British Columbia is one of the least affordable places to live in Canada. And, when moving to this province, it’s best to ensure that you’ll live in a safe city with low crime rates, as not every corner of BC is as safe as you may think.
This article covers the top 10 safest cities in British Columbia as well as 5 of the worst places you should avoid living in this province. Read along to learn more as you start a new life in a city in BC.
Key Takeaways
- Some of the best places to live in British Columbia are Oak Bay, Saanich, and Coldstream.
- The cities you should best avoid when moving to BC are Vancouver, Prince George, and Victoria, as their crime rates are alarmingly high compared to other places.
Safest Cities To Live In BC
1. Oak Bay
Oak Bay is a Canadian municipality and not exactly a city, but this doesn’t change the fact that it remains one of the best places to be if you want to experience a high quality of life in British Columbia.
Popular for its picturesque beaches, parks, and art galleries, this place has been featured multiple times in national news as a city with one of Canada’s least dangerous communities and continues to be regarded as such.
2. Saanich
With a whopping livability score of 85, Saanich definitely holds a spot as one of the safest cities in British Columbia to live in. Like Oak Bay, this is known to be a peaceful community surrounded by natural beauty, such as the popular Mount Douglas Park.
Despite being the most populated and largest community on Vancouver Island, Saanich’s total crime rate is 29% lower than the national average, with violence-related ones being even fewer, at 46% less.
3. Spallumcheen
As a place in BC with a small population of only a little over 5,000 people, Spallumcheen is a safe community for both families and individuals alike.
Its violent crime rate is 66% lower than the national average, making its statistics much more impressive than the previously mentioned municipalities. Unfortunately, though, there aren’t many hospitals, police, or fire stations in Spallumcheen.
4. Coldstream
Coldstream also deserves a spot in this shortlisted compilation of the safest places in British Columbia. Its Crime Severity Index (CSI) is only 39.5, which is significantly lower than the average CSI of some of the safest cities in Canada.
This municipality has a population of over 11,000, but its total crime is almost half of the national average, and it has zero recorded crimes committed by youths aged 12 to 17.
5. Port Moody
Often referred to as the “City of the Arts,” Port Moody is another reliably safe location within British Columbia. This city has a population of over 35,000 but maintains a low CSI of 37.8.
This municipality’s transportation system, employment, and housing are all commendable. However, many find the amenities of Port Moody lacking.
6. North Vancouver
If you want to stay in touch with the urban lifestyle, consider staying in North Vancouver, a safe city with a total crime rate that’s 39% lower than the national average.
This place is surrounded by skiing and hiking trails, perfect for outdoor adventurers looking for all-year-long entertainment. From this city, you’ll also be one ferry away from downtown Vancouver, which is well-known, but isn’t exactly the safest location to be in, long-term.
7. Peace River
Along the Peace River in British Columbia lies thousands of families that enjoy lifestyles away from harm. The violent crime rate in this community is at least half of that of the national average, and its housing and employment opportunities are also very reliable.
Make sure you don’t confuse this location with the Peace River town located in Alberta. Despite these two places sharing the same river and its name, the town in Alberta isn’t as safe as the community in British Columbia.
8. Kimberley
Kimberley is a beautiful and peaceful city with a small-town atmosphere in British Columbia. It boasts a livability score of 65 and a very low CSI report of 34.4.
For those who love outdoor escapades, this city will surely deliver. It’s home to the popular winter destination Kimberley Alpine Resort and features the pedestrian-exclusive downtown area, Kimberly Platzl.
9. Qualicum Beach
As its name suggests, Qualicum Beach is a great town for exploring sandy beaches and enjoying natural beauty. However, this town isn’t just ideal for a short-term stay, as you can also guarantee it’ll be a safe new home for you and your family.
Qualicum Beach’s total crime rate is 43% lower than the average throughout Canada, and its healthcare system is one of the best in the country. Hence, it’s not too surprising that this town has a livability score of 79.
10. Comox
Another safe town you shouldn’t miss when shortlisting the safest cities in British Columbia is Comox. Like many places on this list, this town also hosts exhilarating views of coastal waters and plenty of outdoor activities.
Its housing, education, and health system are all highly valued by residents. Just be prepared for the potential lacking amenities when staying in the area.
What Are the Worst Places To Live In BC?
1. Vancouver
Known for its diverse culinary scenes and cuisines, Vancouver is one of the most popular and populated cities in Canada. However, it can be a dangerous place to live in.
Vancouver has over half a million inhabitants, and its CSI reaches up to 90.1, which is considerably bad compared to what other cities on this list can offer.
2. Prince George
Prince George’s is not only one of the cheapest places in British Columbia, but it’s also one of the most affordable cities throughout Canada. However, its CSI score of 223.9 sounds pretty alarming. So, personally, I wouldn’t move to this city if I prioritized safety over saving money.
3. Victoria
The capital city of British Columbia might seem like a no-brainer choice when finding a place to peacefully move into. After all, Victoria features plenty of architecture, art, and diverse culture all year round.
However, if you want to stay as safe as possible, Victoria may not be your best choice for a place to live in BC. On top of being notorious for having heavy traffic, expensive cost of living, and very few entertainment options, Victoria has a high CSI of 148.4, which is double the national average.
4. Chilliwack
Just east of Vancouver, Chilliwack is another British Columbian city you’re better off not choosing when moving out to BC. Its CSI is around 132.6, and its crime rates, particularly property-related ones, are significantly higher than others on this list.
5. New Westminster
New Westminster is another urban city you can enjoy just beside the water. While it has been numerously considered a historic charm, this place currently has a CSI of 88, which is objectively less safe than a dozen other cities in the province of British Columbia.
Pros And Cons Of Living In British Colombia
Pros
- It has one of the highest minimum wage rates in Canada.
- You’ll have easy access to nature and the activities related to it.
- This province is one of the most affordable places to live in Canada.
Cons
- Expect lots of rain during the winter season.
- British Columbia has expensive housing costs.
- While there are many outdoor activities in British Columbia, those who are into peaceful getaways, such as museum tours, won’t have many options to choose from.
Is It Worth Living In BC?
Yes, it’s worth living in British Columbia. Although it’s not the safest province in Canada, people there generally have a high quality of life and are relatively safe compared to other places in Canada.
Just ensure you choose a city, town, or municipality that’s as safe as you need, and British Columbia can be your new home in no time.
FAQs
According to the Canada Crime Index, Kimberley currently has the lowest crime rate in British Columbia. Its CSI is only at 34.4, which is lower than the other cities on this list.
Sioux Lookout is the town with the least crime in Canada. This place only has a small population of a little over 3,700.
Some areas you should avoid in British Columbia are Prince George, Chilliwack, and New Westminster. These cities currently have high crime rates.
A popular town that many refer to as the friendliest town in British Columbia is the Radium Hot Springs. It has a very small population of less than 2,000 people, and the place got its name from a nearby spring.
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