Is it safe to live in St. Catharines?

Filled with industry, hospitality, plenty of local services, recreation, and a great public transit system for a city of its size, St. Catharines enjoys a reputation for high quality of life and robust opportunities for development, both for individuals and their communities.

With a metropolitan population of 406,074, St. Catharines still enjoys a reputation for liveability. It’s nicknamed “The Garden City” for the 4 square kilometres of trails, parks, and other greenspaces which bring a bit of the Niagara Region’s natural splendour to the city.

Under 20 kilometres away from the United States border and Niagara Falls, real estate in St. Catharines is well connected to Southern Ontario and destinations farther afield. Fortunately for residents, a bustling local economy means they can choose between a commuter lifestyle to neighbouring towns or take advantage of the opportunities which abound locally.

What About Safety in St. Catharines?

The answer, like most things in life, isn't a simple yes or no. St. Catharines, like any city, has its share of good and bad areas. But overall, it's a safe place to live, with a crime rate that's 24% lower than the national average.

Safety is a prime concern for anyone looking to relocate. St. Catharines has a reputation for being a safe and welcoming community. With a relatively low crime rate compared to larger urban centres, residents here often enjoy a sense of security that contributes to the city's appeal. Neighbourhoods are typically close-knit, and the community actively participates in ensuring a safe environment for all.

Let's break down the numbers:

• Violent crime: St. Catharines boasts the third-lowest violent crime rate in all of Canada. That means you're less likely to be a victim of assault, robbery, or homicide here than in most other cities.
• Property crime: Property crime rates are higher than violent crime rates, but they're still below the national average. You're more likely to experience theft or vandalism than violence, but the risk is still relatively low.
• Of course, crime rates can vary depending on the neighbourhood. Some areas of St. Catharines have higher crime rates than others. If you're looking for a safe place to live, do your research before you choose from the available homes for sale in St. Catharines.

Here are some tips for finding a safe neighbourhood in St. Catharines:

These are the top 7 reasons why people are moving to this beautiful city in Ontario.

Reason #7 – No Shortage of Culture and Events

St. Catharines is a multicultural city filled with lots to do. You could attend a different event every night of the week if you wanted. You might check out a movie, play, dance performance, or concert at FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, or watch the game at one of the city’s sporting arenas like Meridian Centre.

The St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre, as well as the Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory, are not to be missed.

Reason #6 – Water Activities

Tucked between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, St. Catharines has lots of waterways that people use for recreational activities. Residents and tourists alike can often be found windsurfing, kiteboarding, sailing, and boating in the warmer months of the year.

Reason #5 – Ample Ways to Stay Fit Year-Round

To keep fit in the cooler months, residents of St. Catharines cross-country ski, skate, or make use of one of the city’s many indoor fitness facilities. The aquatic centre, the city arenas, indoor tennis courts, gyms, and yoga studios allow the people of St. Catharines to stay in shape all year round.

Reason #4 – Top-Notch Wineries

Niagara’s long summers and moderate winters make it a haven for grapes—and winemaking. The city even hosts regular grape and wine festivals, tastings, and wine tours. For those who don’t drink wine, St. Catharines has many local craft breweries and tasty restaurants with non-alcoholic options.

Reason #3 – Picture-Perfect Beaches & Sunsets

The city offers many beaches for residents to enjoy, including Lakeside Park (Port Dalhousie), Sunset Beach, and Jones Beach (Port Weller). Beach amenities include picnic areas, swimming, walking trails, playgrounds, volleyball courts, a boat launch, and more. You’ll see some of the best sunsets here!

Reason #2 – It’s Among the Safest Cities in Canada

St. Catharines-Niagara has been recognized as one of Canada’s safest metropolitan areas. It has the third lowest violent crime rate in all of Canada, and St. Catharines crime rates are 24% lower than the national average. With many schools in St. Catharines, it has an educated population, which may account for some of the low crime rates.

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Reason #1 – It Feels Like Home

Do you know that serene feeling of just being home? That moment when your shoulders relax down as you kick up your feet at the end of a long day. It feels like you’ve arrived. And it’s in these unhurried moments of stillness that we feel a sense of peace—a sense of place. St. Catharines feel just like that.

It's not just about looking for houses for sale in St. Catharines; it's about finding your place in a community that feels like home. With safety statistics that bring peace of mind, diverse cultural offerings, and recreational activities for all seasons, St. Catharines stands out as a haven for those seeking a vibrant yet secure lifestyle.

From the serene beaches to the top-notch wineries, this city offers not just a dwelling but a way of life. It's a place where you can unwind after a long day, explore cultural events, and enjoy the simple pleasures of feeling connected. So, whether you're drawn to the picturesque trails or the welcoming community spirit, homes for sale in St. Catharines aren't just a destination – it's where you find that elusive sense of belonging.