If you are looking for areas to avoid in Barrie, then this guide is for you. I know — deciding where to live or visit can feel scary. You want peace of mind. You want safety. Right now, you may be worried about crime, confused about where to rent, or stressed about picking the right neighbourhood.
Barrie is a beautiful city on the shore of Kempenfelt Bay. It has nice parks, lakeside views, and lots of charm. But no city is perfect. Some spots in Barrie have higher levels of crime or safety concerns.
In this post, I will point out the neighbourhoods people often warn others about. I will also show you what you can do to stay safe. Let’s go step by step so you can understand Barrie’s unsafe areas, how crime works in the city, and what to look out for before you make a move.
Barrie Crime Overview: What the Data Says
Before I list the neighbourhoods, I want you to understand the bigger picture. Many people hear the word “crime” and imagine the worst. But most crime in Barrie is non-violent. That part is essential.
Here’s what Barrie Police Service data normally shows:
- Property crime is more common than violent crime
- Break-ins happen more in certain pockets
- Theft from vehicles is one of the biggest issues
- Some commercial areas attract opportunistic theft
- Neighbourhoods near transit stations see more car-related crime
When someone says, “This is one of the places to avoid in Barrie, Ontario,” it usually means the area has more property-related issues, rather than danger. So yes — Barrie is generally safe. But “generally” doesn’t mean “everywhere.”
Now, let’s look at the specific neighbourhoods residents talk about the most.
Top Neighbourhoods & Areas to Avoid in Barrie
I’ve explored Barrie many times, both as a resident and a content researcher for Ontario real estate. Based on the Barrie crime map, police data, and real feedback from locals, here are the main areas to avoid in Barrie or at least stay cautious in.
1. Downtown Barrie Core (Especially South of Dunlop Street)
This area often tops discussions when people talk about Barrie’s unsafe areas. Let me explain why. Downtown becomes the heartbeat of a city, full of energy, nightlife, and movement. Naturally, that also means more incidents like theft or vandalism.
Why it’s listed:
The downtown Barrie core, especially near Dunlop Street, has the highest foot traffic. During weekends, bars and late-night businesses create some rowdy after-hours situations. Reports often include petty thefts, vandalism, or loitering.
Specific concerns:
- The stretch near the Barrie Bus Terminal and certain parking lots have seen frequent complaints.
- A few zones south of Dunlop Street experience higher incidents of property theft.
Don’t avoid downtown completely — that would be a mistake! It’s still home to some of the best cafés, lakeside restaurants, and local shops. Just stay aware, especially at night. Keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables in your car.
2. The Holly / Old Barrie Neighbourhood
This is one of those rough neighbourhoods in Barrie that comes up often in local discussions. Holly lies in the city’s older southwestern end, and while it’s home to many long-time residents, it has also faced its share of issues.
Why it’s listed:
Historically, this part of town had more affordable housing and older rental units. These conditions sometimes attract higher crime rates, such as break-ins or drug-related activity.
Specific concerns:
- Increased reports of property crimes and occasional vandalism.
- Certain streets have ageing homes and mixed rental ownership, making upkeep inconsistent.
If you’re thinking of moving here, don’t decide based on rumours alone. Visit the streets yourself, both in daylight and evening. And if you choose this area, install good locks, cameras, and motion-sensor lights. It makes a real difference.
3. Bayfield Street Corridor (North of Highway 400)
Everyone in Barrie knows Bayfield Street as the major commercial stretch — malls, plazas, and fast-food outlets everywhere. It’s lively, convenient, and essential to daily life, but it’s also one of the Barrie high-crime zones for property theft.
Why it’s listed:
Because of heavy traffic and large parking lots, it’s a hotspot for crimes of opportunity. Thieves target vehicles in those busy commercial lots near Mapleview Drive, Commerce Park Drive, and big-box retailers.
Specific concerns:
- Frequent cases of vehicle theft and shoplifting.
- Pickpocketing or attempted car break-ins in crowded parking zones.
Never leave wallets, purses, or electronics openly visible. Even a small bag in the back seat can attract a thief. It sounds simple, but these tiny precautions reduce risk drastically.
4. The Allandale Station Area (Near the GO Train Station)
Any area around a major train or bus station tends to have specific safety challenges. Allandale is no different.
Why it’s listed:
The Allandale GO Station serves thousands of commuters daily. That brings traffic, both local and outside, increasing the potential for crime.
Specific concerns:
- Car theft and package theft near apartment entrances.
- Reports of car windows being smashed for laptops or small gadgets.
Commuters should double-check parking security. Never keep your bag or ID in plain view. If you live nearby, ensure good lighting around your driveway and porches.
Other Reasons People Avoid Certain Barrie Areas (Non-Crime Factors)
Crime is not the only thing that affects livability. Many people avoid areas in Barrie for these reasons:
1. Heavy Traffic and Noise
Areas near:
- Highway 400
- Bryne Drive
- Big box store zones
These spots are loud, busy, and full of commercial traffic.
2. Industrial Corridors
Streets near industrial sites often feel less inviting. They may have:
- More truck traffic
- Fewer parks
- Less walkability
3. Flood Risk Zones
Some properties near Kempenfelt Bay or creeks have a known flood history. Always check flood maps before you buy.
4. Ageing Rental Pockets
Barrie has some clusters of older rentals. These pockets often feel less maintained. All of these factors can make someone consider these spots as areas to avoid in Barrie, even if crime is not the main issue.
Barrie Safety Guide: How to Stay Safe Anywhere
Now, let’s talk about what truly matters — peace of mind. Even if you live in or visit one of the areas to avoid in Barrie, you can stay safe with a few smart steps.
1. Use the Official Barrie Crime Map
Bookmark the Barrie Police Service Crime Map. It’s updated with the latest reports, so you’ll always know what’s going on near your street.
2. Secure Your Vehicle
Most local complaints involve theft from cars. Always lock your doors, and never leave expensive items visible. I speak from experience — even leaving loose change can attract attention.
3. Visit Before You Decide
Planning to rent or buy? Visit the area at different times — morning, evening, and weekends. You’ll get a real sense of the community vibe, noise, and safety level.
4. Talk to Neighbours
This tip never fails. Locals always give you honest feedback about what’s been happening recently. Even quick chats can reveal the reality better than online stats sometimes.
5. Install Smart Home Security
Affordable smart cameras and doorbell systems work wonders. Many homes in Barrie already use them. They’re great deterrents for package theft and provide peace of mind when you’re away.
The Other Side: Safest Neighbourhoods in Barrie
It’s not fair to only talk about “areas to avoid.” Barrie has many nice, calm, and safe areas too. These neighbourhoods often come up as good choices for families, students, or newcomers.
Some of these include:
- South Barrie (Painswick Area): Family-friendly, lots of parks, good schools, and growing infrastructure.
- Ardagh Bluffs: Scenic, forested, and peaceful. Known for hiking trails and a strong community spirit.
- Eastview / St. Paul’s: Close to schools, affordable homes, and quiet streets.
- Northwest Barrie (Letitia Heights / Oakley): Balanced mix of safety and affordability. Excellent for young families.
If you are looking for a house or renting, these are smart starting points. And yes, prices may be slightly higher, but the comfort and confidence are worth every dollar.
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How Crime Affects Property Value in Barrie?
Crime impacts real estate. That is a fact. Homes near high-incident areas may:
- Sell slower
- Attract fewer buyers
- Require pricing adjustments
Many investors look at resources covering the richest area in Toronto before studying markets like Barrie. It helps them understand long-term demand and value trends.
Renting vs Buying in High-Risk Areas
Renters face more flexibility.
Buyers face more commitment.
If renting:
- Short-term lease helps
- Test the area
If buying:
- Think resale
- Think appreciation
Always think long-term. If you’re looking to expand your business across Ontario, partnering with a reliable real estate brokerage company for realtors in Ontario is a good choice. They can give you the tools and support you need to succeed.
Barrie Crime Map Guide: How to Read It and What to Look For
A crime map helps you understand the safety of different areas in Barrie by showing where certain types of incidents happen.
If you are moving, investing, or simply getting to know a neighbourhood, learning how to read the map can give you valuable insight.
1. Understand the Colour Codes
Most crime maps use colours to show crime levels.
- Green = lower crime
- Yellow/Orange = moderate crime
- Red = higher crime
These colours help you quickly compare different neighbourhoods.
2. Check Crime Categories
Maps usually let you filter by the type of crime. Common categories include:
- Property crime (theft, break-ins)
- Violent crime (assaults)
- Vandalism
- Traffic incidents
Filtering helps you see which issues occur most in each area.
3. Look at Crime Clusters
Areas with many markers close together show “hotspots.”
This doesn’t always mean the neighbourhood is unsafe — it could simply be a busy area with more activity.
4. Use the Timeline Feature
Most maps let you view crime over a selected period.
Check:
- Last 30 days
- Last 6 months
- And last year
This helps you see trends, such as improving or increasing incident levels.
5. Compare Neighbourhoods
When choosing a place to live or invest, compare crime data across neighbourhoods like:
- Downtown Barrie
- Holly
- Allandale
- Painswick
Some areas may show more property crime, while others remain consistently low-risk.
6. Combine Map Data with Real-Life Factors
The crime map is helpful, but don’t rely on it alone. Consider:
- School quality
- Lighting and walkability
- Local community reviews
- Proximity to police or EMS
7. Use It Before Renting, Buying, or Investing
Crime maps are especially useful when:
- Choosing a rental home
- Buying a property
- Evaluating investment potential
- Understanding safety near parks, schools, or transit routes
What are the Typical Costs in Barrie?
Living in Barrie can feel comfortable, but the costs add up fast. Here’s what a single person usually spends each month:
1. Total Monthly Living Costs
A single person renting in Barrie spends around $1,883 per month. This amount includes rent, utilities, food, and transportation.
2. Basic, Lower-Cost Living
If you choose a simple lifestyle — like shared housing or fewer extras — you might spend about $1,443 per month. This is enough to cover basic needs.
3. Rent Costs
Rent is one of the biggest expenses. A one-bedroom apartment in or near the city centre usually costs between $1,200 and $1,450 per month.
4. Other Essentials
You also need to budget for utilities, groceries, phone plans, and transportation. These everyday costs can add a noticeable amount to your monthly spending.
Final Thought
Let’s wrap everything up simply. When people search for areas to avoid in Barrie, what they really want is clarity — not alarm.
Barrie’s “unsafe areas” aren’t no-go zones. They’re simply pockets with slightly higher property crime rates, not violence. The Downtown Core (south of Dunlop) and Holly / Old Barrie appear most frequently in police data. Other spots like Bayfield Corridor and Allandale Station may need caution due to theft, not danger.
Barrie is still a lovely place to live. If you use the crime map, talk to locals, and stay aware, you can enjoy the best of the city with peace of mind.
If you’re looking for support, you can also explore our real estate brokerage in Mississauga. Many clients from the GTA move toward Barrie, and this service can make the transition easier.
