The Glebe vs. Old Ottawa South: Which Historic Neighbourhood Should You Choose?

Historic charm meets urban living—The Glebe and Old Ottawa South are two of Ottawa’s most iconic neighbourhoods. But which one fits your lifestyle best? Let’s find out.

The Glebe and Old Ottawa South are two adjacent neighbourhoods steeped in history and character. The Glebe, located just south of downtown, is known for its lively community, boutique shopping, and proximity to Lansdowne Park. Old Ottawa South, nestled between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, offers a quieter charm with historic homes, family-friendly streets, and a focus on tradition.

We’ll compare these two 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)

The Glebe (23/25):
The Glebe is a hub of activity, centred around Bank Street, which is lined with boutique stores, trendy cafes, and restaurants like Flora Hall Brewing and Erling’s Variety. Lansdowne Park is a major draw, offering sports facilities, events, and a farmers’ market.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Rideau Canal, which offers skating in winter and scenic pathways in summer. The Glebe’s walkability and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout for urban living.

Old Ottawa South (22/25):
Old Ottawa South offers a quieter but equally charming set of amenities. Bank Street extends into the neighbourhood, featuring favourites like Black Squirrel Books & Espresso Bar and the iconic Mayfair Theatre. Brewer Park and the Rideau River provide excellent outdoor options, with playgrounds, sports fields, and trails.

While Old Ottawa South lacks a central hub like Lansdowne Park, its focus on community-oriented amenities appeals to families and long-time residents.

2. Real Estate (25 Points)

The Glebe (20/25):
The Glebe’s real estate market is competitive, with an average home price of $1,198,947. Housing options range from century-old homes to modern condos near Lansdowne Park. While the charm and location are unmatched, high prices and limited inventory can be barriers for some buyers. The higher proportion of renters in The Glebe also adds to its more transient vibe.

Old Ottawa South (22/25):
Old Ottawa South offers a similar mix of historic homes and newer builds, with an average home price of $1,075,034. Streets like Hopewell Avenue and Sunnyside Avenue are known for their character homes, which attract families and professionals alike.

With slightly lower prices, a higher proportion of homeowners, and a quieter family-oriented vibe, Old Ottawa South scores higher for real estate.

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3. Transit, Commuting, Location (25 Points)

The Glebe (23/25):
The Glebe’s location is one of its biggest advantages. Proximity to downtown means short commute times, whether by car, bike, or public transit. The neighbourhood’s walkability and access to the Flora Footbridge make getting around even easier, though parking can be a challenge during busy events at Lansdowne.

Old Ottawa South (22/25):
Old Ottawa South offers good access to downtown via Bank Street and OC Transpo routes, though it’s slightly further south than the Glebe. It’s a short walk North to access to Lansdowne Park and all the Glebe has to offer. While walkability is excellent, traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.

4. Lifestyle (25 Points)

The Glebe (23/25):
The Glebe’s lifestyle is vibrant and community-focused. Events like the Great Glebe Garage Sale and seasonal markets at Lansdowne create a lively atmosphere. The Rideau Canal adds to its appeal, offering year-round activities like skating and kayaking.

The neighbourhood attracts a mix of families, professionals, and retirees, offering something for everyone while maintaining a strong sense of community.

Old Ottawa South (23/25):
Old Ottawa South provides a more laid-back lifestyle, perfect for families and those seeking a quieter pace. Community events and the charm of the Mayfair Theatre foster a close-knit vibe.

Its proximity to the Rideau River and Brewer Park adds to the appeal for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as easy access to Carleton University across Bronson Avenue. The area’s historic charm and family-friendly atmosphere make it a favourite for long-term residents.

Final Scores:

• The Glebe: 89/100
• Old Ottawa South: 90/100

The Glebe and Old Ottawa South each offer a unique take on urban living with historic charm. The choice comes down to your lifestyle—are you drawn to The Glebe’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!

5. Community Insights (Fun Scores)

Relocation Ease:
Old Ottawa South wins for slightly lower home prices and its welcoming atmosphere, while The Glebe’s central location and amenities are a big draw.
“Which neighbourhood would make your move easier?”

Family-Friendliness:
Old Ottawa South edges out with its quieter streets, top-rated schools, and strong community focus, while The Glebe appeals with its vibrant parks and events.
“Which do you think is better for families: The Glebe’s lively vibe or Old Ottawa South’s quiet charm?”

Weekend Warrior:
Tie—The Glebe wins for its canal-side activities and events at Lansdowne, while Old Ottawa South offers access to the Rideau River and Brewer Park.
“Are you skating the canal or strolling the riverbanks? Let us know!”

Date Night Potential:
The Glebe takes the lead with its trendy restaurants and event venues, though Old Ottawa South’s cozy cafes and the Mayfair Theatre offer a unique alternative.
“What’s your ideal date spot: The Glebe’s vibrant scene or Old Ottawa South’s relaxed charm?”

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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