Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Ottawa
Summary: For single digital nomads looking to thrive in Ottawa, these neighborhoods offer the ideal mix of community, convenience, and adventure.
Welcome to Ottawa's charming capital, where the blend of culture, nature, and urban life creates an ideal setting for digital nomads. As a global nomad seeking the perfect neighborhood to call home, you'll find that Ottawa offers a variety of areas that cater to a single lifestyle, providing both the serenity needed for work and the social opportunities for play. Here are the top neighborhoods in Ottawa that offer the best of both worlds for single digital nomads.
ByWard Market
ByWard Market is one of Ottawa's oldest and liveliest neighborhoods, known for its vibrant food scene and bustling nightlife. It's a cultural hotspot with a mix of galleries, museums, and theaters, such as the National Gallery of Canada and the Ottawa Art Gallery. The area is also home to a diverse population, including a significant number of digital nomads and expats and young professionals. With its central location, ByWard Market is perfect for nomads who thrive in a dynamic environment.
Location: East of the government and business district, within walking distance to Parliament Hill.
Where to Eat: The neighborhood boasts a variety of eateries, from the artisanal cheese shops to the famous BeaverTails pastry stand. For a sit-down meal, Play Food & Wine offers a delightful dining experience.
Where to Meet People: ByWard Market is filled with cafes and coworking spaces, such as the Ministry of Coffee, ideal for networking. The area also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, providing ample opportunities to mingle.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is around CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,000 per month.
The Glebe
The Glebe is a trendy and affluent neighborhood that appeals to digital nomads looking for a quieter, yet still vibrant, place to live. It's known for its picturesque streets, charming boutiques, and proximity to the Rideau Canal, which offers recreational activities year-round. The area has a strong community vibe, making it easy for newcomers to integrate and feel at home.
Location: Just south of downtown, bordered by the Queensway highway to the north and the Rideau Canal to the east.
Where to Eat: The Glebe has a plethora of dining options, including the farm-to-table restaurant, The Rowan, and the cozy coffee shop, Morning Owl Coffeehouse.
Where to Meet People: The Glebe Community Centre offers various classes and workshops, while TD Place Stadium hosts sporting events and concerts, providing socializing opportunities.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment ranges from CAD 1,600 to CAD 2,200 per month.
Westboro Village
Westboro Village is a hip and happening neighborhood that's perfect for the active digital nomad. With its close proximity to the Ottawa River and its trails, it's an outdoor enthusiast's dream. The area is also known for its trendy shops, local eateries, and a strong sense of community. Westboro is ideal for those who want a balance of work and outdoor adventure.
Location: West of the city center, along the Ottawa River.
Where to Eat: Savour artisanal eats at Baker Street Cafe or enjoy the local brews at Clocktower Brew Pub.
Where to Meet People: Westboro Beach provides a laid-back setting for social gatherings, and the neighborhood is dotted with yoga studios and fitness clubs like Orange Theory, which are great for meeting like-minded individuals.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is approximately CAD 1,700 to CAD 2,300 per month.
Hintonburg
Hintonburg is an artsy and eclectic neighborhood that has become increasingly popular among young professionals and creatives. It's home to numerous art studios, galleries, and the Parkdale Market. The area's diverse population and inclusive atmosphere make it a welcoming place for digital nomads from all walks of life.
Location: West of downtown Ottawa, bordered by the Ottawa River to the north and the Queensway to the south.
Where to Eat: Indulge in the culinary delights at Wellington Gastropub or grab a quick bite at SuzyQ Doughnuts.
Where to Meet People: The Great Canadian Theatre Company offers a cultural touchpoint, while the local bars and cafes provide casual spots to socialize and network.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment ranges from CAD 1,400 to CAD 1,900 per month.
Centretown
Centretown is the heart of Ottawa, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces. It's a convenient location for digital nomads who want to be in the center of it all, with easy access to public transportation and a variety of amenities. The neighborhood is also home to a diverse community, including a significant LGBTQ+ population, making it a progressive and inclusive area.
Location: Bounded by the Ottawa River to the north, the Rideau Canal to the east, Highway 417 to the south, and Bronson Avenue to the west.
Where to Eat: Enjoy the international cuisine at Fauna or the casual vibe of The Whalesbone Oyster House.
Where to Meet People: Centretown is filled with coworking spaces like Impact Hub Ottawa, and the area's numerous pubs and cafes are great for networking and socializing.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is between CAD 1,300 and CAD 2,000 per month.
Each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of culture, community, and convenience, making them ideal for single digital nomads looking to make Ottawa their temporary or long-term home.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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