Toronto Homicide Rate: Stats and Safety Insights

If you are choosing Toronto to live in or travel to, the homicide rate helps you picture the violent crime in the city. It gives an idea of how safe it is.

In this article, we will discuss the Toronto homicide rate. We will share the recent statistics and compare them with the previous rates to give you a better idea. We will also discuss the reasons for the crime rate and how you can ensure your safety.

Toronto Homicide Rate Overview

Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and being the largest and the urban center, it has a lower overall crime rate. However, the homicide rate is higher than that of other crimes.

According to Statista, the highest homicide rate was recorded to be 5.39 victims per 100k population in Thunder Bay. It has a low homicide rate compared to Canada and most US cities.

Homicide Rate Trend In Toronto

The Toronto homicide rate trend has significantly decreased compared to past years. According to the stats by Toronto police, the homicide rates were at their peak in 2021 and 2022, with an average homicide rate of 5. Most of the cases in 2021 were recorded as shooting-related homicides, while in 2022, stabbing was also one of the cases.

However, in 2023, 2024, and 2025, a significant decline was seen in homicide rates throughout the city. The change has made a great change in major crime rates by decreasing the number of violent crimes and gang-related issues. If you look back at the historical data in 2018, the homicide rates were uncontrollable due to weak law enforcement actions.

Common Factors Behind Toronto Homicides

Domestic violence: Domestic violence is often recorded due to interpersonal conflicts and family issues. Moreover, family conflicts also raise serious concerns and may lead to homicide due to disputes over property or money.

Assault: Gun-related crimes often lead to homicides due to the negligence of law enforcement agencies. Also, illegal arms and weapons become a major cause of homicides.

Gang Related Activities: Gang-related activities are one of the major reasons leading to increased homicide rates. The gang activities also promote drug offenses and illegal trade. Moreover, disputes between the gangs also occur, which may increase the fatality rate, including the loss of innocent lives.

Socio-economic conditions: In some parts, there is high poverty and unemployment that result in violent crimes. This increases homicide rates involving the residents in criminal acts. Moreover, lack of attraction towards education, higher house rentals, and homelessness contribute a lot to the overall margin.

Youth Engagement: Youth are often found in most of the homicide cases due to a lack of education and low career opportunities. The community lacks awareness programs that usually lead to youth-related violent crimes.

Other Factors: The other factors include drug trafficking, alcohol related crimes, nightlife crimes, and mental health issues among individuals. These factors also contribute a lot to increasing the overall homicide rate.

How To Protect Your Safety In Toronto

There are several ways that you should practice to stay safe in Toronto. Let’s discuss each and see how you can take precautionary measures.

• Initially, you should plan your journey and stay informed about the surroundings.
• It is advised not to get distracted from any activity on the streets.
• Keep your bond strong with the community members to seek help in any emergency.
• You should limit yourself to well-lit streets at night.
• If you find any suspicious activity nearby, quickly report it to the police for assistance.
• Always avoid traveling alone at night and never get involved in any gang activity.
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FAQs

1. What Canadian city has the highest homicide rate?

According to the statistics, the highest homicide rate was recorded in Ontario and Thunder Bay. It marks an average homicide rate of 12-13 per 100k population. They both exceed the national average homicide rate and are considered highly dangerous places to live.

2. What is the #1 safest city in Canada?

Quebec City is one of the safest cities in Canada, with an overall safety index of 45.73. It has the lowest crime rates and is considered an ideal choice for families to live peacefully.

3. Is Toronto the safest city in the world?

No, Toronto is not the safest city in the world due to its high incidence of criminal activity. Moreover, the homicide rate is currently reduced but has a deep history of peak rates.

Conclusion

Toronto has a lower homicide rate than other cities in Canada. It is a safer option. However, it is not zero, and we have discussed the common factors that lead to fatalities. It is recommended to stay alert to the surroundings to save yourself from becoming a victim. We have shared some tips to ensure your safety, whether you are a resident or traveler.