Five Safest Neighbourhoods in Hamilton
Known for its illustrious steel industry, Hamilton is also home to a number of safe neighbourhoods. Thanks to low crime rates, Ancaster, Dundas, and Westdale rank among the top five safest neighbourhoods in Hamilton, making them ideal for many young families.
The city of Hamilton is known for its blend of natural scenery and world-famous steel production plants. In fact, police‑reported crime across the Hamilton census area declined by 26 % between 2008 and 2018, which is well above the national decline. Violent crime rates remain lower than both Ontario and national averages, making many Hamilton neighbourhoods great places to call home or do business.
In this guide, you’ll discover the five safest neighbourhoods in Hamilton and what makes them special. You’ll also learn how to enhance your home or business security, because even in low‑crime communities, proactive protection keeps families, employees and property safe.
Safest Neighbourhoods in Hamilton Per Experts
Hamilton is now considered a larger city with 200 designated neighbourhoods. However, five neighbourhoods stand out in particular when it comes to safety and low crime rates.
Ancaster
With a crime rate that’s 77% lower than the national average, Ancaster is a family-friendly community. The neighbourhood received an A rating for its crime safety profile, making it a worthwhile consideration.
The area boasts a vibrant cultural scene with attractions like the Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre and natural wonders such as Tiffany Falls. Ancaster is also known for having a wide selection of public schools and recreational amenities, including soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and hockey rinks, which all present productive outlets for youth and families.
Buchanan
With a crime rate roughly three‑quarters lower than the national figure, Buchanan is a secure, diverse neighbourhood south of Hamilton Mountain. It is 93 % safer than the average Ontario community, making it a popular choice for families seeking peace of mind.
Home to sites like Battlefield House Museum and Dundurn Castle, Buchanan blends history with modern conveniences. Nearby art galleries, playgrounds and community centres promote healthy social ties. Businesses here often rely on commercial security cameras and access control systems to protect their assets and customers.
Dundas
Nestled in the valley between the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario, Dundas offers stunning scenery, a thriving cultural scene and low crime. Its crime rate is over 70 % below the national average, thanks in part to strong community engagement and a proactive police presence.
Recreational trails, artisan markets and a bustling downtown make Dundas one of the safest and most liveable neighbourhoods in Hamilton. Many households install smart locks and motion‑activated lighting to complement their alarm systems and keep property crime at bay.
Stoney Creek
Once a separate municipality, Stoney Creek combines suburban comfort with easy access to downtown Hamilton via the QEW. Crime rates here are 71 % lower than the national average, and residents enjoy amenities like waterfront parks, bike paths and historic landmarks. The blend of city life and natural beauty draws families and retirees alike.
Business owners benefit from robust local employment opportunities and a stable economic base. Installing monitored security cameras, especially in parking lots and retail storefronts, helps ensure this neighbourhood remains secure.
Westdale
Bordering McMaster University and the Royal Botanical Gardens, Westdale is one of Hamilton’s most sought‑after communities. The crime rate, about 76 % lower than the national average, makes it appealing to students, young professionals and families. Quaint shops, cafés and theatre venues give Westdale a village feel. Its proximity to Highway 403 also makes it a convenient base for commuting.
To protect their homes and rental properties, many residents adopt smart home security systems with remote monitoring and environmental hazard detection.
Top Hamilton Neighbourhoods Compared
The following chart provides safety profiles of the safest neighbourhoods in Hamilton, including average home price and prominent employment industries.
| Region | Crime Rate | Employment Industries | Home Prices (CAD) | Safest Nearby Areas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ancaster | Low | Healthcare, education, manufacturing, technology, retail, hospitality | Moderate to High ($1,175,000) | Waterdown |
| Buchanan | Low | Technology, customer service, local administration, retail, trades | Low to Moderate ($762,400) | Balfour |
| Dundas | Low | Healthcare, education, social services, retail, food and beverage, and manufacturing. | Moderate ($838,800) | West Flamborough |
| Stoney Creek | Low | Manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, retail, technology, and property management | Moderate ($861,700) | Winona |
| Westdale | Low | Education, healthcare, hospitality, small business, research | Moderate ($980,100) | Ainslee Wood |
Image Source: Unsplash
How to Improve Neighbourhood Safety in Hamilton
Even if you live in the safest Hamilton neighbourhoods, proactive security measures protect your loved ones, property and livelihood. Here are the key solutions PasWord Protection offers to keep your home or business secure.
Security Audits
A professional security audit identifies weaknesses in your current setup, such as blind spots, outdated sensors or vulnerable entry points. For homeowners, this can include assessing doors, windows, smoke alarms and camera placement. Business owners benefit from audits of storefronts, parking lots and warehouses.
Home Security Cameras
High‑definition cameras and smart doorbells let you monitor your property in real time. Outdoor cameras deter thieves and vandals, while doorbell cameras allow you to see and speak to visitors from anywhere. Footage is stored securely, providing evidence in case of an incident.
24/7 Home Monitoring
DIY systems can alert you when something’s wrong, but they’re powerless if you’re asleep or away. PasWord’s ULC‑certified monitoring team watches your alarm, camera and environmental sensors 24/7. If an alarm triggers, they’ll verify the threat, contact you and dispatch emergency responders. Professional monitoring gives families peace of mind and helps businesses meet insurance and compliance standards.
Environmental Hazard Detection
Floods, fires, gas leaks, and other hazards can be easily mitigated with the right detection devices. This includes sensors that detect the threat as soon as it becomes active, and then trigger alarms early so that you and response teams can take immediate action. PasWord Protection offers environmental detection devices that identify hazards before they cause damage or harm.
Doorbells Security Cameras
Doorbell cameras let you see and assess unknown figures who may knock on your door. A video doorbell can also trigger smart locks or alarms if needed. At PasWord Protection, we offer doorbell security cameras that enable live-streaming, recording, and smart features for additional connectivity with other security devices.
Image Source: PasWord Protection
Find Your Safe Haven in Hamilton Neighbourhoods
Hamilton continues to attract families and professionals looking for neighbourhoods with a balance of safety, convenience, and community. Areas like Ancaster, Westdale, and Dundas are often noted for their low crime rates and local amenities.
While some neighbourhoods offer greater peace of mind, every home can benefit from
added protection. PasWord Protection provides monitored security systems, video doorbells, and environmental hazard detection to help residents feel more secure, wherever they live in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hamilton a safe city to live in?
Yes, Hamilton has been deemed an excellent city for homeowners looking for a safe and secure neighbourhood to live in. The top choices for neighbourhoods in Hamilton include Ancaster, Dundas, Westdale, Buchanan, and Stoney Creek, as they offer low crime rates and family-friendly amenities.
Is Hamilton Dangerous?
The city of Hamilton is generally safe, especially in the five neighbourhoods mentioned above.
What do you need for a home security system?
The most common components in a home security system include:
- Security cameras
- Doorbell Video Cameras
- Entryway sensors
- Motion sensors
- Floodlights
- Panic buttons
- Smart locks and thermostats
- Professional monitoring services
A home security system is stronger when all components work together and trigger each other when necessary to stop threats.
What is the safest neighbourhood in Hamilton?
Ancaster. The neighbourhood has some of the lowest crime rates in Ontario and is one of the safest neighbourhoods in the province. In addition to its safety profile, it’s also one of the most accessible and diverse neighbourhoods in the city.
Key Takeaways
- Hamilton has evolved into a city with several neighbourhoods known for low crime and family-friendly living.
- Ancaster stands out with a crime rate that’s 77% below the national average, and it has an abundance of schools and sports facilities.
- Buchanan boasts a 93% safety score compared to Ontario cities and offers both diversity and recreational appeal.
- Dundas is loved for its safety and natural beauty. It also offers cultural amenities and scenic proximity to Lake Ontario.
- Stoney Creek and Westdale both blend safety with lifestyle perks, from city convenience to upscale housing and green spaces.
Looking to bolster your home security system for maximum protection? Contact PasWord Protection today to learn how we can help fulfill all your home security needs.
