Canada, a dream relocation country for many is renowned for its high quality of life, and safety which is a paramount factor contributing to this reputation. As of 2025, several Canadian cities stand out for their exceptional safety records, making them attractive destinations for residents seeking secure and vibrant communities.
According to the Crime Severity Index (CSI), a valuable tool to gauge a city’s safety details perspective on crime in Canada done by assessing the volume and seriousness of police-reported crimes, measuring the number of crimes per 100,000 people and the severity of crimes reported in various urban areas across Canada. It finally includes many offences under Canada’s Criminal Code including traffic violations, drug offenses, and violent crimes.
Based on CSI data, here is a look at ten of Canada’s safest cities.
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Barrie, Ontario – CSI Score: 48.05
Barrie, a city located in southern Ontario, ranks high on the safety scale. Barrie’s low crime severity can be attributed to effective local policing and community engagement initiatives. Barrie’s relatively low violent and property crime levels contribute significantly to its favourable CSI score.
Saint John’s, New Brunswick – CSI Score: 52.67
Saint John in 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.
Quebec City, Quebec – CSI Score: 52.94
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.
St. Catharines-Niagara, Ontario – CSI Score: 54.47
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.
Ottawa-Gatineau, Ontario and Quebec- CSI Score: 55.82
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 and comprehensive community safety programs.
Toronto, Ontario – CSI Score: 58.54
As Canada’s largest city, Toronto’s CSI remains relatively low compared to other major urban centers. However, despite its size, 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.
Montréal, Quebec – CSI Score: 63.20
Despite its urban complexity, Montreal, Quebec’s largest city, ranks favourably 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 favourable CSI score.
London, Ontario – CSI Score: 64.34
London, Ontario, is one of the 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.
Halifax, Nova Scotia – CSI Score: 72.04
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 offences.
Kingston, Ontario – CSI Score: 72.15
Kingston, located in south eastern 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 favourable 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.
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