5 Safest Neighbourhoods in Toronto

PasWord Protection • July 23, 2025

Discover the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto, including Rosedale, Forest Hill, and The Beaches. Learn which areas to avoid, how safe Toronto really is, and how to protect your home with expert security tips from PasWord Protection.


The third-largest city in North America isn’t only one of the best places to live, but also among the safest. Whether you’re visiting the city, aiming to live here, or just passing through, learning about the safest areas in Toronto can help you plan smartly.



Multiple factors come into play when ranking the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto. In this piece, we’ll delve into those important considerations, discuss the city’s safest areas, and share advice on how to improve neighbourhood safety.

The Top Ranking Safest Neighbourhoods in Toronto 

For its size and population, Toronto ranks especially high as the sixth safest city in the world. Of course, not all neighbourhoods here are equally secure. Keep reading to see the five safest neighbourhoods in Toronto.

Rosedale

One of the oldest and most affluent neighbourhoods in the city, Rosedale is known for its ample green space and proximity to high-ranking schools. It’s also one of the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto. You’ll see residents out and about 24/7 in a neighbourhood with this many outdoor recreation opportunities.


Rosedale’s safety results from its low crime rates. The neighbourhood’s popularity among families and the common use of
home security monitoring systems with proactive intruder detection help deter criminal activity like burglary, vandalism, and gang violence.

Forest Hill

Forest Hill stands out to homeowners as one of the safest Toronto neighbourhoods, with its strong community ties and beautiful, luxurious homes. Beyond access to distinguished schools and fine dining, those wealthy enough to own property here also enjoy a crime rate 72% lower than the national average.

Leaside

As one of the safest areas in Toronto, Leaside boasts a proud local culture and a low crime rate. Close to Bayview Avenue, this neighbourhood has plenty of great spots to shop and eat. 


Leaside offers green spaces and elite schools that attract families with children looking for a place to establish roots. Leaside is also close to essential services like Sunnybrook Hospital, providing locals with peace of mind.

The Beaches

Widely regarded as one of Toronto’s most beautiful neighbourhoods, The Beaches offers stunning lakefront views and a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its low crime rate and relaxed pace, it blends the charm of suburban living with the convenience of city life. This puts The Beaches among the best neighbourhoods Toronto offers for those seeking a laidback lifestyle without leaving the city.

Lawrence Park

This exclusive residential neighbourhood in one of the safest areas in Toronto boasts great restaurants, boutiques, and incredible recreational facilities. Housing prices may be steep in Lawrence Park, but it comes with peace of mind knowing that you and your house are safe.

Other Safe Toronto Neighbourhoods

These are just a few of the safest Toronto neighbourhoods. Other noteworthy places to consider include:

  • Liberty Village
  • The Distillery District
  • Yonge Street and St. Clair
  • High Park


While these neighbourhoods may have the lowest crime rates as estimated by the Toronto Police Service, it’s possible to feel safe anywhere in the city. Regardless of the neighbourhood you choose, Toronto remains one of the safest major cities in North America. Furthermore, there are steps you can take to protect your home anywhere in the city.

Toronto Neighbourhood Comparison: Safety, Jobs & Affordability

Neighbourhood Crime Rate Job Opportunities Average Home Price Safest Nearby Areas
Regent Park High Moderate Moderate Cabbagetown
Jane & Finch High Low Moderate York University Heights
Kensington Market Moderate High High The Annex
Rosedale Low High Very High Moore Park
Scarborough Village Moderate Moderate Moderate Guildwood
The Beaches Low Moderate High Upper Beaches
Liberty Village Low High High Niagara
Etobicoke West Mall Moderate Moderate Moderate Markland Wood
Parkdale High Moderate Moderate Roncesvalles

What Makes These Toronto Neighbourhoods Safe?

Let’s discuss some notable similarities that make these five areas safest Toronto neighbourhoods. 


  • Recreational Spaces: Parks, community centres, and other public areas serve as hubs for neighbourhood activities, increasing visibility and security.

  • Strong community ties: Close-knit communities foster a sense of responsibility among residents, who are more likely to look out for one another and deter suspicious activity.

  • Home security systems: Many households invest in reliable home security measures, such as home security cameras, video doorbells, and alarm systems to secure their homes.

  • Access to emergency services: Neighbourhoods with nearby Toronto Police Service and fire stations benefit from quick responses when they’re needed most. 

  • Diverse and inclusive communities: One of the most multicultural cities in the world, Toronto homes varied, inclusive communities. This reduces bias and prejudice to promote harmony and peace for stronger, safer neighbourhoods.

Learn more: How do Doorbell Cameras Work?


 Four children play in a park in a Toronto neighbourhood

Image Source: Canva

Why Safety Matters When Choosing Your Neighbourhood

A safe neighbourhood offers unrivalled peace of mind, whether you’re raising a family, caring for seniors, or often away from home. Here’s why safety is a top priority when choosing where to live.

Protection of Your Property

Living in one of the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto, which is well-monitored, can reduce the risk of thefts, burglaries, and even vandalism. This allows residents to enjoy an improved quality of life and greater property value stability.

Reduced Cost for Insurance

Did you know that living in a neighbourhood with a low crime rate could mean lower home insurance premiums? A lower risk of break-ins and theft means you can insure your property for less, reducing your insurance premiums.

Freedom to Explore

Choosing to live in one of the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto allows you to fully enjoy your surroundings without worrying about danger to property or life. The more people are out and about in the neighbourhood, the more aware every resident becomes of what’s going on in the surroundings, improving vigilance and enhancing a sense of security. 

A row of houses in a safe Toronto neighbourhood with cars and flowers lining the street

Image Source: Canva

FAQ

  • Is Toronto Safe to Live in?

    Toronto is one of the safest cities globally, with Yorkville, downtown, and the entertainment district being the safest neighborhoods, while Regent Park has higher crime rates.


    Toronto also has one of the most robust emergency services systems, with a strong medical, fire, and police response system. Adding to its dynamic vibe is a general sense of support and community.


  • What are dangerous neighbourhoods in Toronto?

    Here are some areas to avoid in Toronto: 

    • Regent Park
    • Moss Park
    • Thorncliffe Park 
    • Flemingdon Park
    • Scarborough City Centre 

  • Is downtown Toronto safe?

    Yes, Downtown Toronto is generally considered one of the safest areas in Toronto but like every big metropolitan, it has some streets where crime rates are higher. 


  • Is Liberty Village safe?

    Yes, Liberty Village is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto. However, even with a crime rate lower than the Toronto average, some instances of thefts and break-ins have been reported.


  • Is East York Toronto safe?

    Yes, East York Toronto is among one of the safest areas in Toronto. The neighborhood offers recreational spaces, a convenient location, and a strong community, perfect for downtown Toronto commuters.


What Makes a Neighbourhood Safe?

Whether you’re looking to move to Leaside or find a place downtown Toronto, here are some key things to look for when determining a neighbourhood’s safety: 


  • Access to Emergency Services: In emergencies, quick assistance from first responders is important, especially in neighborhoods near Toronto Police and fire stations. To further increase safety, consider a home security system with 24/7 remote monitoring. A professional surveillance team offers 24/7 home protection and reports suspicious activity.

  • Presence of Security Cameras: Did you know that installing security cameras discourages criminal activity by over 50%? Neighborhoods with security cameras see fewer break-ins and auto thefts, enhancing resident safety.

  • Diverse and Inclusive Communities: Wherever you choose to settle, Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Diverse communities foster understanding and reduce biases, creating a safer city. 


Key Takeaways

  • The top 5 safest Toronto neighbourhoods include Leadside, The Beaches, Rosedale, Forest Hill and Lawrence Park.

  • Toronto ranks sixth in the Top 10 safest cities globally despite being a large metropolitan. 

  • Living in a safe neighbourhood offers protection, lower insurance premiums, peace of mind, and greater property value stability.

  • Connected, active communities, emergency services access, use of home security systems, and recreational spaces are among the common traits of the best neighbourhoods in Toronto.

  • Although Toronto is broadly safe, some neighbourhoods can have a higher crime rate. Using a robust home security and alarm system combined with professional monitoring can make all areas safer.

Secure Your Home, No Matter Where You Live in Toronto

PasWord Protection has kept Toronto homes safe for over 60 years. Our experienced professionals provide custom home security solutions to safeguard your property. Whether you live in one of the safest areas in Toronto or not, we pride ourselves on innovative systems, available with active 24/7 monitoring and proactive intruder detection.


Contact us today for a
free security consultation. Let us help you make your areas among the safest neighbourhoods in Toronto!

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