Sam SmithCanada is one of the best and safest countries in the world. However, it’s important to note that some cities face higher crime rates. Just as no country is completely immune to crime, Canada experiences its share of challenges in maintaining safety and security.
Some of the most dangerous cities in Canada include Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Edmonton, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Thompson, Red Deer, Mississauga, and Vaughan.
Top 50 Most Dangerous Cities In Canada
1. Surrey, British Columbia
Surrey tops the list due to persistent gang violence, drug trafficking, and property crime. Despite rapid urban development, certain neighborhoods remain hotspots for shootings and organized crime. Car theft and home break-ins are common, and police resources are stretched. While some areas are safe and family-friendly, others require caution, especially at night. Community efforts are underway to improve safety, but Surrey remains a focal point for crime in Western Canada.
2. Kelowna, British Columbia
Kelowna’s scenic beauty contrasts sharply with its rising crime rates. Drug-related offenses, theft, and homelessness have surged in recent years. The opioid crisis has contributed to increased break-ins and assaults, especially in downtown areas. While tourism thrives, locals report growing safety concerns. Police have ramped up patrols, but property crime remains high. Visitors should stay alert in urban zones and avoid isolated areas after dark. Kelowna’s crime wave is a growing concern.
3. Sudbury, Ontario
Sudbury struggles with high rates of assault, vandalism, and drug-related crime. The city’s mining legacy has given way to economic challenges, fueling substance abuse and petty theft. Downtown areas see frequent disturbances, and domestic violence rates are above average. While community policing has improved visibility, safety remains a concern for residents. Solo travel at night is discouraged, and caution is advised in certain neighborhoods. Sudbury’s crime profile reflects deeper social issues.
4. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg has long battled gang activity, car theft, and violent assaults. The city’s North End is particularly notorious for shootings and drug trafficking. Despite cultural vibrancy and economic growth, crime remains a persistent issue. Police initiatives have reduced some incidents, but public safety concerns linger. Women and vulnerable groups face elevated risks in certain areas. Winnipeg’s reputation for danger is rooted in systemic challenges and urban inequality.
5. Regina, Saskatchewan
Regina’s crime rate is driven by robbery, violent assaults, and property offenses. The city faces challenges with youth crime and substance abuse, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods. While downtown is generally safe during the day, nighttime incidents are common. Police have increased community outreach, but gang-related activity continues to rise. Regina’s mix of urban sprawl and economic disparity contributes to its high crime severity index. Visitors should remain vigilant in unfamiliar areas.
6. Edmonton, Alberta
Edmonton’s crime landscape includes drug-related offenses, shootings, and rising homelessness. Certain districts, like downtown and the inner city, experience frequent assaults and theft. The opioid crisis has exacerbated public safety concerns. While the city offers cultural richness and economic opportunity, its crime rate remains one of the highest in Alberta. Police presence is strong, but residents report feeling unsafe in transit hubs and nightlife zones. Edmonton’s safety challenges are complex and evolving.
7. Prince George, British Columbia
Prince George faces high rates of domestic violence, theft, and drug abuse. The city’s remote location and economic struggles contribute to its crime profile. Break-ins and assaults are common, especially in residential areas. While outdoor recreation is a draw, urban zones require caution. Police efforts have improved response times, but systemic issues persist. Prince George’s safety concerns reflect broader challenges in northern communities, where resources are limited and crime is rising.
8. Thunder Bay, Ontario
Thunder Bay has one of the highest assault rates in Ontario, driven by substance abuse and poverty. The city’s Indigenous population faces disproportionate violence and discrimination. Downtown areas experience frequent disturbances, and public intoxication is common. Police have increased patrols, but trust between communities and law enforcement remains strained. Thunder Bay’s crime issues are deeply rooted in social inequality and require long-term solutions. Visitors should exercise caution, especially at night.
9. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Saskatoon’s crime rate includes break-ins, youth violence, and drug offenses. The city’s rapid growth has outpaced social services, leading to increased homelessness and petty crime. Certain neighborhoods see frequent police activity, and gang-related incidents are rising. While the city offers cultural attractions and a vibrant university scene, safety varies widely by area. Community programs are working to reduce violence, but Saskatoon remains one of Canada’s more dangerous urban centers.
10. North Bay, Ontario
North Bay struggles with property crime, drug offenses, and domestic violence. The city’s small size belies its high crime severity index. Break-ins and theft are common, especially in residential zones. Substance abuse is a growing concern, and police resources are limited. While the waterfront and downtown are generally safe during the day, caution is advised after dark. North Bay’s safety challenges reflect broader issues in mid-sized Ontario cities.
Remaining 40 Most Dangerous Cities in Canada (2025)
| Rank | City | Province |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | Red Deer | Alberta |
| 12 | Kamloops | British Columbia |
| 13 | Brantford | Ontario |
| 14 | Hamilton | Ontario |
| 15 | London | Ontario |
| 16 | Montreal | Quebec |
| 17 | Vancouver | British Columbia |
| 18 | Burnaby | British Columbia |
| 19 | Calgary | Alberta |
| 20 | Abbotsford | British Columbia |
| 21 | Windsor | Ontario |
| 22 | St. Catharines | Ontario |
| 23 | Nanaimo | British Columbia |
| 24 | Barrie | Ontario |
| 25 | Oshawa | Ontario |
| 26 | Saint John | New Brunswick |
| 27 | Halifax | Nova Scotia |
| 28 | Charlottetown | Prince Edward Island |
| 29 | Lethbridge | Alberta |
| 30 | Medicine Hat | Alberta |
| 31 | Fort McMurray | Alberta |
| 32 | Whitehorse | Yukon |
| 33 | Yellowknife | Northwest Territories |
| 34 | Iqaluit | Nunavut |
| 35 | Belleville | Ontario |
| 36 | Cornwall | Ontario |
| 37 | Sault Ste. Marie | Ontario |
| 38 | Timmins | Ontario |
| 39 | Peterborough | Ontario |
| 40 | Guelph | Ontario |
| 41 | Fredericton | New Brunswick |
| 42 | Moncton | New Brunswick |
| 43 | Trois-Rivières | Quebec |
| 44 | Sherbrooke | Quebec |
| 45 | Saguenay | Quebec |
| 46 | Laval | Quebec |
| 47 | Longueuil | Quebec |
| 48 | Terrebonne | Quebec |
| 49 | Gatineau | Quebec |
| 50 | Ottawa | Ontario |
Closing
There you have it; those are the most dangerous cities in Canada. However, on the average, you would probably still feel safer than in any of those cities than if you were in America, Mexico, The UK, or South Africa.
By applying common sense, a visit to any of these cities is unlikely to result in tragedy.