No Car? No Problem. These Condos Put You Steps From Everything.
If you’re moving to downtown Ottawa and wondering whether you need a car, the answer might surprise you.
With the expansion of the LRT, a growing network of bike lanes, and neighbourhoods built around the “15-minute lifestyle,” more condo buyers are choosing to ditch their cars and prioritize walkability. And in 2025, that’s not just possible in Ottawa—it’s a smart move.
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a condo walkable, what you should consider before going car-free, and our top building picks for anyone looking to live in the heart of it all.
Why Walkability Matters More in 2025
Let’s be real—car ownership isn’t cheap. Between rising insurance rates, gas prices, parking costs, and maintenance, your vehicle might be eating into your home-buying power more than you realize.
Add in remote work, the convenience of food delivery, and better public transit, and many buyers are realizing they don’t actually need to drive every day.
Choosing a walkable condo means:
Living steps from groceries, coffee shops, and transit
Skipping the stress of winter parking or storage
Saving money (or putting that budget toward a nicer unit)
Enjoying a healthier, more community-driven lifestyle
What Makes a Condo “Walkable”?
For this list, we’re looking at condo buildings that:
Score 90+ on Walk Score
Are within a short walk to transit, shops, and restaurants
Offer amenities that support car-free living (bike storage, car share, in-building gym or concierge for deliveries)
This isn’t about how flashy the building is—it’s about the quality of life when you’re on foot.
The Top Walkable Condo Buildings in Ottawa (2025 Edition)
1. The Bowery – 255 Bay Street
Neighbourhood: Centretown
Walk Score: 96
Why it makes the list: Steps from Bank Street, Parliament, groceries, and the Lyon LRT station. It’s also one of the few newer buildings downtown with lower condo fees, great amenities, and a rooftop lounge that feels like a boutique hotel.
2. The Slater – 199 Slater Street
Neighbourhood: Financial District
Walk Score: 98
Why it makes the list: Location doesn’t get more central than this. Right near Sparks Street, the Rideau Centre, and major government buildings. Perfect for professionals who want to walk to work and take the LRT anywhere else.
3. The Rideau – 383 Cumberland Street
Neighbourhood: ByWard Market
Walk Score: 99
Why it makes the list: Sandwiched between Ottawa U and the Market, this building puts you close to campus, grocery stores, and restaurants. Rideau LRT station is just around the corner, and the Rideau Canal is a 7-minute walk.
4. The Galleria – 200 Besserer Street
Neighbourhood: Sandy Hill
Walk Score: 97
Why it makes the list: A great choice for students or downtown professionals. Walk to class, transit, and groceries without sacrificing space or comfort. Galleria also has a solid reputation for long-term value and community feel.
5. 700 Sussex Drive
Neighbourhood: ByWard Market / Parliament Hill
Walk Score: 99
Why it makes the list: One of Ottawa’s most prestigious condo addresses, right between the Market and the Hill. You can walk to everything from here—fine dining, cultural events, coffee shops, and transit. Ideal if you want luxury and convenience.
6. The Merit – 108 Lisgar Street
Neighbourhood: Elgin Street / Downtown Core
Walk Score: 98
Why it makes the list: Close to City Hall, Elgin Street, and the Canal, The Merit is perfect for someone who wants upscale design with walkable lifestyle. Great for people who work in politics, public service, or who just love being at the centre of it all.
Things to Think About Before Going Car-Free
Living without a car is easy—if you plan ahead. Here are a few things I ask clients to consider:
What’s your grocery situation? A building near a Metro, Farm Boy, or Loblaws is a game-changer.
Will you commute by transit? Look for condos near an LRT station (Line 1 or Line 2).
Are you okay using Uber or Zipcar occasionally? Some buildings have partnerships or car share on-site.
How often do you leave the city? If you travel to the suburbs or cottage country regularly, no car might not work.
Bonus tip: If you’re living without a car, parking becomes an asset. Buy a unit without parking for a lower price, or buy one with parking and rent the spot for income.
Ottawa’s downtown core isn’t just walkable—it’s designed for car-free living. And in 2025, more buyers are waking up to the fact that walkability doesn’t just improve your lifestyle—it saves you money and puts you in the centre of the action.
Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or buying your first condo, I can help you find a unit in a walkable, high-demand building that matches your lifestyle goals.
📩 Want a curated list of Ottawa condos with the best walkability scores?
Send us a message and we’ll put together a personalized shortlist based on what matters most to you.
