Living In Manotick Ontario

Manotick Overview & Location

• Population & Size: Approx. 5,315 residents (2021), covering ~6.7 km².

• Origins & Name: Founded around 1860–64 by Moss Kent Dickinson, named from the Algonquin word for “island”.

• Proximity: ~25 km (30 min) south of downtown Ottawa, hugging the Rideau River, adjacent to Barrhaven and Riverside South.

Character & Communities

• Manotick Village Core: Historic stone buildings (e.g., Watson’s Mill, Dickinson House) line the main drag—bridge, shops, boutiques, eateries, art galleries, and pubs.

• Subdivisions & Neighbourhoods: Areas include Manotick Village, Mahogany, Rideau Forest, Long Island, Nicholls Island, Colony Heights, Watterson Corners.

• Heritage & Growth: The village maintains its 19th-century charm even as newer homes spring up on serviced sewer/water in Mahogany and Rideau Forest.

Schools & Education

• Manotick Public School: K–5, dual English/French and 235 students; strong community feel and inclusion.

• St. Leonard Catholic School: K–6, English/French bilingual programming.

• St. Mark Catholic High School: Grades 7–12 (~1,100 students); noted for its academic & extracurricular programs.

• South Carleton High School: Main public high school nearby in Richmond.

Amenities & Lifestyle

• Walkable Village: Compact main street on Dickinson Square – ideal for errands without a drive.

• Shopping & Dining: Boutique stores, coffee shops, award-winning restaurants, galleries, rustic pubs—all within strolling distance.

• Heritage Attractions:

  • Watson’s Mill: A functioning 1860s gristmill and museum with Sunday milling demos; local legend tells of the ghost Ann Currier.

  • Dickinson Days: Annual June festival with parade, crafts, pancake breakfasts, wagon rides, and more.

Recreation & Outdoors

• Riverside Living: Enjoy easy access to the Rideau River for kayaking, fishing, scenic walks. The historic bridge and riverbank trails are local favorites—fully walkable.

• Community Spirit: Tight-knit, family-oriented neighbourhood with events celebrated at village square and mill.

Transportation & Commute

• By Car: Quick 30-minute drive to central Ottawa via Hwy 416/Veterans Memorial or Limebank Road; traffic is manageable outside peak times.

• By Bus: Limited OC Transpo routes; public transit use is low (~2 %).

• Cycling & Walking: High walkability score (~72), good bike score.

Demographics and Stats

Population & Growth

• Population (2021 Census): 5,315 residents

• Population Density: 791.2 people per km²

• Population Growth (2016–2021): Increased by 0.33%

Age & Household Structure

• Median Age: 48.9 years

• Households: Approximately 5,039

• Average Household Income: $178,600

• Average After-Tax Household Income: $140,400

• Median Household Income: $152,330

Language & Diversity

• Languages Spoken:

  • 66.4% speak only English

  • 33.3% speak both English and French

  • 0.3% speak only French Statistics Canada

• Ethnic Composition:

  • 1.50% Arab

  • 1.35% Chinese

  • 1.22% South Asian

Employment & Economy

• Unemployment Rate: 3.9%

• Labour Force Participation: 59.0%

Real Estate & Affordability

• Average Home Price (2021): $1,284,372

• Median Home Price (2021): $1,200,000

• Homeownership Rate: Approximately 87%

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Historic charm with scenic riverside ambiance

• Genuine village feel with boutique shops & eateries

• Excellent schools and family-friendly spirit

• Strong community events (e.g. Dickinson Days)

• Easy access to Ottawa and river trails

Cons

• Limited public transit—car essential

• Higher cost of living and home prices

• Smaller population—fewer nightlife options

Tips for Newcomers

• Visit during Dickinson Days in early June to dive into local culture.

• Explore Watson’s Mill for its historic mill demonstrations and riverside walks.

• If working in Ottawa, consider park-and-ride near Hwy 416 to avoid downtown driving.

• Join the Manotick Village & Community Association to connect with events and local updates.

Manotick Frequently Asked Questions