The average residential sale price in the Ottawa housing market has increased by three per cent year-over-year across all property types in 2025, from $680,193 to $700,869. The number of sales transactions increased by 3.3 per cent for the same time period (from 11,807 to 12,197). The total number of listings increased by 21.3 per cent (from 3,489 in 2024 to 4,232 in 2025).
The average residential sale price in Ottawa is expected to increase by three percent in 2026 compared to 2025. Prices in 2025 were gradually trending upward, and with interest rates now in a more neutral range and overall market balance holding steady, Ottawa is positioned for modest, steady growth rather than any dramatic swings. Average residential sales in the region will rise by approximately five percent in 2026 compared to 2025. Sales this year are already slightly ahead of last year, and as borrowing costs continue to ease, more first-time buyers and move-up buyers who delayed plans in 2023 and 2024 are expected to re-enter the market.
Trends in the Ottawa Housing Market
Ottawa is expected to remain a balanced market in 2026. Different segments will behave differently. Entry-level townhomes and well-priced detached homes in family neighbourhoods are likely to lean slightly toward seller-friendly conditions due to ongoing demand and limited supply. Urban condos and higher-price ranges should remain balanced to mildly buyer-leaning, as choice remains higher and buyers remain value conscious.
Several trends suggest a healthier and more active market in 2026. Prices in 2025 have been edging upward rather than declining. Year-to-date sales have been modestly higher than in 2024 despite cautious consumer confidence earlier in the year. Interest rates have come down meaningfully, improving affordability and unlocking demand that has been on the sidelines. Consumer sentiment is improving as buyers adjust to more predictable monthly payment expectations.
Ottawa's rental market remains very expensive, with rent growth outpacing wage growth. Many first-time buyers are choosing to purchase earlier than planned because the cost of renting is now comparable to, or in some cases higher than, the cost of ownership. High rents are pushing renters to consider smaller condos or townhomes where ownership costs provide long-term stability rather than continued monthly increases.
The most influential factor in the region right now is persistent low inventory, especially in the entry-level freehold market. Ottawa has more inventory than it did during the pandemic peak, but not enough to satisfy demand in the mid-priced family segment. At the same time, interest rate relief is beginning to increase buyer activity. This combination suggests that in 2026 there will be steady price pressure in the most sought-after neighbourhoods. Additional segments worth noting include the luxury market, which remains slower but is seeing buyers return selectively, and the condo market, where higher inventory is keeping pricing stable and affordability-driven buyers are the primary drivers. The rental market remains very tight, which directly influences first-time buyer activity.
Ottawa continues to demonstrate the same stability that has long characterized the region. Even with discussions surrounding federal job restructuring, the market has remained resilient. Local employment, strong immigration levels, and consistent demand for family-oriented neighbourhoods continue to support overall market health. While we do not expect a rapid surge in prices, Ottawa is well positioned for continued steady growth in both sales and values as buyers regain confidence and borrowing conditions improve.
