Car theft: The top cities for stolen vehicles in Canada (IBC)

This post was originally published on June 21, 2024, and was updated on May 27, 2026.

In 2026, auto theft claims are trending downward from 2023’s $1.5 billion peak. However, car theft remains a serious concern across the country. 

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) released data highlighting the most affected cities in Ontario, Atlantic Canada and Alberta. This report complements the top 10 stolen vehicles in Canada report that the Équité Association publishes yearly. Both reports not only reflect the severity of the problem but also underscore the need for continued coordinated action to protect Canadians and their vehicles.

Let's take a deeper look at how theft is impacting major Canadian cities across the country.

Ontario: Top cities for car theft 

The IBC released a new report outlining the top costliest cities in Ontario for auto theft claims in 2025. Toronto, Brampton and Mississauga continue to rank as the top three most expensive cities, unchanged from the last report. While 2025’s claims costs decreased from $723 million in 2024, the provincial total reached $485 million. In total, the number of claims and losses jumped by 97% and 330%, respectively, since 2017, directly impacting auto insurance rates in Ontario.

Top 10 costliest cities in Ontario for auto theft claims (2025)

Mid-sized cities in Ontario have also seen significant spikes in claims costs, with Bowmanville/ Clarington and Whitchurch-Stouffville experiencing increases of 1,261% and 1,014%, respectively.

Top 10 Ontario cities by increase in auto theft claims costs (2017 to 2025)

Amanda Dean, Vice-President of Ontario and Atlantic at IBC, acknowledges the efforts of provincial governments, law enforcement, and insurers to reduce auto theft, but emphasizes that eliminating theft entirely requires a comprehensive collaborative effort.

Atlantic Canada: Top cities for car theft

Historically, auto theft has been seen as a problem primarily affecting central Canada. However, the latest IBC data reveals that Atlantic Canada is experiencing significant increases in auto theft claims and costs. Moncton and Fredericton have seen theft claims costs surge by 270% and 231%, respectively, from 2018 to 2023. Halifax, Cape Breton, St. John’s, Saint John, and Charlottetown also report notable increases.

Top 7 costliest cities for auto theft claims in Atlantic Canada (2023)

Amanda Dean, Vice-President for Ontario and Atlantic at IBC, stresses that this is a nationwide issue that cannot be ignored. The rising costs in Atlantic Canada indicate a troubling trend that could significantly impact auto insurance premiums if not addressed promptly. Dean calls for swift implementation of the federal government’s National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures at Atlantic ports and stricter vehicle registration processes.

Alberta: Top cities for car theft

Alberta has also seen a worrying rise in auto theft claims costs, which increased by 55% between 2021 and 2023. According to IBC, the cities of Edmonton and Calgary are particularly affected, with theft claims costs rising by 66% and 59%, respectively. Other hot spots include Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, and Fort McMurray.

Top 5 Alberta cities by increase in auto theft claims costs (2021 to 2023)

Aaron Sutherland, Vice-President for Western and Pacific at IBC, highlights the urgency of the situation in the province. Alberta’s auto insurance system faces severe cost pressures, exacerbated by high theft rates and rising legal costs. Sutherland calls for reforms and immediate action to reduce these pressures and ensure that drivers can obtain the coverage they need without facing exorbitant premiums.

What is the Canadian government’s plan to combat car theft?

Auto theft across Canada is a complex issue that demands a multifaceted approach. In May 2024, the federal government released its National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, focused on dismantling and prosecuting organized crime groups involved in auto theft. Actions listed in the plan include:

• Legislative and regulatory changes, including amendments to the Criminal Code. 
• Improved information sharing between governments, international police and customs officials.
• Intervention improvements through increased capacity at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to examine more shipping containers. 

 Two years later, the total number of theft claims in Canada has decreased by 27%. However, total auto theft rates are much higher than they were a decade ago, directly driving up insurance premiums.

This year, in February 2026, the IBC shared ideas that will help to continue to combat auto theft: 

1. Make vehicles harder to steal by improving anti-theft standards and ensuring Canadian vehicles are protected against electronic theft strategies.
2. Stop stolen cars from leaving Canada by requiring anyone exporting a vehicle to present their documents 72 hours before export.
3. Dismantle auto theft supply chains by strengthening export oversight and closing regulatory gaps.
4. Improve data sharing to stop international crime by modernizing the Interprovincial Record Exchange system.

For more information, visit the IBC website. 

The bottom line 

The dramatic rise in auto theft claims costs in Ontario, Atlantic Canada and Alberta highlights the urgent need for comprehensive and coordinated action. Policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and the auto insurance industry must collaborate to implement effective measures to combat this growing threat. As the IBC continues to advocate for these changes, it is crucial for all stakeholders to recognize the severity of the auto theft crisis and commit to the necessary reforms to protect Canadian drivers and their vehicles.

By addressing these issues head-on, we can help ensure a safer environment for all Canadians, reduce the financial burden on drivers, and restore confidence in our communities’ ability to prevent and respond to auto theft.

Also read:

• How stolen vehicle trends can impact your auto insurance
• Car theft: What happens if your stolen car is actually found? 
• Auto-theft tracking devices and car insurance  
• 7 car security tips: How to prevent car theft