The 10 safest cities in Canada, listed

Canada is generally considered to be a safe country with a relatively low crime rate compared to many other countries. However, like any country, crime still occurs and some cities and regions may experience higher crime rates than others.

According to Statistics Canada, the national crime rate in Canada has been declining since the 1990s, with a few minor increases in recent years. The most common types of crime in Canada are property crimes such as theft and mischief, followed by violent crimes such as assault and sexual assault.

The crime rate can vary greatly between different cities and regions within Canada. Generally, smaller cities and rural areas tend to have lower crime rates than larger cities. According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, some of the cities with the lowest overall crime rates in 2019 were Quebec City, Toronto, and Ottawa.

However, it’s important to note that crime rates can also vary within a city or region depending on factors such as socio-economic status, demographics, and local policing strategies. It’s always a good idea to research crime rates and safety concerns before visiting or moving to a new area.

Here is a list of the ten safest cities in Canada based on the Crime Severity Index (CSI) calculated by Statistics Canada:

1. Guelph, Ontario

Guelph is a city located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, with a population of approximately 135,000 people. It is situated about 100 kilometers west of Toronto and 50 kilometers east of Kitchener-Waterloo.

Guelph is known for its natural beauty, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. It is home to many parks, gardens, and conservation areas, including the popular Riverside Park, which features hiking trails, sports facilities, and a splash pad. The city also boasts a number of historic sites and museums, such as the Guelph Civic Museum and the McCrae House, which is the birthplace of Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, the author of the famous poem “In Flanders Fields.”

Guelph has a strong economy with a diverse mix of industries, including manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. The city is home to the University of Guelph, which is one of Canada’s top-ranked universities and is renowned for its programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental science.

Overall, Guelph is a welcoming and inclusive community that offers a high quality of life for its residents. It has a low crime rate, a strong sense of community, and a thriving arts and culture scene.

2. Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is the capital city of the province of Quebec, located in eastern Canada. It is one of the oldest cities in North America, founded in 1608 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain, and is known for its rich history, distinct French culture, and stunning architecture.

The city is located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River and is home to many historic landmarks, such as the Chateau Frontenac, a grand hotel that dates back to 1893 and is considered one of the most iconic buildings in Canada. Other notable attractions include the Citadel, a fortified military structure, and the Plains of Abraham, a historic battlefield and park.

Quebec City has a population of approximately 540,000 people, making it the second-largest city in Quebec after Montreal. The city is bilingual, with French being the official language, and has a thriving arts and culture scene, including museums, theaters, and festivals such as the Quebec Winter Carnival.

The economy of Quebec City is diverse and includes industries such as finance, technology, tourism, and aerospace. The city is also home to a number of educational institutions, including Laval University, which is one of the largest universities in Canada.

Overall, Quebec City is a vibrant and unique destination that offers visitors and residents alike a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and bilingual culture make it a one-of-a-kind city in North America.

3. Barrie, Ontario

Barrie is a city located in central Ontario, Canada, on the western shore of Lake Simcoe. It has a population of approximately 150,000 people, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada.

Barrie is known for its natural beauty, with access to both the lake and the surrounding forests and parks. It is home to many recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing. The city is also known for its cultural events, including festivals such as Kempenfest and the Barrie Film Festival.

The economy of Barrie is diverse and includes industries such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is home to Georgian College, which offers a range of programs and has partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

Barrie has a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, with many neighbourhoods and communities actively participating in local events and activities. The city also has a growing arts and culture scene, including a number of galleries, studios, and theatres.

Overall, Barrie is a welcoming and active city that offers a high quality of life for its residents. Its natural beauty, diverse economy, and strong community spirit make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

4. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario. It has a population of over 2.7 million people, with over 6 million people living in the Greater Toronto Area.

Toronto is a vibrant and diverse city, with a thriving arts and culture scene, a wide range of restaurants and bars, and numerous tourist attractions. Some of the most famous landmarks in Toronto include the CN Tower, the Toronto Islands, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Toronto is also known for its economic strength, with a diverse range of industries including finance, technology, and healthcare. It is home to a number of major corporations, including the headquarters of many Canadian banks and the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Despite being a large city, Toronto is known for its safety and low crime rate. It also has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, subways, and streetcars, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.

Toronto is a culturally diverse city, with over 200 different ethnic groups represented. This diversity is reflected in the city’s food, festivals, and cultural events, including the Toronto International Film Festival, Pride Week, and Caribana.

Overall, Toronto is a bustling and dynamic city with a lot to offer. Its combination of world-class attractions, economic strength, cultural diversity, and safety make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

5. Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in the province of Ontario. It has a population of approximately 1 million people, making it the fourth-largest city in Canada.

Ottawa is known for its beautiful architecture, particularly its historic buildings and landmarks such as the Parliament Buildings, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Château Laurier hotel. It is also home to numerous museums and cultural institutions, including the Canadian Museum of History, the National Arts Centre, and the Canadian War Museum.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Ottawa is also a political and administrative center, with many government offices and agencies located in the city. It is home to the Canadian Parliament and numerous embassies and consulates from around the world.

Ottawa has a diverse economy, with industries such as technology, healthcare, and tourism playing significant roles. The city is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, which attract students and researchers from around the world.

Ottawa is situated on the Ottawa River, which provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The city also has many parks and green spaces, including Gatineau Park, which offers hiking, skiing, and camping.

Overall, Ottawa is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history and culture, and a strong economy. Its combination of political significance, cultural attractions, and natural beauty make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

6. Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton is a city located in the province of Ontario, Canada. It has a population of approximately 540,000 people and is located about an hour’s drive west of Toronto.

Hamilton is known for its steel industry, with the city being nicknamed “Steel City”. It also has a diverse economy, with other major industries including healthcare, education, and technology. The city is home to McMaster University, which is known for its research and innovation in various fields.

Hamilton has a rich history, with many historic buildings and landmarks located throughout the city. One of the most popular attractions is the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, which features a collection of military aircraft from Canada and around the world. The city also has several parks and conservation areas, including the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Dundas Valley Conservation Area.

Hamilton is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, which provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The city is also home to several annual events and festivals, including the Hamilton Fringe Festival, the Festival of Friends, and the Supercrawl music festival.

Overall, Hamilton is a diverse and dynamic city with a strong industrial heritage and a growing economy. Its combination of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural events make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

7. Kingston, Ontario

Kingston is a city located in the province of Ontario, Canada. It has a population of approximately 136,000 people and is located on the eastern end of Lake Ontario, about two and a half hours drive east of Toronto and one and a half hours west of Ottawa.

Kingston is known for its history and culture, with many historic buildings and landmarks located throughout the city. It is home to the Kingston Penitentiary, a former maximum-security prison that is now a popular tourist attraction. The city also has several museums and galleries, including the Agnes Etherington Art Centre and the Military Communications and Electronics Museum.

Kingston is also a university town, with Queen’s University and the Royal Military College of Canada located in the city. These institutions attract students and researchers from around the world, and contribute to Kingston’s vibrant intellectual and cultural scene.

The city is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, which provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The Thousand Islands region is also located nearby, offering scenic cruises and other tourist activities.

Overall, Kingston is a charming and historic city with a strong cultural and intellectual scene. Its combination of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural events make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

8. Kitchener-Cambridge-Waterloo, Ontario

Kitchener-Cambridge-Waterloo, often abbreviated as the “K-W” region, is a metropolitan area located in the province of Ontario, Canada. It has a combined population of approximately 550,000 people and is located in the southwestern part of the province, about an hour’s drive west of Toronto.

The K-W region is known for its strong economy, with a diverse range of industries including technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. It is home to several major corporations, including the technology giant BlackBerry and the insurance company Manulife.

The region is also home to two major post-secondary institutions: the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. These universities are well-respected for their research and innovation in various fields, and attract students and researchers from around the world.

Kitchener, Cambridge, and Waterloo each have their own unique attractions and cultural offerings. Kitchener is home to the annual Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany. Cambridge is known for its historic architecture and scenic riverside parks, while Waterloo is home to the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery and the Waterloo Central Railway.

Overall, the K-W region is a thriving and dynamic metropolitan area with a strong economy, innovative industries, and diverse cultural offerings. Its combination of urban and natural attractions make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

9. Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton is a city located in the province of New Brunswick, Canada. It has a population of approximately 72,000 people and is located in the southeastern part of the province, near the border with Nova Scotia.

Moncton is known for its bilingualism, with a large French-speaking population in addition to the English-speaking majority. It is also a hub for transportation and commerce, with several major highways and rail lines passing through the city, as well as an international airport.

The city has a rich cultural scene, with several museums, galleries, and performance venues. The Capitol Theatre, a restored 1920s-era theater, hosts a variety of shows and concerts throughout the year, and the Moncton Museum offers exhibits on the history and culture of the region.

Moncton is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with several parks and natural areas located within the city limits. The Magnetic Hill Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, and the nearby Fundy National Park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy.

Overall, Moncton is a vibrant and welcoming city with a diverse population, rich cultural offerings, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Its location as a transportation and commerce hub makes it an important economic center for the region.

10. St. Thomas, Ontario

St. Thomas is a small city located in the province of Ontario, Canada. It has a population of approximately 40,000 people and is located in the southwestern part of the province, about 20 kilometers south of London.

The city was founded in the mid-19th century and is known for its railway history. It was once an important railway hub, and the Elgin County Railway Museum preserves the city’s railway heritage.

St. Thomas is also home to several parks and natural areas, including the Pinafore Park and the Waterworks Park, both of which offer trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The city also has a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural offerings.

In addition, St. Thomas is home to several notable attractions, including the St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre, the CASO Station railway heritage building, and the Jumbo the Elephant monument, which pays homage to the famous circus elephant that once lived in the city.

Overall, St. Thomas is a small but charming city with a rich history and a variety of cultural and recreational offerings. Its location near larger cities such as London and Toronto make it an attractive destination for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still having access to urban amenities.

It’s important to note that crime rates can vary from year to year and that other factors, such as population size and demographic composition, can also impact a city’s overall safety. Additionally, these rankings are based on reported crime data and may not necessarily reflect residents’ perceptions of safety or their experiences living in these cities.