A stark contrast in the drug presence is evident when comparing wastewater samples from different Canadian cities. Statistics Canada data reveals varying levels of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl across eight cities.
Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and Moncton, N.B., exhibited the highest levels of methamphetamine and cocaine, with Prince Albert registering the highest readings. In contrast, Halifax had lower methamphetamine levels but relatively high cocaine levels. Fentanyl levels remained significantly elevated in Metro Vancouver compared to other cities.
The study conducted by StatCan involved analyzing drug metabolites in wastewater samples collected over one-week intervals every two months from January 2024 to March 2026, covering a population of approximately 9.2 million people. While the data provides insights into drug consumption in the served areas, it does not precisely indicate the number of users or the extent of their drug use.
Local drug availability plays a significant role in driving substance use trends, according to Kora DeBeck, a professor at Simon Fraser University. Different regions may exhibit distinct drug consumption patterns influenced by factors such as drug trafficking networks and market dynamics.
The analysis highlighted that Prince Albert had the highest methamphetamine levels, reaching 2,003 milligrams per 1,000 people per day in March 2026. Saskatoon and Moncton also showed elevated methamphetamine levels, with regional drug supply chains potentially shaping consumption patterns.
Edmonton’s methamphetamine levels peaked at 1,071 milligrams per 1,000 people per day in January 2025, while Moncton experienced high methamphetamine levels, contributing significantly to stimulant-related deaths in New Brunswick.
Halifax recorded the lowest methamphetamine levels among the cities monitored, while cocaine levels were relatively high. The prevalence of cocaine in stimulant-related deaths in Nova Scotia underscores its impact on public health.
Metro Vancouver consistently had the highest fentanyl levels among the cities analyzed. Although fentanyl measurements decreased in 2025 and early 2026, experts caution against interpreting this as a decline in overall opioid supply, emphasizing the diverse forms of fentanyl in circulation.
Toronto’s methamphetamine levels were notably lower compared to other cities, but it stood out with the highest average MDMA levels. Montreal displayed lower opioid levels, with stimulant patterns resembling those of Toronto.
While wastewater analysis offers valuable insights into drug trends, experts emphasize the need to consider additional factors like population movements and events that may impact the data’s accuracy.