Women living in Ottawa consider the safety level to be relatively high, with an overall safety rating of 4.1 out of 5.
Women living in Ottawa consider the crime rate to be relatively low, with an overall crime rating of 1.5 out of 5.
On average 13.6% percentage of women in Canada have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner at some time in their life, according to OECD Data.
Based on 15 experiences
Safety rating: | 4.1/5 | Safe |
Safety walking alone after dark: | 3.6/5 | Safe |
Safety using public transport: | 4/5 | Safe |
Crime rate: | 1.5/5 | Low |
Worries of being sexually harassed: | 1.9/5 | A Bit Worried |
Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped: | 1.2/5 | Not at all worried |
Worries of being physically attacked: | 1.4/5 | Not at all worried |
Worries of home broken and things stolen: | 1.3/5 | Not at all worried |
Worries of being mugged or robbed: | 1.3/5 | Not at all worried |
Worries of being kidnapped or murdered: | 1.1/5 | Not at all worried |
Yanjano
Ottawa is a government city. If you’re sticking to the downtown core, some areas will be shady of course. But i’ve never felt physically in danger before. I frequently take public transportation to visit my boyfriend in the more shadier parts of the city and i’ve never experienced any incidents. high police presence near government buildings so if something does happen, they’re quick to act. Lots of families so I never really feel unsafe. Just try to mind your business when walking downtown and stare forward if someone calls out to you.
Posted: January 14, 2025Ottawa is considered a very safe city with low crime rates compared to other major Canadian cities. It has well-maintained public spaces, reliable public transit, and a strong focus on community safety.
Posted: January 13, 2025Élodie
Ottawa is a relatively safe city. Downtown can be more rough, because there is a high homeless population which can be unpredictable. Some gang related crimes can happen but are very rare. I’ve been out many times and never had any issues.
Posted: January 9, 2025Amelia
It is very safe here. You can leave ur purse at your seat when you go order a beer. People are going to help you with anything if you ask! You may get hit on but this means someone will start a conversation with you.
Posted: January 4, 2025You can go anywhere anytime and feel safe, it's a really pleasant city to visit, everyone is really nice and polite with everyone. You can freely ask for directions and people will nicely help you. Transport is reliable
Posted: January 2, 2025Ottawa is a safe place overall. The people are nice. I usually come home late at night and I feel safe. However, the usage of paraphernalia amongst the homeless population is on the rise and we can see more homeless people on the streets. But then again that is something the system is to blame. Hopefully, the homeless people and the people having problems with addiction are provided with the care they deserve.
Posted: December 1, 2024In general a very safe city. Rideau Street can feel unsafe, especially best to avoid it at night. Verbal sexual harassment is unfortunately quite common, though very rarely does it progress into anything more than that.
Posted: July 20, 2024The city is relatively safe, there are a couple of areas in town with some druggies and homeless people where I would avoid walking at night or be on alert, otherwise it’s pretty good in terms of safety.
Posted: July 17, 2024Ottawa is a very laid back and chill city that I believe is relatively safe, especially for female solo travellers. You will feel comfortable most of the time, however I will mention the rise of drug addicts and sketchy people in the downtown area, in which I recommend to avoid walking alone late at night.
Posted: June 26, 2024I always feel safe walking around Ottawa. There are definitely some areas that are better than others. Downtown can have a lot of characters but it’s the same as anywhere else. Just be cautious, practice common sense and you’ll be fine. Lots of friendly folks around to help.
Posted: June 6, 2024I feel safe here Fun to visit the parliament and all the museums Public transportation takes you everywhere and is reliable Food is good and service is excellent The tap water is really good no aftertaste
Posted: January 1, 2025Experienced: January, 2025Sara
Well travelled and understand it is fun to meet local to discover hidden gems
Rosemary
I’m an arts enthusiast with a deep love for theater, a dedicated foodie, and an avid cook who finds joy in creating delicious meals. Friendly and open-minded, I thrive on exploring new experiences and ideas. I cherish time spent on the beach and enjoy hiking in nature. Above all, I nurture connections that enrich both myself and others, believing in the power of relationships to make us fundamentally better people.