Rothwell Heights - Prestige Steps From The Ottawa River.

Rothwell Heights Neighbourhood Guide – Ottawa Real Estate Overview

Affordability: ★★☆☆☆
Schools: ★★★★☆
Commute: ★★★★☆
Lifestyle: ★★★★☆
Green Space: ★★★★★
Community Feel: ★★★★★

Best for: Executives, professionals, and buyers seeking privacy, larger lots, and a tranquil setting close to downtown

Rothwell Heights Overview & Location

Rothwell Heights is one of Ottawa’s most exclusive low-density neighbourhoods, located approximately 7–9 km northeast of downtown Ottawa. Set on elevated terrain near the Ottawa River and surrounded by mature forest and green space, the area is known for its privacy, estate-style homes, and peaceful atmosphere.

Distance to Downtown Ottawa: 12–15 minutes by car
Highway Access: Aviation Parkway, Montreal Road, Highway 417 nearby
Nearby Areas: Beacon Hill North, Manor Park, Rockcliffe Park, Gloucester

Rothwell Heights appeals to professionals, executives, and long-term residents who value space, discretion, and proximity to the city without urban density.

Community Character & Housing

Developed primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, Rothwell Heights was designed as a prestige residential enclave emphasizing natural surroundings and architectural individuality. Commercial development is virtually non-existent, preserving its quiet, residential nature.

Housing Types in Rothwell Heights

• Predominantly large detached single-family homes

• Custom-built residences and mid-century modern designs

• Expansive lots with mature trees and landscaped grounds

• Many homes feature ravine, treetop, or river-adjacent views

Homes in Rothwell Heights are prized for their privacy, lot size, and long-term lifestyle value, rather than turnover or density.

Schools in Rothwell Heights

While Rothwell Heights itself is strictly residential, residents have access to well-regarded public, Catholic, French, and specialty schools nearby.

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

• Robert Hopkins Public School – Elementary
  ★★★★☆

• Colonel By Secondary School – Renowned IB program (Grades 9–12)
  ★★★★★

Public Schools (French – CEPEO)

• École élémentaire publique Le Phare
  ★★★★☆

• École secondaire publique Louis-Riel (Grades 7–12)
  ★★★★½☆

Catholic Schools (English & French – OCSB / CECCE)

• Nearby Catholic elementary and secondary options in Beacon Hill and east Ottawa

Private & Independent Schools Nearby

• Ashbury College – Prestigious private school (JK–Grade 12)

• Elmwood School – Independent girls’ school (JK–Grade 12)

Amenities & Lifestyle

Rothwell Heights offers a quiet, refined lifestyle with amenities accessed just outside the neighbourhood.

• Shopping, dining, and services along Montreal Road and in Beacon Hill

• Close proximity to Beechwood Village for boutiques and restaurants

• Minimal traffic and no commercial corridors within the neighbourhood

Residents enjoy privacy at home with convenience just minutes away.

Recreation & Outdoor Living

Access to nature is a defining feature of Rothwell Heights.

Outdoor Recreation

• Ottawa River pathways for walking and cycling

• Nearby NCC green spaces and wooded trails

• Parks and open spaces in surrounding neighbourhoods

• Excellent conditions for walking, running, and quiet outdoor activity

Few neighbourhoods offer this level of seclusion and greenery so close to downtown Ottawa.

Transportation & Commute

• Driving: 12–15 minutes to downtown Ottawa

• Public Transit: OC Transpo routes available on nearby arterial roads

• Cycling & Walking: Popular for recreation; commuter cycling routes accessible via parkways

Rothwell Heights suits residents who prioritize privacy and driving convenience over transit dependence.

Rothwell Heights Demographics (Approx.)

Population & Households

• Population: ~1,800 residents

• Households: ~700

• Median Age: ~48 years

Income & Employment

• Median Household Income: Well above Ottawa average

• Common employment sectors: government, executive leadership, law, business, professional services

Language & Diversity

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

• Long-term, established homeowner base

Rothwell Heights Real Estate Market

Rothwell Heights real estate is defined by scarcity, stability, and long-term ownership.

Home Prices (Approx.)

• Average Home Price: ~$1.6M–$2.5M

• Larger or premium properties: Can exceed $3M+

• Homeownership Rate: Very high, with limited turnover

Homes rarely come to market, and demand is driven by lifestyle rather than speculation.

Pros & Cons of Living in Rothwell Heights

Pros

• Exceptional privacy and large estate lots

• Quiet, low-traffic streets

• Abundant mature trees and green space

• Short commute to downtown Ottawa

• Strong long-term property value stability

Cons

• Higher home prices

• Limited walkable retail or dining

• Car required for most errands

• Very limited housing inventory

Is Rothwell Heights a Good Place to Live?

Rothwell Heights is an excellent choice for buyers seeking space, privacy, and a discreet luxury lifestyle within close reach of Ottawa’s urban core. With its estate-style homes, natural surroundings, and enduring exclusivity, it remains one of Ottawa’s most understated and desirable residential neighbourhoods.

Rothwell Heights Frequently Asked Questions