Top 5 Safest Places to Live in Ontario with the Best Quality of life - 2024

Top 5 Safest Places to Live in Ontario with the Best Quality of life - 2024

Ranking Studies
Canada
Ontario
Ontario

Ontario offers a diverse landscape, from the rocky Canadian Shield to fertile farmland and grassy lowlands. Key facts about the province include its abundance of lakes, ranging industries, and vibrant cultural celebrations like the Caribbean Carnival and Oktoberfest.

Moving to Ontario can offer various benefits, including employment opportunities, top-notch healthcare, quality education at leading universities, and a lifestyle rich in outdoor activities. However, when moving with family, safety is important.

In this article, we’ll give you a thorough overview of the top 5 safest places to live in Ontario with the best quality of life this year.

Methodology

Our safety ranking methodology is based on a careful analysis of the total number of crimes, which is derived from the data of Statistics Canada for 2023. To ensure accuracy, we calculated the number of crimes per 1,000 people. The data are the incident-based crime statistics by detailed violations from police services in Ontario.

The “Best quality of life” aspect is measured based on feedback from real people who have moved to this area in our database or real people from trusted online forums. More specifically, we look for positive feedback on job opportunities, quality of education, quality of healthcare, feeling of safety, public transportation, environment (cleanliness), as well as availability of recreational facilities and parks.

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1. Guelph

  • Crime Rate: 44.75 crimes per 1000 people

Guelph, with its vibrant craft beer scene, diverse dining options, and charming riverside views, offers a unique identity that sets it apart. The city’s historic buildings and cultural landmarks blend seamlessly with its picturesque surroundings, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

For residents of Guelph, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy, from nature walks and sporting events to exploring unique shopping destinations. With a variety of community centers and cultural facilities like the Guelph Civic Museum and the Guelph Farmers’ Market, there’s always something new to discover.

The University of Guelph adds to the city’s dynamic character, renowned for its research-intensive programs and commitment to excellence in education. However, with a crime rate of 44.75 crimes per 1000 people, safety remains a concern, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions while enjoying all that Guelph has to offer.

Statistics Canada (2023)

Guelph, Ontario

2. Barrie

  • Crime Rate: 54.31 crimes per 1000 people

Barrie stands out as one of Ontario’s safest places to live, boasting a crime rate of just 54.31 crimes per 1000 people. Beyond its safety, Barrie offers a vibrant food scene, diverse indoor and outdoor activities, excellent shopping opportunities, and a bustling calendar of festivals and events. The city’s picturesque waterfront, spanning 6.7 kilometers, is a major draw for both locals and tourists alike.

Explore Downtown Barrie to discover unique local shops, award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and the renowned Barrie Farmers Market. With over 300 restaurants and 160 indoor and outdoor attractions, there’s always something new to experience. Barrie’s commitment to community is evident through its programs for children, youth, and seniors, ensuring residents of all ages can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

From exploring green spaces to participating in recreational programs, Barrie offers the perfect combination of safety and quality of life. Discover all that this diverse and exciting city has to offer, and let your family’s adventure begin in Barrie.

Statistics Canada (2023)

Barrie, Ontario

3. London

  • Crime Rate: 58.64 crimes per 1000 people

London, one of Ontario’s safest places with a crime rate of 58.64 crimes per 1000 people, offers residents a high quality of life. The city is focused on revitalizing its Core Area, including Downtown, Richmond Row, Midtown, and Old East Village, to create a thriving cultural, civic, and economic hub.

Home to the world’s longest continuously operating baseball grounds, Labatt Memorial Park, London boasts a rich sports history and offers a variety of recreational activities for locals to enjoy, including aquatics, day camps, skating, and golf. Additionally, the city provides seniors with numerous recreation opportunities, allowing them to stay active and engaged in their community.

With its strategic location and extensive transportation networks, London serves as a vital transportation and industrial center, connecting the surrounding agricultural region and contributing to its rich agricultural heritage. Residents of London enjoy a balanced lifestyle, combining urban amenities with access to nature and agricultural landscapes.

Statistics Canada (2023)

London, Ontario

4. Brantford

  • Crime Rate: 62.76 crimes per 1000 people

Brantford, known for its variety of programs and activities catering to all ages, offers a vibrant community life with plenty of recreational opportunities. From preschool and child programs to activities for adults and seniors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The city’s facilities, including aquatic centers, arenas, and indoor tracks, provide excellent spaces for recreational indoor fun and learning.

Locals can engage in a wide range of activities, including swimming, ice-skating, fitness classes, golf, day camps, and even birthday parties. Brantford’s calm and laid-back atmosphere, as noted in online reviews, contributes to its relaxing ambiance, making it an appealing place to live for those seeking a slower pace of life.

While Brantford offers a tranquil environment, safety remains a priority, with a reported crime rate of 62.76 crimes per 1000 people. Despite this, the city continues to provide a welcoming and inclusive community where residents can enjoy a high quality of life and engage in various recreational pursuits.

Statistics Canada (2023)

Brantford, Ontario

5. Windsor

  • Crime Rate: 63.61 crimes per 1000 people

The City of Windsor, situated as the International Gateway between Canada and the United States, is a hidden gem in Ontario. Windsor offers an unparalleled living experience because of its world-class entertainment, rich historical and cultural landmarks, and stunning waterfront parks and gardens.

Originally formed from separate villages and towns, Windsor has evolved into a vibrant community that prioritizes physical and social activity, contributing to a high quality of life. With a commitment to safety, Windsor ensures preparedness through programs such as Emergency Preparedness and partnerships with services like Windsor Fire and Rescue and the Windsor Police Service. With a low crime rate of 63.61 crimes per 1000 people, residents can enjoy peace of mind in their daily lives.

Parks and Recreation in Windsor offer a myriad of rental opportunities, providing spaces for private parties, leisure activities, receptions, and family reunions. With a focus on delivering recreation services effectively and efficiently, Windsor ensures that residents have access to a variety of amenities and activities to enjoy. 

Statistics Canada (2023)

Windsor, Ontario

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Conclusion

Moving to Ontario can be a good idea because there are many good things about living there. The province offers a diverse landscape, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural tapestry which attracts individuals and families seeking a high quality of life.

Safety is a priority in Ontario, with many places boasting low crime rates and providing a sense of security for residents. However, like any place, there are both pros and cons to consider. This article will help you decide which place is the best for you and your family to settle.

Are you moving soon? You may be searching for 5 Best Moving Companies in Toronto for a hassle-free moving experience. 

 

Last year’s ranking (2024)

  1. Barrie
  2. Windsor
  3. Guelph
  4. London
  5. Brantford

 

Our rankings are meticulously curated with a focus on safety, affordability, and quality of life. Please note that some locations from last year’s rankings may have been excluded from this year’s list due to deviations from our methodology. This could include areas with insufficient rental/safety data or those with higher/lower averages compared to the previous year. We encourage readers to consider these rankings in conjunction with their individual needs and preferences to make well-informed decisions.

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
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