When you’re posted to Ottawa, one of the most important decisions you’ll make isn’t just what home to buy, it’s where to buy. Ottawa is geographically large and incredibly diverse. Choosing the right neighbourhood can significantly impact your daily routine, commute, and overall experience during your posting. Let’s break it down based on where most CAF members are working.
Posted to NDHQ Carling (Carling Campus) – If you’re working at the Carling Campus, your best options are in Ottawa’s west end; Kanata and Stittsville are the most popular
Why these areas work:
- Shorter, more predictable commutes
- Strong inventory of newer homes
- Family-friendly communities with schools and amenities
- Lots of recreation option for families
What to expect:
- Suburban lifestyle with more space and newer builds
- Strong demand, especially in Kanata and Stittsville
- Competitive pricing for detached homes compared to central areas
- Limited walkability compared to downtown neighbourhoods
Kanata and Stittsville, in particular, have become go-to choices for military families because they offer a balance of space, value, and convenience.
Posted to Downtown (NDHQ / ByWard Market Area) – If your work is based in central Ottawa, your priorities will likely shift toward commute efficiency; Centretown, The Glebe, Westboro
Why these areas work:
- Significantly reduced commute times
- Walkability to shops, restaurants, and services
- Access to public transit, including the OC Transpo network
- Vibrant, established communities
What to expect:
- Higher price points per square foot
- Smaller homes, semis, or condos
- Parking can be a consideration, especially in denser neighbourhoods
Living centrally can dramatically reduce commute times, especially during winter months when traffic becomes less predictable.
Posted to Uplands / Airport Area – For members working near Uplands or the airport, south-end communities often provide the best balance; Riverside South, Findlay Creek, Barrhaven, Letrium
Why these areas work:
- Modern developments
- More affordable pricing compared to central neighbourhoods
- Easy access to major roads and highways
Barrhaven, in particular, offers a wide range of housing options, making it attractive for both first-time buyers and growing families.
Posted to Startop (1600 Star Top Rd) – If you’re based in the east end at Startop, you’ll want to focus on nearby communities that offer quick access to the 417 and surrounding arterial roads; Orleans, Blackburn Hamlet, Beacon Hill, and Gloucester are strong options
Why these areas work:
- Convenient access to Highway 417, allowing you to commute through the city
- Short, efficient commutes to the Startop area
- Mix of established neighbourhoods and newer developments
- Strong access to schools, parks, and shopping
What to expect:
- More affordable pricing compared to central and west-end neighbourhoods
- A mix of detached homes, townhomes, and some newer builds in Orleans
- Family-oriented communities with good long-term resale potential
Orleans and surrounding east-end communities are especially appealing for members posted to Startop because they combine value, space, and an easy daily drive.
What Matters Most: Commute vs Lifestyle
Every military relocation comes down to a core trade-off: commute versus lifestyle.
- A shorter commute often means higher home prices or smaller living space
- A larger home typically means a longer daily drive
There’s no universally ‘right’ answer, it depends on your priorities.Some members prefer being close to work to reduce daily stress. Others are willing to commute in exchange for more space and a quieter neighbourhood.
Thinking Beyond This Posting. One of the most important factors is resale, when choosing a neighbourhood in Ottawa, ask:
- Will this area be easy to sell in 2–3 years?
- Is there strong demand from future buyers or renters?
- Does this location hold value over time?
Military life means mobility. Buying in a high-demand area can give you more flexibility when your next posting comes.
Final Thoughts – Choosing the right neighbourhood isn’t just about convenience, it’s about setting yourself up for a successful posting. When you align your home purchase with your unit location, lifestyle, and long-term goals, everything else becomes easier, from your daily commute to your eventual sale.
