Small Towns in West Ottawa Rated: Exploring the Best Communities

West Ottawa’s nearby small towns are full of charm, natural beauty, and strong community vibes. If you’re seeking affordable homes, scenic surroundings, or vibrant local amenities, this guide explores and compares top picks like Arnprior, Carleton Place, Almonte, Pakenham, and Perth.

Living in Ottawa’s West End gives you access to great amenities—shopping at Tanger Outlets, shows at the Canadian Tire Centre, and plenty of parks and trails. Families benefit from excellent schools, community programs, and a wide range of restaurants and local markets that add to the area’s energy.

Just beyond the city, small towns offer their own lifestyle perks. In this guide, we score each town across four categories—Amenities, Real Estate, Transit and Commuting, and Lifestyle. Each is rated out of 25, leading to an overall score to help you find the best fit.

These scores are based on public data, local insights, and trusted sources like Stats Canada, the Ottawa Equity Index, and the Ottawa Real Estate Board. While we’ve aimed for accuracy, these ratings are meant as a helpful guide—your ideal choice depends on your own priorities.

We’ve also factored in key family-friendly elements like schools, safety, and community feel. Most Ottawa-area neighbourhoods offer solid education options, including French immersion, but some areas may require closer attention.

If you’re considering a move, the right guidance makes all the difference. We’re here to help you navigate the possibilities and find a place that feels right for your family.

Let’s dive in.

Arnprior: A Riverside Gem

Score: 83/100

Amenities: 21/25

Located at the meeting point of the Madawaska and Ottawa Rivers, Arnprior offers a lifestyle centered around outdoors and community spirit. The town offers walking and biking trails, including the Grove Trail, which winds through one of Ontario’s last remaining old-growth forests, the Gillies Grove, offering residents and visitors a peaceful escape into nature. Parks such as Robert Simpson Park feature a sandy beach, splash pad, and stunning river views, making it a favorite spot for families and events. The Arnprior Marina provides easy access to boating and fishing on the Ottawa River.

There are plenty of community events as well such as Priorpalooza, a summer music festival, and the weekly Arnprior Market, which features local produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment. The town also has a growing dining scene, with options like Krave Bistro, known for its great comfort food, and Lumbertown Ale House, which combines craft beer with favourite dishes. Boutique shopping opportunities downtown, such as those at The Vintage Crate, provide unique finds for residents and visitors.

Real Estate: 21/25

Arnprior’s real estate market offers something for everyone, from historic homes with Victorian architecture in the downtown core to modern developments in new subdivisions. The average home price in 2023 was $526,306, providing great value compared to Ottawa’s residential housing market. It’s important to remember that in Arnprior, like most small towns with that are a short commute outside of Ottawa are affected by the ripple effect of growing housing prices in Ottawa and high buyer demand which sets the market value of resale and new development homes. Outside of Ottawa, many homes feature large lots, perfect for gardening or entertaining, which adds to Arnprior’s small-town appeal.

Transit/Location: 19/25

Located 65 kilometers west of Ottawa, Arnprior is a manageable commute for those working in the city, with Highway 417 providing direct access. While public transit is limited, the highway’s efficient connection allows most residents to reach downtown Ottawa in about 40-50 minutes by car. For local travel, the town’s compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike or foot, with well-maintained streets and paths connecting neighbourhoods to schools, parks, and amenities. Arnprior’s proximity to Renfrew and other Ottawa Valley towns also adds convenience for those looking to explore nearby areas.

Lifestyle: 22/25

Arnprior strikes a perfect balance between small-town charm and modern convenience, making it a great place for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. Arnprior and District Museum, which celebrates the town’s history as a hub for the lumber industry. For those who love the outdoors, activities such as kayaking on the Madawaska River or hiking, biking or RVing across the Trans Canada Trail provide year-round enjoyment. 

With its affordable real estate, strong sense of community, and picturesque riverside setting, Arnprior offers an great quality of life just a short drive from Ottawa.

Carleton Place: Growing with Charm

Score: 84/100

Amenities: 21/25

Carleton Place is a growing town that blends historic charm with modern conveniences. The downtown core, with its beautifully preserved heritage buildings, is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring boutique shops, cozy cafes, and standout dining options like the Black Tartan Kitchen, known for its fine dining, and The Waterfront Gastropub, offering scenic river views with a menu of comfort classics. The town’s location along the Mississippi River enhances its appeal, with the Mississippi River Walk Trail providing picturesque opportunities for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying nature.

For daily needs, locals have access to a variety of big-box stores, including Walmart, Home Depot, and Canadian Tire, as well as local services that cater to families and professionals. Community events such as the Bridge Street Summer Fest and the Carleton Place Farmers’ Market create a strong sense of connection among residents, while recreational facilities like the Carleton Place Arena and Riverside Park—featuring a splash pad, sports field, and picnic areas—offer fun for all ages.

Real Estate: 22/25

Carleton Place’s real estate market reflects its growing popularity, with an average home price of $555,985 in 2023. The town offers a diverse mix of housing options, from historic century homes with unique architectural details to modern builds in new subdivisions. 

Properties in the downtown area showcase Victorian and Georgian styles with features like high ceilings, intricate moldings, and charming brick facades. Families appreciate the variety of housing options, including townhouses and large, family-friendly detached homes. Carleton Place is particularly attractive to first-time buyers and those looking to escape Ottawa’s higher housing costs without sacrificing access to amenities.

Transit/Location: 19/25

Located just 46 kilometers west of Ottawa, Carleton Place offers a short and direct commute via Highway 7, making it a popular choice for those working in the city but seeking quieter living. I bought my first home here in Carleton Place and then the HWY 7 was a single lane HWY – it was not a fun commute in those days especially during Winter but now with the expansion to a 4 lane HWY commuting is much easier. Ad while public transit options are limited, the highway ensures a smooth drive into Ottawa, typically taking around 30–40 minutes. Within the town, its compact layout and well-maintained streets make it easy to navigate by car, bike, or on foot, with most amenities and schools conveniently located.

Lifestyle: 22/25

The Mississippi River runs through the heart of the town, providing a scenic backdrop for everyday life. Locals enjoy kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing along the riverbanks, while local parks like Riverside Park offer excellent spaces for family outings and sports. The town’s vibrant downtown hosts a bunch of events, including parades, festivals, and holiday celebrations, fostering a close-knit and lively atmosphere.

Renfrew: Historic and Affordable

Score: 72/100

Amenities: 18/25

Renfrew offers a balance of small-town charm and practical conveniences, making it a relaxed and functional place to live. The town features several parks, including Ma-te-way Park, which is a hub for sports and recreation, offering an arena, walking trails, and athletic fields. For those interested in history, the McDougall Mill Museum, housed in a 19th-century stone grist mill along the Bonnechere River, showcases artifacts from Renfrew’s past as a lumbering and manufacturing town. The downtown area is modest but includes all essential services such as grocery stores, banks, and pharmacies, alongside charming local businesses like The Flower Factory and Sweet Tooth Bakery.

Dining options in Renfrew are limited but provide plenty of cozy, small-town appeal. Restaurants like Finnigan’s Roadhouse serve hearty pub fare, while Zio Nicolas offers Italian-inspired dishes. Shopping is focused on locally owned shops and smaller retail outlets, though residents often make trips to nearby towns like Pembroke or Arnprior for larger shopping centers. Seasonal events like the Renfrew Fair, one of the oldest agricultural fairs in Canada, foster a strong sense of community and celebrate the town’s rural roots.

Real Estate: 18/25

Renfrew’s real estate market is one of its most attractive features, especially for buyers looking for affordability. In 2023, the average home price remained under $500,000, making it an excellent option for first-time buyers or anyone seeking value in a competitive housing market in the Ottawa area. The town features a mix of historic homes, often constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with charming architectural details like stone facades, covered porches, and large, mature lots.

For those looking for newer builds, subdivisions on the outskirts of Renfrew, such as Hunter Gate and Gibbons Grove, offer modern bungalows and family-friendly layouts at reasonable prices. Whether you’re seeking the character of a century home or the convenience of a modern build, Renfrew’s real estate market provides diverse options for buyers looking to stretch their dollar.

Transit/Location: 18/25

Located about 85 kilometers west of Ottawa, Renfrew is accessible via Highway 17, which connects the town directly to the city. While public transit is not available, the well-maintained highway and manageable traffic make commuting feasible for those working in Ottawa but desiring a quieter home base. Within Renfrew, the compact size of the town makes it easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot, with most amenities within a short distance.

Lifestyle: 18/25

Renfrew’s lifestyle is best suited for those who value peaceful living, strong community ties, and proximity to nature. The town’s quiet streets and relaxed pace make it a great for retirees and families seeking a slower lifestyle. Residents enjoy a range of recreational opportunities, from golfing at the Renfrew Golf Club to exploring the scenic Bonnechere River by kayak or canoe.

Community events like the Festival of Family and local farmers’ markets bring neighbours together. While it lacks the variety of amenities found in larger centres, Renfrew’s affordability, charm, and natural surroundings more than make up for it, making it an appealing choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life

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Constance Bay: Nature-Lover’s

Score: 72/100

Amenities: 18/25

Located along the beautiful Ottawa River, Constance Bay is a small, close-knit community that offers a quiet, outdoor-focused lifestyle. The area is surrounded by natural beauty, with Constance Bay Beach serving as the centerpiece for summer activities like swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. The Torbolton Forest offers scenic trails for hiking, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing, making it a year-round spot for nature lovers. The Ottawa River, which encircles much of the community, provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, appealing to water sports for all ages.

While Constance Bay’s amenities are more limited compared to larger towns, it does have essential services, including a local convenience store, a post office, and small eateries like The Point Dining Lounge, which is popular for casual dining with waterfront views. Residents often venture to nearby communities such as Dunrobin or Kanata for larger shopping trips, groceries, and other necessities. Community events, such as local craft fairs and seasonal celebrations, foster a strong sense of connection among residents, making it an inviting place to call home.

Real Estate: 19/25

Constance Bay’s real estate market offers a unique blend of waterfront properties, cottages, and rural homes, providing options that cater to a variety of lifestyles. In 2023, home prices remained highly competitive, with many properties available under $500,000..

Waterfront homes are a highlight, featuring private access to the Ottawa River and breathtaking sunset views but with these limited options they come at a high price point. Many of these properties offer spacious lots and cozy designs, perfect for retirees, vacation homeowners, or families seeking a retreat. For buyers looking for more rural or wooded settings, properties farther inland include modest bungalows, rustic cottages, and larger lots ideal for gardening or outdoor recreation. While some homes in Constance Bay reflect its cottage-country roots, recent developments have introduced more modern builds, offering updated amenities and energy-efficient features.

Transit/Location: 16/25

Located approximately 45 minutes northwest of downtown Ottawa, Constance Bay is ideal for those seeking a rural lifestyle. Keep in mind that the distance to Constance Bay along slower moving roads and side roads can make commuting more difficult than dedicated highway access for other small towns. Also the lack of public transit options means residents are reliant on cars for commuting and daily errands. While this may be a drawback for those requiring frequent trips to the city, the area’s peaceful, nature-focused environment makes it worth the drive for many. 

Lifestyle: 19/25

Constance Bay is great for outdoor living. Residents enjoy year-round activities such as snowshoeing and ice fishing in the winter and hiking, boating, and beach outings in the summer. The community’s relaxed pace and picturesque setting make it a perfect escape from the busyness of city life. For those who dream of waterfront living with easy access to outdoor adventures, Constance Bay is an excellent choice.

Fitzroy Harbour: A Quiet Escape

Score: 70/100

Amenities: 18/25

Fitzroy Harbour is a rural retreat that offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. Its centerpiece is Fitzroy Provincial Park, which provides year-round recreational opportunities, from hiking and fishing to camping and cross-country skiing. The community is small but pretty self-sufficient, with basic amenities like a general store, a post office, and a few local services.

Residents often travel to nearby communities such as Carp or Arnprior for additional shopping and dining options. Community events and gatherings, including seasonal fairs and activities hosted at the Harbour Store and Hall, add to the area’s charm and foster a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere.

Real Estate: 18/25

Real estate in Fitzroy Harbour is affordable and ideal for those looking to escape the city without compromising on space. The average home price hovers around $450,000, making it attractive for families seeking larger lots and rural living. The area offers a mix of modest bungalows, farmhouses, and custom builds, many of which feature spacious yards and views of the surrounding countryside. Some homes are located near the Ottawa River, providing access to waterfront activities, while others offer forested or open landscapes that appeal to those who enjoy privacy.

Transit/Location: 16/25

Located approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Ottawa, Fitzroy Harbour offers privacy in exchange for a longer commute. The drive into the city, via Highway 17, takes about 40–50 minutes, making it best suited for those who rely on cars for commuting and errands. The town itself is small and easy to navigate, with most homes situated close to the amenities and recreational spots.

Lifestyle: 18/25

Life in Fitzroy Harbour is defined by peace, privacy, and connection to nature. Residents enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Fitzroy Provincial Park, canoeing or fishing on the Ottawa River, and taking advantage of the many trails and open spaces. While it lacks the amenities of larger towns, Fitzroy Harbour provides a high quality of life for those who value outdoor adventures and a tight-knit rural community.

Perth: Historical Beauty

Score: 82/100

Amenities: 21/25

Steeped in history and charm, Perth is a small town that combines its heritage architecture with modern conveniences. The downtown core, with its limestone buildings, is a hub of activity, offering boutique shops, antique stores, and baked goods. Notable establishments like The Stone Cellar and Rocky River Café deliver delights that keep locals and visitors coming back. Perth is also home to Stewart Park, a picturesque green space ideal for picnics, festivals, and quiet strolls along the Tay River.

The town’s calendar of events includes highlights like the Perth Garlic Festival and the Stewart Park Music Festival, which draw crowds from across the region. Essential amenities, such as grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and recreational centers, are easily accessible, making Perth not only a cultural gem but also a practical place to live. Whether you’re visiting the local farmers’ market or enjoying a performance at the Perth Performing Arts Centre, there’s always something happening in this lively community.

Real Estate: 21/25

Perth’s real estate market offers a unique mix of historic homes and modern developments, catering to a variety of buyers. The average home price in 2023 was approximately $540,000, making it an attractive option for retirees, families, and anyone looking for a slower pace of life without sacrificing character or amenities. Heritage homes, many dating back to the 1800s, showcase stonework, gabled roofs, and decorative accents that reflect the town’s history. These properties often sit on larger lots.

In contrast, newer subdivisions like Perthmore Glen feature modern builds with open-concept designs and energy-efficient features, appealing to families and professionals. Condominiums and smaller bungalows are also becoming available, offering low-maintenance living for retirees. 

Transit/Location: 19/25

Located approximately 83 kilometers southwest of Ottawa, Perth is a manageable commute for those looking to escape the city for a weekend retreat or a permanent home. The drive along Highway 7 takes about an hour, offering a scenic route through the Ottawa Valley. While Perth lacks public transit options, its location also positions it within easy reach of nearby towns like Carleton Place and Smiths Falls, expanding access to additional amenities and services.

Lifestyle: 21/25

Perth offers a lifestyle that is equal parts relaxation, culture, and community spirit. The town’s history is evident in its everyday life, with landmarks like the Perth Town Hall and the Tay Canal. Residents can enjoy leisurely days strolling through Stewart Park, kayaking on the Tay River, or exploring the town’s antique shops and art galleries. For outdoor lovers, nearby parks and trails provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and snowshoeing, ensuring year-round recreation.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Which Small Town is Right for You?

Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below. For modern conveniences and strong community growth, Carleton Place leads the pack. But if you’re looking historic charm, Perth and Almonte are fantastic options. Nature enthusiasts will absolutely love Constance Bay or Fitzroy Harbour, while budget-conscious home buyers might find their dream homes in Renfrew or Pakenham.

And if you are thinking of relocating 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.

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

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