April 12th, 2024 | Community
Is Barrhaven a Good Place to Live?
Whether or not a new city or neighbourhood is a good place to live is the primary question on the minds of anyone considering a big move. Since everyone is seeking a unique and different way of life, it’s always a good idea to do a deep dive into the community before browsing for listings. Today, we’ll shine a spotlight on Barrhaven, a quiet, family-friendly area in the City of Ottawa.
If you are seeking a thrilling nightlife or the busy hustle and bustle of the downtown core, Barrhaven may not be for you, however, anyone dreaming of beautiful green spaces and a safe community would be proud to put down roots in this idyllic suburb.
Where Is Barrhaven?
Barrhaven lies in the southwest of Ottawa, just 17 km from the shops and restaurants of the downtown core, but offers all the amenities you need, right at your doorstep! Though once part of Nepean City, Barrhaven amalgamated into Ottawa in 2001 and is now a peaceful and quiet oasis–perfect for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle while being close to big-city conveniences and amenities.
The location on the protected Greenbelt ensures that families and nature lovers have plenty of parks, walking paths, and bike trails to explore any time of the year. Close proximity to downtown and other busier neighbourhoods means you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a tranquil and peaceful setting for your daily life, with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby for your convenience.
Do you want to know more about our Ottawa communities? Here is some related reading you may enjoy:
- Ottawa’s Civic Hospital Neighbourhood; Make it Your Home Too!
- Ottawa: More Than Meets the Eye
- Neighbourhood Spotlight: Little Italy
Who Lives in Barrhaven?
Barrhaven’s reputation as a “Bedroom Community” says it all. Here, you will find wide streets and beautiful scenery that make the neighbourhood primarily attractive to families with young children. The lack of bars and nightclubs also appeals to retirees and empty-nesters seeking a little peace and quiet and a suburban lifestyle. Even young professionals who want a respite from it all are starting to turn their eyes to more affordable, Barrhaven.
What started as a tiny community of less than 35,000 people is quickly attracting new residents from all over the region thanks to rapid development. Some analysts predict its population could bloom to over 100,000 over the next few years.
In other words, the people of Barrhaven represent all walks of life. What they have in common is a love of nature and tranquillity while staying close to the excitement and action of the big city!
Why We Love Barrhaven
There’s no lifestyle quite like what you can enjoy as a resident in this highly convenient area that’s so filled with natural beauty. Though not the most walkable neighbourhood, the many bike paths allow you to run many errands without a car.
When you do need to drive, the wide streets with minimal traffic make getting around a joy. In addition, public buses are available from Barrhaven to Ottawa and Kanata, with plans currently in place to expand the LRT from the Baseline Station to the Barrhaven Town Centre.
Excellent Access to Education
The availability of high-quality schools is just one more reason families, in particular, are flocking to the area. As an Ottawa neighbourhood, the local schools fall under the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO), and the Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE).
Specific schools in your catchment area provide a variety of options, whether you’re looking for a public, Catholic, or French education for your child. These include John McCrae Secondary School, St. Joseph High School, and Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau Catholic Elementary School.
Want to learn even more about what it’s like to live in Barrhaven? Check out our community guide right here.
What Is There to Do in Barrhaven?
Barrhaven is known for a wide range of recreational activities, whether you want to shop the afternoon away or bask in nature. Lush green spaces such as Chapman Mills Conservation Area, Half Moon Bay Park, and Ken Ross Park make spending a day in the sun with your loved ones easy and enjoyable.
Parks and trails such as Jack Pine and Lime Kiln provide wooded areas ideal for everything from bird watching to hiking and snow-shoeing. Since they are part of the protected Greenbelt, you and your family can be sure of outdoor nature and beauty for years to come.
The picturesque community of Barrhaven is as convenient as it is beautiful. The local Business Improvement Area consists of fantastic restaurants and a host of retail shops and services where you’ll find anything you want or need. A few local favourites include Ayini Restaurant, Chili Craft Pizza, and Cafe Cristal. Several big box stores are located right in the vicinity, such as Walmart and Metro, along with independent boutiques like the Barrhaven Market, where you’ll find fresh meats, produce, spices, and more.
Should you buy a house in Ottawa? The posts below will provide some food for thought:
- Is Now a Good Time to Invest in Ottawa Real Estate?
- Should You Buy a Semi-Detached Home in Ottawa?
- 6 Advantages of Buying a Home with an Ottawa Real Estate Agent
Barrhaven Real Estate Options
Barrhaven just might be the perfect place for you if you dream of living in a spacious new build since the housing market primarily consists of new construction. With a healthy mix of townhouses, detached homes, and condos, you’ll find options at all price points.
It’s the perfect community to upgrade to a spacious new family home or break into the market with an entry-level condo. With prices that are more accessible than other areas in Ottawa, your real estate goals can soon become a reality in Barrhaven.
Do you want to know more about Barrhaven or one of our other communities? We are happy to discuss your options! Reach out to mail@chellteam.com or call 613.829.7484 to get started.
