The Glebe: Modern Urban Living, Historic Character.

The Glebe combines historic character, lively walkable streets, and a strong community atmosphere minutes from downtown Ottawa.

The Glebe is a highly sought-after inner-city neighbourhood, located approximately 2–3 km south of downtown Ottawa and bordered by the Rideau Canal. Known for its historic homes, exceptional walkability, and vibrant community identity, The Glebe offers a dynamic urban lifestyle with a distinct neighbourhood feel, and is home to TD Place at Lansdowne Park.

About The Glebe
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View of TD Place football field in The Glebe, Glebe real estate, glebe realtor

Old Ottawa South foot bridge over Rideau Canal

The Glebe Neighbourhood Guide – Ottawa Real Estate Overview

  • Affordability: ★★☆☆☆

  • Schools: ★★★★☆

  • Commute: ★★★★★

  • Lifestyle: ★★★★★

  • Green Space: ★★★★☆

  • Community Feel: ★★★★★

Best for: Families, professionals, academics, and buyers seeking vibrant, walkable urban living near downtown

Map of the Glebe Boundaries, The Glebe real estate

Map Showing Boundaries of The Glebe

The Glebe Overview & Location

The Glebe is one of Ottawa’s most iconic and desirable inner-city neighbourhoods, located approximately 2–3 km south of downtown Ottawa. Anchored by Bank Street and bordered by the Rideau Canal, The Glebe combines historic charm with a lively, urban lifestyle.

  • Distance to Downtown Ottawa: 5–10 minutes by car

  • Highway Access: Highway 417, Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Bronson Avenue

  • Nearby Areas: Centretown, Old Ottawa South, Dow’s Lake, Old Ottawa East

The Glebe appeals to families, professionals, academics, and long-term residents who value walkability, culture, and proximity to the city core.

Community Character & Housing

Established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, The Glebe is known for its tree-lined streets, heritage architecture, and strong neighbourhood identity. Bank Street serves as the commercial heart, while residential streets remain quiet and community-focused.

Housing Types in The Glebe

  • Predominantly detached and semi-detached homes

  • Many Victorian, Edwardian, and early-20th-century houses

  • Some townhomes and limited low-rise condominiums

  • Mix of restored heritage homes and high-quality modern infill

Homes in The Glebe are prized for their character, location, and long-term resale strength.

Schools in The Glebe

The Glebe is highly regarded for its access to strong public, Catholic, French, and alternative schools, making it especially attractive to families.

Public Schools (English – Ottawa-Carleton District School Board)

Catholic Schools (English – Ottawa Catholic School Board)

French & Alternative Options

  • French public and Catholic schools available nearby, depending on catchment

  • Access to immersion and alternative programs across central Ottawa

Amenities & Lifestyle

The Glebe offers one of the most dynamic and walkable lifestyles in Ottawa.

  • Bank Street boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and specialty shops

  • Independent bookstores, bakeries, and local services

  • Weekly Lansdowne Farmers’ Market

  • Cultural events, festivals, and strong neighbourhood associations

The neighbourhood blends urban energy with village-like charm.

Recreation & Outdoor Living

Outdoor access is a major lifestyle advantage in The Glebe.

Outdoor Recreation

  • Rideau Canal pathways for walking, cycling, and winter skating

  • Lansdowne Park sports fields, events, and entertainment

  • Nearby parks and playgrounds

  • Quick access to Dow’s Lake and Commissioner’s Park

Residents enjoy year-round recreation within walking distance.

Transportation & Commute

  • Driving: 5–10 minutes to downtown Ottawa

  • Public Transit: Excellent OC Transpo service along Bank Street

  • Cycling & Walking: Outstanding cycling infrastructure and walkability

The Glebe is ideal for residents seeking a car-light or car-free lifestyle.

The Glebe Demographics (Approx.)

Population & Households

  • Population: ~12,000 residents

  • Households: ~5,000

  • Median Age: ~42 years

Income & Employment

  • Median Household Income: Above Ottawa average

  • Common employment sectors: government, education, healthcare, professional services

Language & Diversity

  • Predominantly English-speaking with strong bilingual (English/French) presence

  • Highly educated and diverse population

The Glebe Real Estate Market

The Glebe real estate market is defined by limited inventory, strong demand, and long-term appreciation.

Home Prices (Approx.)

  • Average Home Price: ~$1.2M–$1.7M

  • Renovated or larger homes: Often exceed $1.8M+

  • Homeownership Rate: High, with many long-term residents

Homes in The Glebe rarely come to market and often sell quickly.

Pros & Cons of Living in The Glebe

Pros

  • Exceptional walkability and transit access

  • Strong schools and family appeal

  • Historic charm and character homes

  • Proximity to downtown, canal, and major parks

  • Vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural scene

Cons

  • Higher home prices

  • Limited parking on some streets

  • Older homes may require renovations

  • Competitive real estate market

Is The Glebe a Good Place to Live?

The Glebe is an exceptional choice for buyers seeking urban convenience, cultural vibrancy, and a strong sense of community. With its historic homes, excellent schools, access to green space, and unbeatable walkability, The Glebe remains one of Ottawa’s most desirable and enduring neighbourhoods.

The Glebe Summary

  • Prime inner-city neighbourhood just 5–10 minutes from downtown Ottawa

  • Anchored by vibrant Bank Street and Lansdowne Park

  • Known for heritage homes, tree-lined streets, and strong community character

  • Housing is primarily detached and semi-detached, with limited supply

  • Excellent public, Catholic, French, and alternative schools

  • Easy access to the Rideau Canal, Dow’s Lake, and major parks

  • Supports a car-light or car-free lifestyle

  • High real estate demand with strong long-term appreciation

Overall: The Glebe is ideal for buyers seeking walkable urban living, character homes, and a lively yet family-friendly community close to downtown Ottawa.

The Glebe Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Glebe is an inner-city neighbourhood located 2–3 km south of downtown Ottawa, bordered by the Rideau Canal and Highway 417.

  • The Glebe stands out for its historic homes, vibrant main street (Bank Street), strong community culture, and exceptional walkability, all close to downtown.

  • Yes. The Glebe is very family-friendly, offering strong schools, parks, playgrounds, and a tight-knit community, making it popular with long-term residents.

  • Most homes in The Glebe are detached or semi-detached, including Victorian, Edwardian, and early-20th-century houses, along with limited modern infill and low-rise condos.

  • The Glebe is one of Ottawa’s higher-priced neighbourhoods due to limited supply, central location, and strong demand. Well-maintained or renovated homes often command premium prices.

  • Extremely. The Glebe is considered one of Ottawa’s most walkable neighbourhoods, with schools, shops, cafés, parks, and transit all within walking distance.

  • The Glebe is served by highly regarded public, Catholic, French, and alternative schools, including well-known elementary and secondary options within or near the neighbourhood.

  • Yes. Residents enjoy easy access to the Rideau Canal pathways, local parks, playgrounds, and Lansdowne Park, supporting year-round outdoor recreation.

  • Parking can be limited on some residential streets, particularly during events or peak times. Many homes rely on street parking or laneways rather than large driveways.

  • The Glebe attracts families, professionals, academics, and downsizers seeking character homes, an active lifestyle, and proximity to downtown Ottawa.