Gatineau Real Estate Overview

Gatineau, like many Quebec cities, has more affordable housing than similar cities of its size in English Canada.

According to the Quebec Federation of Real Estate Boards, the median price for a single-family home in Gatineau in the first quarter of 2013 was $228,000, which is an increase of 3 percent from the same period last year.

The City of Gatineau is the result of an amalgamation of five municipalities: Aylmer, Buckingham, Gatineau, Hull, and Masson-Angers. Hull is the central and oldest part of the city. Aylmer to the west is known as the "Recreation Capital of the National Capital" for its many parks and golf courses. In the east end, Masson-Angers and Buckingham are both highly residential communities surrounded by farmland.

Gatineau Population (2011)265,300
5 Year Population Change9.6%
Number of Homes in Gatineau117,800

Data source: Statistics Canada

Why Buy a Home in Gatineau?
Gatineau is the fourth largest city in Quebec, ideally situated on the northern banks of the Ottawa River across from the nation's capital.

Gatineau is primarily a French-speaking city, but many of its residents speak both English and French. It encompasses a large area of land characterized by winding residential streets, industrial and commercial buildings, and vast expanses of green space. Gatineau Park, a 361 km2 federal park located minutes from the city, is the perfect getaway destination for camping, hiking, and recreation.

Several cultural attractions can be found in Gatineau. Right across the river, Ottawa provides access to a wealth of notable museums, galleries, and entertainment venues.
Explore Gatineau's Rich Cultural Heritage
The Ottawa River was widely used by the Algonquins for centuries for fishing and transportation. In the early 17th century, it was discovered by European explorers.

The settlement that would go on to become Gatineau wasn't settled until 1800 by Philemon Wright. Wright and his family took advantage of the region's many trees and established a lumber camp. Originally known as Wrightstown, the settlement later came to be called Hull.

Lumber continued to be Hull's primary industry as it grew in population through the 19th century; the iconic image of the draveurs floating transport logs down the Ottawa River was later printed on the Canadian one-dollar bill.

Ottawa, directly across the river from Hull, was selected as the Canadian capital in 1849. Following that, Hull experienced significant growth. It was renamed and incorporated into the City of Gatineau in 2002.
Getting around in Gatineau
Gatineau is serviced by the Soci_t_ de transport de l'Outaouais, which operates bus routes in Hull, Aylmer, Gatineau, Buckingham, and Masson-Angers, and offers limited service to suburban communities such as Chelsea and Cantley.

Many of Gatineaus major roads and highways cross over into Ottawa. Autoroute 50 is the major highway, connecting Gatineaus downtown centre with Masson-Angers and Buckingham in the east, and extending all the way to Montreal. Aylmer can be reached via the Chemin dAylmer or route 148.

Gatineau Park has one of North Americas most extensive trail networks. For travel by water, get out your kayak, canoe, motor boat, or raft and explore the winding nooks and crannies of the Ottawa and Gatineau Rivers.
Shopping and Amenities
Les Promenades de lOutaouais and Les Galeries de Hull are both shopping havens, offering the latest in fashion, home d_cor, and more. Additional shopping options can be found across the river in Ottawa at the Rideau Centre or the Byward Market.

Indoor and outdoor sporting facilities are available for just about every activity under the sun, from swimming, to cross-country skiing, to hockey, to golf.

There are three French-language school boards in Gatineau that oversee dozens of elementary and secondary schools. The Western Quebec School Board provides primary and secondary education in English. Two universities have campuses in Gatineau, as well as two CEGEPS.
Entertainment and Attractions in Gatineau
History and culture lovers will love living in Gatineau. Twelve national museums are within easy driving distance, including the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Heritage sites like the Manoir Papineau National Historic Site and the Mackenzie King Estate provide a glimpse into the regions rich history.

If youre looking for something a bit more fast-paced, check out the Casino du Lac-Leamy, home to several bars and restaurants, more than 1,800 slot machines, and more than 65 tables. It also boasts an 1100-seat theatre that has become one of the citys major live music venues.

For family fun, bring your kids to Calypso Waterpark, featuring Canadas largest wave pool. Or take a weekend getaway into Gatineau Park and re-connect with nature.