Categories > Guides and Tips
Be Warned: Unpacking the 10 Most Dangerous Places in Canada
When you think of Canada, you might picture snow-capped mountains, vibrant cities, and friendly faces. But hold on a second—some places in this vast country have a bit of a rough edge.
While Canada is known for its relatively low crime rates overall, certain cities are grappling with issues like high assaults, frequent break-ins, and drug-related problems. It’s a reality check that can catch anyone off guard, whether you’re a lifelong resident or just planning a visit.
Understanding the landscape of crime in these areas is crucial for everyone. So, if you’re curious about which Canadian cities might be a little riskier than others, we’ve got the lowdown on some of the most dangerous places in Canada, ensuring you’re in the know before you go!
Chilliwack, BC
Media from discoverchilliwack
CSI: 156.2
Annual Change: 17% increase
Crime Rate: 11,615 per 100,000
Breaking & Entering: 912 per 100,000
Assaults: 1,156 per 100,000
Chilliwack is a city known for its outdoor activities, offering hiking, fishing, and beautiful mountain views. However, in recent years, this scenic beauty has been clouded by a steady rise in crime.
Its crime severity index is among the highest in British Columbia, with a troubling 17% spike in crime over the past year. One of the biggest issues plaguing Chilliwack is drug-related crime, with methamphetamine and opioid abuse contributing to increasing break-ins, property theft, and violent assaults.
While tourists often visit the area for outdoor adventures, locals are increasingly cautious about leaving their homes unattended for long periods. The downtown area is a known hotspot for thefts and drug activity, with residents and visitors advised to be extra mindful when walking around at night.
Local tip:
Stick to neighbourhoods like Garrison Crossing and Sardis if you’re visiting, as they’re considered a bit safer. Locals also swear by frequenting the more populated areas like Cultus Lake and Vedder Mountain for outdoor activities.
Winnipeg, MB
Media from tourismwinnipeg
CSI: 129.1
Annual Change: -6%
Crime Rate: 8,193 per 100,000
Breaking & Entering: 863 per 100,000
Assaults: 1,752 per 100,000
Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, is a city that manages to balance a rich cultural life with significant crime challenges. Known for its art galleries, historical sites, and festivals, Winnipeg has a lot to offer.
However, its North End has become notorious for gang activity, drug-related violence, and property crime. While the overall crime rate has decreased slightly this year, violent crimes, especially assaults and homicides, remain higher than the national average.
Winnipeg has one of the highest rates of police-reported violent crimes in Canada. Auto thefts and break-ins are rampant, particularly in certain neighbourhoods.
Local tip:
The Exchange District and Osborne Village are vibrant, safer areas with a buzzing nightlife scene and plenty of activities. However, if you find yourself in the North End, especially at night, it’s best to stay alert.
Red Deer, AB
Media from cityofreddeer
CSI: 146.9
Annual Change: 11% decrease
Crime Rate: 12,765 per 100,000
Sexual assaults: 160.2 per 100,000
Traffic violations: 532.8 per 100,000
Red Deer, situated between Calgary and Edmonton, has a reputation for being a commuter hub, but it’s also becoming infamous for its high crime rate. The city has one of the highest CSIs in the country, with crime escalating by 8% this year.
Drug abuse, particularly methamphetamine, has driven up both property and violent crime. Theft, home invasions, and assaults have become everyday concerns for residents.
The city has made efforts to combat these issues, but it remains a challenging environment for both locals and visitors. Community outreach programs are trying to address the underlying issues, particularly the connection between homelessness, drug addiction, and crime.
Local tip:
Gasoline Alley, on the south side, is considered safer and offers more amenities. The area is more frequented by tourists and commuters and generally sees less criminal activity.
Lethbridge, AB
Media from cityoflethbridge
CSI: 129.1
Annual Change: 7% increase
Crime Rate: 9,376 per 100,000
Breaking & Entering: 844 per 100,000
Assaults: 1,694 per 100,000
Lethbridge, though often associated with its university and stunning river valley, faces significant crime challenges. Crime rates have risen by 7% over the past year, with the opioid crisis at the center of it.
Much of the city’s crime, including theft and break-ins, is tied to drug abuse, particularly opioids and methamphetamines. Despite its smaller size, Lethbridge consistently ranks as one of Alberta’s most dangerous cities.
Residents in certain neighbourhoods, particularly around the downtown area, often feel unsafe walking around after dark.
Local tip:
The west side of the city, where the university is located, feels safer and has less criminal activity than the north side. Stick to the well-lit, populated areas at night, especially downtown or near the river valley.
Kamloops, BC
Media from tourismkamloops
CSI: 165.3
Annual Change: 10% increase
Crime Rate: 13,116 per 100,000
Breaking & Entering: 696 per 100,000
Assaults: 1,110 per 100,000
Kamloops is often regarded as a hub for outdoor activities and natural beauty, but its crime statistics tell a different story. Over the past year, Kamloops has seen a sharp 10% increase in crime, much of it linked to the ongoing opioid crisis.
The downtown area, especially around the Tranquille corridor, has become a hotspot for drug-related crime, with break-ins and violent incidents on the rise.
While Kamloops remains a destination for tourists looking to explore the Thompson River or nearby ski resorts, many locals are now installing security systems to protect against the surge in home invasions and car thefts.
Local tip:
Avoid Tranquille Road at night due to its high crime rate. Instead, head to areas like Aberdeen or Sahali, which are considered safer and have plenty of amenities.
Nanaimo, BC
Media from cityofnanaimo
CSI: 125.5
Annual Change: -2%
Crime Rate: 10,200 per 100,000
Property crimes: 5,447.2
Violent Criminal Code violations: 2,221.6
Nanaimo may seem like an idyllic spot on Vancouver Island, but its growing crime problem paints a different picture. The city’s crime rate is driven largely by drug-related offences and property crimes.
With its proximity to major shipping routes, Nanaimo has become a hub for the illegal drug trade, leading to an increase in thefts, assaults, and break-ins. While the crime rate dropped slightly this year, theft and break-ins continue to be a frequent issue.
Downtown Nanaimo is home to a high concentration of homeless populations, and the ongoing drug crisis has created a cycle of crime that residents feel keenly. Even with these challenges, Nanaimo remains a charming place with beautiful waterfronts and a rich history.
Local tip:
Stick to the more tourist-friendly areas, like the harbour and the northern parts of the city. Many avoid the South End after dark, as it’s known for higher crime rates.
Kelowna, BC
Media from cityofkelowna
CSI: 118.6
Annual Change: -6%
Crime Rate: 9,423 per 100,000
Breaking & Entering: 945 per 100,000
Assaults: 1,498 per 100,000
Kelowna is known for its picturesque vineyards and stunning lake views, but it’s also battling a rising crime problem. Drug trafficking and property crime, particularly vehicle break-ins, are major concerns.
The transient population, driven by tourism, contributes to the sporadic spikes in theft and vandalism.
And while Kelowna’s bustling downtown offers a charming mix of cafes, restaurants, and galleries, locals are often on high alert when it comes to theft. The issue is particularly prevalent in tourist-heavy spots, where vehicles left unattended are prime targets.
Local tip:
The city’s waterfront area is beautiful but can be risky at night. Also, park in well-lit areas and never leave valuables in your car. The Mission area, just south of downtown, is quieter and generally safer for visitors looking to avoid crime-heavy spots.
Saskatoon, SK
Media from cityofsaskatoon
CSI: 116.30
Annual Change: 1% decrease
Crime Rate: 8,730 per 100,000
Breaking & Entering: 1,003 per 100,000
Assaults: 1,812 per 100,000
Saskatoon, often called the Paris of the Prairies, has a blend of vibrant culture and dangerous crime zones. While the city is known for its riverfront views and growing arts scene, it also grapples with high levels of violent crime.
The drug trade has a firm grip on certain parts of Saskatoon, contributing to an increase in robberies, assaults, and even gang-related violence. Though areas like Broadway are popular and relatively safe, locals often avoid the city’s west side, particularly at night.
Saskatoon’s crime is largely concentrated in certain neighbourhoods. And while the city offers plenty of safe areas for families and tourists, it pays to be cautious in certain districts.
Local tip:
Know to avoid areas like Riversdale and Pleasant Hill after dark, where crime tends to be more concentrated.
Regina, SK
Media from regina.sk
CSI: 111.6
Annual Change: 7% increase
Crime Rate: 7,988 per 100,000
Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, is known for its historic landmarks and active sports scene, but it’s also a city facing significant crime issues. The city’s crime rate continues to rise, with violent crime and property crime leading the charge.
Home invasions, robberies, and vehicle thefts are common, particularly in North Central, a neighbourhood with one of the highest crime rates in the country. While much of Regina is safe for families and tourists, certain areas remain high risk.
The opioid crisis has hit Regina hard, and the link between drug addiction and crime is evident, particularly in the rise of petty thefts and violent confrontations. If you’re visiting, stick to downtown and the Cathedral Village areas, which are considered safer and have a strong community feel.
Local tip:
Avoid North Central, especially after dark, and will tell you that parking your car in more populated areas decreases the chances of theft.
Vancouver, BC
Media from vancouver
CSI: 90.20
Annual Change: 2% decrease
Crime Rate: 5,988 per 100,000
Drug violations: 199.9
Producing, trafficking, and distributing drugs: 87.2
Vancouver is Canada’s bustling coastal metropolis, known for its stunning scenery, diverse cultural life, and world-class amenities. However, it also faces significant crime challenges. Property crimes, particularly car thefts and break-ins, are rampant in Vancouver’s busier areas.
The Downtown Eastside, in particular, has been plagued by drug-related crime, largely due to the city’s ongoing opioid crisis. This area is often associated with thefts, assaults, and a high concentration of homeless residents struggling with addiction.
Vancouver remains a sought-after destination, particularly for tourists looking to explore Stanley Park or Granville Island, but it’s essential to be cautious in certain areas of the city.
Local tip:
If you’re visiting, avoid leaving any valuables in your car, especially around the West End and Stanley Park, where car break-ins are common. While areas like Kitsilano and Yaletown feel safer, remain cautious of the surroundings after dark.