Crime rates in Nova Scotia experienced a slight increase last year, despite a decrease in crime severity at both provincial and national levels, as reported by Statistics Canada in July. The crime rate, which measures the volume of crime per capita regardless of severity, rose by one percent in Nova Scotia. The rate of 6,147 incidents per 100,000 people in 2025 is the highest since 2012.
This increase in Nova Scotia contrasts with the national trend, where the crime rate decreased by two percent. Nova Scotia’s crime rate also surpassed the national average of 5,585 incidents per 100,000 people. The surge in minor offenses such as shoplifting and low-level assault contributed to the rising crime rate, as highlighted by Chris Giacomantonio, a criminologist and director of the Clairmont Centre for Community Safety Research at Dalhousie University.
Shoplifting under $5,000 in Nova Scotia surged approximately 860 percent over the past decade, including a 23 percent increase from 2024 to 2025. Giacomantonio attributed this spike to inflation and the high cost of living, leading to increased financial strain among the population.
Despite the increase in crime rates, Nova Scotia reported lower crime rates compared to most other provinces and territories, with only Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec recording lower rates. Giacomantonio emphasized the importance of focusing on the provincial increase rather than comparisons to other regions.
While the crime rate went up, Nova Scotia saw a three percent drop in the crime severity index last year. The index evaluates the number and seriousness of all police-reported crimes relative to the population. Giacomantonio explained that the discrepancy between the rising crime rate and declining severity index is due to an increase in minor crimes and a decrease in major crimes.
Giacomantonio stressed that both the crime rate and severity index are crucial when discussing public safety. Despite the decrease in crime severity, the increase in minor crimes may affect people’s sense of safety in their daily lives. The Nova Scotia RCMP refrained from speculating on factors influencing crime rate changes without conducting a detailed analysis, focusing on collaboration with policing and community partners to enhance safety.
In response to the overall crime increase, the Department of Justice in Nova Scotia expressed concern and emphasized their support for community safety initiatives through increased investment in policing. Giacomantonio underlined that crime rates are not a definitive measure of safety, and a slight provincial increase should not necessarily raise alarm bells.
Giacomantonio highlighted the importance of addressing sustained increases in violent incidents in Nova Scotia, which have escalated by 34 percent since 2016. He advocated for community-level interventions as effective long-term strategies to tackle crime. The Department of Justice stressed the need for a stronger, more responsive public safety system driven by community needs.
In conclusion, while the slight increase in crime rates in Nova Scotia is a matter of concern, it is essential to consider various factors beyond just the crime rate to ensure effective strategies for enhancing public safety.
