Toronto Crime Rates 2023

Key Takeaways:

  • Recent increases in major crime reports in Toronto partly reflect a return to, or a slight rise above, pre-pandemic crime levels rather than an unprecedented spike.
  • Toronto’s Safety Index score of 56.6 (2025, Numbeo) is slightly above the global average, indicating a relatively safe urban environment.
  • Compared to other major Canadian cities, Toronto has a lower Crime Severity Index (CSI), reinforcing its position as one of the safer large cities in Canada.
  • The city’s safety benefits from strong policing, community initiatives, and solid infrastructure.
  • Despite some challenges, Toronto remains a secure place to live, work, and visit.
  • Vilkhov Law offers up-to-date criminal defence services informed by current crime trends for those needing legal support in the Greater Toronto.

Table of contents:

Toronto consistently ranks high in studies that examine the safety of cities. Yet, according to the 2024 Safe Cities Index by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Toronto ranked 6th, making it the safest large metropolitan city in North America. This represents a significant improvement from its 12th-place ranking in the 2024 Global Liveability Index, where it had fallen out of the top 10 for the first time since 2021. The drop in that index was attributed mainly to the city’s ongoing housing crisis, which impacted its infrastructure and stability score. In contrast, the Safe Cities Index focused specifically on safety-related metrics, where Toronto performed strongly. The top-ranking cities included Vienna (Austria), Copenhagen (Denmark), and Zurich (Switzerland), with Calgary and Vancouver representing Canada in the 5th and 7th positions, respectively.

The Safe Cities Index scores 60 of the world’s largest cities using 76 safety-related indicators, including health, digital security, infrastructure, and personal safety. From a personal security standpoint, Toronto ranked 8th globally, reinforcing its reputation as a relatively secure urban centre.

According to a 2024 report by the Fraser Institute, Toronto continues to rank as one of the safest major cities in Canada, with a Crime Severity Index (CSI) significantly lower than the national average. Based on 2023 data, Toronto’s CSI was 59.3, well below cities like Winnipeg (126.9) and Edmonton (114.9).
Source: Statistics Canada – Police-reported crime statistics, 2023

Looking at crime rates per capita, Toronto had 2,977 police-reported Criminal Code incidents per 100,000 population in 2023, which is significantly lower than the Canadian national average of 5,668. This ranking considers crimes such as robbery, assault, impaired driving, and break-ins. The city outperformed others such as Montreal (5,074 per 100,000) and Vancouver (7,545 per 100,000).
Source: Statistics Canada – Table 35-10-0177-01

Other cities ranking among the safest in Canada by per-capita crime rate and CSI include Quebec City, Ottawa-Gatineau (QC and ON), Sherbrooke, Barrie, Trois-Rivières, Saguenay, and Hamilton.
Source: canadacrime.ca – Canadian Cities by Crime Rate 2024

Despite occasional fluctuations in major crime categories, Toronto’s crime rates declined in 2024. According to the Toronto Police Service:

  • The number of major crimes in 2024 was 50,836, a decrease of 3.5% compared to 52,672 incidents in 2023.
  • However, homicides increased to 86 in 2024, up from 73 in 2023.
  • Assaults reached a record high of 25,819, up from 24,414 in 2023.
  • Sexual violations rose to 3,570 in 2024, compared to 2,630 in 2023.
  • Auto thefts fell by 20%, thanks in part to the formation of the Carjacking Investigative Team by Toronto Police in early 2024.

Source: TPS News Release – April 2024

Additionally, a report from the Fraser Institute found that Toronto’s property crime rate is 40% higher than New York City’s, largely due to the prevalence of car theft and break-ins.

Nonetheless, the overall Safety Index for Toronto in 2025 stands at 56.6, while its Crime Index is 43.4, confirming its place among Canada’s safest large cities.

For the most up-to-date local statistics, visit the Toronto Police Major Crime Indicators dashboard.

Major Offences Committed in Toronto

Top Ten Major Offences Committed in Toronto

As of December 2024, Toronto Police reported 84 homicides in the city, marking a 15% increase compared to the 73 recorded in 2023.

Of the top ten major offences investigated by police, auto theft has experienced a significant decrease. Year to date, police have investigated 3,102 reported auto thefts, a 25% decrease over the 4,136 reported in 2023.

The top ten major offences reported by the Toronto Police Service for the year 2024 include:

  • Assault21,400 (up 15%)
  • Auto Theft3,102 (down 25%)
  • Breaking and Entering5,030 (data not specified)
  • Robbery2,312 (up 21%)
  • Sexual Violations2,630 (up 17%)
  • Theft Over $5,000979 (data not specified)
  • Assault with a Weapon4,489 (data not specified)
  • Assault Causing Bodily Harm1,001 (data not specified)
  • Breaking and Entering with Intent1,072 (data not specified)
  • Robbery with a Weapon988 (data not specified)

” Understanding the nuances of Toronto’s evolving crime landscape is crucial for both residents and legal professionals. At Vilkhov Law, we are committed to providing informed legal counsel that reflects the city’s dynamic safety environment.”

Joel Prajs, Criminal Defence Lawyer at Vilkhov Law

Violent Crimes Against TTC Passengers Also Increasing

As of early 2024, the rate of offences against Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) riders decreased by 24% between January 2023 and January 2024, according to the TTC’s latest data (Toronto Observer, 2024). This indicates an improvement in transit safety compared to the previous year. However, it’s important to note that in 2022, there was a reported increase of 46% in violent incidents against passengers compared to 2021. This represented 1,068 violent incidents, which was 334 more than the previous year, marking a significant rise in violence on Toronto transit before the noted decrease in 2023 (CityNews,Toronto).

Along with assaults, robbery, theft, mischief, and harassment, the system reported numerous high-profile incidents, including reports of people being shoved onto the tracks, lit on fire, stabbed, swarmed, and shot at with a BB gun.

These facts and figures provide a mixed perspective, showing a recent improvement in safety but also reflecting the challenges faced in 2023 with a notable spike in transit-related violence.

In response to the rise in violence on the TTC, the government has increased security measures by adding 80 Toronto Police officers for 24-hour patrols and deploying 20 community safety ambassadors and 50 security guards throughout the transit system. These efforts aim to enhance rider safety and mitigate violent incidents on public transportation (CityNews, Toronto).

Toronto Crime Rate by Neighbourhood

According to the Toronto Police Service’s Major Crime Indicators, the West Humber Clairville neighbourhood has experienced the highest number of major crimes year to date, with 1,570 incidents representing a 30.5% increase over last year’s numbers by this time (September 2024). Woodbine-Lumsden has the fewest year-to-date reports of major crimes, with 50, a 35% decrease over the previous year. Other Toronto neighbourhoods with high numbers of year-to-date reported major crimes include:

  • Downtown Yonge East — 705 (+2.5%)
  • Moss Park — 695 (+1.5%)
  • York University Heights — 690 (+1.2%)
  • Yonge-Bay Corridor — 590 (+0.7%)
  • Kensington-Chinatown — 560 (+1.8%)

Toronto neighbourhoods experiencing the most significant year-to-date increases in major crimes include:

  • Princess-Rosethorn — up 215.3%
  • Kingsway South — up 140.7%
  • Miliken — up 110.5%
  • Bayview Woods-Steeles — up 103.2%
  • Banbury-Don Mills — up 90.1%

Certain neighbourhoods have experienced significant increases in major crimes, with some areas like Princess-Rosethorn, Kingsway South, and Miliken showing increases above 100%. Other neighbourhoods, such as Bayview Woods-Steeles and Banbury-Don Mills, also report notable increases in crime rates year-to-date.

While there are significant increases in some neighbourhoods, other areas are reporting decreases in major crime numbers. These variations reflect diverse trends across different parts of the city, possibly influenced by local conditions, demographic changes, or crime prevention measures.

In summary, Toronto’s crime trends in 2024 reflect an overall mixed picture: while certain areas see increased criminal activity, proactive measures and positive trends in other neighbourhoods balance the overall safety landscape of the city.

Toronto Crime Rate by Neighbourhood: police works

How Many Murders Are Committed in Canada Each Year:

Statistics Canada (2024) tracks the annual number of homicides committed in the country and within major metropolitan areas. The latest numbers for the country and Toronto are:

  • 2023 — 778 (123 in Toronto)
  • 2021 — 796 (119 in Toronto)
  • 2020 — 764 (105 in Toronto)
  • 2019 — 689 (130 in Toronto)
  • 2018 — 665 (145 in Toronto)

Is Toronto Dangerous?

While recent police-reported major crime numbers have shown increases compared to previous years, it’s important to consider these changes in context. Crime rates have risen since the pandemic, but some of this can be seen as a return to or slight increase above pre-pandemic levels rather than an unprecedented surge.

From a broader perspective, Toronto remains one of the safer major cities in Canada and globally. According to Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Index, Toronto scores 56.6, slightly above the global average of 56.1. This suggests that Toronto offers a relatively safe environment, comparable to many other large urban centers worldwide.

Additionally, Statistics Canada’s Crime Severity Index (CSI) shows that Toronto’s crime severity is lower than that of several other major Canadian cities, underscoring its relative safety within the national context.

Despite some challenges, Toronto’s safety is supported by effective law enforcement, community initiatives, and robust infrastructure, all contributing to maintaining a secure living environment.

If you need legal support or criminal defence services in the Greater Toronto Area, the experienced lawyers at Vilkhov Law stay informed on the latest crime trends to provide up-to-date and reliable assistance. Contact Vilkhov Law for a free consultation.

Safety Measures and City Initiatives

The City of Toronto, in collaboration with the Toronto Police Service, has implemented various measures to enhance public safety and reduce crime rates. These initiatives include increased police patrols in high-crime areas, advanced surveillance technologies such as CCTV cameras and ShotSpotter gunfire detection systems, and community outreach programs to foster trust between law enforcement and residents. Additionally, the city supports youth engagement and violence prevention programs designed to address the root causes of crime. Together, these efforts contribute to creating a safer environment for all Torontonians.

Service Areas

Criminal Lawyers Etobicoke
Criminal Lawyers Scarborough
Criminal Lawyers Newmarket
Criminal Lawyers Brampton
Criminal Lawyers Mississauga
Criminal Lawyer Barrie
Criminal Lawyer Richmond Hill
Criminal Lawyer Vaughan
Criminal Lawyers in Innisfil

By |2025-05-22T21:16:41+00:00May 16th, 2025|Criminal Defence|

5/5 - (32 votes)

Criminal Lawyers Association
Toronnto Lawyers Association
Law Society of Ontario
Criminal Lawyers Association
Toronnto Lawyers Association
Law Society of Ontario
Excellent5.0 Based on 158 reviews fromLucia GurzauLucia Gurzau ★★★★★ I had an outstanding experience working with Igor Vilkhov. From our first consultation to the final resolution of my case, they demonstrated exceptional professionalism, deep legal knowledge, and genuine care for my situation. They communicated clearly, responded promptly, and always kept me informed throughout the process. Thanks to their dedication and expertise, we achieved a successful outcome. I highly recommend Igor Vilkhov to anyone in need of reliable and effective legal representation.BillyBilly ★★★★★ Igor is an unreal lawyer to say the least. Igor is a skilled attorney that is personable and reasonable. He was kind enough to explain the process and got me the results I needed. Would absolutely recommend him, excellent criminal lawyer.Ken ThamKen Tham ★★★★★ I cannot express how wonderful it was to work with and be represented by Igor and his team. Right from the start, Igor showed he cared - by listening, showing compassion and empathy for my situation, yet being fully transparent and honest about the process. He answered any and all of my questions and made me feel very secure and at ease. I got the result I wanted and Igor was true to his word in how things would play out. I would not hesitate to call upon Igor again, if needed, and would certainly recommend him. Thanks Igor!B KhanB Khan ★★★★★ Randy RaczRandy Racz ★★★★★ Lucas DeanLucas Dean ★★★★★ Incredibly talented and hard working team of lawyers in all of Ontario, and possibly the country. I cannot properly convey how extraordinary the team at Vilkhov law is. Igor was always willing to take my calls and alleviate my concerns. Joel and Jackie did tremendous work on my trial and spent countless hours working to ensure I was properly prepared for anything.I spent 6 months incarcerated at Toronto South Detention and Igor and his team were always willing to take my calls and even visited me while I was in jail.I am happy to state that I was acquitted of the most serious charges, and received a discharge for the lesser charges. My matters will be finalized shortly and I cannot wait to be free to live my life once more.To Igor, Joel, Jacklyn, and Daniel:Thank you for everything. I wish you all the very best in your pursuits and I will be sure to recommend you as often as possible.Mukesh SethiMukesh Sethi ★★★★★ Igor, provided exceptional legal representation, demonstrating expertise, professionalism, and dedication throughout my case. His strategic approach and deep understanding of criminal law led to a favourable outcome. I highly recommend Igor to anyone in need of a skilled and reliable criminal defence attorney.matthew jmatthew j ★★★★★ I was charged for the very serious offence Igor and his team got me Got my charges acquitted and I was free after 31 months, including a trial, Igor and his team are wonderful at what they do. Highly recommend couldn’t thank Igor enough.Joe OroszJoe Orosz ★★★★★ Igor did an amazing job. Was looking at 4 years 3 charges. Not guilty on all counts. I'd recommend him highly. He assured my freedom, he will do the same for you.Mehboob PatelMehboob Patel ★★★★★ E ME M ★★★★★ Igor is, without a doubt, one of the top lawyers in the country. When I approached him with my case, I was uncertain about the outcome. However, Igor's exceptional support and guidance alleviated my concerns. He was always available to answer my questions, and his flexible payment plan was a huge relief.What impressed me most was Igor's unwavering confidence and commitment. He assured me that he never backs down from trials, and his reputation precedes him. This is what kept me at peace through out the case.Throughout the process, Igor handled my case with utmost professionalism, keeping me informed every step of the way. His office was incredibly helpful, providing regular updates and ensuring a seamless experience.I had 2 charges which have severe consequences but the outcome of my case exceeded my expectations, thanks to Igor's expertise and dedication. I couldn't recommend him more highly, especially for those facing criminal cases. Igor truly goes above and beyond, and his services are unparalleled.x NoVAx NoVA ★★★★★ Igor did amazing job, I was very stressed out when I found out I had been charged with SA but every step of the Igor was there for me and was looking out for my best interest. He was always responsive and kept me up to date with all updates given to him and directly to me, if he wasn’t available he always had someone update me. Got me off my charges and helped me save jail time. Igor is the guy you need if you’re involved in any sort of similar situationforrzen Sherzadforrzen Sherzad ★★★★★ Dear Igor, I just wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for everything you’ve done for us. Your hard work and dedication in getting my husband released from jail mean the world to me. I’m so incredibly happy right now, and I truly believe you are the best lawyer ever!Your expertise and support throughout this process have been invaluable, and I can’t thank you enough. I will definitely be referring you to all my friends and family, and I’ll be leaving a 5-star review to share how amazing you are. Thank you again for everything! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ we are so grateful for you thank you so much Igor you saved Jerome life your are truly the greatest!!!Michie FedericoMichie Federico ★★★★★ Igor and his team were absolutely amazing in helping my daughter out with everything. There were easy to get a hold off and there work is absolutely amazing I highly recommend him and his team.Tony OhTony Oh ★★★★★ Absolutely exceptional! My lawyer provided unwavering support, professionalism, and expertise throughout my case. Igor guided me every step of the way, ensuring I felt heard and protected. I couldn’t have asked for a better advocate. Highly recommended!nnn nnnnnn nnn ★★★★★ I'm very glad that Igor Vilkhov was my lawyer in solving my difficult problems. He is a real high-class professional. Thanks to Igor and his team ( special thanks to Daniel Slobodsky). My case was successfully completed. Excellent professional work with positive results. Highest recommendations! Roman M.Richard HyltonRichard Hylton ★★★★★ I cannot thank Igor enough for his amazing service. I was facing a serious charge that felt overwhelming. But Igor’s calm demeanour and level headed approach to my case gave me reassurance.Thanks to his amazing work everything was completely withdrawn, which allowed me to reclaim my life. I feel free to move forward without the weight of this hanging on my head. Thank God for Igor’s services! If you need a criminal lawyer, hire him!Ryan WiltonRyan Wilton ★★★★★ Igor Vilkhov and his associate Joel Prajs has been an absolutely amazing lawyers to work with, they've saved me copious amounts of grief on my legal matters.Their diligence to my matter and their ability to work with me and my schedule were greatly appreciated.I'd give them higher than 5 star rating if I could, my new number 1 lawyer!!Dennis ParkDennis Park ★★★★★ Igor is an absolute fantastic lawyer and I would highly recommend. I was facing some serious charges and Igor not only got all my charges withdrawn, he was very caring and informative through out the whole process. I owe him very dearly for getting me a second chance at life.Jodi HixonJodi Hixon ★★★★★ My name is Gary Hixon I've had Igor as my lawyer, and he did nothing but worked on my case and he got me worried at first , but because of COVID the first time I actually met him was when he hit my case out of the ball park. He's a great man I recommend him too all. Thank you Igor.Big DOWNEYYYBig DOWNEYYY ★★★★★ Greatness!!!! Mr.Igor Vilkhov and his team did a tremendous job on my stabbing case! He saved my life today I was facing years in the penitentiary for assault and he literally got it reduced to 2 years house arrest. He was an absolute pleasure to work with has a great attitude & I highly recommend him to everyone looking for a defense lawyer. He is definitely one of the TOP LAWYERS in Toronto! Thank you so muchTristan SmithTristan Smith ★★★★★ Igor has been a tremendous help and has saved my life, not just metaphorically. I can't think of a better and more competent person (and team) to have behind you! I just walked out of the courthouse acquitted after trial. I was facing five years in jail. Thank you so much.Zabi AkbariZabi Akbari ★★★★★ Mr. Vilkhov represented me in a trial today and I was found not guilty. I am a professional and this caused a lot of emotional turmoil for me. Igor was amazing during the trial, he absolutely nailed it. Thank you for getting my life back.js_loader

CONTACT US

“Caring, honest, and highly knowledgeable.”

Contact Igor for a Free Consultation!

Please contact us online for a free consultation.
Go to Top