December 14th, 2022 | Community
What are the Best Ottawa Neighbourhoods for Retirees?
At the end of your career, when you are beginning to think about how to spend your golden years, the topic of places to retire will likely come up. While some people choose to retire abroad or become snowbirds, the majority of us will end up downsizing in our hometowns.
Luckily, if you are an Ottawa resident, there are plenty of great options for places within the region to retire. Ottawa proper has some of the most dynamic and accessible neighbourhoods, while outlying communities are plentiful with new developments and fantastic residences to help you truly unwind after a lifetime of commuting and days spent in the office.
In this post, we’re sharing some of our favourite Ottawa neighbourhoods for retirees.
Little Italy is Perfect for Active Retirees
Just steps away from the picturesque Dow’s Lake, Little Italy is a fantastic place to live if you’re the type of person who loves to be close to culture and events. With a variety of low-maintenance condo buildings in the area, including the massive Claridge Icon condo building, Little Italy never goes out of style.
If you desire proximity to Ottawa’s best restaurants, comedy clubs, fitness centres, dental offices, and a stunning park, Little Italy is the neighbourhood for you. Grab a bite to eat at the iconic Pub Italia, or take in the splendour of the Tulip Festival at Commissioners Park. Craving Thai? Check out The Green Papaya or explore Ottawa’s City Centre for fantastic local goods.
This neighbourhood is also within walking distance of the Ottawa Civic Hospital, making it a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a community with entertainment, convenience, and safety.
You can learn more about Little Italy with these posts here:
Get Your Steps In on Wellington West
One of Ottawa’s best walkable neighbourhoods, Wellington West has a reputation for being young and trendy. However, with so many local gems in the community, we think this neighbourhood would be perfect for retirees. With numerous condo buildings, and apartments overlooking the shops, Wellington West is practically made for the young at heart.
Walk down to Parkdale Market on a Sunday morning, and grab a coffee at Bridgehead before heading over to the Elmdale Tennis Club to take in a game! For dinner, head over to Petit Bill’s Bistro or try the raw seafood bar and immaculate decor at Supply and Demand. The area is also home to many local boutiques and speciality shops like Bloomfields Flowers West, Muriel Dombret for stylish designer clothing, and Fresh Air Experience for all your outdoor needs.
With The Real Canadian Superstore nearby and numerous healthcare facilities, dental offices, pet care facilities, and gyms, Wellington West has it all–within walking distance!
Discover more Wellington West Content right here:
New Edinburgh, Where the Old World Meets New
As one of Ottawa’s most historic neighbourhoods, New Edinburgh has seen a renaissance in the past few years. New condos, apartments, and townhomes are available here, perfect for downsizers who want to remain close to downtown. With its proximity to Rockcliffe Park and the ByWard Market, New Edinburgh works for retirees who love to explore the city and are passionate about Ottawa’s rich history.
Residents of New Edinburgh love the local coffee shops like Red Door Provisions, Union Street Kitchen Cafe, and Ottawa staple, Bridgehead. But there’s also a vibrant nightlife here with eateries like Fraser Cafe and The Soca Kitchen serving up plenty of opportunities for a lovely night out.
Its proximity to stately parks and green spaces such as Stanley Park, Rideau Falls, and Rockcliffe Park make this a beautiful place to live close to nature and urban amenities. Proximity to Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital and Hôpital Montfort is also essential in providing easy-to-access care for elderly retirees.
Interested in learning more about New Edinburgh? Read more here.
Alta Vista isn’t Just for Young Families!
Known primarily for its beautiful homes and fantastic family vibe, Alta Vista is also a great option for retirees! Whether you are moving into an in-law suite with your grown children or investing in your own charming home or condo, Alta Vista is a convenient and safe neighbourhood for all.
Close to Billings Bridge Shopping Centre, which is also a major transit hub, you can find everything you need from a grocery store, drug store, LCBO, Wal-Mart, and more. As a residential neighbourhood, there are many quiet pockets set away from the hustle and bustle of Bank Street, but there is also no shortage of great local establishments to frequent.
Grab lunch at Pelican Seafood Market and Grill, or get a pizza at Ottawa’s mainstay, Colonnade Pizza. While you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop by Ottawa’s first Maverick’s Donuts locations–you can thank us for the tip later!
In addition to the fun, Alta Vista is also quite close to the Ottawa Cardiovascular Centre and the Ottawa Hospital Riverside Campus.
Are you a retiree thinking about downsizing soon? Read some of our content specifically for you here:
- Smartsizing Vs. Downsizing: What’s the Difference?
- Is it Time to Downsize?
- Selling Your Ottawa Home as a Senior
Stittsville’s Amberwood Village is a Mid-century Modern Gem
What began as an adult-centric lifestyle community in the 1970s is now a great community for retirees. Amberwood Village homes border Stittsville Main Street to the east, all along the Amberwood Village Golf & Country Club. And what better way to enjoy retirement than living almost exclusively on a golf course?
With charming homes and proximity to amenities, shopping, and countless convenient chain stores, this area is perfect for retirees looking for a unique property.
Stittsville proper is also an excellent choice, with easy access to doctors’ offices, dental offices, grocery stores, drug stores, and amenities, the area is well-equipped to serve retirees! For those who love nature, the Trans Canada Trail runs directly through the village, perfect for cycling and walking when the weather is nice!
Interested in Stittsville? Read more about it here.
The Avalon Area of Orleans Was Practically Made For Retirees
Yes, Orleans is primarily known for its family living, but there are numerous pockets of the community that are primed and ready for those who are looking for a peaceful and enjoyable retirement. Avalon is one of those places.
With numerous grocery stores in the region as well as conveniences such as Winners & HomeSense, and healthy living services, staying active and promoting wellness is important in the area.
Retirees will love the plentiful parks and green space, and if your children live in Orleans, this is the perfect place to stay close!
Discover Orleans, with our community guide right here.
If you’re thinking about moving during retirement, we can help! Contact us directly at 613.829.7484 or email mail@chellteam.com to speak to our team.
We Acknowledge
We acknowledge that Ottawa, was built on un-ceded Algonquin Anishinaabe Territory. To learn more about the Algonquin peoples and their history, go to the Algonquins of Ontario website.
