For your next stay in British Columbia's second largest city after Vancouver , you want to know which areas to avoid in Surrey.

Indeed, safety is a major concern for many residents and visitors to Surrey. It is true that despite the efforts of authorities and the recent transition to a new municipal police service, Surrey still has problems with drugs, violence and gangs.

And while the city has seen an overall decline in crime in recent years, some neighborhoods remain more problematic than others.

In this article, I will introduce you to the 5 areas of Surrey to avoid for your safety. Then, at the end of the article, I will also tell you about the areas to favor for a safe tourist stay.

Is Surrey safe in 2025?

Surrey is ranked among the 10 most dangerous cities in Canada . With a crime index of 64.68 on Numbeo, it even stands out as the most crime-ridden city in Canada . By comparison, it is more dangerous than Winnipeg , Hamilton , and Regina.

However, the latest statistics indicate a significant decrease in the overall crime rate in Surrey, particularly with regard to violent crime and property crimes. See the official figures on the website bc-cb.rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Moreover, this high crime rate mainly concerns organized crime and gang violence rather than crimes affecting tourists.

As a tourist, avoiding the most dangerous areas of Surrey (listed below) and staying cautious should help make visiting Surrey a safer place.

The 5 most dangerous areas in Surrey

Although some areas have seen a drop in crime (South Surrey, Guildford and Fleetwood), the following 5 areas remain the most dangerous in Surrey:

• Downtown Newton : This area has a crime rate 56% higher than the Surrey average, making it the most dangerous area in the city.
• Guildford Town Centre : This area has a crime rate 45% higher than the Surrey average and is considered the 2nd most dangerous area in Surrey.
• Whalley : Despite ongoing redevelopment, this neighborhood continues to face high crime rates and homelessness issues.
• Cloverdale Town Centre : This neighborhood faces a crime rate 39% higher than the rest of the city.
• East Newton : This crowded neighbourhood has a crime rate slightly higher than the Surrey average.

Also note that areas near the border with the United States may present increased risks of criminal activity.

Safest Neighborhoods in Surrey

For a safe tourist stay, it is best to favor the following safer neighborhoods in Surrey:

• South Surrey: This neighbourhood consistently ranks among the safest, with a crime rate 40-43% lower than other neighbourhoods in Surrey.
• White Rock: Although technically a separate city that borders South Surrey, it is a safe area for tourists.
• Fraser Heights: This is a safer neighbourhood with lower crime rates.

Why is Surrey interesting for a tourist stay?

Surrey is nicknamed the 'City of Parks' with over 2 parks, offering many tourist attractions:

• For nature and relaxation lovers: Crescent Beach, Redwood Park, Peace Arch Provincial Park, Leith Hill, Box Hill, Holmbury Hill
• For culture and history lovers: Hampton Court Palace, Surrey Art Gallery, Museum of Surrey, Historic Stewart Farm
• For entertainment: Thorpe Park with over 30 rides and the annual Canadian Rodeo Festival in Cloverdale
• Farmers' markets from May to October, reflecting the importance of local agriculture

Also note its proximity to Vancouver and its easy access via the SkyTrain network!

Where to stay in Surrey for a tourist stay?

The Four Points by Sheraton Surrey offers several advantages, but the main one is its ideal location for a safe tourist stay in Surrey.

Indeed, it has a strategic location between Guildford West and Fraser Heights : The hotel is only 4,3 km from Surrey city centre, allowing easy access to tourist attractions during the day.

Away from the must-see areas of Surrey, by choosing the Four Points by Sheraton Surrey, travelers can enjoy comfortable accommodations while still being close to local attractions.