Kanata
Detached homes and townhouses on quiet crescents, plus newer condos near the Centrum. Good schools, Beaver Pond trails, and the Kanata tech park next door. About 25 minutes to downtown on the 417.
Barrhaven
Newer townhouses and condos, lots of parks and playgrounds, and Barrhaven Town Centre for daily shopping. Fallowfield Via Rail station and quick 417 access. About 25 minutes to downtown.
Orléans
Detached homes and townhouses at gentler prices, strong French schools, and Place d'Orléans for shopping. The river pathway runs nearby for weekend walks. About 20 minutes to downtown on the 174.
Nepean
A mix of older detached homes, townhouses and condos, with Merivale Road shopping and plenty of parks. Bus routes and the future LRT keep downtown close. About 15 minutes to downtown.
Westboro
Richmond Road shops and cafés, the river at the end of the street, and a mix of renovated detached homes and newer condos. One of the most walkable pockets in the city. About 10 minutes to downtown.
Glebe
Bank Street shops, the canal, and Lansdowne Park on the doorstep. Older character homes plus condos for a low-maintenance base. About 10 minutes to downtown.
Photos are illustrative.