Discover the Safest Cities in Canada

When considering a move or planning a visit to one of the cities in Canada, safety is a crucial factor that many prospective immigrants like to keep in mind. Discovering which cities offer the highest levels of security can significantly impact your decision-making process about where to settle in the country. From well-maintained neighborhoods to efficient emergency services, Canadian cities ensure peace of mind and top neighborhoods that stand out for their commitment to safety and security.

Ready to know which cities are safest in Canada to settle down? Then, check out our list of Canada's top 10 safest cities to live and visit.

What is the Crime Severity Index?

The Crime Severity Index (CSI) offers a detailed perspective on crime in Canada by assessing the volume and seriousness of police-reported crimes. Unlike the crime rate, which only measures the number of crimes per 100,000 people, the CSI evaluates the severity of crimes reported in various urban areas across Canada. It includes many offenses under Canada’s Criminal Code, including traffic violations, drug offenses, and violent crimes.

In the CSI, crimes are weighted according to their seriousness, with the weights determined by the actual sentences imposed by courts across all provinces and territories. More severe crimes receive higher weighted scores, impacting the Index more significantly, while less serious offenses receive lower weighted scores. The weighted scores are revised every five years using information from the Integrated Criminal Courts Survey (ICCS), ensuring the Index remains accurate and relevant.

What Are Canada's Top 10 Safest Cities Based on the CSI?

Canada is globally recognized for its high safety standards, but some cities are safer than others. The CSI is a valuable tool to gauge a city's safety. Based on CSI data, here is a look at ten of Canada's safest cities.

Barrie, Ontario

Barrie, located in southern Ontario, is another city that ranks high on the safety scale. Barrie's low crime severity can be attributed to effective local policing and community engagement initiatives. The city's law enforcement works closely with residents to address safety concerns, which helps maintain low crime rates. Barrie’s relatively low violent and property crime levels contribute significantly to its favorable CSI score.

CSI Score: 48.05

Saint John’s, New Brunswick

Saint John, the capital city of New Brunswick, also ranks highly on safety levels. The city benefits from effective law enforcement and a strong community focus on crime prevention. Saint. John’s CSI reflects its low violent and property crime levels. Its efficient emergency services and active community engagement further support the city's safety.

CSI Score: 52.67

Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City stands out as one of the safest cities in Canada. The city benefits from a well-coordinated police force and active community programs contributing to its security. Quebec City's low CSI score reflects its relatively low serious crime rates, including violent offenses and property crime. The city’s robust emergency services and proactive crime prevention strategies significantly maintain its safety.

CSI Score: 52.94

St. Catharines-Niagara, Ontario

St. Catharines-Niagara has emerged as one of the safer regions in Ontario. This area's low crime severity results from dedicated local policing and community initiatives to prevent crime. The region benefits from low violent and property crime rates, significantly influencing its CSI ranking. Community engagement and effective crime prevention strategies are key to maintaining St. Catharines-Niagara's safety.

CSI Score: 54.47

Ottawa-Gatineau, Ontario and Quebec

The Ottawa-Gatineau region, including parts of Ontario and Quebec, boasts a commendable low crime rate. The combined efforts of the Ottawa Police Service and the Gatineau Police Department contribute to the area’s safety. The CSI reflects low crime rates in both cities, thanks to effective law enforcement, comprehensive community safety programs, and proactive crime prevention strategies. The region's commitment to public safety is evident in its consistently low levels of serious crime.

CSI Score: 55.82

Toronto, Ontario

As Canada's largest city, Toronto's position on the safety scale might be surprising. However, despite its size, Toronto’s CSI remains relatively low compared to other major urban centers. The city's extensive and efficient policing infrastructure and numerous community safety programs help reduce crime. Toronto’s CSI reflects its ongoing efforts to address crime, particularly through targeted initiatives that reduce violent crime and improve safety.

CSI Score: 58.54

Montréal, Quebec

Despite its urban complexity, Montréal, Quebec’s largest city, ranks favorably concerning safety. The city's CSI is relatively low due to effective policing, diverse community programs, and a strong focus on crime reduction. Montréal’s law enforcement agencies work diligently to address various forms of crime, including violent and property offenses, contributing to its favorable CSI score. Its robust emergency services and community engagement efforts further enhance the city's safety.

CSI Score: 63.20

London, Ontario

London, Ontario, completes the list of Canada’s safest cities according to the CSI. The city’s low CSI score is attributed to its effective policing and community safety programs. London experiences lower rates of serious crime, significantly impacting its CSI ranking. The city’s commitment to maintaining public safety through proactive measures and community involvement is evident in its low crime severity.

CSI Score: 64.34

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is noted for its safety. The city benefits from a proactive police force and strong community programs that address safety concerns. Halifax’s CSI highlights low serious crime rates, including violent and property offenses. The city’s commitment to maintaining public safety is evident in its effective crime prevention strategies and responsive emergency services.

CSI Score: 72.04

Kingston, Ontario

Kingston, located in southeastern Ontario, is recognized for its low crime levels. The city’s safety is supported by effective local policing and community-focused initiatives. Kingston experiences relatively low levels of serious crime, contributing to its favorable CSI ranking. The city’s emphasis on community safety and proactive crime prevention measures helps maintain its status as one of the safest cities in Canada.

CSI Score: 72.15

What Factors Contribute to Safety in Canadian Cities?

Canada is often lauded for its high safety standards, a reputation dependent on various factors. Here are some of the factors contributing to safety in Canada's cities.

Socioeconomic Factors

A strong social safety net, administered via the Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), is a cornerstone of Canadian safety. Institutional programs addressing poverty, education, and housing can reduce crime rates by tackling root causes. A high quality of life, characterized by access to amenities, green spaces, and recreational opportunities, contributes to overall well-being and can prevent crime.

Learn more about Canada’s social economy via the Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Governance and Law Enforcement

Effective law enforcement is crucial and overseen by Public Safety Canada. Community-oriented policing strategies build trust between law enforcement and the public, enhancing safety. A strong justice system, ensuring fair and efficient processes, is another vital aspect of policing crime. Proactive crime prevention initiatives, such as youth programs and community outreach, can also address the underlying causes of crime. Prominent community crime prevention initiatives in Canada include:

• Youth Gang Prevention Fund (YGPF),
• Crime Prevention (Public Safety Canada),
• Alternative Suspension (AS),
• Armoury Youth Centre (AYC), and
• National Crime Prevention Centre (NCPC).

Community and Cultural Factors

A strong sense of community fosters a safer environment. Active citizen participation in local affairs creates a collective responsibility for public safety. Cultural values emphasizing respect, cooperation, and peace can significantly impact crime rates. Low levels of corruption promote trust in institutions and help reduce criminal activities.

Geographic and Environmental Factors

Canada’s relatively low population density compared to other developed countries can contribute to lower crime rates. Abundant green spaces and parks offer recreation and social interaction opportunities, promoting a healthier community. However, it is essential to note that these factors interact with socioeconomic and governance conditions, and their impact can vary across different cities.

How Can I Immigrate to the Safest Cities in Canada?

Immigrating to one of Canada's safest cities involves several key steps and understanding the country's immigration pathways. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before you start, assess your eligibility for immigration. Canada offers various immigration programs, including the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and family sponsorships. The Express Entry system, for example, is a point-based system that considers factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Step 2: Choose a Safe City

Select a city known for its safety, such as Quebec City, Barrie, or Halifax. Each city may have different requirements and opportunities for immigrants. For instance, some cities participate in specific PNPs that align with local labor market needs. Familiarize yourself with the cities’ living conditions, job market, and community resources to make an informed decision.

Step 3. Apply for a Visa or Permit

Once you have identified your target city, apply for the appropriate visa or permit. The Express Entry system requires submitting an online profile and receiving an invitation to apply (ITA) based on your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. PNPs often require a provincial nomination from the province, which can be obtained by applying directly to the provincial government.

Step 4: Secure Employment

Securing employment can enhance your application and ease the transition. Research job opportunities in your chosen city and consider applying for positions that match your skills and qualifications. Some immigration programs also prioritize candidates with job offers from employers in their target province.

Learn about the steps to finding a job in Canada.

Step 5: Prepare for Settlement

Prepare for settlement by researching housing, healthcare, and education in your chosen city. Many cities have resources to help newcomers integrate into their communities, including settlement services and language classes. Engaging with local immigrant support organizations can provide valuable assistance and help you acclimate to your new environment.

Learn more about how to immigrate to Canada.

Now that you know which Canadian cities provide the best safety and security for you and your family, you can begin the process of moving to one of these cities with the assistance of a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).

FAQs

What Safety Measures Should Parents Take in Canadian Cities?

Parents should ensure their children know basic safety rules, such as being cautious around strangers and understanding emergency procedures. They should also familiarize themselves with local resources, including nearby schools, medical facilities, and community centers.

How Can Newcomers to Canada Assess the Safety of a City Before Moving?

Newcomers to Canada can assess a city's safety by reviewing crime statistics and safety ratings provided by local police departments and government websites. They should also seek feedback from current residents and connect with local community organizations for firsthand insights.

Can Newcomers to Canada Rely on These Safety Rankings?

Newcomers can use the Crime Severity Index and other safety rankings as a guideline when choosing where to live. However, they should also consider other factors such as economic opportunities, housing, and community resources to assess overall safety and livability.