The Insurance Bureau of Canada has released its list of the top seven costliest cities for auto theft in Atlantic Canada.

Moncton theft claims costs surged 270 per cent between 2018 and 2023, and Fredericton saw an increase of 231 per cent over the same period.

“While auto theft may seem like a problem that’s only affecting central Canada, auto theft claims and claims costs are spiking in Atlantic Canada,” said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, of Ontario and Atlantic, IBC.

“It’s a problem right across the country and one we can’t afford to ignore here in Atlantic Canada.  Without swift action to combat theft in Atlantic Canada, claims costs will increase, which will impact the cost of insurance.”

Halifax topped that list with auto theft claims costs hitting over $3.6 million in 2023, up 122 per cent over 2018.

Sydney, N.S., placed fourth at almost $1.2 million.

Saint John placed sixth with claim totals of over $976,000, a spike of 135 per cent.

“The auto theft crisis will only worsen in Atlantic Canada unless provincial and municipal governments advocate for solutions that include, for example, investments in Atlantic ports to ensure they don’t become the next target,” added Dean. “We urge all orders of government – including the provinces and municipalities – to work with the federal government without delay to implement the recommendations in Public Safety Canada’s National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft.”