Canada : Safety by City
The largest country in North America (and second by size in the entire world), Canada, is known around the globe for its vast natural richness, gorgeous landscapes, and forests that make the mind boggle.
It is also one of the world’s wealthiest countries and a major tourist destination.
In many ways, especially economically and technologically, Canada is much like its southern neighbor, the United States, but the differences between the two are more than obvious in many ways, first of them being the fact that, even though both countries have a long history of colonialism over the Indigenous people of their countries, Canada is not only perfectly happy with its British heritage and history, but many Canadians are actually proud of it.
Even though it has a population of about 35 million, Canada is known on the international stage for its diplomatic skills, peacekeeping tendencies, tolerance and respect of human rights, and is highly respected because of it.
Warnings & Dangers in Canada
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Canada is overall, very safe. It's actually known for its peacekeeping diplomacy, respect and tolerance for everyone, so you can rest assured that you will probably encounter no problems when traveling there. Still, do not let your guard down and be vigilant at all times.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transportation is very safe and reliable in Canada. Still, take few precaution measures when in public transportation.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
There is no reason to fear the pickpockets. There is almost no risk of petty theft, and following a few basic precaution rules should take care of this issue.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Because of its northern location, there are a few risks when it comes to meteorological conditions. Canada is prone to strong, harsh winters, extremely low temperatures and snow storms.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Although there are some areas that should be avoided at night, Canada is very safe when it comes to mugging or kidnapping, especially for tourists.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There haven't been any terrorist attacks in Canada's recent history (except for the mass shootings in 2012, but those were isolated incidents); however, terrorist attacks should never be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
There is no risk of getting scammed in Canada, but still be careful when receiving change, check it twice, negotiate everything in advance and be wary of people offering you unwanted help, directions, etc.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Canada is very safe for females traveling alone. There are no dangers to watch out for, just apply basic rules of precaution and your trip should go smoothly.
So... How Safe Is Canada Really?
Canada is a very safe country to travel to.
If you’re planning on traveling to Canada, you should relax when it comes to safety, since the crime rates in this country are very low, even in the big cities.
Violent crime is also almost non-existent since if it does happen, it is usually linked to particular neighborhoods and is rarely in the form of a random attack.
There is another issue connected to the crime in Canada, and it is the issue of drug-related crimes in the form of street battles between gangs, but those also happen rarely and in particular areas.
Generally, crime rates in Canada compared to those in the United States and a big part of the rest of the world.
The issue that is tormenting the entire North American continent is the issue of mass shootings.
Canada is no exception.
Recently there have been several high-profile shootings in public/tourist areas – like the shootings that took place on June 2012 at Toronto’s Eaton’s Centre and HUB Mall in Edmonton; however, the only reason these shootings are well known and covered by the media is that they are so rare.
How Does Canada Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Canada | 88 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Finland | 86 |
| Hungary | 83 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| New Zealand | 90 |
| Sweden | 83 |
| Uruguay | 77 |
| Singapore | 90 |
Useful Information
Visas
There are countries that need a visa in order to enter Canada. However, citizens from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia and some other countries do not need it for stays shorter than 180 days. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Currency
Canadian dollar is the official currency of Canada. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are used and accepted in most establishments. Canada is for anyone's pocket. It is full of attractions that aren't expensive, and sometimes are free, and you can buy excellent low-cost food and drinks.
Weather
The average temperature in Canada is usually colder than in the United States and Western Europe, so prepare yourself and dress in layers if you're planning on visiting between October and April. During the rest of the year, throughout the majority of the country, the daytime temperature goes well above 15°C and usually is somewhere between 20s-30s°C.
Airports
Toronto Pearson International Airport, officially named Lester B. Pearson International Airport (frequently shortened to Toronto Pearson, Pearson Airport, or simply Pearson), is the busiest international airport in Canada and is located 22.5 km northwest of Downtown Toronto, with a big chunk of the airport (including the two main terminals) located in the neighboring city of Mississauga, and a smaller part of the airfield extending into Etobicoke, Toronto's western district.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Canada, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
Canada Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | -6 | -4 | 2 | 11 | 19 | 24 | 27 | 25 | 20 | 13 | 5 | -2 |
| Low °C | -14 | -13 | -7 | 1 | 8 | 13 | 16 | 15 | 10 | 4 | -2 | -10 |
| High °F | 21 | 25 | 36 | 52 | 66 | 75 | 81 | 77 | 68 | 55 | 41 | 28 |
| Low °F | 7 | 9 | 19 | 34 | 46 | 55 | 61 | 59 | 50 | 39 | 28 | 14 |
Canada - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Abbotsford | 83 |
| Brampton | 82 |
| Burnaby | 65 |
| Calgary | 82 |
| Coquitlam | 86 |
| Edmonton | 86 |
| Halifax | 79 |
| Hamilton | 76 |
| Kelowna | 76 |
| Kitchener | 75 |
| Mississauga | 85 |
| Montreal | 81 |
| Nanaimo | 32 |
| Niagara Falls | 87 |
| Oshawa | 42 |
| Ottawa | 83 |
| Quebec City | 85 |
| Red Deer | 32 |
| Regina | 74 |
| Saskatoon | 73 |
| Thunder Bay | 65 |
| Toronto | 81 |
| Vancouver | 82 |
| Victoria | 82 |
| Windsor | 81 |
| Winnipeg | 77 |
PLEASE COME
I was born here, its so beautiful and safe! You should come here
Maritimes
Visit the Maritimes its beautiful and is very safe.
From UK, Looking to visit this year, the UK is just getting terrible with knife crimes, stabbings gangs with guns. Fortunately I don’t live in London but I know eventually it will move to my area .If I could move to Canada I defiantly would.
Looking forward to visit…
Come visit!
You want to come? Come!
Canada is a huge country and would take about a week to drive from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific.
Most of it is covered by forests, farmland, freshwater lakes and rivers.
The north is permafrost, with very small vegetation.
Wildlife is abundant but mostly harmless with a few exceptions.
There are no dangers from snakes or poisonous animals.
There are a few plants that can cause skin irritation but, but rare, and will not exist in tourist regions.
The cold of winter could kill you if you do something stupid.
Pretty much every large city in the world has some crime but Canada is one of the safest.
The police will protect you and are not corrupt but if you break the law you will be held accountable.
Handguns and assault weapons are illegal so don’t try to bring them there.
Hunting guns are aloud but don’t walk down a city street with one as there are strict laws regarding their use.
Don’t drink alcohol or smoke weed and drive.
Yes, cannabis is legal but certain jurisdictions prohibit smoking in public places and it is restricted as to how much you can grow or possess in different jurisdictions.
Also, alcohol has restrictions as to where it can be consumed.
The food is safe in restaurants and grocery stores as it is regulated and inspected.
The highways are safe and patrolled regularly by police and are well maintained.
People will stop to help you if you are in trouble.
It’s a “rule of law country” so everyone has the same rights regardless of religion, skin color, sex, or whatever.
There are very little discrimination and less all the time.
The laws are there to protect you so you can have fun in a safe healthy environment.
authoritarian fascist nation
The article says:
“Canada is known on the international stage for its diplomatic skills, peacekeeping tendencies, tolerance and respect of human rights, and is highly respected because of it.”
It seems that needs to be revised because the Canadian Government is acting like Putin’s Russia by threatening and arresting peaceful protesters. I wanted to visit Canada but it is looking like an authoritarian fascist nation in 2022.
Under Trudeau, it is tending that way but that doesn’t change the people, the country or the culture. Canada is a beautiful and safe country.
Continues to be one of the best countries to live in the world
I am no fan of Trudeau but Canada continues to be a great country with excellent law and order. Peaceful protesters are not arrested unless they are blocking traffic and making life miserable for citizens.
Biggest danger to Canada is the far right moving into rural Canada from USA. The so called Freedom Protesters (Trumpsters) did not obey the laws as they were relying on their white privilege. Truely they only were fighting for their vision of freedom and no one else’s. Except for very few areas in cities, and some rural prarie areas, walk at night with no worries.
Stop spewing misinformation, we are one of the best country to live or visit!
I agree with 99.9% of this. One small mistake on poisonous creatures. In British Columbias Okanagan region there are rattle snakes. It is very rare to even see one however but they’re definitely there. They usually mind their own business so if you see one just keep your distance and you won’t have any issues.
I’ve visited Canada a few times – mostly Victoria, British Columbia, Toronto, Ontario, and Halifax, Nova Scotia. I always felt safe, calm, and happy whilst there. The locals are exceptionally down-to-earth and absolutely no problems should arise of your visit.
Update on travel to BC
There is increasingly violent crime in Vancouver and suburbs. Anyone considering travel to Southern British Columbia should remain vigilant and be wary of their surroundings. There have been an upsurge of violence , mainly assaults and stabbings , I don’t recommend to walk alone at night in the city of Vancouver.
Vancouver
It’s mportant to have your facts straight when you post here as folks rely on forums such as these. The crime rate across Canada has seen a surge since Covid. Not only Vancouver but everywhere. It’s still one of the safest countries in the world to visit. The crime rates everywhere have gone up since Covid. Our crime rate in Canada is much lower than our American neighbor to the south, by far, since guns are legal there . I have lived in Vancouver for 40of my 68 years and have never experienced a violent crime and nor do I know anyone here that has. Raised my family here and they are both over 40 now, neither have had a problem. Daughter lived and worked downtown and most certainly saw a few sketchy people but other than the occasional skytrain issue, overall it’s safe. Yes you need to be diligent, as you should always be when travelling in a foreign country.
My favorite country
Having been to Canada over a dozen times.. There is no other place I would recommend being safer to travel to. The place is absolutely beautiful for the wildlife and wilderness areas. My brother moved there to live with his wife and become a citizen back in 2008 and I have made trips up there since. Every time I go, I just don’t want to leave.
Mostly nice
Canada is a safe place, for the most part. You have to worry about religious areas though. Certain places are being taken over by Islam extremists who are trying to push Sharia Law on everyone in the surrounding areas. Unless you live or visit near one of these places, chances are you won’t even know about them because the government refuses to talk on it. Same thing here in my home in the UK.
A reply to Tina.
I would like to know which parts of Canada are being “taken over by Islam extremists trying to push Sharia Law on everyone”. I’ve never seen an example of it and I’m a non-Muslim living next to an Islamic centre in a city that has a high Muslim population.
Moreover, even if true, if they were trying to impose laws that would be in violation of the Criminal Code (federal law), you could report them to the RCMP who, I assure you, have no tolerance for extremists of any kind, especially those breaking the law.
What Jeff said.
I live in Ontario and this never happens
A RELAXED KIWI MIGRANT
As a New Zealander, I find Canada noisy, expensive and racist but work pays well. The only place I’ve been mugged has been Washington, D.C. (and I’ve worked and travelled around Europe and the Pacific,)
TOTALLY AGREE
New Zealand
The worst people in the world seem to come from New Zealand. Not sure why, but boy have you ever spoken to someone from Australia about New Zealand… they really have a very poor opinion of them. They don’t even consider them a real country.
Bull. I have lived here all my life and have never heard such stupidity. We ARE multicultural and we are very proud of that and the way we get along and accept differences. Sharia Law. Ridiculous comment. I have heard of a situation re SL once and used to work in an area that would be privy to it. Doesn’t exist to the extent one should be concerned.
Reply to Tina
Tina, what you are saying is nonsense, but I suspect most people will know that.
A Great Country but it’s changing politically
Tina is correct in her statement. Under our PM Trudeau the political landscape has changed and changing ever faster. I have lived in Canada since 1954 and have served in the RCN and am not happy with the changes as I don’t want Canada to start to look like France and become so dangerous.
Tina
I am Canadian.
What you wrote is simply not true.
There are no parts of Canada being “taken over” by Islam extremists or any other extremists, religious zealots, or any other group.
No-one is “pushing Sharia Law” on anyone.
Please better inform yourself and please come a for a visit sometime.
Canadians, including Canadians of all religious and non-religious stripes, would love to welcome you!
Test, just a test
Canadian citizens who wish to extend the period of their stay in Egypt should address the Immigration Authority of Egypt. The Embassy of Canada does not issue documents to assist in extending the period of stay in Egypt. Canadian citizens attempting to depart Egypt after the expiration of their visa may be required to pay a fine at the airport. Travellers should ensure that they arrive to the airport early with sufficient Egyptian currency to pay any fines. If you intend to stay for more than one month and have obtained a visa from an Egyptian embassy or consulate abroad, a 30-day visa will be stamped in your passport regardless of the visa previously granted. You are responsible for renewing this visa. You must show proof of an entry stamp in your passport when you leave Egypt. If you cannot provide proof of entry, you cannot obtain an exit stamp and will be denied exit.
Canada NOT so good!
Canada is Beautiful but TERRIBLY Expensive and everything is Overpriced. BRING LOTS OF MONEY. Also Canada is Over Governed so they also will try to take as much of your Money as possible. If working in Canada you will find a disgusting rate of pay. Ask any Aussie or Brit who has come for a Work / Skiing vacation.
True.
James?! Ugh that wouldnt pose a threat to me
Reply to James
Canada has some of the lowest taxation rates in the OECD. People like to complain about it, but it’s very old news from decades ago. Australia and UK are both more expensive. As to being “over-governed,” it may be that you are overly libertarian. We’re mostly fine with the way we’re governed.
Sensible Precautions!
Hi please come and visit Canada, but don’t be complacent about safety just because it’s one of the safer countries. Don’t wander off into the wilderness without an experienced guide. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could get lost, die of exposure to cold, be mauled by a bear, fall off a cliff or be swept over a waterfall. I’m not kidding. In some areas it’s even possible to die of too many mosquito bites if you’re out there for a long time. Don’t go off in a boat or canoe without a guide if you don’t have experience. Our rivers can be very powerful and very cold. You can be swept under by the currents, or die from the cold before you get out of there. Be aware that some areas of Canadian cities are not safe to walk around in at night, even if our cities are mostly safe. Ask the locals about the areas to avoid. Enjoy plenty of maple syrup and I hope you get out of here alive 😉
Pff
“Hope”?? Is this Ukraine? The chances of someone coming out of Canada alive is probably 99.3% if not higher just don’t go to thompson lol. I heard it’s very unsafe.
Safe, diverse, beautiful, expensive.
So you’re saying 7 out of every 1,000 tourists will die in Canada? Ridiculous! Canada receives millions of tourists every year, and is one of the safest countries on Earth. You’re probably less likely to die here as a tourist than if you just travel around your home country. That said, healthcare here is problematic, and you shouldn’t come if you’re not healthy and fully insured. Canada is also very expensive, especially food, lodging, and transportation. Despite being known as a cold country, Canada can be dangerously hot in many places in the summer; it’s best to travel here in the spring and fall, avoiding hot summers and cold winters. Know your cities before you wander around them at night; some areas of some of the larger cities are not safe at night. Canada’s population is 40 million, and it is one of the fastest growing countries on Earth. It is very diverse; explore all the world’s cultures right here. We welcomed one million newcomers this past year. Talk with us; most of us are friendly and helpful, and some of us are jerks…you can read some of the jerks posting crazy stuff on here.
I’m planning a 3-4 month solo trip to Canada. I’ll work from there only and will explore on weekends. Which cities should I plan to go?
Quebec City, Vancouver Island; and NO GUNS! (Washington, D.C. is the only place I’ve faced a gun in the street or been mugged!
Quebec City! A beautiful ‘must’: and check out the Plains of Abraham.
No one cares not even police and no one can protect any one and they expect you to protect your self
Canada is the best and compared to other parts of the world specially U.S. which is the worst when comes to being mugged and robbed or even facing police running with shot guns i subway…Canada is far better and lovable. The government is decent compared to US . I would never come to US. I personally was robbed 3 times in us during my only time traveling..once at bank of America..from a car while being by the bank front door and infornt of the security guard.. the second was in California by an outlet which they damaged the rental car and stole.legguge from 5 cars and the security stated it is very normal and the third was at the apartment in which even shoes were stolen. I really wish to never have visited us.
Why rate Canada 1 Star then?
great canada
I live here
perfection
I live here and I gotta say this is a nice place to live in! No risks or anything. I recommend it
Canada is a magnificent country with low crime and a good standard of living. However, in most of Canada’s millions of square miles, there are very few people. The true north is filled with wildlife and, yes, it can be dangerous. For example, in Ontario alone, I’ve crossed paths with moose, bear and wolves while hiking on my own in our boreal forests. Most visitors will never see any wildlife and that is too bad. Take the time to go beyond the cities and see our natural wonders.
Safe, but beware of the Indians (from India)
I’ve been living in Canada for over 30 years, it’s unquestionably safe for tourists. However, the past few years, there has been a massive influx of Indian immigrants, to the extent that they have completely taken over certain places like Brampton, Vancouver and certain parts of Toronto. They’re definitely ruining the ambiance and image of this country. They feel like no rules apply to them. It’s almost like an infestation. Too many Indians are washing away the identity of Canada.
Nature Not Criminals
I am Canadian born and raised, so I know of what I speak.
As far as crime, probably one of the safest places in the world. I would say that theft from vehicles is the number one worry for tourists. In short, don’t leave valuables on display in a vehicle, especially over night.
The only other real dangers come from the natural world.
If you’re coming in winter, the cold can be extreme. People have been known to freeze to death if not properly attired. This is likely to be of minimal concern in large cities, but if travelling to more rural areas, be prepared. I would also not recommend winter driving if you come from a warmer country. It takes some time to learn to do so safely. The simplest solution to my way of thinking is to come in the summer when you can wear shorts and a t-shirt. There are more appealing places to be in January than in Canada!
Wildlife does pose some threat. While bears and cougars do occasionally target humans, it is rare and only likely to affect hikers venturing a little further off the beaten path. The more likely threat from wildlife comes when driving, particularly at night. Hitting a large animal like a moose or an elk is quite commonly fatal for all life forms involved. Smaller animals like deer, not so much. Be cautious when driving in rural areas at night. I’ve heard of many more stories of people meeting their end from hitting a large animal on the road than from running across an ill-tempered bear while strolling through a meadow.
Beautiful country
I love going to Canada, it’s almost my second country. I have siblings that live there and I come as often as every two weeks (before the pandemic) to visit with them ever since I lived in the US.
I have visited more places and provinces in Canada than in the US. My family along with my sibling’s family have been camping in Penticton since my kids and all their cousins were little. Such a beautiful place.
Maybe, just maybe, I dream of living there one day.
Agreed
I agree Canada can get extremely cold. Correct me if I’m wrong but I live in one of the warmest cities in Canada Compared to other cities yet it gets so cold to the point my eyelashes go white. Dress warmly before you enter this country.
People who act with integrity
I have lived in Canada all my life, have seen most of it, have lived in the US, and have visited many other countries.
I also do business with people in every province of Canada on a daily basis as well as those from at least 20 countries that I can name off of the top of my head.
What is always remarkable to me is that Canadians (right up there with Aussies, Kiwis, Germans in particular) are the easiest and most transparent people to do business with.
They do what they say they will do, a deal is a deal, no hassles.
That would be my experience traveling within my country too.
Honestly it's a great country
This is my personal Opinion: Great Country just government shooting has been on the rise too. Just try not to go outside in the night, because that is when shooting happens the most. That’s it.
Why Didn’t It Get Yellow Color? There Has Been An Ax Terror Attack In My Location
Incredible wilderness
The nature in this country is very beautiful.
I would like to visit Canada in 2025 in the summer. Its a beautiful place and it’s safe.
have been to 40 countries including ‘dangerous’ countries like Colombia and Mexico. Toronto is the only place I have been robbed
the weather is a safety factor in Canada
I find it interesting that Canada is rated as safer than Japan (where I, a Canadian, currently live). I think the weather has to factor into Canada’s safety rating more than it does in this review. It’s very easy to get into serious trouble in winter. E.g. If your GPS leads you astray or you have car trouble. There are many large areas of Canada where this could be a death sentence, and foreigners from many countries will not be prepared.
Read this
I often got robbed my toys… in kindergarten. Its really safe there. Just don’t be stupid