From the Old Ottawa South Porch Sale to festivals and outdoor activities along the riverfront, there’s always something happening that brings the community together. Families, professionals, and retirees alike choose these areas for their welcoming atmosphere and the feeling of being part of something special. It’s this close-knit, engaged community that truly sets Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South apart as places where residents don’t just live—they thrive.
Both Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South offer a diverse range of housing options that cater to various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a charming, character-filled home with historical significance or a more modern property with updated amenities, these neighbourhoods have something for everyone. From stately century homes to cozy bungalows, and a growing selection of newer builds, the housing market here reflects the rich history and evolving nature of the community. With tree-lined streets and unique architectural styles, both neighbourhoods provide residents with the opportunity to find a home that perfectly fits their needs. For those with a passion for renovation, many of these older homes offer the chance to blend modern updates with the classic charm that defines the area.
The architectural landscape of Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South is rich in history, with a large proportion of homes built before 1960. In fact, 70% of the housing stock in these neighbourhoods dates back to pre-1960, giving the area its timeless character and charm. For those interested in more modern properties, 15% of homes were built between 1961 and 1990, while 10% of the housing was constructed between 1991 and 2010. Homes built after 2011 account for just 5% of the market, making newer builds a relatively limited but appealing option for those seeking contemporary designs in this historic setting. Both neighbourhoods also offer easy access to local amenities like schools, shops, and recreational areas, creating a perfect blend of urban convenience and a close-knit community feel. Whether you’re raising a family, starting fresh, or looking for a quiet retreat within the city, Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South provide a lifestyle that feels both connected and tranquil.
Living in this area is like stepping into a small-town where neighbours become friends and local events bring people together year-round. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing walk along the Rideau River, skating on the Canal in winter, or exploring the vibrant local businesses, there’s a sense of belonging here. With its mix of history, nature, and modern amenities, these neighbourhoods offer a peaceful, yet engaging lifestyle that makes every day feel a little brighter.
This area offers a wealth of educational opportunities, making them ideal for families and professionals alike. The area is home to several well-regarded public and private schools, offering options from elementary to high school. In Old Ottawa East, you’ll find Immaculata Intermediate School, Lady Evelyn Alternative School and École élémentaire catholique au cœur d’Ottawa, while Old Ottawa South is home to Hopewell Avenue Public School, which serves students from kindergarten through grade 8. For post-secondary education, Carleton University sits just across Bronson Ave, providing both a vibrant academic community and job opportunities in education, research, and administration. Additionally, with Saint Paul University in Old Ottawa East, OttawaU only 2.7 km away and Algonquin College 10.6 km away, the area caters well to those with roots in any of Ottawa’s post-secondary institutions.
When it comes to employment, residents benefit from the neighbourhoods’ close proximity to downtown Ottawa and major employment hubs. With an easy commute to the city’s core, Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South attract professionals working in government, tech, education, and healthcare. The nearby Lees Avenue and future Carleton University light rail transit (LRT) stations provide excellent public transportation options, making commuting even more convenient. Additionally, the area’s growing local business scene, with shops, restaurants, and service-based businesses, creates employment opportunities right within the community, supporting the neighbourhoods’ thriving local economy.
Looking for a specific type of school? Try the Ontario Ministry of Education School Information Finder.
1349 Randall Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H7R2 | JK-8 | |
798 Lyon Street South St, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5H5 | JK-6 | |
88 Main Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 1C2 | JK-8 | |
73 First Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 2G1 | JK-6 | |
28 Arlington Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 1C2 | 7-8 | |
17 Hopewell Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 2Y7 | JK-8 | |
140 Main St, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5P4 | 7-8 | |
63 Evelyn Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 0C6 | JK-6 | |
185 Fifth Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 2N1 | JK-6 | |
160 Percy Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1R 6E5 | 6-8 |
623, Smyth chemin, Ottawa, Ontario, K1G1N7 | 9-12 | |
212 Glebe Ave, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 2C9 | 9-12 | |
140 Main St, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5P4 | 9-12 | |
160 Percy St, Ottawa, Ontario, K1R 6E5 | 9-12 | |
2525 Alta Vista Dr, Ottawa, Ontario, K1V 7T3 | 9-12 |
Old Ottawa East and Old Ottawa South offer excellent transportation options, making commuting to downtown Ottawa and other key areas both quick and convenient. The neighbourhoods are well-connected by major roadways like Bank Street, Main Street, and the Queensway, offering easy access to the city’s core by car. For those who prefer public transit, the nearby Lees Avenue and future Carleton University LRT stations provide efficient service to downtown and beyond, allowing residents to avoid traffic and enjoy a stress-free commute.
Both neighbourhoods are also highly walkable, with many amenities, schools, and parks just a short stroll away. Cyclists will appreciate the extensive network of bike lanes and multi-use pathways, particularly along the scenic Rideau Canal and Rideau River, which offer safe, picturesque routes for commuting or recreation. Additionally, OC Transpo’s bus routes serve the area, providing frequent service and connections to various parts of the city.
Whether by car, bike, foot, or public transit, living in Old Ottawa East or Old Ottawa South means you’re always well-connected while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding natural landscapes on your daily commute.
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