Neighbourhood safety continues to be a pressing concern for many residents across the city, but new findings from the 2025 Listening to Toronto Survey reveal a striking level of uncertainty. Conducted in early 2025 through a combination of online questionnaires and telephone interviews with a representative sample of Toronto residents, the survey asked participants how safety in their neighbourhoods could be improved. Almost two in five Torontonians (37%) said they did not know, suggesting that many residents may feel unsure about what solutions are most effective or may not feel connected to ongoing safety initiatives in their communities.
Among those who did provide suggestions, the majority pointed toward crime‑related interventions. Over half (55%) of respondents said that improvements should focus on reducing crime — including stronger law enforcement, increased patrolling, and more visible police presence. This reflects a continued reliance on traditional crime‑prevention strategies, especially in areas where residents may perceive rising levels of disorder or feel vulnerable to safety risks.
Other Torontonians emphasized environmental and social factors. Roughly one in five (22%) mentioned better lighting and surveillance as key improvements, highlighting the importance of well‑lit streets, public spaces, and modern monitoring systems in deterring crime. Meanwhile, 20% pointed to addressing drug and alcohol use — a noticeable decrease from 26% in 2024. This shift may indicate changing public priorities or a perception that substance‑related issues, while still present, are less urgent than they were in previous years.
The survey also revealed important demographic differences. Torontonians over 55, those who believe the current quality of life is poor, and residents without children under 18 were significantly more likely to suggest crime‑reduction strategies as the best way to improve neighbourhood safety. These groups may feel more exposed to safety risks or more sensitive to changes in their surroundings, leading them to prioritize direct interventions over environmental or social approaches.
Taken together, the findings paint a picture of a city that is both concerned and divided — not necessarily in disagreement, but in uncertainty. While many residents continue to rely on traditional crime‑prevention measures, others look toward environmental improvements or social interventions. And with a large portion of Torontonians unsure of what solutions to propose, the data underscores the need for clearer communication, stronger community engagement, and more accessible information about neighbourhood safety strategies.
As Toronto continues to evolve, understanding these perspectives is essential. The results of the 2025 Listening to Toronto Survey offer valuable insight into how residents experience their neighbourhoods — and what they believe is needed to make them safer, more welcoming, and more resilient for everyone.
