Top 10 Safest Cities in Canada 2024

The Crime Severity Index (CSI), developed by Statistics Canada, is a valuable tool for evaluating the safety of Canadian cities. Unlike traditional crime rates, which only count the number of incidents, the CSI assesses crime based on both frequency and severity. This means that cities with similar crime counts can have different CSI scores depending on the types of crimes reported.

What is the CSI?

The Crime Severity Index (CSI) assigns a weight to each type of crime based on its seriousness, determined by sentences handed down by Canadian courts. More severe crimes, such as violent offenses, receive higher weights, thus having a greater impact on a city’s overall score. For 2023, Canada’s national CSI average was 80.5, marking a 2% increase from the previous year. Understanding the CSI is essential for identifying the safest cities in Canada and making informed decisions about where to live.

This score reflects a range of incidents, with specific types of crime such as assault and fraud contributing notably to the change.

CSI Highlights by Province (2023)

Understanding CSI values across provinces provides essential context for identifying the safest cities in Canada and understanding safety levels in each area. Here are some CSI highlights by province:

• Ontario: CSI of 60.9, with a 4% increase from the previous year
• Quebec: CSI of 62.2, rising by 3%
• British Columbia: CSI of 104.1, up by 4%
• Manitoba: CSI of 145.5, slightly decreased by 1%
• Saskatchewan: CSI of 160.2, a 2% increase
• Alberta: CSI of 103.0, reduced by 2%
• Prince Edward Island: CSI of 72.4, a significant increase of 17%
• Northwest Territories: CSI of 473.7, up 5%​

Provinces such as Ontario and Quebec maintain some of the lowest CSI scores, while northern territories like the Northwest Territories and Nunavut have higher scores, reflecting unique challenges in remote areas.

Top Canadian Cities by Low CSI Scores

Several cities stand out as some of the safest cities in Canada due to their low CSI scores, which reflect lower crime severity:

1. Kingston, Ontario – 70.92: Known for its historic charm and high-quality public services, Kingston is a favorite among families and retirees.
2. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador – 72.92: The capital of Newfoundland, St. John’s combines low crime rates with a close-knit community.
3. London, Ontario – 73.71: A city with excellent healthcare and vibrant community programs.
4. Victoria, British Columbia – 75.40: Known for its mild climate and proactive community initiatives.
5. Ottawa-Gatineau, Ontario/Quebec – 55.59: The nation’s capital region, offering a high standard of living and excellent public services​. 

Conversely, certain cities such as Kamloops, BC (CSI 165.3) and Chilliwack, BC (CSI 156.2) have higher CSI scores, largely due to increased violent crime and property offenses​. The CSI, while useful, should always be interpreted within a broader context of social factors and quality-of-life indicators.

While the Crime Severity Index (CSI) provides a quantitative look at crime, true safety in the safest cities in Canada comes from a combination of low crime rates, proactive community programs, economic stability, and strong public services.

Community Programs and Law Enforcement

Proactive law enforcement and community programs are essential for a safe city. Cities with strong neighborhood watch programs, youth engagement initiatives, and community policing report lower crime rates and stronger community trust.

Economic Stability and Employment Opportunities

Economic stability is closely tied to safety. Areas with strong job markets, such as Ottawa-Gatineau, attract newcomers and reduce economic-driven crimes by offering financial stability.

Healthcare and Social Services Accessibility

Access to healthcare and social services significantly impacts a city’s safety. Cities like Montreal and Quebec City benefit from well-established healthcare networks and mental health resources, addressing the root causes of certain crimes and contributing to community well-being.

Education and Youth Programs

Youth programs and educational facilities play a significant role in preventing crime. Cities such as Burlington and Oakville, with excellent schools and extracurricular opportunities, experience lower youth crime rates.

Quality of Life Indicators: Housing and Infrastructure

Affordable housing, reliable transportation, and well-maintained infrastructure contribute to a city’s quality of life and safety. Cities with easy access to these resources promote stability, helping residents feel secure and supported.

1. Quebec City, Quebec: Low crime, high-quality healthcare, and strong community engagement make Quebec City ideal for families and retirees.
2. Barrie, Ontario: Known for its safe, family-friendly neighborhoods and accessible healthcare.
3. Ottawa-Gatineau, Ontario/Quebec: Canada’s capital region is safe, with excellent public services and job opportunities.
4. St. Catharines-Niagara, Ontario: A peaceful city with community programs that support safety.
5. Montreal, Quebec: Despite its size, Montreal has a lower crime rate for its population, supported by youth programs and public amenities.
6. Halifax, Nova Scotia: Known for community spirit and safe neighborhoods.
7. Kingston, Ontario: Offers a low crime rate, abundant green spaces, and quality public services.
8. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador: A friendly, welcoming city with low crime rates.
9. Victoria, British Columbia: With proactive community programs and a mild climate, Victoria is ideal for families and nature lovers.
10. Kitchener-Cambridge-Waterloo, Ontario: The tri-city area is popular among families and professionals for its strong community ties and low violent crime​