Top 10 Safest Cities in Canada (2026)
Canada is widely regarded as one of the world’s most peaceful and safe countries to live, work, and raise a family. Using the latest Crime Severity Index (CSI) data from Statistics Canada and recent safety analyses, we highlight the top 10 Canadian cities where residents experience lower crime severity, strong community policing, and secure public environments. Safety is influenced by many factors, including crime reporting practices, neighbourhood engagement, and public infrastructure such as CCTV coverage in high-traffic areas. The CSI provides a composite look at both the volume and seriousness of police-reported crime – the lower the index, the safer the city is considered. The cities below represent a balance of low CSI, livability, and community resilience in 2026.
Quebec City, Quebec
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~53
Population: ~550,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 2,500+
Quebec City consistently ranks among Canada’s safest large cities thanks to its historic neighbourhoods, strong local policing, and cohesive community culture. With a CSI well below the national average, residents enjoy a low risk of violent and property crime relative to many urban centres. The city has invested in public surveillance and smart intersection cameras in busy districts, contributing to proactive safety measures and quick police response. Deep community involvement and city planning focused on walkability also enhance overall security.
Barrie, Ontario
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~48
Population: ~220,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 1,800+
Barrie is often cited as Canada’s safest metropolitan area, routinely posting one of the lowest CSIs nationwide. Its blend of suburban calm, active neighbourhood watch groups, and strong municipal policing contributes to its safe reputation. CCTV coverage in commercial zones and at high-traffic intersections supports public safety and provides law enforcement with valuable incident insights.
Ottawa, Ontario
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~55
Population: ~1,020,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 5,000+
Canada’s capital city combines vibrant urban life with a comparatively low crime severity index for its size. Ottawa’s public safety ecosystem includes both traditional policing and community outreach, particularly in diverse neighbourhoods. A robust CCTV infrastructure in downtown, transit hubs, and public event spaces strengthens municipal security and supports rapid incident management.
Sherbrooke, Quebec
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~52
Population: ~160,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 900+
Sitting in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke blends small-city charm with effective safety programs. Its CSI reflects low reported crime, especially relative to national figures. CCTV systems are strategically placed around busy plazas, pedestrian corridors, and transit zones to deter theft and support emergency responses.
Guelph, Ontario
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~55
Population: ~145,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 1,200+
Guelph’s community-oriented atmosphere is matched by proactive municipal policing and safety planning. With a CSI below many comparable cities, Guelph’s approach includes public CCTV monitoring in entertainment districts and near educational institutions to enhance safety for students and residents alike.
St. Catharines, Ontario
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~55
Population: ~140,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 1,100+
Located in Ontario’s Niagara region, St. Catharines combines scenic waterfront living with a solid safety profile. The city’s CSI reflects stable crime rates and an active collaboration between police and local communities. CCTV cameras in downtown and traffic corridors support enforcement and public confidence.
Ottawa–Gatineau (Quebec portion)
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~62 (lower for Quebec side)
Population: ~130,000 (Quebec side)
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 900+
The Quebec portion of the Ottawa–Gatineau metropolitan area often shows slightly different crime patterns than its Ontario counterpart. Community safety initiatives and regional CCTV support help keep crime at bay in more residential zones, contributing to an overall sense of security for residents and visitors alike.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~72
Population: ~440,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 2,200+
Halifax balances its role as a cultural hub of Atlantic Canada with efforts to maintain public safety through community policing and visibility. It posts a CSI lower than many larger urban centres, and CCTV systems are increasingly integrated into public infrastructure to support safety in busy districts and transit areas.
Kingston, Ontario
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~72
Population: ~170,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 1,500+
Kingston’s history as a garrison city and its vibrant university population shape a unique community environment. Safety strategies include collaborative efforts between police, universities, and neighbourhood groups. Public CCTV deployments around waterfront parks and downtown areas help deter mischief and support rapid response.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Crime Severity Index (CSI): ~83
Population: ~110,000
Number of CCTV cameras: Estimated 800+
Though its CSI is somewhat higher than other cities on this list, St. John’s still ranks as one of the safest among Atlantic Canada’s urban centers. Its tight-knit communities, visible policing, and CCTV in key commercial areas contribute to low rates of serious crime compared to national norms.
