2025 Most Dangerous Cities in BC

BC is characterized by its beautiful scenery, active cities, and powerful communities. However, as with any area, certain regions experience more crime than others. This article examines the most dangerous cities in BC, highlights the highest crime rate in BC, compares them with the safest cities, demonstrates crime metrics, and provides tips on remaining safe.

6 Most Dangerous Cities in BC

let us have a look at the most dangerous cities in BC.

Kamloops

The Kamloops tops all Canadian CMAs with a score of 165.3 in 2023. With an estimated 13,116 incidents per 100,000, the city experiences a lot of non-violent crime, such as theft and drug-related offending, that is fueling the score. Crime volume decreased by 2% but jumped by 10% in terms of severity, keeping it atop the country.

Chilliwack

Chilliwack is second highest in Canada with a CSI rating of 156.2. It grew by 17% to a rate of 11,615 per 100,000 in 2023. Homicides doubled, and increasing property and drug offenses, fueled a rise in severity by a total of 24%.

Nanaimo

Its rating of 125.5 for Nanaimo's CSI ranks sixth in the country in severity. While the city's crime rate dropped slightly to 10,200 per 100k, ongoing property crime and non-violent-crime problems leave it in Canada's top tier for crime severity.

Kelowna

Kelowna had a CSI in 2023 equal to 118.6, placing it seventh in Canada. With a 9423-offence rate per 100k, it has decreased in volume but not in seriousness. It is driven by non-violent offenses, particularly drug and property offenses, despite specialist policing efforts.

Vancouver

British Columbia's largest CMA, Vancouver, had a CSI rating of 90.2, far over the national rate of 80.5. It had a stable crime rate of approximately 5,988 per 100k. Property crime and homelessness in pockets such as the Downtown Eastside add to this rating, despite being low in comparison to others.

Victoria

Victoria had a CSI rating of 79.9 in 2023, slightly below the Canadian national average. Crime is moderate, with a rate of 5,778 incidents per 100k population. Property offending continues, with the greatest prevalence in tourist and downtown areas, though overall severity is less in many BC CMAs.

Crime Rates in BC

In 2023, BC had a total Crime Severity Index (CSI) of 92.9, which was lower only than a few of the most problematic provinces in Canada. The index represents violent and non-violent crime, but the seriousness of the crime is considered. The lower the Safety Index, the less peaceful communities.

If you don't know how to understand the crime rates with the crime index for a location, below are 3 key points you must consider:

• A higher Crime Index means more crime or more serious crime.
• A lower Safety Index confirms the same point with less safety.
• A higher Safety Index suggests lower crime and safer environments.

In British Columbia, violent offenses slightly went up in 2023 (0.8%), with assaults and extortion taking the lead. Instead, property crimes were elevated at 40.9 per one thousand population. Since these drug-possession crimes have been subject to legal reforms as of January 2023, the number of drug-possession offenses decreased dramatically.

Top 3 Safest Cities in BC

Now let’s move towards the safest cities in BC Canada.

Oak Bay

Oak Bay is a suburb located on Vancouver Island and embedded in the Gulf Islands, which is most prominently featured with spectacular views of the ocean. Crime rates are low, affluence is high, and there is a reasonable historical appeal, making this town attractive to retirees and families.

New Westminster

New Westminster lies on the banks of the Fraser River and has a good combination of old and new buildings, which makes it a beautiful place to visit. Good SkyTrain access, robust civic facilities, and culturally diversifying cultures complement it.

Although New Westminster is less urban than other entries, the city has a lower crime rate, is largely walkable, has good vibrant events, and is favored by professionals and young families.

Sidney

Sidney is a town which is situated close to Victoria on Vancouver Island. It is considered to have a picturesque waterfront and vibrant retirement community. Retirees who like most residents of Sidney enjoy the high level of overall safety in the town and the availability of ferry services that in conjunction with the airport assure a high quality of life.

Safety Tips to Stay in BC

Whether it is your home or another place you are staying/visiting, the following ideas can keep you safe and secure even in the safest cities in BC:

• Invest in a pre-recording battery powered security camera like the Reolink Altas that has motion alerts, AI detection, and night vision.
• Ensure all entrance areas are well-lit and clear of obstruction to deter unwanted guests and increase general awareness of the property.
• Put motion-sensor lights on the perimeter to discourage trespassers and warn you of any unwanted nighttime intrusion.
• Do not share your location on social media when you are away or alone.

Always hide valuables in your car, even when making quick errands to discourage taking advantage of chances by theft.

FAQs

1. Which city has the highest crime rate in bc?

Kamloops has the highest crime rate in BC CSI of 165.3 and this city is the most dangerous in 2023.

2. What is the safest BC city?

Oak Bay is one of the safest ones, having a livability score of 88.

Conclusion

BC is large and beautiful, with communities that range greatly in safety. With official crime statistics, including insights into the highest crime rate in BC, knowledge of how to interpret those statistics, and some basic safety measures, such as home security systems like the Reolink Altas, you can explore all that BC has to offer without feeling worried.