Merrickville vs Perth – Living in Ottawa
Love small-town charm but can’t decide between Merrickville’s artsy vibe or Perth’s historic elegance? These two Ontario gems each offer something unique.
Merrickville is a haven for artists and nature lovers, with canal-side beauty, artisan shops, and a thriving creative community. Perth, meanwhile, blends heritage streets and cultural events with modern amenities and a scenic setting. Whether you’re drawn to Merrickville’s cozy boutiques or Perth’s rich history, both towns promise a high-quality lifestyle. But which is right for you?
In this blog, we’ll compare them across four categories—Amenities, Real Estate, Transit & Commuting, and Lifestyle—each scored out of 25 points for a final tally to guide your decision. Our analysis combines public data, local insights, and research from sources like Stats Canada, the Ottawa Equity Index, and the Ottawa Real Estate Board. While accurate, the ratings are subjective and intended as a general guide.
We also factored in schools, education, and safety—key considerations for families. Most Ottawa-area towns offer quality schools (including French immersion) and strong communities, but some areas warrant closer evaluation. Having the right guidance can make all the difference when relocating.
So, whether you’re chasing Merrickville’s creative energy or Perth’s timeless charm, this guide will help you find the fit that aligns with your family’s priorities.
1. Amenities (25 points)
Merrickville
- Known as the “Jewel of the Rideau,” Merrickville offers a great boutique shopping experience – especially during the holiday season! Mrs. McGarrigle’s Fine Food Shop is a must-visit for artisanal foods, while Gray Art Glass showcases the town’s creative spirit. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for boating, kayaking, and scenic walks. The town also hosts unique events like Canalfest and local artisan markets, adding vibrant energy to its community calendar. Dining highlights include The Goose & Gridiron, a cozy pub, and Yellow Canoe Café for fresh, locally inspired dishes.
Perth
- Perth stands out with its variety of modern conveniences and historic charm. Stewart Park serves as the heart of the town, hosting music festivals and picnics under its shady trees. The dining scene includes Fiddleheads Bar & Grill housed in a beautiful historic stone house and Bistro 54 for Italian-inspired meals. Perth also boasts an active cultural scene with the Perth Performing Arts Centre, offering year-round performances from plays and concerts to dance performances. The Studio Theatre Perth is another hotspot for local and touring productions, adding to the town’s vibrant arts scene. For shopping, The Perth Cheese Shop and boutiques like Mariposa Design offer everything from gourmet foods to stylish decor.
Score:
Perth: 24/25
Merrickville: 22/25
2. Real Estate (25 points)
Merrickville
- Merrickville’s real estate blends heritage charm with canal-side living. In the past three months, 17 homes sold at an average of $570,000—a slight 0.6% dip from last year. For 2023, the average was $578,000 across 55 sales.Heritage homes are the hallmark here, with mid-to-late 1800s limestone cottages, Georgian styles, and Victorian residences drawing buyers who value history and character. The village’s roots along the Rideau Canal shaped its growth, once making it a bustling hub of mills and trades.Today, many of those stone buildings have been restored into galleries, boutiques, and cafés, giving Merrickville a lively yet historic feel. For those seeking timeless architecture, walkable charm, and a strong sense of community, Merrickville continues to be one of Eastern Ontario’s most desirable heritage towns.
Perth
- Perth offers housing that blends history with modern comfort. Over the past few months, 32 homes sold at an average of $556,000—up 16.2% from last year. With 2023’s average at $504,000, the town remains affordable relative to its charm and amenities.Heritage homes are a highlight, dating back to the 19th century in Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian styles. Limestone facades, gabled roofs, verandas, and original hardwood floors give these properties timeless appeal. Streets like Drummond and Gore showcase Perth’s rich character, while newer builds on the outskirts attract young families and retirees alike.The town’s Scottish roots are reflected in its architecture and layout, with the Tay River adding both beauty and history. Landmarks like Matheson House and the clock-towered Town Hall reinforce Perth’s reputation as one of Canada’s most picturesque historic towns.
Score:
Perth: 22/25
Merrickville: 20/25
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3. Transit/Commuting/Location (25 points)
Merrickville
- Merrickville is a 45-minute drive from Ottawa, making it a viable option for remote workers or those with occasional city obligations. While public transit options are limited, the town’s relaxed pace and easy parking make driving stress-free. Summers offer the unique experience of canal-side commuting for boaters—a rare lifestyle perk! This is a car required living area like all small towns around Ottawa. Meerrickville is connected by the 416 South from Ottawa or you can come from the West through Smiths Falls
Perth
- Located about an hour from Ottawa, Perth offers a convenient location for those traveling to Kingston and beyond. It’s strategically positioned along Highway 7, making road trips and commutes efficient. Weekend congestion can occur during festivals, but overall, traffic is minimal, and the town’s walkable design makes everyday errands a breeze.
Score:
Perth: 21/25
Merrickville: 20/25
4. Lifestyle (25 points)
Merrickville
- Merrickville thrives on its creative energy. The local arts community is one of its biggest draws, with galleries and workshops dotting the town. Seasonal events like Rideau Paddlefest bring residents together, while the town’s access to the Rideau Trail makes it a haven for hikers and cyclists. For those seeking tranquility with a splash of culture, Merrickville is a fantastic choice. Events like the Merrickville Artists Guild Studio Tour provide an intimate glimpse into the creative process, drawing art enthusiasts from near and far. Nature lovers will find Merrickville a haven for outdoor recreation. Its proximity to the Rideau Trail makes it an ideal destination for hikers and cyclists, offering scenic routes that wind through forests, fields, and along the canal. The Limerick Forest nearby adds even more opportunities for exploring nature, with trails perfect for walking, snowshoeing, or birdwatching.
Perth
- Perth blends small-town charm with vibrant culture. The Stewart Park Music Festival draws crowds for three days of live riverside performances, while the annual Perth Fair brings families together with agricultural exhibits, rides, and crafts.Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy. O’Reilly’s Ale House offers elevated pub fare in a cozy setting, The Stone Cellar delivers fine dining with locally sourced ingredients, and Perth Chocolate Works tempts with handcrafted treats. Wellness is part of the lifestyle too, with yoga studios, spas, and holistic practitioners throughout town. Add in the natural beauty of the Tay River, and Perth becomes more than just a historic town—it’s a destination rich in experiences, where community, culture, and cuisine meet in one welcoming place.
Score:
Perth: 24/25
Merrickville: 22/25
FINAL TALLIES
Merrickville: 84/100“
Perth: 91/100
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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