Guide to Living in Kanata Lakes, Ontario

Kanata Lakes Neighbourhood Guide – Ottawa Real Estate Overview

• Affordability: ★★★☆☆

• Schools: ★★★★★

• Commute: ★★★★☆

• Lifestyle: ★★★★☆

• Green Space: ★★★★☆

• Community Feel: ★★★★☆

Best for: Families, professionals, tech employees, and buyers seeking newer homes, strong schools, and access to employment in Ottawa’s west end

Kanata Lakes Overview & Location

Kanata Lakes is a highly desirable master-planned neighbourhood in Ottawa’s west end, located approximately 22–25 km west of downtown Ottawa. Known for its proximity to Kanata North’s tech hub, top-rated schools, and newer housing stock, Kanata Lakes offers a balanced suburban lifestyle with excellent amenities.

• Distance to Downtown Ottawa: 25–30 minutes by car

• Highway Access: Highway 417 (Kanata Avenue, Terry Fox Drive)

• Nearby Areas: Beaverbrook, Morgan’s Grant, Bridlewood, Stittsville

Kanata Lakes appeals to families and professionals who want convenience, community, and long-term value.

Community Character & Housing

Developed primarily from the 1990s onward, Kanata Lakes is characterized by curved streets, modern planning, and family-focused design. Commercial areas are nearby but thoughtfully separated from residential streets, creating a quiet yet connected neighbourhood.

Housing Types in Kanata Lakes

• Predominantly detached single-family homes

• Some townhomes and executive-style properties

• Larger suburban lots compared to newer developments

• Mix of mid-century suburban and newer luxury homes

Homes in Kanata Lakes are valued for their school access, location, and resale stability.

Schools in Kanata Lakes

Kanata Lakes is especially well known for its access to some of Ottawa’s top-rated public and Catholic schools, making it one of the most family-oriented areas in the west end.

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

• Stephen Leacock Public School – Elementary
  ★★★★☆

• Earl of March Secondary School – Secondary (Grades 7–12), highly regarded
  ★★★★★

Catholic Schools (English – Ottawa Catholic School Board)

• St. Gabriel Catholic School – Elementary
  ★★★★☆

• All Saints Catholic High School – Secondary
  ★★★★☆

French & Alternative Options

• French public and Catholic schools available nearby in Kanata and Stittsville

• Access to immersion and specialized programs

Amenities & Lifestyle

Kanata Lakes offers a convenient, family-focused lifestyle with amenities close at hand.

• Shopping and dining at Kanata Centrum and nearby plazas

• Close proximity to Kanata North tech park

• Recreation centres, libraries, and community programs

• Easy access to healthcare and professional services

Residents enjoy suburban comfort without feeling isolated.

Recreation & Outdoor Living

Green space and recreation are key features of Kanata Lakes.

Outdoor Recreation

• Walking and cycling trails throughout the community

• Neighbourhood parks and playgrounds

• Nearby golf courses and sports fields

• Quick access to the Trans Canada Trail and natural green corridors

Outdoor activity is easily integrated into daily life.

Transportation & Commute

• Driving: 25–30 minutes to downtown Ottawa

• Public Transit: OC Transpo bus routes connect to Kanata Centrum and LRT stations

• Cycling & Walking: Good pathway networks for recreation and local travel

Kanata Lakes is well suited to commuters working in Kanata, downtown Ottawa, or hybrid roles.

Kanata Lakes Demographics (Approx.)

Population & Households

• Population: ~15,000 residents

• Households: ~5,500

• Median Age: ~40 years

Income & Employment

• Median Household Income: Above Ottawa average

• Common employment sectors: technology, engineering, government, management, education

Language & Diversity

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

• Diverse and internationally influenced due to the tech sector

Kanata Lakes Real Estate Market

Kanata Lakes real estate is known for consistent demand, family appeal, and strong long-term performance.

Kanata Lakes Real Estate Listings

For a list of Kanata Lakes homes for sale, and previous sales can be found here.

Home Prices (Approx.)

• Average Home Price: ~$900,000–$1.3M

• Larger or premium homes: Can exceed $1.4M+

• Homeownership Rate: High

Homes near top schools and parks often command premium prices.

Pros & Cons of Living in Kanata Lakes

Pros

• Excellent schools and family appeal

• Proximity to Kanata North tech employment

• Modern homes and well-planned streets

• Strong amenities and shopping nearby

• Reliable long-term property values

Cons

• Commute to downtown longer than inner-city neighbourhoods

• Car helpful for most errands

• Higher prices than some other Kanata areas

Is Kanata Lakes a Good Place to Live?

Kanata Lakes is an excellent choice for buyers seeking top-tier schools, suburban comfort, and proximity to Ottawa’s largest tech employment hub. With its strong community feel, modern housing, and long-term market stability, it remains one of Ottawa’s most desirable west-end neighbourhoods for families and professionals.

Kanata Lakes Frequently Asked Questions