The average rent for a 1-bedroom in Ottawa is approximately $1,900/month in 2026. The capital city offers a stable rental market driven by government employment and a strong tech sector.
Average Rent by Unit Type
| Unit Type | Average Rent | vs. National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,500 | +7% |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,900 | +6% |
| 2-Bedroom | $2,400 | +9% |
| 3-Bedroom | $2,900 | +12% |
Rent by Neighbourhood
| Neighbourhood | 1-BR Avg | 2-BR Avg | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centretown | $2,000 | $2,600 | Downtown, walkable |
| The Glebe | $2,100 | $2,700 | Upscale, Canal-side |
| Westboro | $2,000 | $2,500 | Trendy, boutiques |
| Sandy Hill | $1,700 | $2,200 | Near uOttawa |
| Hintonburg | $1,800 | $2,300 | Up-and-coming |
| Kanata | $1,800 | $2,200 | Tech hub, suburban |
| Barrhaven | $1,700 | $2,100 | Family-friendly |
| Orleans | $1,700 | $2,100 | East end, affordable |
| Gatineau (QC side) | $1,300 | $1,700 | Cheapest option, francophone |
Gatineau Option
Many Ottawa workers live in Gatineau, QC for lower rent:
| Factor | Ottawa | Gatineau |
|---|---|---|
| 1-BR rent | $1,900 | $1,300 |
| Provincial income tax | Higher deductions | Higher, but lower rent offsets |
| Monthly savings | — | $400–$600 |
| Trade-off | — | Quebec tax system, French services |
Income Needed
| Unit Type | Monthly Rent | Gross Income Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,500 | $60,000/year |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,900 | $76,000/year |
| 2-Bedroom | $2,400 | $96,000/year |
| Gatineau 1-BR | $1,300 | $52,000/year |
Bottom Line
Ottawa’s rental market at $1,900/month sits in the middle of Canada’s spectrum — more affordable than Toronto and Vancouver, pricier than Montreal and the Prairies. Government workers enjoy exceptional job stability, and the Gatineau option can save $400–$600/month for those willing to cross the river.
See our average rent in Canada or cost of living Ottawa for the full picture.