The Best Towns in Eastern Ontario for More Space, Lifestyle, and Value

Many Ottawa buyers are discovering that communities just outside the city offer more space, quieter neighbourhoods, and a different pace of life.

This guide explores 12 of the most popular towns people are moving to, from growing communities like Rockland and Kemptville to charming villages such as St-Albert and Metcalfe.

Over the past several years, many home buyers have started looking beyond Ottawa’s city limits in search of a different lifestyle.

While Ottawa offers many advantages as Canada’s capital, the rising cost of housing and the desire for more space have led many people to explore nearby towns and rural communities.

Across Eastern Ontario, several communities have become especially popular among buyers who want larger homes, quieter neighbourhoods, and access to nature while still remaining within commuting distance of the city.

Below is a guide to some of the most in-demand communities near Ottawa, ranked roughly by buyer demand, population growth, and overall popularity among people relocating from the city.

Each community offers a slightly different lifestyle — from growing suburban-style towns to peaceful rural villages.

1. Rockland

One of the largest and fastest-growing communities east of Ottawa, Rockland sits along the Ottawa River and offers suburban-style living with strong commuting access.

With expanding neighbourhoods, waterfront recreation, and convenient access to Ottawa via Highway 174, Rockland has become one of the most popular destinations for buyers moving outside the city.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Rockland, Ontario

2. Kemptville

Located about 30 minutes south of Ottawa, Kemptville has experienced major growth in recent years.

The town features a historic downtown, access to Highway 416, the Kemptville Campus, and the Rideau River. Its combination of small-town charm and modern development has made it one of the region’s most attractive communities.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Kemptville, Ontario

3. Embrun

Part of Russell Township, Embrun is one of the fastest-growing residential communities southeast of Ottawa.

New developments, parks, and family-friendly neighbourhoods have made Embrun particularly attractive for buyers looking for modern homes within commuting distance of the city.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Embrun, Ontario

4. Russell

Located about 30 minutes southeast of Ottawa, Russell offers a welcoming community atmosphere and strong local amenities.

Many families are drawn to Russell for its parks, schools, and quieter lifestyle while still remaining close to Ottawa.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Russell, Ontario

5. Greely

For buyers who want larger homes without leaving Ottawa city limits, Greely is one of the most desirable communities in Ottawa’s rural south.

Known for estate-style homes and spacious properties, Greely offers privacy and rural living with easy access to the city and airport.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Greely, Ontario

6. Limoges

Located directly along Highway 417, Limoges has become one of the fastest-growing villages in Eastern Ontario.

Its proximity to Ottawa, newer housing developments, and access to Larose Forest make it especially appealing for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Limoges, Ontario

7. Casselman

Situated along the Nation River, Casselman offers small-town living with excellent regional connectivity.

One of its most unique features is a VIA Rail station, providing direct train access to Ottawa, Montréal, and Toronto.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Casselman, Ontario

8. Navan

Located within Ottawa’s rural east region, Navan provides a country-style lifestyle while still remaining part of the City of Ottawa.

The community is also known for the Navan Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in Ontario.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Navan, Ontario

9. Metcalfe

Another rural Ottawa community, Metcalfe offers larger properties, farmland surroundings, and a strong sense of local tradition.

The community is famous for the Metcalfe Fair, one of Ontario’s oldest agricultural fairs.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Metcalfe, Ontario

10. Winchester

Located in North Dundas, Winchester is known for its agricultural heritage and the Winchester District Memorial Hospital, which serves the surrounding region.

The town offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by farmland and countryside.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Winchester, Ontario

11. St-Albert

The village of St-Albert is best known for the St-Albert Cheese Co-operative, famous for its fresh cheese curds.

Buyers exploring the area are often looking for quiet rural living with strong community traditions.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in St-Albert, Ontario

12. Chrysler

Located within The Nation Municipality, Chrysler offers a small-village lifestyle surrounded by farmland.

New residential developments are beginning to attract buyers seeking space and privacy while still remaining close to nearby towns.

👉 Read the full guide: Living in Chrysler, Ontario

Why Buyers Are Leaving Ottawa

Many people exploring these communities are looking for:

• larger homes and properties
• quieter neighbourhoods
• stronger community atmosphere
• proximity to nature and outdoor recreation
• more lifestyle flexibility

As remote work becomes more common and commuting patterns evolve, communities outside Ottawa continue to attract buyers who want a different pace of life.

Thinking About Moving from Ottawa?

Let me ask you something.

If moving just outside Ottawa meant you could have more space, a quieter lifestyle, and still stay within commuting distance of the city…

Would it at least make sense to explore what that might look like?

If you’re curious about any of the communities in this guide, you’re welcome to book a no-obligation Zoom call with Nicolas Sigounis.

We can walk through the different communities, discuss the current market, and help you determine which area might be the right fit for your next move.