Crime and Pollution in Yellowknife

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Yellowknife are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 32 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Yellowknife.

Crime Data in Yellowknife

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Yellowknife presents a complex picture of crime, blending moderate levels of public concern with specific areas of heightened anxiety. Despite a moderate crime index, certain issues such as property crimes and drug-related offenses feature prominently.

Residents express varying degrees of safety depending on the time of day, with a noticeable decline in perceived safety during nighttime hours.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes remain a significant worry for those in Yellowknife, with incidents relating to break-ins and theft raising public anxiety. This is highlighted by the higher levels of concern reported around these incidents.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related crimes are particularly alarming in Yellowknife, with public perception indicating it as a serious issue affecting overall community security.
  • Violent CrimesConcerns over violent crimes are less pronounced compared to property crimes, yet there is still a sense of unease related to potential physical assaults and muggings.
  • Public SafetyDuring daylight, residents generally feel safer navigating the city. However, as night falls, safety perceptions drop significantly, with increased fears of violent crimes and drug-related issues impacting residents' sense of security.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsThere is a noticeable worry about the rise in crime, with many citizens perceiving an increase in criminal activities. This is especially true for property and drug-related crimes, stressing the need for effective countermeasures.
  • Specific FearsSpecific fears of being insulted or attacked based on personal characteristics, such as race or religion, are low. However, there is a higher level of concern over becoming a victim of theft or drug-related crimes.
Worldwide
Canada

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for Canada is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Yellowknife

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Yellowknife’s pollution data reveals a promising scenario with relatively manageable air quality issues. The air quality index being moderate suggests an environment that, while not devoid of challenges, supports a healthy lifestyle.

While particulate matter remains at acceptable levels, there is ongoing public concern about longer-term health implications.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The PM2.5 levels in Yellowknife are generally within safe limits, though residents still express concern about potential impacts on health, particularly during certain weather conditions that may exacerbate pollutant concentrations.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)Like PM2.5, PM10 levels are also controlled but monitored closely by the community as part of ongoing environmental stewardship efforts.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution in Yellowknife is assessed as notably lower than in larger urban centers, reflecting a relatively peaceful environment.

Challenges with waste management persist, as indicated by negative perceptions concerning garbage disposal and cleanliness, which require continued efforts for improvement.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionThere are perceived lapses in waste management affecting some neighborhoods. Persistent issues related to garbage disposal require attention to improve overall satisfaction and environmental cleanliness.
  • Noise and Light PollutionWhile noise pollution is considered low, disturbances from light pollution remain a notable concern, with suggestions for better regulation to enhance nighttime tranquility.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Yellowknife benefits from the natural beauty of surrounding areas, providing a positive counterbalance to urban pollution concerns. These green spaces are cherished for their contribution to the city’s quality of life.

The city's drinking water quality stands out as exemplary, with high accessibility and satisfaction levels greatly enhancing residents' well-being.

  • Green and Parks QualityThough the city boasts ample natural landscapes, the utilization and maintenance of green spaces within urban settings could be enhanced for greater environmental benefits and accessibility.
  • Drinking Water QualityYellowknife's residents enjoy high-quality drinking water, a vital asset in the city's sustainability endeavors, ensuring purity and ease of access.
Worldwide
Canada

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for Canada is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Pollution Rankings