Rising Crime Levels in Several Canadian Cities

Canada’s 2024 crime statistics reveal a mixed national picture. While the overall national Crime Severity Index declined, several cities continue to record levels above the national baseline. Data from Statistics Canada indicate that both violent and property-related offences remain concentrated in certain urban centres, which is relevant for travellers planning visits in 2026.

National crime trend overview

Statistics Canada reported that the national Crime Severity Index fell by approximately 4% in 2024. The index measures both the volume and seriousness of police-reported crime, with a base value of 100 corresponding to national crime levels in 2006. Values above 100 indicate higher crime severity relative to that benchmark.

Despite the national decline, a number of western and prairie cities recorded significantly elevated CSI values.

British Columbia: Chilliwack and Kamloops

Chilliwack posted a CSI of 141.7 in 2024, among the highest in the country. Kamloops recorded 129.9 despite a year-over-year decline. Property offences, including break-ins and vehicle theft, contribute substantially to these figures.

Kelowna and Nanaimo also remained above the national baseline with CSIs of 108.8 and 106.7 respectively. In Nanaimo, violent incidents such as assaults and robberies have played a growing role in crime severity trends.

Prairie cities: Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Regina

Winnipeg recorded a CSI of 124.4, with a violent crime severity index of 139.3. Property crimes remain persistent in the city.

Saskatoon and Regina reported CSI values of 106.7 and 100.3 respectively. Both cities continue to face challenges related to violent crime and property offences.

Thunder Bay: elevated homicide rate

Thunder Bay posted a CSI of 107.7, but more notably recorded one of the highest homicide rates in Canada in 2024 at 6.08 per 100,000 residents. While clearance rates remain strong, the city’s violent crime indicators stand above national averages.

Alberta: Red Deer and Lethbridge

Red Deer recorded a CSI of 118.7, although the index declined significantly year-over-year. Lethbridge posted 105.5. In both cities, property and drug-related offences contribute heavily to overall crime severity.

Vancouver and other centres

Vancouver’s CSI stood at 81.2, lower than several western counterparts, though certain neighbourhoods continue to experience concentrated street-level crime. Abbotsford–Mission and Moncton also recorded values above the 2006 baseline.

Implications for travellers in 2026

The data reflect regional concentrations of crime rather than a nationwide safety crisis. Canada remains a major global tourism destination with well-developed infrastructure. However, travellers visiting cities with elevated CSI values should exercise standard urban precautions, including staying in well-lit central areas and monitoring local advisories.

As experts at International Investment note, regional crime disparities should be considered when planning travel in 2026, but Canada’s overall tourism environment remains stable. Awareness and basic safety measures significantly reduce risk even in higher-index cities.