If you’ve spent more than five minutes looking at Ottawa condos for sale, you’ve probably asked yourself this:
“Is that condo fee normal?”

We get it. Condo fees can feel like a mystery, especially when you see two similar units, side by side, with completely different monthly costs. One is $350/month, the other is $750/month. Why the gap? And is either of those actually a good deal?

In this post, we’re breaking down what a typical condo fee looks like in Ottawa in 2025, what those fees cover, and how to tell the difference between a well-managed building and one that might cost you more in the long run.

What Do Condo Fees Actually Cover?

In most Ottawa buildings, condo fees include more than just maintenance. They typically cover a combination of:

Building insurance (not your contents, just the structure and shared spaces)
Reserve fund contributions
Common area maintenance (lobby, elevators, hallways, exterior)
Garbage removal and snow clearing
Water and/or heat in many buildings
On-site amenities like gyms, pools, party rooms, etc.

Some older buildings or luxury towers also include hydro, cable, or concierge services in the monthly fee. But every building is different, so what’s included should always be confirmed in the listing or status certificate.

So… What’s a Normal Condo Fee in Ottawa in 2025?

While there’s no single right number, we’ve seen the following ranges in our daily work with condo buyers and sellers:

Newer construction (built post-2015):
~$0.45–$0.65 per square foot, depending on amenities
Older buildings (built pre-2000):
~$0.70–$1.00 per square foot, often due to increased upkeep and fewer energy-efficient systems
Luxury buildings:
$0.80–$1.20+ per square foot, often with full-time concierge, pools, gyms, guest suites, and more

For example, a 700 sq ft condo with a $0.60/sq ft fee would cost about $420/month. Not bad, especially if it includes water, heat, and a gym.

When Low Fees Aren’t Always a Good Thing

Everyone loves a deal, but ultra-low condo fees can be a red flag if you’re not careful. Here’s why:

Underfunded reserve fund: If the building hasn’t set enough money aside for major repairs (like roof replacement or elevator upgrades), you could be hit with a large special assessment later on.
Deferred maintenance: Low fees may mean corners are being cut. That often shows up as peeling paint, broken intercoms, or outdated systems.
No recent increases: While it’s tempting to see “stable fees” as a good thing, a well-run condo will typically raise fees slightly each year to keep pace with inflation and rising costs.

We always recommend reviewing the Status Certificate to see the reserve fund balance, recent budget, and any upcoming repairs.

When High Fees Might Be Worth It

Not all high condo fees are a bad sign. In fact, in some buildings, they’re a fair reflection of the services and amenities offered, or the age of the structure.

Higher fees might be justified if the building includes:

24/7 concierge or security
Full-sized gyms or indoor pools
Guest suites and event spaces
Hydro and cable
Elevator or mechanical upgrades recently completed

In many downtown buildings like The Hudson, Claridge Plaza, or The Mondrian, you’ll find slightly higher fees but with a strong reserve fund and great long-term value. It all depends on your priorities.

How to Compare Condo Fees Like a Pro

When you’re comparing listings, don’t just look at the dollar figure — dig into the value behind the fee.

Here’s what we recommend evaluating:

Price per square foot (not just total fee)
What’s included in the monthly cost
Age and condition of the building
Reserve fund health and upcoming major projects
Percentage of units owner-occupied (more owners = better long-term stability)
Amenities you’ll actually use (and which you’re paying for)

And don’t forget — a $500/month condo fee in a building that includes everything may end up cheaper long-term than a $300/month fee that doesn’t even cover your water bill.

Final Thoughts

In Ottawa’s condo market, not all fees are created equal. A “good” condo fee isn’t just a number — it’s a reflection of how well the building is run, what you’re getting in return, and how much financial risk you’re carrying as an owner.

That’s where we come in. As a team that specializes in Ottawa condos, we help buyers look beyond the listing price and monthly fee to understand the full financial picture, before you sign anything.

Wondering if that condo fee is too high, too low, or just right?
Send us the listing. We’ll give you an honest take — and help you understand exactly what you’re buying into.