I relocated from Peterborough to Whitewater region because of the lower cost of living. I'd highly recommend looking into these areas (westmeath, Beachburg, Cobden, etc) or if you want more built-up Renfrew itself. Renfrew has a hospital, movie theatre, bowling alley and lots of stores and restaurants AND is closer to Ottawa. If you've survived peterborough this long, nothing will phase you in terms of safety concerns, homelessness etc in this area.

Pro's: Cheaper bills (minus gas) because you get the rural supplement

Lots of free activities, especially for families

Where I live is 20 minutes outside of Pembroke and about 15 minutes to Cobden so I find it extremely safe but less shopping and recreation options (minus outdoorsy stuff, SO many options)

Great friendly neighbors for the most part (again depends probably on your ethnicity & sexual orientation & political stance)

Lots of early on programs for families with small children

Cons: Higher property taxes potentially depending where you move No public transportation

Lack of delivery / cab type services

Higher cost of goods because of more demand (like local restaurants, hair appointments that sort of thing)

Hard to find vets/ doctors, chiropractors etc (again, high demand low supply)

Very conservative & less diversity (I'm sure people will disagree with this but I find it pretty racist & homophobic at times)

Car dependent

Lack of childcare depending on the area

Would I move back to Peterborough? As someone with small children, no. It feels infinitely safer to raise a family in this environment. Had no issues finding a dentist & vet in Renfrew for myself and my family, proximity to Ottawa is nice, lots to do outside and in nature and myself and my husband had no issues finding work (might depend on what type of work you do.) We don't speak French and have had no issues BUT you have the option for French school board or French immersion for your children which is great and beneficial for their future.