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Downtown Ottawa, Ottawa: Neighborhood Guide for Expats

Parliament Hill and government offices. Rideau Canal, ByWard Market nearby. Central but quiet.

Commute to Center

5 min

walk

Safety Rating

4/5

Safe

Vibe

centralgovernmenthistoric

Rent Prices in Downtown Ottawa

Monthly rent in CAD ($). First-hand contracts are directly with the landlord or housing company. Second-hand (sublet) contracts are typically more expensive.

Apartment SizeFirst-Hand RentSecond-Hand Rent
1 Bedroom$1,800 - $2,300/mo$2,000 - $2,500/mo
2 Bedrooms$2,400 - $3,000/mo$2,600 - $3,300/mo
3 Bedrooms$3,100 - $3,800/mo$3,400 - $4,200/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is rent in Downtown Ottawa, Ottawa?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Downtown Ottawa costs $2,000 - $2,500/month (second-hand contract) or $1,800 - $2,300/month (first-hand). A 2-bedroom ranges from $2,600 - $3,300/month, and a 3-bedroom from $3,400 - $4,200/month.
Is Downtown Ottawa safe for expats?
Downtown Ottawa has a safety rating of 4/5 (Safe). It is generally considered a safe area for expats and families.
How long is the commute from Downtown Ottawa to Ottawa center?
The commute from Downtown Ottawa to Ottawa city center takes approximately 5 minutes by walk.
What is Downtown Ottawa like to live in?
Parliament Hill and government offices. Rideau Canal, ByWard Market nearby. Central but quiet. The neighborhood is known for being central, government, historic.

Other Neighborhoods in Ottawa

ByWard Market

8 min walk to center

1BR from $1,900/mo

marketnightlifehistoric

The Glebe

15 min bus to center

1BR from $1,900/mo

familiesshopscanal

Westboro

15 min LRT to center

1BR from $1,800/mo

trendyboutiquesriver

Centretown

8 min walk to center

1BR from $1,800/mo

urbandiversetransit

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Updated Mar 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data