Hintonburg vs Old Ottawa South

Trendy or traditional—which side of Ottawa’s areas calls your name? Today, we’re diving into Hintonburg and Old Ottawa South to help you choose between these two vibrant, distinct neighbourhoods.

Hintonburg and Old Ottawa South are two of Ottawa’s most sought-after central neighbourhoods, each offering a unique urban experience. Hintonburg, nestled between Highway 417 to Parkdale to Wellington, is known for its artsy vibe, trendy cafes, and thriving local businesses. Old Ottawa South, located just south of the Rideau Canal, exudes charm with its historic homes, family-friendly streets, and a strong sense of tradition at a more affordable price point than The  Glebe area just North of it.

We’ll compare these neighbourhoods across four categories: Amenities, Real Estate, Transit and Commuting, and Lifestyle. Each category is scored out of 25 points to help you decide which neighbourhood might be the right fit for you.

Before we get into the scores, let’s talk about how they’re calculated. Our scoring system considers real-world factors like access to amenities, housing affordability, transit options, and overall lifestyle quality. While stats and data play a big role, we’ve also factored in personal observations and local feedback to ensure the scores reflect the true experience of living in these suburbs. Remember, every family is different, so the “best” choice for you might depend on your priorities.

It’s also important to mention that we did consider factors like schools and education as well as safety and community feel. These are critical elements for anyone relocating with their family. However, across Ottawa’s popular neighbourhoods, we found these factors to be consistently well-balanced. Most neighborhoods offer access to quality schools, including French immersion options, and maintain a strong sense of community with relatively low crime rates. Since these aspects are fairly comparable across the board, we’ve decided to focus this comparison on other key factors that truly set these areas apart. So without further ado – let’s get into this…

1. Amenities (25 Points)

1. Amenities (25 Points)

Hintonburg (23/25):
Hintonburg is a hotspot for local businesses and culture. Shopping along Wellington Street West features unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. Dining options are abundant, from casual favourites like Tooth and Nail Brewing to fine dining at Supply and Demand found a little further down in area of Wellington West.

The neighbourhood is a hub for creatives, with venues like the Great Canadian Theatre Company and annual events such as the WestFest Music Festival. Parks like Parkdale Market Park and access to the Ottawa River Pathway add outdoor appeal, while the nearby Mechanicsville area expands recreational opportunities and unique architecture.

Old Ottawa South (22/25):
Old Ottawa South offers a charming blend of community-oriented amenities and natural beauty. Bank Street is the main artery, featuring local businesses like Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar and family-owned spots like Stella Luna Gelato Café.

The historic Mayfair Theatre is a Ottawa landmark, while nearby Lansdowne Park and Brewer Park offer sports facilities and seasonal farmers’ markets and a large play area for the kids. Old Ottawa South may not have the same trendy vibe as Hintonburg, but its amenities are steeped in tradition and family-friendliness.

2. Real Estate (25 Points)

Hintonburg (21/25):
Hintonburg’s real estate market is dynamic, with a mix of older homes, modern infill projects, and trendy condos. The average home price is $910,846, reflecting its growing popularity. While inventory is tight, the area’s proximity to downtown and its trendy reputation keep demand strong.

Developments like the Holland Cross Condos and Wellington Village infills attract professionals and young families, though prices can be a barrier for some buyers. Long-term value growth in Hintonburg is promising, especially with its continued urban renewal.

Old Ottawa South (22/25):
Old Ottawa South is known for its historic charm, featuring tree-lined streets and heritage homes. The average home price is $1,198,947, making it one of the pricier neighbourhoods in Ottawa. Housing stock ranges from century-old detached homes to newer builds near the canal, with demand driven by families and professionals alike.

While affordability is a challenge, Old Ottawa South’s established appeal and proximity to top schools like Hopewell Avenue Public School make it a perennial favourite for families.

3. Transit, Commuting, Location (25 Points)

Hintonburg (23/25):
Hintonburg’s central location makes it a commuter’s dream. Access to the Tunney’s Pasture and Bayview LRT Stations connects residents to downtown and beyond, while OC Transpo routes and bike-friendly streets make getting around easy. Its proximity to major roadways like Parkdale Avenue adds convenience for drivers, though limited parking can be a drawback.

Old Ottawa South (22/25):
Old Ottawa South’s location south of the Rideau Canal offers a mix of accessibility and charm. Public transit options include OC Transpo routes along Bank Street, while the Flora Footbridge provides easy pedestrian and cycling access to the Glebe, Old Ottawa East and Sandyhill areas near downtown. Driving is straightforward, though traffic congestion can build during peak hours.

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4. Lifestyle (25 Points)

Hintonburg (24/25):
Hintonburg’s lifestyle is defined by its artsy vibe and community spirit. The neighbourhood is walkable and bike-friendly, with a variety of local events and gatherings. Proximity to the Ottawa River and the Parkdale Market enhances its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike.

The area attracts a mix of professionals, young families, and creatives, making it one of the most dynamic communities in Ottawa. Its nightlife and cultural scene also give it an edge for those seeking an active urban lifestyle.

Old Ottawa South (23/25):
Old Ottawa South offers a quieter, more family-focused lifestyle. The neighbourhood is perfect for those who value tradition, with events like the Porch Sale fostering a strong sense of community. Its proximity to the Rideau Canal makes it ideal for outdoor activities like skating in winter and cycling in summer.

The slower pace appeals to families and retirees, though it may not offer the same level of energy and excitement as Hintonburg.

Final Scores:

• Hintonburg: 91/100
• Old Ottawa South: 90/100

Hintonburg and Old Ottawa South each have their strengths, from trendy vibes to historic charm. The best choice comes down to your lifestyle and priorities. Are you drawn to Hintonburg’s energy or Old Ottawa South’s tradition? Let us know in the comments below!

And if you are thinking of moving to Ottawa feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call – shoot us a text – send us an email – or even wrap it in a bow and send it first class because we got your back when moving to Ottawa or anywhere across Canada. And each and every week we are bringing brand new videos just like this one so make sure to tap that subscribe button and click the bell so you are notified each and every time we drop a brand new video. Until next time – take care!

Community Insights (Fun Scores)

• Family-Friendliness:
  Old Ottawa South edges out with its schools, parks, and established family vibe, though Hintonburg appeals to younger families looking for an urban setting.
  “Which do you think is more family-friendly: artsy Hintonburg or traditional Old Ottawa South?”
• Weekend Warrior:
  Hintonburg wins with its trendy vibe, proximity to the Ottawa River, and events like WestFest. Old Ottawa South offers more relaxed outdoor activities but doesn’t match Hintonburg’s energy.
  “Are you a WestFest fan or a canal skater?”
• Date Night Potential:
  Tie—Hintonburg’s dining and craft beer scene is ideal for a night out, while Old Ottawa South’s cozy cafes and scenic views offer a more relaxed vibe.
  “What’s your ideal date: hip breweries or heritage charm?”
• Relocation Ease:
  Hintonburg’s variety of housing and urban vibe make it appealing to newcomers, while Old Ottawa South offers stability and charm for long-term settlers.
  “Which neighbourhood feels like home to you?”

And if you are thinking of relocating to Ottawa feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call, shoot us a text, or send us an email—we’re here to help. Moving to Ottawa or anywhere in Canada? We’ve got your back. You can even wrap it in a bow and send it first class—we’ll be ready!

You can learn more about the city of Ottawa by visiting its official website: https://ottawa.ca/en.

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