Posted by: Karim Ali
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Where Should You Live?
If you’re moving to Ottawa for a military transfer, finding the right neighbourhood is key. Military families need good schools, easy commutes to DND HQ, strong resale value, and a community that supports frequent moves.
Ottawa has a mix of older, established neighbourhoods and newer suburban communities, each with pros and cons for military families. This guide breaks down the best places to live, home issues to watch for, and key factors to consider before buying.
1. What Military Families Need in a Neighbourhood
When choosing a home, military families should look at:
- Commute to DND HQ – The main military offices are in Downtown Ottawa (NDHQ), Kanata (Carling Campus), and Gatineau (Asticou Centre).
- Resale Potential – Many military families sell within 3-5 years, so an area with high demand is ideal.
- Schools & Family Amenities – Good schools, parks, and sports facilities matter when moving with kids.
- Rental Potential – If you’re posted elsewhere, can you rent out your home easily?
2. Best Neighbourhoods for Military Families in Ottawa
Orleans (Fallingbrook, Chapel Hill, Avalon)
Why it’s great for military families:
- Reasonable drive to DND HQ (downtown); + LRT expansions will soon allow for good transit access
- Family-friendly with top-rated schools, parks, and shopping
- Affordable compared to other Ottawan suburbs
Potential downsides:
- Commutes to Carling Campus would take longer (not a great option for those who work there)
- Some homes may have poly-b plumbing (more difficult to insure)
Best for: Families looking for good – especially francophone – schools, a suburban feel, and a strong resale market.
Barrhaven (Stonebridge, Chapman Mills, Half Moon Bay)
Why it’s great for military families:
- Close to Carling Campus (DND HQ Kanata) – 15 to 25 minute drive
- Newer homes with low maintenance costs
- Great for resale and rental potential
Potential downsides:
- Traffic congestion on Greenbank and Strandherd
- Longer commute to downtown HQ
Best for: Families working at DND Carling Campus who want a newer home and family-friendly environment.
Kanata (Morgan’s Grant, Beaverbrook, Bridlewood)
Why it’s great for military families:
- Closest to Carling Campus – 5 to 15 minute drive
- Mix of newer and established homes, strong resale demand
- Great shopping, recreation, and tech industry job opportunities for spouses
Potential downsides:
- Some older homes may have foundation settlement issues
- Newer communities may have smaller lot sizes
Best for: Families posted to DND Carling who want a suburban lifestyle close to work.
Alta Vista
Why it’s great for military families:
- One of the shortest commutes to downtown NDHQ – 10 minute drive
- Larger lot sizes, mature trees, and a strong community feel
- Good schools and access to CHEO and Ottawa General Hospital
Potential downsides:
- Older homes may have aluminum wiring or asbestos
- More expensive than other suburban areas like Orleans or Barrhaven
Best for: Families wanting quick downtown access and larger homes in an established area.
Westboro and Hintonburg
Why it’s great for military families:
- Downtown access – 10 to 15 minutes to NDHQ
- Trendy area with walkable shops, cafes, and parks
- Homes hold value well, great for long-term investment
Potential downsides:
- Older homes often need plumbing, electrical, or insulation upgrades
- Higher home prices compared to the suburbs
Best for: Buyers looking for a central location, strong investment potential, and a vibrant urban lifestyle.
3. Home Issues to Watch for in Ottawa
Flood-Prone Areas
Certain neighbourhoods, like Britannia, Rockcliffe Park, and Cumberland, have a history of flooding. Flood-prone homes can lead to higher insurance costs and resale challenges.
What to do before buying:
- Check Ottawa’s flood maps to see if the home is in a high-risk area
- Ask for details on past flood damage and improvements
- Get a home insurance quote before making an offer or as part of your conditions of purchase
Outdated Electrical and Plumbing
Some older homes may have poly-b plumbing or aluminum wiring. These can be expensive to replace and difficult to insure.
Long Commutes from the Quebec Side
Gatineau and Aylmer offer cheaper homes, but bridge traffic can add 30 or more minutes to a morning commute. Worth making the drive yourself a morning or two to try it out!
4. Should You Buy or Rent?
If you’re only in Ottawa for a short time, renting may be the better option. However, if you buy in a strong resale area and you have the flexibility to rent it out when you move, buying can be a smart choice.
Best areas for buying:
- Orleans, Barrhaven, Kanata – Affordable and strong resale value
- Westboro, Alta Vista, Other core neighbourhoods- High demand and appreciation
Best for renting out later on:
- Downtown condos – Low maintenance, easy to rent
- Suburbs with high rental demand – Barrhaven, Kanata, Orleans
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right neighbourhood for a military relocation to Ottawa depends on commute times, schools, resale value, and home conditions. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly suburb, an investment property, or a rental option, there’s a neighbourhood that fits your needs.
Need expert advice on buying or selling a home in Ottawa?
📩 Contact Karim Ali – Ottawa REALTOR® | Royal LePage Performance Realty at karim@nickfundytus.ca, or text/call 613-707-4409.
Bonus tips
1
Consider Pre-Listing Inspections When Selling
If you need to sell quickly before a transfer, a pre-listing inspection can help avoid surprises and speed up the sale.
2
Ask About Schools and Family Services
You may have access to DND-sponsored childcare and community programs!
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