Why People Are Choosing to Call Kanata Home

Apr 10

Kanata, a vibrant suburb in Ottawa’s west end, is one of the most popular places to live in the city—and for good reason. Whether you’re a growing family, a tech professional, or someone looking for more green space and a quieter pace, Kanata checks a lot of boxes. Here’s why people are making the move to this sought-after Ottawa neighbourhood.

Family-Friendly Vibes

Neighbourhoods like Bridlewood, Beaverbrook, and Glen Cairn are known for their quiet, residential streets and a strong sense of community. Kids are out riding bikes after school, neighbours chat over backyard fences, and community BBQs and block parties are the norm—not the exception.

If you're moving with children or planning to start a family, Kanata offers a safe, welcoming environment that feels like home.

Top-Rated Schools in Kanata

Families flock to Kanata for its excellent school options. Some of Ottawa’s top-performing schools are located here, including:

Earl of March Secondary School
W. Erskine Johnston Public School
St. Isidore Catholic School

Many of these schools offer French immersion, gifted programs, and strong extracurriculars—making Kanata a smart choice for education-focused families.

The Tech Hub of Ottawa

Kanata is home to the Kanata North Technology Park, Canada’s largest tech park, often dubbed “Silicon Valley North.” Major companies like:

BlackBerry QNX
Ericsson
You.i TV
Kinaxis

...and dozens of startups have offices here, attracting professionals and engineers from around the world. If you work in tech, living in Kanata means you can ditch the long commute and enjoy a better work-life balance.

Shopping, Dining, and Amenities

Kanata has all the conveniences of city life—without the chaos.

Kanata Centrum has everything from Walmart and Loblaws to Landmark Cinemas, Milestones, and Bâton Rouge.
Tanger Outlets offers discounted name-brand shopping nearby.
Costco, HomeSense, and Home Depot are just a short drive away.
Fitness centres like GoodLife and Movati Athletic make staying healthy easy.

Green Space & Outdoor Living

Kanata offers an abundance of parks and trails, making it a dream for outdoor lovers and families with pets.

South March Highlands: Popular for hiking, mountain biking, and nature walks.
Beaver Pond Trail: A quiet spot for morning walks or birdwatching.
Walter Baker Park: A central hub for sports, splash pads, and community events.

You don’t have to go far to find nature in Kanata—it’s right in your backyard.

Diverse Housing Options

Whether you're looking for a starter home or something more luxurious, Kanata offers a wide range of real estate options:

Modern townhomes and singles in Arcadia and Blackstone
Mature homes with character in Beaverbrook
Affordable and stylish new builds in Trailwest and Emerald Meadows

From sleek condos to family-size detached homes, you’ll find something that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Home of the Ottawa Senators

The Canadian Tire Centre is located right in Kanata, home to the Ottawa Senators NHL team. It’s not just about hockey—this venue also hosts concerts, comedy shows, and family-friendly events all year long.

If you're a sports fan or love live entertainment, it’s a huge bonus.

A Balanced Lifestyle

Living in Kanata makes it easy to strike that elusive balance between work and life.

Many residents walk or bike to work in the tech park.
After hours, you’ll find people relaxing at Equator Coffee, hitting the mat at Pure Yoga, or getting a sweat on at Movati.
Weekend plans often include trails, kids' soccer games, or browsing the local Kanata Farmers’ Market.

This rhythm of life is what draws so many people in—and keeps them here.

Community-Driven Living

Kanata thrives on its strong community spirit. It’s home to:

Active community associations
Tons of local sports leagues like Kanata Minor Hockey and West Ottawa Soccer
Annual festivals like Kanata Canada Day, Winterfest, and more

It's the kind of place where people know their neighbours, volunteer at school events, and come together to celebrate all year round.

⚠️ A Few Things to Consider

While Kanata has a lot going for it, it’s not for everyone. Here are two things to keep in mind:

Longer Commute to Downtown Ottawa

Even though Kanata is conveniently located near Highway 417, commuting to downtown Ottawa during rush hour can take 40 minutes or more. If a short commute is a top priority, this may be a drawback.

Less Urban Nightlife

Kanata has some great restaurants and pubs, but it doesn’t have the same nightlife or urban buzz as downtown Ottawa or neighbourhoods like Westboro and The Glebe. If you thrive on late-night energy, this suburb may feel a little too quiet.

Is Kanata Right for You?

Kanata continues to be one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Ottawa for a reason. With a mix of family-friendly charm, strong schools, outdoor amenities, and access to Ottawa’s booming tech scene, it offers a little bit of everything—except the chaos.

Whether you’re buying your first home or looking to relocate to a more relaxed lifestyle, Kanata might just be the perfect fit.

Thinking about moving to Kanata?
Reach out to our team for more neighbourhood insights, listings, and expert guidance tailored to your lifestyle and goals.