Ottawa’s Best Thrift Stores for Stylish Renters: A Budget-Friendly Guide
Renting in Ottawa isn’t just about finding a new apartment; it’s also an opportunity to discover hidden gems within your new community. Finding a stylish, budget-friendly thrift store in Ottawa provides renters with the opportunity to refresh their wardrobe while also supporting sustainable living. Popular Ottawa neighbourhoods like Centretown, the Glebe or ByWard Market are home to some of the city’s coolest and most eco-conscious options. Read on as we break down the best thrift stores in Ottawa.
Independent Thrift Stores in the Glebe
The Glebe is a hotspot in Ottawa, offering lively eateries, proximity to public transportation, and unique thrift shops:
Ragtime Vintage Clothing (43 Flora St., Ottawa)
A historic gem from the 1970s, beloved for its curated selection of vintage and retro fashion, featuring high-quality selections that are ideal for renters seeking a community feel.
Goody Mart (593 Bank St., Ottawa)
A unique 2-level vintage shop, offering one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, ideal for renters looking for gently used clothing that’s ethically sourced.
Launey’s Luck (523 Bank St., Ottawa)
Ottawa’s “Buy the Pound” thrift store offers bulk orders and upcycling grab bags, allowing you to get more bang for your buck at a portion of the price.
ByWard Market’s Go-To for Gently Used Clothing
As one of the most vibrant places in Ottawa, the ByWard Market offers numerous attractions, from Parliament to the National Gallery of Canada. Explore these while enjoying the city’s most historic and eclectic district:
Shop Smart Thrift Store (242 Dalhousie St., Ottawa)
The thrift store that has it all, offering clothing for women and men, along with jewelry pieces and miscellaneous items, like records and DVDs. This store is perfect for a fun little trip back from Major’s Hill Park.
Darling Vintage (161 York St., Ottawa)
A cozy, locally run boutique in one of Ottawa’s oldest buildings, selling curated second-hand clothes that are the perfect retro and vintage additions to any wardrobe.
Adorit Boutique (153 York St., Ottawa)
A stylish and sustainable boutique, with clothes styles from different cultures. Featuring sustainable fabrics made in Ottawa, along with locally crafted jewelry, this is the perfect spot to support local businesses.
Big Value with Big Names: Sustainable Options Near Centretown
These spots are easily accessible by transit from CLV apartments in Centretown or Old Ottawa East. Great for bulk finds, especially for renters looking to fill up their closets:
Past Lives Thrift (475 Somerset St. W, Ottawa)
A thrift shop with a change room! This shop offers locally-sourced jewelry and a wide assortment of vintage clothing, and with an ever-changing selection, there’s no telling what you’ll find here.
Last Unicorn Vintage (645 Somerset St. W, Ottawa)
A stunning collection of furs and boots for women, this vintage clothing store in Ottawa offers unique and sophisticated finds.
Thrifting Tips for Renters New to Ottawa
- Bring reusable bags.
- Follow your favourites on Instagram for drop alerts and pop-up sales.
- “Do thrift stores wash clothes before selling?” Most do basic steaming or visual inspection; always wash before wearing for your peace of mind.
Steps from Your Closet’s Next Favourite Find
Living near these incredible thrift stores means enjoying more sustainable and stylish clothing on a budget from right outside your door. Explore our Ottawa apartments and discover communities that place you in the heart of everything that makes this city unique.
