Top 10 Neighbourhoods In Edmonton With Most Crime

By: River City Keys Edmonton Locksmiths

Edmonton is famed for its vibrant culture, extensive river valley parks, and rich history.

Yet, like many urban areas, it has its share of neighbourhoods that present challenges for its residents.

These neighbourhoods often deal with socio-economic challenges, and it’s essential for both locals and visitors to be aware.

Here’s an in-depth look at Edmonton’s ten neighborhoods that are deemed challenging based on a combination of crime rates, socio-economic data, and local testimonials.

Let’s get right into it.

1. Abbottsfield, Edmonton

City Description: Situated to the east of downtown, Abbottsfield primarily consists of townhouses and apartments that predominantly sprang up in the 1970s.

Crime: This neighbourhood faces socio-economic challenges, leading to a higher unemployment rate. As a result, it experiences a relatively higher rate of property-related crimes compared to other parts of Edmonton.

Challenges: Reports of approximately 30% higher property-related crimes than the Edmonton average.

2. Central McDougall, Edmonton

City Description: Positioned just north of downtown, Central McDougall is a diverse region with a blend of residential, commercial, and institutional areas.

Crime: The neighbourhood witnesses both violent and property crimes. The aged infrastructure also requires consistent attention, potentially influencing crime rates.

Challenges: Violent crime rate is roughly 25% above the city’s average.

3. McCauley, Edmonton

City Description: Located northeast of downtown, McCauley boasts a rich multicultural setting and is home to many historic sites.

Crime: The area sees a significant number of thefts and break-ins. Moreover, the presence of multiple shelters means there’s a noticeable homeless population, contributing to some of the challenges.

Challenges: There’s a 20% increase in theft and break-in incidents compared to the preceding year.

4. Eastwood, Edmonton

City Description: Situated in north-central Edmonton, Eastwood offers a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes.

Crime: The area is not exempt from drug-related incidents, especially around certain hotspots. Theft rates in Eastwood are also a point of concern.

Challenges: Drug-related incidents are approximately 15% higher than the city average.

5. Balwin, Edmonton

City Description: Located to the northeast, Balwin is known for its mix of older homes and newer infill properties.

Crime: Drug-related offenses, especially those involving harder substances, can be more prevalent here. Economic challenges in certain pockets of the neighbourhood also influence crime rates.

Challenges: Economic-related crimes are about 12% more frequent than in other parts of Edmonton.

6. Alberta Avenue, Edmonton

City Description: This is one of Edmonton’s historic neighbourhoods, undergoing revitalization in recent years.

Crime: Theft, especially break-ins, is more frequent here. Moreover, many residents face socio-economic challenges, pushing the crime rate slightly above the city’s average.

Challenges: Reports of thefts and break-ins are about 18% higher than the city’s median.

7. Boyle Street, Edmonton

City Description: Boyle Street, situated east of downtown, has a legacy that spans many decades and is characterized by its diverse population.

Crime: Being home to several shelters, the area sees a higher homeless population. As a result, personal safety concerns due to crimes have been reported more frequently than in some other neighbourhoods.

Challenges: 22% more personal safety concerns due to reported crimes compared to the city’s average.

8. Cromdale, Edmonton

City Description: Positioned adjacent to the North Saskatchewan River, Cromdale provides picturesque views and boasts both historic and modern homes.

Crime: Property crimes, particularly break-ins, are more frequent here. Moreover, some pockets of Cromdale experience socio-economic challenges, affecting the local crime dynamics.

Challenges: Property crimes reported are roughly 10% above the Edmonton average.

9. Parkdale, Edmonton

City Description: Located centrally, Parkdale is predominantly residential but also has pockets of commercial zones.

Crime: While the area is developing, there are sections of Parkdale that need infrastructure upgrades. This has led to occasional bouts of property-related crimes.

Challenges: Property-related crimes are around 8% higher than the city’s average.

10. Westwood, Edmonton

City Description: Near the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Westwood is a blend of residential, educational, and institutional settings.

Crime: With its proximity to NAIT, theft, especially around the educational region, is a notable concern. Economic challenges faced by some segments, especially students, might also influence the local crime rate.

Challenges: Reports of theft, especially around the NAIT region, are approximately 9% higher than the rest of the city.


FAQs About Edmonton Neighbourhoods

1. How many neighbourhoods are there in Edmonton?

  • Edmonton is home to over 375 neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and characteristics.

2. Which Edmonton neighbourhoods are considered the most family-friendly?

  • Areas like Windermere, Glenora, and Riverbend are popular for families due to their amenities, schools, and parks.

3. What are the most upscale or affluent neighbourhoods in Edmonton?

  • Glenora, Crestwood, and Windermere are among Edmonton’s more upscale neighbourhoods, boasting luxurious homes and prime real estate.

4. Which neighbourhoods are best for arts and culture?

  • The Old Strathcona area, especially around Whyte Avenue, is a cultural hotspot with theatres, art galleries, and frequent festivals.

5. Are there neighbourhoods in Edmonton that are predominantly commercial or industrial?

  • Yes, neighbourhoods like Edmonton Research and Development Park and the Edmonton Energy and Technology Park are primarily commercial/industrial.

6. Which areas of Edmonton are undergoing major revitalization or redevelopment?

  • Downtown Edmonton, The Quarters, and Alberta Avenue are among areas seeing significant revitalization efforts.

7. What are some of the oldest historic neighbourhoods in Edmonton?

  • Glenora, Highlands, and Westmount are known for their historic charm, with many homes retaining their original architecture.

8. Which neighbourhoods in Edmonton are best for nightlife and dining?

  • The downtown area and Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona are vibrant nightlife hubs, teeming with restaurants, pubs, and entertainment venues.

9. How are neighbourhoods in Edmonton planned with respect to green spaces?

  • Edmonton places a strong emphasis on maintaining green spaces. Many neighbourhoods, such as River Valley Terwillegar and Laurier Heights, are either adjacent to or contain extensive parklands.

10. Are there specific neighbourhoods in Edmonton known for their diverse and multicultural communities?

  • McCauley is notably diverse and is often referred to as “Canada’s First Multicultural Neighbourhood” due to its rich tapestry of cultures.

Conclusion

Each neighbourhood in Edmonton carries its unique character and set of challenges.

While crime is a concern in certain areas more than others, the city’s commitment to safety and community engagement remains unwavering.

Continuous efforts are made to improve the quality of life in all regions, ensuring Edmonton remains a vibrant and safe place to live and visit.

If you have any questions about our article, “Top 10 most dangerous neighbourhoods in Edmonton” or need Edmonton locksmith services, contact us on LiveChat, social media or at (780) 265-0062.