Ottawa Neighbourhood Guide
Kanata
Ottawa's technology hub with a family-friendly lifestyle
Located in Ottawa's west end, Kanata is one of the city's most desirable neighbourhoods, known for its thriving technology sector, excellent schools, and family-friendly communities. Home to Canada's largest technology park, it offers a mix of career opportunities, established neighbourhoods, and abundant parks and recreation.
Housing ranges from charming homes built in the 1960s to modern townhomes, executive properties, and new developments, making Kanata an attractive choice for first-time buyers, growing families, and professionals alike. With convenient access to Highway 417, shopping, restaurants, and everyday amenities, it's easy to see why Kanata remains one of Ottawa's most sought-after places to live.
Where is Kanata?
Kanata is located in Ottawa's west end, approximately 20 kilometres from downtown, and is bordered by Stittsville to the west, Nepean to the east, the Ottawa Greenbelt to the south, and rural West Carleton-March to the north.
For the purposes of our neighbourhood guides, Kanata includes Beaverbrook, Kanata Lakes, Morgan's Grant, Bridlewood, Katimavik-Hazeldean, Glen Cairn, Emerald Meadows, and the Kanata North Technology Park. Stittsville is covered separately in its own neighbourhood guide.
Why people love living in Kanata
- One of Ottawa's leading employment centres, anchored by the Kanata North Technology Park
- A wide selection of homes, from established neighbourhoods to modern new-build communities
- Excellent public, Catholic, and French-language schools
- Extensive parks, trails, recreation centres, and year-round outdoor activities
- Convenient shopping, dining, entertainment, and easy access to Highway 417
- A welcoming community that's popular with professionals, families, and long-time residents
Demographics
Kanata at a glance
A snapshot of who calls Kanata home, based on the 2021 Census of Population for the Kanata North and Kanata South wards.
Population
~~92,000 residents
Kanata North + Kanata South wards
Median age
40.9 years years
City of Ottawa average: 41.0
Language
English: 69.5%, French: 0.5%, Bilingual: 28.2%
Median household income
$ 119K – $ 125K
City of Ottawa median: $102K
Age mix
18.8% Children (0–14 years) under 15
15.8% Seniors (65+ years) aged 65+
Source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population, via City of Ottawa ward data and the Ottawa Neighbourhood Study. Figures as of the 2021 Census; next update expected after the 2026 Census (~2027).
Amenities & Recreation
Life in Kanata
Kanata offers the convenience of city living with a strong sense of community. From shopping and dining to major employers and entertainment, everything you need is close to home.
Shopping & everyday conveniences
- Kanata Centrum — Shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday essentials in one central location.
- Tanger Outlets Ottawa — More than 80 outlet stores featuring popular Canadian and international brands.
- Hazeldean Mall — A convenient shopping centre with groceries, pharmacies, and everyday services.
- Ottawa Public Library – Hazeldean Branch — Programs, events, study spaces, and resources for all ages.
- Palladium Auto Park — One of Eastern Canada's largest automotive retail centres.
- Kanata North Technology Park — Canada's largest technology park, home to over 540 companies and 33,000 employees.
- Canadian Tire Centre — Home of the Ottawa Senators, concerts, and major events year-round.
Outdoor & recreational highlights
- South March Highlands Conservation Forest — Top-tier hiking & mountain biking.
- Kanata Lakes Golf & Country Club — Scenic 18-hole course.
- Beaver Pond Trails — Walking, birdwatching, and nature paths.
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Multiple community centres with arenas, pools, and sports programs:
- Richcraft Recreation Complex – Full fitness centre, indoor pool & track, gymnasium, fitness classes & community programs.
- Tony Graham Recreation Complex – Twin ice pads, fitness centre, sports leagues & community rooms.
- Kanata Leisure Centre & Wave Pool – Indoor wave pool, swimming lessons, aquafit & family swim area.
Education
Top schools in Kanata
Elementary schools
- W. Erskine Johnston Public School (JK–8) — Known for strong academics, diverse programs, and an active school community.
- St. Gabriel Catholic Elementary School (JK–6) — Recognized for its supportive learning environment and strong literacy programs.
- South March Public School (JK–6) — A modern school with a focus on STEM education and community involvement.
Middle schools
- Glen Cairn Public School (Grades 7–8) — Offers strong academics, arts programs, and competitive athletics.
- Katimavik Elementary School (Grades 4–8) — Well known for French Immersion and academic excellence.
- W. Erskine Johnston Public School (JK–8) — A popular choice for its academic performance and extracurricular opportunities.
High schools
- Earl of March Secondary School (Grades 9–12) — Widely recognized for academic achievement, music programs, and university preparation.
- All Saints High School (Grades 7–12) — Known for strong academics, athletics, and modern learning facilities.
- A.Y. Jackson Secondary School (Grades 9–12) — Offers strong STEM programs and a supportive, diverse learning environment.
Real Estate
Kanata Real Estate
A snapshot of the Kanata market by property type, based on OREB MLS® statistics for homes sold in the last 12 months. All figures shown are medians.
541 Detached SOLD
Sold Price
$850,000
Taxes
$5,446.05
Bedrooms
4
Days on Market
22
605 Townhouse SOLD
Sold Price
$599,900
Taxes
$3,816
Bedrooms
3
Days on Market
23
47 Condo SOLD
Sold Price
$385,100
Taxes
$3,102
Bedrooms
2
Days on Market
49
Based on OREB MLS® data as of . Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Neighbourhood boundaries are approximate.
Real Estate
Kanata Real Estate
A snapshot of the Kanata market by property type, based on OREB MLS® statistics for homes sold in the last 12 months. All figures shown are medians.
Detached SOLD
Sold Price
Taxes
Bedrooms
Days on Market
Townhouse SOLD
Sold Price
Taxes
Bedrooms
Days on Market
Condo SOLD
Sold Price
Taxes
Bedrooms
Days on Market
Based on OREB MLS® data as of . Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Neighbourhood boundaries are approximate.
Lifestyle
Top things to do in Kanata
- Canadian Tire Centre — Watch an Ottawa Senators game, attend a concert, or enjoy one of the many events held throughout the year.
- South March Highlands — Explore scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and year-round outdoor adventures.
- Kanata Centrum — Shop, dine, catch a movie, or relax at one of Kanata's most popular entertainment destinations.
- Kanata Lakes Golf & Country Club — Play one of Ottawa's premier golf courses, surrounded by beautiful fairways, ponds, and mature trees.
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