In 2026, $700,000 remains a key affordability ceiling for many Ottawa buyers.

While detached homes under this price are rare in the core, buyers can still find excellent townhomes, semis, and select detached options — if they know where to look.

This guide breaks down the best Ottawa neighbourhoods where $700K still goes far in 2026, based on livability, access, resale strength, and buyer demand.

What $700K Typically Buys in Ottawa (2026)

Under $700K, most buyers can expect:

• Freehold townhomes or semis

• Some older detached homes in outer neighbourhoods

• Larger condos or stacked towns in urban areas

The key trade-off is usually space vs location.

1. Orléans

Why it works under $700K:

• Strong supply of freehold townhomes

• Growing LRT access improving commute times

• Family-friendly layout and newer housing stock

Best for: First-time buyers, young families, long-term holds

2. Barrhaven

Why it works under $700K:

• Consistent inventory of townhomes and semis

• Strong school districts

• High buyer demand supports resale

Best for: Families prioritizing space and value

3. Riverside South

Why it works under $700K:

• Newer townhome developments

• LRT expansion driving long-term upside

• Popular with move-up buyers

Best for: Buyers focused on appreciation and newer builds

4. Kanata (Select Pockets)

Why it works under $700K:

• Established neighbourhoods with strong amenities

• Access to tech employment hubs

• Mix of townhomes and older semis

Best for: Professionals and families

5. Beacon Hill / Blackburn Hamlet

Why it works under $700K:

• Mature communities with parks and schools

• Close proximity to downtown and NCC green space

• Some older detached homes still available

Best for: Buyers valuing character and location

6. Carlington

Why it works under $700K:

• Central location near hospitals and transit

• Strong redevelopment activity

• Increasing buyer interest

Best for: Buyers seeking future upside

Neighbourhoods That Are Getting Tougher Under $700K

In 2026, these areas are increasingly difficult under $700K:

• Westboro

• Hintonburg

• The Glebe

• Alta Vista (detached)

Townhomes or condos may still be possible, but expectations need adjustment.

How to Choose the Right Neighbourhood

Ask yourself:

• Do I value commute time or living space more?

• Am I buying for lifestyle or resale?

• Is this a 3-year or 10-year plan?

The best neighbourhood is the one that aligns with both budget and timeline.

Common Buyer Mistake

Many buyers focus only on price — but ignore:

• Future infrastructure

• School zones

• Resale depth

Neighbourhood quality matters just as much as the home.

Want Listings Under $700K That Actually Make Sense?

Online searches often surface outdated or unrealistic listings.

If you want current, realistic options under $700K — broken down by neighbourhood and property type — a targeted search saves time and frustration.

Happy to help narrow it down.

If you’re house hunting in Ottawa in 2026, $600,000 is one of the most common buyer budgets — especially for first-time buyers and move-up buyers trying to balance space, location, and monthly affordability.

But what $600,000 buys you depends heavily on where you buy, what you buy, and what trade-offs you’re willing to make.

This guide breaks down what $600,000 realistically buys you in Ottawa in 2026, by property type and neighbourhood style.

The Big Picture: Ottawa in 2026

Ottawa remains more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, but pricing varies widely by:

• Neighbourhood

• Property type

• Building age

• Transit access

At the $600K level, buyers are usually choosing two of three:

• Location

• Space

• Turnkey condition

Option 1: Condo Living (Urban & Central Areas)

What $600,000 Can Buy

• Modern 1–2 bedroom condo

• Newer or recently renovated building

• Often includes parking and locker

Where This Is Common

• Downtown / Centretown

• Westboro condo pockets

• Little Italy

Trade-Offs

• Condo fees

• Less square footage

• Shared amenities and rules

This option suits buyers prioritizing walkability, lifestyle, and low maintenance.

Option 2: Freehold Townhomes (Suburban & Transitional Areas)

What $600,000 Can Buy

• 2–3 bedroom freehold townhouse

• 1–2 bathrooms

• Small yard or outdoor space

Where This Is Common

• Barrhaven

• Orléans

• Riverside South

• Parts of Kanata

Trade-Offs

• Longer commute

• Less central amenities

This is often the sweet spot for first-time buyers wanting ownership without condo fees.

Option 3: Older Semis or Small Detached Homes

What $600,000 Can Buy

• Older semi-detached or compact detached

• Likely requires updates

• Smaller lot sizes

Where This Is Possible

• Select pockets of Nepean

• Older areas of Orléans

• Transitional neighbourhoods

Trade-Offs

• Renovation costs

• Maintenance responsibility

This suits buyers comfortable with projects and gradual upgrades.

What $600,000 Usually Doesn’t Buy

In most Ottawa neighbourhoods in 2026, $600K typically won’t buy:

• Newer detached homes in central areas

• Large lots close to downtown

• Fully renovated homes in premium neighbourhoods

Understanding these limits early prevents frustration.

Monthly Cost Reality Check

Two homes priced at $600,000 can feel very different month to month.

Factors that change affordability:

• Condo fees

• Property taxes

• Utilities

• Maintenance

Always compare total monthly carrying costs, not just price.

Who $600,000 Works Best For

This budget often fits buyers who:

• Are buying their first home

• Want to stop renting

• Are okay with trade-offs

• Plan to stay 5+ years

Clarity matters more than stretching.

How Neighbourhood Choice Changes Everything

At $600,000, neighbourhood selection matters more than the home itself.

A townhouse in Barrhaven and a condo downtown may cost the same — but deliver completely different lifestyles.

Choosing the right area often matters more than buying the “perfect” house.

Want to See Real Examples?

Online searches don’t always show what’s realistic — or what’s coming soon.

If you’re working with a $600,000 budget in Ottawa, a shortlist of real listings and neighbourhoods that actually fit your goals can save time and frustration.

Happy to walk through what your budget can realistically buy in today’s market.