How safe is Toronto really?

Question

I am planning to attend university (hopefully York) in Toronto, Canada however I have heard many stories about how dangerous Toronto is and I will be by myself of course. (Is it more dangerous for woman?) I know that it might just seem that way because it is a big city and gets more news coverage than most other places in Canada but how safe is Toronto really and is it worse than the U.S? Anyone that has/lives in Toronto or attended school in Toronto, if you could give me some insight that would be helpful, be honest, thx.

Answer 1

Toronto is one of the safest cities in Canada and North America. If you look at crime statistics http://www.statcan.ca/Daily/English/0707... Toronto and Ontario are the safest places to live in the country. Some people get confused by what they see in the media because they tend to cover every single tragedy in the city but If you put it in perspective of how many people live here, its very safe.

Answer 2

My daughter attends York U & has lived at Jane & Finch for 3 years. Since she grew up in a small town, she is very aware of the distinct cultural diversity in her neighbourhood, but overall she feels safe as long as she's not walking alone at night. Of course women alone are always a target, but walking with confidence & determination in well-travelled and well-lit areas will help keep you safe. My daughter believes the gang-related violence is localized and sparse, and that's mostly what you'll hear about in the news.

Apparently, York has security that will walk you through the campus after dark. You can join the students' forum on their website to get more insight on safety issues in that area.

But there's no way it's worse than the US - the cultural and social dynamics are very different, and I hope it remains that way.

Answer 3

North York is one of the safest areas.  Very upscale.  Only crime there is tax evasion.

Stay away from parkdale, Jane/Finch and scarborough, you'll be fine.

Answer 4

one of my closest friends grew up there & she has maintained it is very safe. I suggest you look up the crime stats they should list what types of crime & in what vicinity of the city they happened. If your having trouble finding the stats. look in the papers & call the police or chamber of commerce. good luck I say go I love to visit that city & I haven't ever felt unsafe.