safest places to visit in new york city

10 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City

New York City is called the “Greatest City on Earth” because it has some of the best things life offers, including history, employment opportunities, nightlife, food, and culture.

New York has something for every taste, boasting tall skyscrapers, blaring lights, and charming neighborhoods.

When considering the City’s safest areas, you may be surprised to learn that many of the safest neighborhoods don’t have tourist attractions and the appeal New York is famous for; they are just residential sections.

If you’re considering moving to or visiting New York City, it’s essential to understand the safest neighborhoods the City has to offer.

Keep reading to learn more!

Ten: Long Island City, Queens

Nine: city island, bronx, eight: fresh meadows, queens, seven: nolita, manhattan, six: murray hill, manhattan, five: greenwich village, manhattan, four: brooklyn heights, brooklyn, three: kips bay, manhattan, two: battery park city, manhattan, one: tribeca, manhattan, one: ask for help if you need it, two: be extra vigilant on the subway, three: remain in well-lit areas at night, four: keep valuables tucked away, five: attempt to blend in with the locals, new york city safety overview, which new york city borough is the safest, which borough is the most dangerous, is it safe to walk through times square at night.

Rounding out the top 10 of the safest neighborhoods in New York City is Long Island City.

Situated on the far west side of Queens , LIC has a crime rate similar to Fresh Meadows, with most crimes being property-related and petty theft.

The best aspect of this neighborhood is that crime has dropped by 33 percent over the past two decades and continues to decrease as more companies move in and shiny new residences are constructed.

LIC offers beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline and is a rapidly growing neighborhood due to the connectivity and easy commute to the City.

City Island is a tiny island in the northeastern portion of the Bronx within the Pelham Islands.

The overall crime rate is 25.78 per 1,000 residents, causing it to be a little higher on the list than others, but it’s a relatively safe place to live and visit in the summer.

Most of this crime rate comprises property crimes, so your chances of being the victim of a violent crime are just 1 in 128.

Although small, City Island is a popular summer destination for New York City residents.

Fresh Meadows is a Queens neighborhood offering the ideal suburban and urban vibes.

Most of the crimes in Fresh Meadows are property crimes, making it a wonderful place to start and raise a family.

The neighborhood is also decently connected to mass transit, with train and bus options for getting into Manhattan for those who need to commute west in the morning.

The neighborhood, Nolita, derives its name because it’s situated directly north of Little Italy .

While this small section doesn’t have the same Italian charm it once boasted, it’s still a great place to live in Manhattan.

One of the best aspects of this small neighborhood slice is that there are only 20 violent crimes per 1,000 residents.

Compared to many other Manhattan neighborhoods, this statistic has drawn families into the neighborhood.

Nestled between the Midtown skyscrapers and the East River, Murray Hill is the sixth safest New York City neighborhood on this list.

Over the past two decades, investment in public safety has resulted in a whopping 40 percent drop in crime, making it an excellent option for those living who wish to live on the East Side of Manhattan.

This area attracts a younger crowd of those fresh out of college because it’s an accessible area to commute downtown or walk to many Midtown companies.

Greenwich Village is located on the west side of Manhattan and is one of the best-known neighborhoods in the City.

The neighborhood is famous for its many brownstones, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife, with many young professionals flocking to the area once the sun drops.

Over the past few years, Greenwich Village has dramatically improved its safety for visitors and residents.

The combined violent and property crime rate is 40.4 per 1,000 residents, with property crimes being the most common type.

Brooklyn Heights is an excellent alternative growing for those looking to be close to Manhattan without paying skyrocketing prices.

This popular neighborhood is known for tree-lined streets and countless historic buildings that have helped build Brooklyn.

The area has enjoyed considerable safety improvements over the past decade, resulting in a combined violent and property crime rate of only 17.6 per 1,000 residents.

Compared to other Brooklyn neighborhoods, this is a fantastic result of safety investment.

Kips Bay is on the eastern cusp of the skyscrapers of Midtown Manhattan and attracts many young professionals who can walk to work.

The neighborhood is much smaller than it used to be.

Still, like many other formerly crime-ridden neighborhoods, the Kips Bay community has implemented crime reduction programs, which have paid dividends in safety.

Kips Bay has a slightly lower crime rate compared to Battery Park City , at 21.90 crimes per 1,000 residents.

Battery Park City is situated in the southernmost point of Manhattan near the financial district.

This neighborhood, which is considerably more affordable than the safest neighborhood on this list, boasts many green spaces, including the park it was named after, Battery Park.

The neighborhood borders the Hudson River and boasts a crime rate that’s 16 percent lower than the national average.

Given its location, many Wall Street gurus and other downtown workers live in this neighborhood.

Tribeca, located in the lower portion of Manhattan, is considered the safest neighborhood in New York City.

The Hudson River borders this celebrity-filled section of the Big Apple, and local officials have implemented many successful crime reduction initiatives over the past several decades.

Even in the past year, Tribeca has experienced a 10 percent drop in crime, which is considerable for such a large city like New York, where crime spillover between neighborhoods is common.

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to New York City

When visiting New York City, it’s important to remember the following safety tips:

Many New Yorkers enjoy helping tourists since it helps give the City a better reputation.

For instance, when visitors attempt to read the subway map, they likely need directions or assistance.

Most New Yorkers will ask that individual if they need directions.

New Yorkers only appear standoffish and rude because they are in a hurry.

However, most are willing to help tourists if they ask.

Never hesitate to ride the subway; it is a safe option for getting around town and beating traffic.

However, when taking any form of mass transit, keep your bags closed and valuables out of sight.

Also, don’t keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket since anyone can brush past you and lift it from your pocket.

Also, be aware of who is near you in a crowded subway car, and don’t let your guard down, even when the subway isn’t crowded.

New York City has many well-lit and busy streets, but then you turn a corner, and it’s dark and desolate.

Although it’s unlikely something bad will happen to you if you wander down this type of street, there’s no point in taking the chance.

Even during the day, if you wander into an empty neighborhood that appears run-down, quickly and calmly leave the area to visit a more vibrant section of town.

Keeping your valuables tucked away and bags closed is true for every City on earth.

It’s second nature for New York City locals, regardless of their previous incident.

Many visiting New York are from towns or cities where there’s no need to worry about this issue, but it’s crucial in this City.

Most locals alert others if their bag is unzipped, but don’t rely on this in every situation.

Also, never flash your phone around more than is necessary since mobile devices are easy to grab.

Most have heard this before when traveling to major cities or other countries, but it’s always worth repeating.

Locals can typically pick tourists out of a crowd, meaning criminals can do the same.

While most locals mean no harm and welcome visitors to New York City, some take advantage of the chance to scam you or pick your pockets.

To blend in, look like you know where you’re going, dress like the locals, and don’t hang your camera around your neck; keep it in a bag.

READ THE FULL REPORT: New York City Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
• MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Frequently Asked Questions

Crime statistics show that Queens is the safest of all boroughs, with an average difference of over 50 percent.

The Bronx is the least safe of all boroughs, with a violent crime rate of over 250 percent higher than Queens.

Given the lights, number of people, and police presence, Times Square is incredibly safe to walk around at night because violent crimes are low.

You just need to be aware of pickpockets and scammers.

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13 Safest Areas to stay in New York City for tourists (and Where to avoid)

What are the safest areas to stay in New York City? Are there areas to avoid in New York City? In this post, I will help you to find the Safest areas to stay in New York City for tourists and the best places to stay in New York City for all budgets.

New York City, often referred to as NYC, is one of the most iconic and populous cities in the United States. It is located in the state of New York in the northeastern part of

NYC encompasses five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island . Each borough has its own unique character and attractions.

The city is home to numerous famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and the One World Trade Center (Freedom Tower).

Broadway , located in Manhattan, is known worldwide for its theater productions. It’s the hub of American theater, featuring numerous plays, musicals, and performances.

NYC boasts world-class museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the American Museum of Natural History, and the Guggenheim Museum.

The city has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and taxis . It’s one of the few American cities where many residents don’t own cars.

Despite its urban nature, NYC offers plenty of green spaces, with Central Park being the most famous. Other parks include Prospect Park in Brooklyn and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens.

Is New York City safe for tourists?

New York City is generally a safe place for tourists, and most areas are perfectly fine for visitors. It’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings no matter where you are in the city. 

Here are some factors to consider:

Tourist Areas: 

Popular tourist areas like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty are heavily patrolled by police and are generally safe for tourists.

Crime Rates: 

New York City has seen a significant decrease in crime rates over the years, but like any major city, it still has some crime. 

Petty theft, pickpocketing, and scams can occur in crowded places, so it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Neighborhoods: 

Different neighborhoods have different safety profiles. Some areas, like Midtown Manhattan and many parts of Brooklyn, are generally safe for tourists. 

However, it’s a good idea to research specific neighborhoods you plan to visit and check for any recent safety updates.

Public Transportation: 

The city’s public transportation system, including subways and buses, is generally safe, but it’s advisable to be cautious, especially late at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas when using public transport.

Weather and Seasons: 

Weather can affect safety. Winters in New York City can be icy and sidewalks can become slippery. Be cautious when walking in snowy or icy conditions.

Common-sense safety practices like not displaying expensive items, securing your belongings, and being aware of your surroundings apply in any urban area.

What are the safest areas to stay in New York City?

The safest areas to stay in New York City for tourists are the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Midtown Manhattan, Battery Park City, Brooklyn Heights, Williamsburg, Park Slope, Astoria, Harlem, Tribeca, SoHo, Chelsea, and Greenwich Village.

The Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Midtown Manhattan are the safest areas to stay in New York City for first-time visitors . While these neighborhoods tend to have lower crime rates, it’s essential to exercise common-sense safety precautions wherever you are in New York City.

SoHo, Chelsea, Greenwich Village, Battery Park City, and Tribeca are the safest places to stay in Lower Manhattan NYC. They are also well-connected and offer a range of attractions for tourists.

Williamsburg, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope are safest neighborhoods to stay in Brooklyn NYC, offering a more relaxed vibe compared to Manhattan.  

Use common sense, and you should have a safe and enjoyable visit to New York City. Additionally, consider staying in reputable hotels and accommodations to enhance your safety.

Map of the safest areas and neighborhoods in NYC for tourists:

What areas to avoid staying in New York City?

Here are some areas that some people might recommend avoiding or taking extra precautions in:

South Bronx: 

The South Bronx has seen significant improvements in recent years, some parts are still known for higher crime rates. It’s a good idea to research specific neighborhoods within the South Bronx before deciding to stay there.

East New York, Brooklyn: 

This neighborhood in Brooklyn has had a higher crime rate historically, but it’s also been undergoing revitalization efforts. Exercise caution, especially at night.

Brownsville, Brooklyn: 

Brownsville has a reputation for higher crime rates, and tourists are advised to be cautious in this area.

East Harlem: 

While East Harlem has seen improvements, some parts may still be less safe compared to other neighborhoods in Manhattan. It’s advisable to research the specific location before staying there.

Certain Parts of Staten Island: 

While most of Staten Island is safe, some isolated neighborhoods may have higher crime rates. It’s best to check local crime statistics and reviews before booking accommodations.

Meatpacking District and Chelsea at Night: 

While these areas are generally safe during the day, late at night, they can become rowdy due to the presence of bars and clubs. Exercise caution if you’re out late.

Times Square at Night: 

While Times Square is a popular tourist destination, it can get crowded and noisy at night. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

The safest areas to stay in New York City for tourists are:

1. upper east side.

The Upper East Side is one of Manhattan’s most prestigious and desirable neighborhoods , known for its affluence, cultural attractions, and safety. It’s a popular area for tourists and residents alike.

The Upper East Side is generally considered safe for tourists . It has a low crime rate, and it’s well-patrolled by the NYPD (New York City Police Department). Like in any urban area, it’s still important to  be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.

The Upper East Side offers a wide range of cultural attractions, including world-famous museums like the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Whitney Museum of American Art, and Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

Central Park ‘s eastern edge is also easily accessible, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

The neighborhood boasts upscale shopping along Madison Avenue and designer boutiques. It’s a great place for shopping enthusiasts. You’ll also find a variety of dining options, from high-end restaurants to cozy cafes. It is known for its diverse culinary scene.

Many upscale residential buildings and townhouses line the streets of the Upper East Side. It’s a quieter and more residential part of Manhattan , making it a comfortable place to stay.

The Upper East Side is well-connected to other parts of the city via public transportation, including numerous MTA buses and subway stations in the area.

Overall, the Upper East Side is a safe and central area for tourists, offering a mix of cultural, dining, and shopping experiences, as well as easy access to other parts of Manhattan and the city’s attractions.

Best places to stay in New York City in Upper East Side:

• Luxury ($$$): Loews Regency New York Hotel
• Mid-range ($$): The Gardens Sonesta ES Suites New York
• Budget ($):  voco The Franklin New York, an IHG Hotel

2. Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is a popular and highly regarded neighborhood in Manhattan, known for its safety, cultural attractions, and residential charm. 

The Upper West Side is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Manhattan. It has a reputation for being family-friendly and is often chosen by residents and tourists alike for its sense of security. But, as in any urban area, it’s still essential to exercise standard safety precautions.

The Upper West Side is home to several significant cultural attractions. The American Museum of Natural History, with its iconic dinosaur exhibits, is a must-visit. 

You’ll also find the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts , which hosts opera, ballet, theater, and musical performances.

The neighborhood’s western boundary is Central Park , providing residents and visitors with easy access to the park’s green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities.

The Upper West Side has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, r anging from casual eateries to upscale dining. There are also numerous grocery stores, making it convenient for residents.

It’s a predominantly residential area with tree-lined streets and elegant pre-war buildings. The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including apartments and brownstones.

The Upper West Side has excellent public transportation options, with subway lines and bus routes providing easy access to other parts of Manhattan and the city.

Overall, the Upper West Side is a safe, vibrant, and central area for tourists and first-time travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring its cultural institutions, enjoying the greenery of Central Park, or savoring its dining scene, the Upper West Side has something to offer for everyone.

Best places to stay in New York City in Upper West Side:

• Luxury ($$$): The Wallace Hotel
• Mid-range ($$): Hotel Beacon
• Budget ($): Hotel Lucerne
• Hostel ($): HI New York City Hostel

3. Midtown Manhattan

Midtown Manhattan is the heart of the city and is one of the best areas to stay in NYC for first-time tourists. It is home to many iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Broadway, and Rockefeller Center.  

Midtown is an overall safe area for tourists . It’s heavily patrolled by the NYPD, and there is a significant presence of both law enforcement and security personnel in this commercial and tourist-centric area. As with any urban area, it’s essential to be vigilant about your belongings and surroundings.

Midtown Manhattan is home to numerous world-famous landmarks and attractions. Times Square , also known as “The Crossroads of the World,” is famous for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and lively atmosphere.

You can also find the Rockefeller Center, an iconic complex including the Radio City Music Hall, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

There is the Empire State Building , one of the most recognizable skyscrapers globally, it offers breathtaking views from its observation deck.

Art lovers can visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) , renowned for its exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art.

The Grand Central Terminal is a historic transportation hub known for its stunning architecture and unique celestial mural on the ceiling.

A green oasis in the midst of Midtown, Bryant Park , offering public events, a seasonal ice skating rink, and a beautiful lawn area.

Midtown Manhattan is a shopper’s paradise, with famous shopping districts such as Fifth Avenue , which features flagship stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. Additionally, there are numerous high-end boutiques and department stores like Macy’s Herald Square.

The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of the city through its extensive subway lines and bus routes, making it easy to explore other parts of Manhattan and beyond.

Overall, Midtown Manhattan is a vibrant, dynamic, and central part of the city, making it a popular choice for tourists. It offers a mix of cultural, entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences, making it a hub of activity and a must-visit destination for many visitors to New York City.

Best places to stay in New York City in Midtown Manhattan:

• Luxury ($$$): Hard Rock Hotel New York
• Mid-range ($$): The Jewel Hotel, New York
• Budget ($): Broadway Plaza Hotel

4. Battery Park City

Battery Park City is a unique and relatively modern neighborhoo d located on the southern tip of Manhattan. It’s known for its waterfront location, green spaces, safety, and proximity to several attractions. 

Battery Park City is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Manhattan. It has a reputation for being well-patrolled, and its low crime rate makes it an attractive area for both residents and tourists.

One of the standout features of Battery Park City is its waterfront location along the Hudson River . This provides stunning views of the river and New Jersey’s skyline, as well as opportunities for recreational activities and leisurely walks along the esplanade.

The neighborhood is home to several parks and green spaces, including Battery Park, Teardrop Park, and Rockefeller Park. These provide serene areas to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors.

Battery Park City is within walking distance of several cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Skyscraper Museum . It’s also near the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center site.

While it has a primarily residential character, Battery Park City features modern high-rise buildings, luxury apartments, and condominiums with impressive amenities. The neighborhood’s design incorporates sustainable and eco-friendly elements.

Battery Park, located at the southern tip of Manhattan, is a historic park that offers green space, walking paths, gardens, and beautiful waterfront views. The park is also the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The neighborhood is well-connected to subway lines and buses. The nearby World Trade Center Transportation Hub provides access to multiple subway lines, making it easy to explore other attractions.

Battery Park City is a tranquil and scenic area that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of other parts of Manhattan. It’s a great choice for tourists looking for a safe, modern, and waterfront experience while still being conveniently located near key attractions and transportation options.

Best places to stay in New York City in Battery Park City:

• Luxury ($$$): Conrad New York Downtown
• Mid-range ($$): World Center Hotel
• Budget ($): Hotel Indigo NYC Financial District, an IHG Hotel

5. Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights is a charming and historic neighborhood located in the borough of Brooklyn, just across the East River from Manhattan. It is known for its picturesque streets, historical significance, safety, and proximity to both Manhattan and a variety of amenities.

Brooklyn Heights is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists and residents. It has a reputation for being a peaceful and well-maintained community.

The neighborhood is famous for its tree-lined streets, historic brownstone buildings , and preserved 19th-century architecture. It offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

The Brooklyn Heights Promenade, also known as the Esplanade, offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty. It’s a popular spot to enjoy scenic walks.

Brooklyn Heights is home to the Brooklyn Historical Society , which showcases the history of the borough, and the St. Ann’s Warehouse, a renowned performing arts venue.

Located nearby, Brooklyn Bridge Park offers a beautiful waterfront space with recreational areas, walking paths, picnic areas, and stunning views of the East River and Manhattan.

Brooklyn Heights is just one subway stop away from Lower Manhattan , making it a convenient base for exploring both Brooklyn and Manhattan. The neighborhood provides a quieter and more residential alternative to staying in the heart of Manhattan.

The neighborhood is well-connected to public transportation, with multiple subway lines serving the area. The Brooklyn Heights-Cobble Hill Historic District is also well-served by bus routes.

Nearby neighborhoods like Cobble Hill and DUMBO offer additional dining, shopping, and cultural options, making it easy to explore the broader Brooklyn area.

Overall, Brooklyn Heights is a lovely, safe, and historically rich neighborhood that appeals to tourists looking for a more relaxed and residential atmosphere while still having easy access to the attractions and amenities of both Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Best places to stay in New York City in Brooklyn Heights:

• Luxury ($$$): 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
• Mid-range ($$): Hilton Brooklyn New York
• Budget ($): Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown

6. Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a dynamic and trendy neighborhood located in Brooklyn. It has become a popular destination for its artsy vibe, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s generally safe but can get crowded on weekends.

The Williamsburg Bridge connects to Manhattan’s Lower East Side. It is also well-connected to several subway lines and bus routes. The L train, in particular, provides direct access to Manhattan.

Williamsburg is known for its street art, galleries, and live music venues . Places like the Williamsburg Art & Historical Center showcase local talent and host various cultural events.

The area is famous for its diverse and thriving food scene . From upscale restaurants to food trucks and everything in between, the neighborhood offers a wide range of culinary options. 

Additionally, it has a vibrant nightlife with bars, breweries, and music venues hosting live performances.

You can find unique boutiques, vintage stores, and independent shops here. Bedford Avenue is a central shopping area, offering a variety of fashion, jewelry, and home decor stores.

The Williamsburg waterfront along the East River is home to beautiful parks such as Domino Park , offering green spaces, playgrounds, and stunning views of Manhattan.

Williamsburg has gained a reputation for its hipster culture , characterized by alternative fashion, creativity, and a focus on the arts. The neighborhood has a relaxed and trendy atmosphere.

There are several markets in Williamsburg, such as Smorgasburg and Artists & Fleas , where you can sample local foods, shop for unique crafts, and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Overall, Williamsburg is a popular destination for tourists seeking a lively cultural experience, great food, and artistic expression.

Best places to stay in New York City in Williamsburg:

• Luxury ($$$): The William Vale
• Mid-range ($$): Penny Williamsburg
• Budget ($): Pod Brooklyn

7. Park Slope

Park Slope is a f amily-friendly neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and brownstone homes. It’s generally considered safe for tourists, with a relaxed atmosphere. But, as with any area, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings.

Park Slope is primarily a residential neighborhood located in western Brooklyn , just south of Prospect Park, one of the largest and most famous parks in New York City. It is bordered by Gowanus, Prospect Heights, and Windsor Terrace.

The area’s proximity to Prospect Park is one of its major attractions. This large urban park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux offers outdoor activities, including jogging, cycling, picnicking, and enjoying cultural events at the Prospect Park Bandshell.

It is home to numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. Fifth Avenue and Seventh Avenue are two of the main commercial corridors in the neighborhood.

The neighborhood has good transportation options. The F, G, and R subway lines provide easy access to other parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Best places to stay in New York City in Park Slope:

• Luxury ($$$): TownePlace Suites by Marriott New York Brooklyn
• Mid-range ($$): Liberty View Brooklyn Hotel
• Budget ($): Cozy Fully Furnished Apartment Near Prospect Park & Public Transport

Astoria is a diverse neighborhood known for its excellent food scene . It’s typically safe for tourists, with a vibrant atmosphere. Just like any urban area, remain vigilant, especially at night.

Astoria is situated in the northwestern part of Queens, along the East River, across from Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It is conveniently located, with easy access to Manhattan via the Queensboro Bridge and several subway lines.

Astoria is home to the Museum of the Moving Image , which explores the history of film, television, and digital media. The Kaufman Astoria Studios, a historic film and television production facility, is also located here.

The neighborhood has a wide range of restaurants serving various cuisines, from Greek and Mediterranean to Italian, Middle Eastern, and more. Steinway Street and Ditmars Boulevard are two popular areas with numerous dining options.

Astoria Park is a large, beautiful green space along the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. It features a swimming pool, tennis courts, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Astoria is well-connected to the rest of New York City. The N, W, and R subway lines serve the neighborhood, providing quick access to Manhattan and other parts of Queens.

Best places to stay in New York City in Astoria:

• Mid-range ($$): Home2 Suites Long Island City/Manhattan View
• Mid-range ($$): Fairfield Inn by Marriott New York LaGuardia Airport/Astoria
• Mid-range ($$): Sonder The Dutch

Harlem has experienced significant gentrification and improvement in safety over the years. While it’s generally safe, some areas may be less safe than others, particularly late at night. Stick to well-lit, busy areas, and be aware of your surroundings.

Harlem is a historic neighborhood located in the northern part of Manhattan . It has a rich cultural and historical significance and has played a prominent role in the development of African American culture and the Harlem Renaissance in the early 20th century.

Harlem’s history dates back to the Dutch colonial period when it was a rural village. It saw significant growth during the late 19th century with the construction of the elevated railway, which made it more accessible to the rest of Manhattan.

Harlem is home to the Apollo Theater , where many famous artists, such as Ella Fitzgerald and James Brown, launched their careers. The Studio Museum in Harlem showcases African American art and culture.

Harlem offers a wide range of dining options, from soul food to Ethiopian cuisine . Sylvia’s Restaurant, famous for its soul food, is a well-known establishment.

Best places to stay in New York City in Harlem:

• Mid-range ($$): The Gallery House
• Mid-range ($$): Harlem Grand
• Budget ($): The Harlem Pearl

10. Tribeca

Tribeca is a trendy and upscale neighborhood and is generally considered safe for tourists. It’s known for its luxury apartments and quiet streets. As always, exercise common sense regarding personal safety.

Tribeca, short for “Triangle Below Canal Street,” is located in the southwestern part of Manhattan, bounded by Canal Street, West Street, Broadway, and Vesey Street. It is adjacent to SoHo, Chinatown, and the Financial District.

Some of the streets in Tribeca still have cobblestone paving , which adds to its charming and old-world ambiance.

Tribeca is home to the Tribeca Film Festival, one of the most prominent film festivals in the world. It has also attracted a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions.

While not known for its large parks, Tribeca has several small parks and playgrounds, such as Washington Market Park , offering green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Best places to stay in New York City in Tribeca:

• Luxury ($$$): Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
• Luxury ($$$): The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel, part of Hyatt
• Mid-range ($$): Smyth Tribeca

SoHo, which stands for “South of Houston Street,” is a trendy neighborhood known for its shopping and arts scene . It’s relatively safe, particularly during the day. Like other Manhattan neighborhoods, be cautious at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.

SoHo has long been a hub for artists and art enthusiasts . You’ll find numerous art galleries showcasing contemporary and modern art. Many of these galleries participate in the monthly “SoHo Art Walk.”

The SoHo-Cast Iron Historic District is a designated historic district recognized for its distinctive architecture. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll to admire the beautiful buildings.

While SoHo is not primarily known for its museums, it is home to a few interesting ones, such as the Drawing Center, which focuses on contemporary and historical drawing practices.

SoHo is conveniently located in Manhattan. Its central location also means it’s not far from other popular areas like Greenwich Village, Little Italy, and Chinatown.

Best places to stay in New York City in SoHo:

• Luxury ($$$): ModernHaus SoHo
• Mid-range ($$): Best Western Plus Soho Hotel
• Budget ($): Soho Grand Hotel

12. Chelsea

Chelsea is a vibrant neighborhood with art galleries and the High Line park. It’s generally safe, but like other parts of the city, be mindful of your surroundings.

Chelsea is located on the west side of the borough of Manhattan and is a hub for contemporary art in New York City. The neighborhood is home to the Chelsea Art District , where you can find a wide range of galleries showcasing works by both established and emerging artists.

The High Line is an elevated linear park built on an old railway track that runs through Chelsea. It offers a unique and scenic urban green space with gardens, art installations, and beautiful views of the city.

Chelsea Market is a popular indoor food and retail complex housed in a historic factory building. It offers a wide variety of gourmet food stalls, shops, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and enjoy delicious cuisine.

The Rubin Museum of Art focuses on the art and culture of the Himalayas, India, and adjacent regions. It features an impressive collection of Himalayan art, exhibitions, and cultural programs.

Chelsea Piers is a sports and entertainment complex along the Hudson River that offers golf, ice skating, bowling, and more. It’s a great place for sports enthusiasts and families.

Chelsea has a significant LGBTQ+ population and is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere. The Stonewall Inn, a historic LGBTQ+ bar and site of the 1969 Stonewall riots, is nearby in the West Village.

Best places to stay in New York City in Chelsea:

• Luxury ($$$): The Hotel Chelsea
• Mid-range ($$): The Moore
• Budget ($): Hilton Garden Inn New York/Manhattan-Chelsea

13. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is a historic and lively neighborhood . It’s considered safe for tourists, with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Still, exercise standard precautions.

Greenwich Village, often simply referred to as “The Village,” was originally settled by the Dutch in the 17th century and has played a significant role in various cultural and political movements throughout American history. In the 20th century, it became a center for artistic and countercultural movements.

The Village has been home to many famous artists, writers, musicians , and performers over the years. It was a hub for the Beat Generation in the 1950s and the folk music revival of the 1960s. Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Allen Ginsberg are just a few of the notable figures associated with the neighborhood.

The Village is famous for its café culture . Cafes like Cafe Wha?, The Village Vanguard, and the White Horse Tavern have been gathering places for artists and intellectuals for decades.

Washington Square Park is a central feature of Greenwich Village. It’s known for its historic arch, which is a symbol of the neighborhood. The park is a gathering place for musicians, performers, and locals.

New York University (NYU) has a major presence in the neighborhood, with many of its academic buildings and student residences located in and around Greenwich Village.

Greenwich Village played a pivotal role in the early days of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The Stonewall Inn, located in the Village, is considered the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement after the Stonewall riots in 1969.

The Village hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Halloween Parade, which is one of the city’s most famous Halloween celebrations.

Best places to stay in New York City in Greenwich Village:

• Luxury ($$$): The Dominick Hotel
• Mid-range ($$): The Marlton Hotel
• Budget ($): Incentra Village Hotel
• Where to Stay in New York City First Time
• What to Pack for New York

In conclusion, the best and safest places to stay in New York City for tourists are the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Midtown Manhattan, Williamsburg, Tribeca, SoHo, Chelsea. It’s always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings no matter where you stay. 

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

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The 8 Safest Neighborhoods to Live in New York City in 2024

• Author: by The HOMEiA Team

Published: Aug 02, 2023

• Category: City Living Guide

New York City, the Big Apple of the United States, offers a diverse palette of boroughs and neighborhoods, each with a unique pulse and story. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, booming finance industry and unyielding hustle and bustle, New York City is made up of enough different communities to suit an extensive range of lifestyles.

This all-inclusive guide will take you on a tour of New York City’s safest neighborhoods for 2024. Every neighborhood is distinct: Battery Park City exudes peace and waterfront beauty, Sutton Place charms with its affluent history, and so on.

We selected these communities largely on the basis of their safety, considering factors such as crime rates, access to amenities, education quality and overall quality of life.

Each neighborhood emanates a unique appeal, catering to particular lifestyles and individual needs. Whether you are a young professional desiring a dynamic city life, a parent prioritizing access to excellent schools and parks, or a retiree aiming for a tranquil life in the heart of the metropolis, you are likely to find a neighborhood in this guide that will suit you.

Let’s embark on an exploration of some of New York City’s most attractive residential districts — those that notably contribute to the city’s culture and real estate landscape. If you are seeking a new haven amid the city’s vibrant and thriving aura, below are the top 8 safest places in New York City.

Table of Contents:

• 1. Battery Park City: A waterfront oasis offering tranquility and security.
• 2. Roosevelt Island: A river-surrounded sanctuary with plentiful green spaces
• 3. Tribeca: A trendy neighborhood blending industrial chic and residential calm.
• 4. Upper East Side: A traditional refuge with upscale appeal
• 5. Gramercy Park: A gated community offering safety and peace.
• 6. Sutton Place: An affluent enclave with a rich historical charm.
• 7. Beekman: The quiet, suburb-like gem in Midtown East
• 8. Carnegie Hill: A culturally rich district offering history and safety
• Conclusion: Your safe haven in New York City awaits

1. Battery Park City : A waterfront oasis offering tranquility and security.

Perfectly situated on the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park City is a serene waterfront neighborhood in New York City that offers a peaceful respite from the city’s typical hustle and bustle. Its lush green spaces, views of the Hudson River and reputation for safety make it an attractive haven for families, retirees and professionals.

A hallmark of Battery Park City is the Battery itself (formerly known as Battery Park). This expansive public space hosts a variety of unique landmarks. One of them is the Sphere, a large metallic sculpture that survived the 9/11 attacks and symbolizes resilience and hope. The park also provides awe-inspiring views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, making it a favored spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Battery Park City’s culinary scene is as diverse as the city itself. A standout is the renowned restaurant North End Grill. With its upscale ambiance and a menu featuring a creative blend of American and French cuisines, North End Grill has been a favorite for local residents and visiting food lovers for years. Whether you’re seeking a decadent brunch or a sophisticated dinner, this restaurant offers a gastronomic experience that comforts and delights.

The neighborhood is celebrated for its engaging calendar of events, including the famous River & Blues Concert Series in Wagner Park and the Battery Park City Summer Movie Series, where residents gather for outdoor screenings. These events reflect the neighborhood’s vibrant, inclusive community spirit and offer numerous opportunities for social interaction.

Safety is a priority in Battery Park City. The area’s design encourages pedestrian activity, and the community-oriented nature of its residents fosters a strong sense of security. Residents and local businesses actively participate in neighborhood initiatives to ensure a welcoming and safe environment.

Battery Park City’s unique blend of urban convenience, natural beauty, diverse dining options, and community spirit make it a top choice for those seeking a safe and peaceful living environment. If you are searching for a neighborhood in New York City that balances tranquility with vibrant urban living, Battery Park City might be the place for you.

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Encircled by the East River, Roosevelt Island is a sanctuary amid New York City’s fast-paced life. Its lush green spaces, riverbank landscape and close-knit community provide an idyllic urban oasis for those craving serenity without straying far from the city’s amenities.

Lighthouse Park, positioned on the island’s northern tip, is one of Roosevelt Island’s many highlights. Its historic lighthouse and stunning river views make it a beloved location for residents and visitors alike. From leisurely picnics to scenic strolls, this park offers an exceptional city escape, providing space for outdoor activities in a serene waterfront setting.

Main Street, the island’s central thoroughfare, boasts a variety of charming eateries, quaint shops and essential services. On Saturdays, the Roosevelt Island Farmers Market turns Main Street into a bustling hub of local produce and handmade goods, bringing the community together to support sustainable farming and local artisans.

For nature enthusiasts, Southpoint Park provides ample green spaces and unique attractions like the Smallpox Hospital, an iconic Gothic Revival ruin. The park, a generous mix of open fields and woodland, is a haven for joggers, bird watchers and those simply looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Contributing further to its appeal, Roosevelt Island houses several well-regarded schools and offers a variety of family-oriented activities, making it a particularly desirable neighborhood for families. Its design prioritizes pedestrians with minimal car traffic, and the aerial tramway adds a unique commuting experience, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline during transit.

Roosevelt Island strikes an exquisite balance between tranquil green spaces and urban convenience, underlined by a keen focus on community safety. Whether you’re drawn to the riverside tranquility, the expansive parks or the strong community spirit, Roosevelt Island stands as a unique, secure and appealing neighborhood in the city that never sleeps.

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3. Tribeca : A trendy neighborhood blending industrial chic and residential calm.

Nestled in Lower Manhattan, Tribeca effortlessly marries industrial-chic aesthetics with a tranquil residential atmosphere. Known for its cobblestone streets, former warehouses turned luxury lofts and the iconic Hudson River Park, Tribeca presents a chic urban retreat for those who relish both style and tranquility in their daily lives.

With its expansive waterfront, Hudson River Park serves as the neighborhood’s crown jewel. This park, a blend of manicured landscapes and spectacular river views, is a cherished spot for jogging, biking or enjoying a leisurely picnic. Its piers also host various activities, from kayaking to mini golf, offering an unparalleled mix of recreation and relaxation in the city’s heart.

Tribeca’s heart beats along its main avenues, where a diverse collection of boutiques, world-class restaurants and cozy coffee shops flourish. Since its establishment, the neighborhood’s farmers market, a favorite among locals, has been held every Wednesday and Saturday. It showcases a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods, providing residents with a farm-to-table experience right on their doorstep.

Tribeca’s community pride is palpable in its active neighborhood associations and low crime rates. The local community board and various neighborhood groups often lead initiatives, improving the safety and quality of life for residents. The area’s well-maintained streets, excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere further enhance its appeal as a safe and comfortable place to live.

A standout feature of Tribeca is its commitment to pedestrian-friendly urban living. The neighborhood is incredibly walkable, with ample bicycle lanes and accessible public transportation, offering a stress-free commuting experience. The neighborhood’s historic architecture, paired with modern amenities, creates a unique urban oasis.

Tribeca achieves a perfect balance between its trendy industrial chic atmosphere and the peaceful rhythm of residential life, underscored by a robust community spirit and commitment to safety. Whether it’s the neighborhood’s distinctive aesthetic, expansive green spaces or vibrant community life that draws you in, Tribeca undoubtedly ranks as one of the most alluring and safe neighborhoods in New York City.

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4. Upper East Side : A traditional refuge with upscale appeal

This classic neighborhood between Central Park and the East River in Manhattan represents the quintessence of upscale city living, offering a traditional refuge with a prestigious charm. Its stately townhouses, luxury boutiques, world-renowned museums and elegant dining establishments give the Upper East Side an air of refined sophistication that is both inviting and enduring.

Central Park, the verdant jewel of Manhattan, forms the western border of the Upper East Side. Its vast landscapes, winding paths and vibrant wildlife provide a green sanctuary amid the urban setting. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, an invigorating jog or a picnic on the Great Lawn, the park offers myriad recreational possibilities that perfectly balance the fast pace of city life.

Madison Avenue, often considered the heart of the neighborhood, houses many high-end boutiques, upscale restaurants and quaint cafes. Every Saturday, residents gather at the 92nd Street Greenmarket, a local fixture since the early 2000s, to shop an array of fresh produce and homemade goods.

For nature enthusiasts, Carl Schurz Park is an urban oasis. This 15-acre park, known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and riverside views, is a beloved spot for dog walkers, sunbathers and families. The park is also home to Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the city’s mayor, adding a touch of historical charm to the area.

The Upper East Side’s strong sense of community is apparent in its numerous community associations, its neighborhood watch groups and active resident involvement in local affairs. The area’s well-regarded schools, family-friendly events and low crime rates make it an appealing choice for families.

The Upper East Side skillfully strikes a balance between the traditional elegance of old New York and the amenities of modern city living. Its strong community ethos and dedication to safety and comfort underscore its appeal. Whether it’s the timeless charm of the brownstones, the cultural richness of Museum Mile or the tranquility of the parks that draws you in, the Upper East Side stands out as one of the most attractive and safe neighborhoods in New York City.

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5. Gramercy Park : A gated community offering safety and peace.

Situated in Manhattan, Gramercy Park represents an exceptional balance of safety, tranquility and cosmopolitan living. Its private park, limited to residents owning a coveted key, along with the neighborhood’s historic architecture and tree-lined streets, gives Gramercy Park an aura of exclusivity and peace.

Gramercy Park itself, from which the neighborhood takes its name, is a two-acre haven of greenery that acts as the private backyard for the fortunate keyholders. The park’s lush lawns, vibrant flowers and charming walkways provide an ideal space for relaxation, leisurely strolls and social gatherings. The unique key-only access ensures a serene and secure environment, an oasis amid the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.

The area surrounding Gramercy Park is filled with a variety of restaurants, boutiques and cafes, adding a layer of urban vibrancy to the neighborhood. Irving Place, a quiet side street, is often considered the community’s main artery. It boasts a selection of cozy cafes, artisanal eateries and unique shops. The neighborhood’s Greenmarket, a weekly event since the early 2000s, is a source of fresh, locally sourced produce and goods. It provides a communal atmosphere every Saturday.

Stuyvesant Square, a public park nestled in the eastern section of the neighborhood, offers additional green space for those seeking outdoor activities. Composed of two halves divided by Second Avenue, it’s a favored spot for dog walkers, joggers and those seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat.

What sets Gramercy Park apart is its deeply ingrained sense of community. Its residents, benefiting from the secure and private nature of the neighborhood, actively participate in maintaining the tranquility and safety of their environment. The well-established schools, family-friendly activities and extremely low crime rates  enhance Gramercy Park’s appeal for families and individuals seeking a safe haven in the city.

The well-preserved streets, carefully manicured green spaces and pedestrian-friendly areas contribute to the safety and aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood. With the well-connected subway lines and proximity to Union Square, commuting to other parts of the city is quick and stress-free.

Gramercy Park seamlessly merges the serenity of a gated community with the conveniences of city living. Its strong community spirit and emphasis on safety and peace set it apart. Whether you are drawn by the allure of private green space, the charm of 19th-century architecture or the sense of an exclusive enclave, you will find that Gramercy Park stands as a safe and serene sanctuary amid the metropolis of New York City.

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Tucked away in the eastern part of Manhattan, Sutton Place is an elegant neighborhood that showcases the city’s illustrious past and cosmopolitan present. Famous for its luxurious pre-war buildings, peaceful riverside views and a strong sense of community, Sutton Place is an attractive choice for professionals, families and anyone with a taste for a quieter pace amid the city’s dynamism.

One of Sutton Place’s signature landmarks is One Sutton Place South. This grand and historic residential building, featuring a beautiful private garden that overlooks the East River, embodies the neighborhood’s upscale charm. It’s an emblem of the refined elegance that Sutton Place residents cherish and is a sight for visitors.

A cornerstone of Sutton Place’s charm is its diverse food scene. Among its array of restaurants and cafes, Neary’s stands out. This classic Irish pub has served comforting homestyle meals to Sutton Place residents since the late 1960s. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Irish breakfast or a late-night drink chat, Neary’s offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that encapsulates the neighborhood’s community spirit.

Sutton Place is also noted for its community gatherings and celebrations. These include the annual Sutton Place Park Conservancy’s Spring Planting Day, where residents come together to beautify their shared spaces. These events, reflecting the community’s spirit of togetherness, make the neighborhood feel like a close-knit community within the sprawling metropolis.

Safety is a significant aspect of life in Sutton Place. The neighborhood’s layout, with its quiet, well-lit streets and security personnel at many residential buildings, contributes to its reputation as one of the city’s safest areas. The tight-knit nature of the community means that neighbors watch out for one another, further adding to the sense of safety and security.

Sutton Place’s unique fusion of historical elegance, enticing food offerings and a strong community spirit makes it a particularly appealing neighborhood. Sutton Place is an exceptional gem within New York City’s mosaic of neighborhoods for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle that offers safety and community without compromising on the city’s conveniences.

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7. Beekman : The quiet, suburb-like gem in Midtown East

Nestled amid the hustle and bustle of Midtown East, Beekman is a tranquil gem that offers a suburb-like atmosphere in the heart of New York City. Combining elegant residential towers, tree-lined streets and a warm neighborhood feel, Beekman provides an idyllic retreat for those seeking serenity within the city’s ceaseless activity.

Beekman Place, the two-block-long street after which the neighborhood is named, is symbolic of Beekman’s charm. Lined with historic townhouses and stately pre-war buildings, Beekman Place encapsulates the old-world elegance that makes this neighborhood unique in a city renowned for its relentless pace of change.

The dining scene in Beekman is as refined as its residential blocks. The area hosts many upscale restaurants and charming cafes that cater to the sophisticated palate of its residents. Among them, the iconic River Café stands out, serving exquisite dishes while offering unparalleled views of the East River.

Community spirit is evident in Beekman, with local events creating a sense of togetherness that contrasts with the impersonal nature of much of Manhattan. The annual Beekman Place Block Party is a cherished tradition, offering residents a chance to mingle over food, music and games in a family-friendly environment.

Safety is paramount in Beekman. The quiet, well-kept streets, the active neighborhood association and the attentive building doorkeepers all contribute to a safe and secure environment. This sense of safety is further enhanced by the nearby United Nations Headquarters, which provides a steady security presence in the area.

Beekman’s unique combination of suburban tranquility, historic elegance and city convenience makes it a desirable neighborhood. Its safe, peaceful streets, coupled with its proximity to the vibrant offerings of Midtown, make Beekman an exceptional choice for those seeking a serene haven amid New York City’s dynamic landscape.

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8. Carnegie Hill : A culturally rich district offering history and safety

Steeped in history and offering a captivating blend of cultural richness and safety, Carnegie Hill is a standout neighborhood in New York City’s Upper East Side. The district, known for its architectural elegance, verdant parks and world-class museums, is ideal for those seeking a refined, yet vibrant, lifestyle within the city.

The iconic Guggenheim Museum is the crown jewel of Carnegie Hill. With its unique spiral structure and extensive collection of modern art, it stands as a beacon of culture and sophistication in the heart of the neighborhood. Visitors can immerse themselves in various artistic styles and periods, making the museum a central feature of the local cultural scene.

Madison Avenue, the commercial hub of Carnegie Hill, is brimming with independent boutiques, quaint cafes and gourmet restaurants. The avenue’s farmers market, operating on weekends, provides residents with a bounty of fresh produce and homemade goods, fostering a tight-knit community spirit and promoting local businesses.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Central Park’s northern end, bordering Carnegie Hill, offers ample green space and recreational opportunities. The park’s Conservatory Garden, a beautifully manicured six-acre formal garden, is a serene oasis for those seeking tranquility amid the city’s fast pace.

Safety is deeply embedded in the fabric of Carnegie Hill. The community’s proactive involvement in safety initiatives, coupled with a well-patrolled streetscape, contributes to the neighborhood’s reputation as one of the safest in Manhattan. Carnegie Hill Neighbors, an active local association, plays a crucial role in maintaining this sense of security, overseeing numerous initiatives contributing to the neighborhood’s wellbeing.

What sets Carnegie Hill apart is its perfect blend of historic charm, cultural richness and urban convenience, all within a safe and secure environment. Its pedestrian-friendly streets and accessible public transport make commuting a breeze, adding to the neighborhood’s appeal. Whether you are drawn to its cultural offerings, its sense of history or its commitment to safety, Carnegie Hill stands as a uniquely attractive district within the vibrant tapestry of New York City.

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As we wrap up our tour of New York City’s most secure and alluring neighborhoods, it becomes increasingly clear that this city is a mosaic of distinctive communities, each emanating its unique vibe and charm. Whether it’s the sophisticated allure of the Upper East Side, the peace within the gated sanctuary of Gramercy Park or the fashionable industrial blend seen in Tribeca, the neighborhoods of New York City are as diverse as the people who call them home.

Security, a vital consideration in selecting a place to reside, is not a luxury but a standard in these neighborhoods. The sense of community here is strong, and when combined with the well-preserved streets and safe public areas, it lends to an overall sense of reassurance and comfort. No matter who you are — an art enthusiast, a foodie, a career-oriented professional or someone looking for the perfect nurturing environment for a family, New York City has a neighborhood that doesn’t just meet your needs but exceeds them.

As you consider your next move, mull over what is most significant to you in a neighborhood. Is it the dynamic cultural milieu, the proximity to nature and historic charm, the excellent educational offerings or a blend of these aspects? Regardless of your preferences, rest assured that you will find a neighborhood in New York City to suit you.

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10 of the Most Important Travel Safety Tips for New York City

New York City is one of the safest big cities in the country, but it’s still important for visitors to stay sharp and make smart decisions while exploring the Big Apple. The massive scope and crowded streets of the city can be intimidating, but you can navigate them like a pro by using common sense and following these travel safety tips.

Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your NYC trip is a success.

The Airport

Whether you land at JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark, the key to starting your trip off right is planning. Decide on your ground transportation plan before leaving your hometown. Make sure your luggage is easy to identify and manageable for you to carry on your own.

Don’t leave your bags unattended. If you have to visit the restroom, take everything with you and don’t be tempted to leave bags on the counter or near the door. Avoid strangers asking to carry your bags or anyone that offers you a deal on a ride that sounds too good to be true —  because it probably is.

Never get into an unmarked cab. All NYC taxicabs are clearly identified. The largest and most well-known fleet are yellow with a light on the roof that displays the cab driver’s medallion number. You can also spot the ID number on the hood. If you don’t see those three elements, move on. Outside Manhattan, look for light green Street Hail Livery taxis.

Other services like Lyft and Uber are also available, but since they aren’t regulated by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission, use them with caution. Know where you’re going before you get in and speak confidently to the driver. Always exit on the curbside, and keep an eye out for cyclists, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Don’t forget to tip, as stiffing a driver can get you involved in a heated altercation.

Accommodations in New York City

There are over 100,000 hotel rooms in New York City. Make sure you get a safe room by reading hotel reviews and finding out about the neighborhood where your room is located before making reservations. Choosing a hotel over alternative options (homestays, and couch surfing for example) is a much safer option considering they have a secured internet line, 24-hour security and a safe available.

Go straight to your hotel from the airport; you don’t want to have your luggage with you as you start to explore the city. Once in your room, put all valuables in the safe and get to know the front desk staff and the concierge. Never open your door without verifying who is on the other side. If you didn’t call housekeeping, don’t automatically let them in.

Hotels & Vacation Rentals - New York

Walking the city.

New York is a great city for walking, but with so many people and so many things to look at, you need to take a few smart precautions. Stick to main streets and pathways and always cross at the intersection. Follow the traffic signals and pay attention to cars and cyclists. Be hyper-vigilant at night and stick to well-lit, populated streets.

Plot out your path before heading out — and stick to it. Take note of landmarks and cross streets that will help you get back to your room with ease. Save the heels for a night out on the town and opt for supportive shoes when exploring the city. If you get lost, seek out a police officer or shop owner to help you find your way.

The subway is an efficient, affordable way to get around, but you need to know what you’re doing.  Buy MetroCards only from approved vendors in the station. When you’re waiting for the train, always stand behind the yellow line on the platform and mind the gap.

Keep your limbs and possessions away from the doors—don’t try to hold them open. If you’re riding the subway late at night, try to get on the conductor’s car. This is usually a middle car, and there are signs on the platform to indicate the position of that car when each train arrives. Don’t move from car to car unless directed to do so.

Panhandlers

There will be panhandlers on the streets. Many have some truly sad stories, but most will be deterred with a single “sorry.” If you feel compelled to give, consider offering a MetroCard or some food instead of cash, and then quickly move on.

Beware of all the Disney and superhero characters in Times Square. Many of them are hustling for “tips.” If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to make a plan in advance to keep them from getting overexcited. Don’t take any pictures without permission, as the characters may demand payment.

Pickpockets

Don’t let a lifted wallet ruin your vacation. Keep your belongings close and pay attention to your surroundings. Women should consider a purse they can wear across their body, and everyone should keep things out of their back pockets.

Pay special attention to pickpockets working as teams—one will cause a disturbance while their partner takes advantage of the distraction to relieve bystanders of their valuables. Street performances often attract pickpockets. Make sure to pay attention to the people and actions around you when you stop to appreciate the local talent.

Best Areas To Explore

The good news is that most of New York City can be explored freely. Pretty much anywhere in Manhattan is going to be safe. The Financial District is full of hustle and bustle, adding to the sense of safety. Greenwich Village has charming, winding streets lined with brownstones and tucked-away dining spots.

Chelsea is a great place to experience the New York art scene and big-city nightlife at its best. Midtown and Times Square are crowded, but because they’re such popular areas they are well-patrolled and great spots for tourists. If you want to get a taste of New York’s most interesting cuisine and aren’t afraid of public transportation, Queens and Brooklyn have to be on your list.

Spots To Watch Out For

New York City is safer than ever, but there are still some neighborhoods you might want to skip— especially after the sun goes down. Alphabet City and the Lower East Side should be explored with caution. Hell’s Kitchen is still known for muggings, and areas like Brownsville and Hunts Point still struggle with high violent crime rates and prostitution.

Most of these areas aren’t tourist hot spots, so they’re easy to avoid. If you do want to venture into some of these neighborhoods, be sure to do it during the day and know exactly where you are going. These aren’t the best places to wander aimlessly.

Don't Sweat The Small Stuff

The  last thing you want to do is suck all the fun out of your vacation  by worrying about everything that can go wrong. Here are some things you can relax about.

• It’s a friendly city:  The Big Apple is full of friendly people who are usually happy to help out with directions or a dinner recommendation.
• Technology is there to help you:  Thanks to smartphones and other helpful travel gadgets, it’s easier than ever to plan a vacation, find your way, and stay safe. Check out  interactive crime maps  to find the safest places in the city and use your GPS to get from Point A to Point B.
• Don’t be afraid to explore:  The Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building are definitely worth checking out, but it’s okay to venture off the usual tourist path. Use common sense and these safety tips to help you branch out with confidence.

Traveling to  New York City is exciting , and we know you want to squeeze every ounce of pleasure out of your trip. You’ll be able to make memories that will last a lifetime when you approach your travel with safety smarts. Now that you know how to navigate the city safely, upgrade your safety level with the best safety products out there for people on the go.

Where to stay in New York City for first time: 7 Safe areas

Finding where to stay in New York City as a first-time visitor can be overwhelming. That’s why, in today’s article, I will give you the list of what I believe are the best and safe areas to stay in New York City for first-timers and tourists (including a map + areas to avoid).

I’ll also share with you where I stayed in New York City, and recommend some of the best hotels in New York City for travelers of various budgets.

New York City, often abbreviated as NYC, is one of the most populous cities in the United States and is known for its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and vibrant lifestyle.

NYC is divided into five boroughs that includes Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and  The Bronx. Each borough has its own unique character and attractions.

The city is home to numerous iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, Empire State Building, and Brooklyn Bridge. It’s also home to Wall Street, the United Nations headquarters, and numerous Fortune 500 companies.

The city boasts world-class museums, theaters, and galleries, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and Broadway, known for its theater productions.

NYC has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and a vast network of taxis. It is served by JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty International Airport.

Is New York City safe to visit?

Yes, New York City is generally safe for visitors, with a strong police presence and reduced crime rates in recent years. Popular tourist areas, like Times Square and Central Park, are well-patrolled. 

However, like any major metropolis, it’s essential to exercise caution. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid deserted areas at night, and keep belongings secure. Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. 

Also, the city’s diversity means that safety may vary by neighborhood. Stick to tourist areas and using common sense are the best precautions for a trouble-free visit.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in New York City for the first time?

• Midtown Manhattan
• Upper East Side
• Upper West Side
• Greenwich Village
• Lower East Side & Soho
• Williamsburg/Brooklyn
• Long Island City/Queens

The best and safe areas to stay in New York City for first-timers and tourists are Midtown Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, Lower East Side/Soho, Williamsburg, and Long Island City. While NYC is safe for the most part, it is essential to stay alert no matter where you stay.

Midtown Manhattan is the most popular area for first-time visitors to book accommodation. It is home the famous Times Square, the Theater District, and many major attractions. It’s bustling and well-patrolled, so it’s generally safe. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

The Upper East Side and Upper East Side are affluent neighborhoods with a reputation for being safe and family-friendly. It’s home to many museums, upscale shops, and Central Park.

Greenwich Village is a historic neighborhood and is generally safe, especially in the well-lit and busy areas. It’s known for its artsy and bohemian vibe.

Lower East Side/Soho have become trendy and safer over the years. Soho is a shopping and arts district, while the Lower East Side has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Williamsburg (Brooklyn) is considered safe and is popular among young professionals and artists. It has a vibrant food and nightlife scene.

Long Island City (Queens) is a great area to book a hotel if you travel on a budget. It is relatively safe and has seen significant development in recent years. It offers stunning views of Manhattan and is close to attractions like MoMA PS1.

There are a few areas to exercise caution or avoid, particularly for tourists and newcomers. Some parts of the Bronx, like South Bronx, may have higher crime rates. East New York and Brownsville in Brooklyn have had reputations for higher crime as well.

In Manhattan, Harlem has improved but still has pockets of higher crime. Certain parts of Queens, like Jamaica and Far Rockaway, may also have safety concerns.

During my trip to NYC, I stayed in Midtown Manhattan, at the Radio City Apartments . It is a very value for money hotel, centrally located within walking distance from major sights such as Time Square and Rockefeller center. It also offers easy access to subways, making it a great base to explore the city.

Below is a map of the popular areas in New York City for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in New York City, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in New York City have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

7 Safe areas to stay in New York City for first-timers and tourists:

1. midtown manhattan.

Midtown Manhattan is one of the best areas to stay in NYC for first-timers and travelers who prioritize convenience, easy access to attractions, and don’t mind the hustle and bustle of a central location. 

Midtown is in the middle of Manhattan, making it easy to access many of NYC’s top attractions. Times Square, Central Park, the Theater District, and Fifth Avenue shopping are all nearby.

Midtown is home to famous landmarks like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It’s also close to Broadway theaters, making it ideal for catching a show.

Midtown has great subway and bus connections, making it easy to explore other parts of the city. You can quickly reach downtown, uptown, or other boroughs.

You’ll find a wide range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to food carts. There’s something for every palate and budget.

Fifth Avenue offers high-end shopping, while Times Square has numerous stores. There’s also easy access to Madison Avenue and luxury shopping.

Consideration: Midtown can be extremely crowded, especially around major attractions and Times Square. If you prefer a quieter environment, it may not be the best choice. Also, be prepared to pay a premium for its prime location.

Best places to stay in Midtown Manhattan for first-time visitors:

• Luxury ($$$): Hard Rock Hotel New York , great 5-star hotel, centrally located on West 48th Street, close to major attractions such as the Times Square, Central park, and Broadway.
• Mid-range ($$): Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square ,  a very popular 4-star Fabulous hotel, located in Central New York, within easy distance from Times Square, Radio City Music Hall and Broadway Theatre. It has a 24-hour front desk and family rooms. 
• Budget ($): Radio City Apartments , great 3-star good value for money accommodation, conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, within a short walk from the Rockefeller Center and the 49th Street underground station.

2. Upper East Side

The Upper East Side of Manhattan is a great base for your first visit to New York City. It offers a more residential and upscale experience compared to Midtown. It provides a break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The neighborhood is adjacent to Central Park, allowing for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. It also offers some of the city’s most upscale shopping, especially along Madison Avenue.

The Upper East Side is home to “Museum Mile,” including famous institutions like The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Museum of the City of New York. If you’re interested in art and culture, this is a great location.

Aside from museums, you’ll find cultural landmarks like the 92nd Street Y, known for lectures, concerts, and events.

The area boasts a variety of fine dining and upscale restaurants, making it a great choice for food enthusiasts.

Best places to stay in NYC in Upper East Side for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): Loews Regency New York Hotel , 5-star hotel located in a safe location on Park Avenue, within walking distance from Central Park and Rockefeller Center. Easy access to restaurants, shops, and subways.
• Mid-range ($$): voco The Franklin New York, an IHG Hotel , 4-star hotel located in a safe neighborhood on East 87 Street, a short walk from Central Park and the famous Museum Mile.
• Budget ($): The Historic Blue Angel Hotel Lexington Ave, Ascend Hotel Collection , 3-star accommodation, located within walking distance from Museum of Modern Art and Lexington Avenue–53rd Street Subway Station. It is a short train ride from Times Square.

3. Upper West Side

Like the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side is a safe, upscale, family-friendly, and residential neighborhood located close to Central Park. It’s a quieter and more relaxed area compared to Midtown.

The neighborhood is home to cultural institutions like the American Museum of Natural History and the New-York Historical Society. It’s also close to Lincoln Center, known for its performing arts venues.

In addition to Central Park, Riverside Park runs along the Hudson River on the western edge of the Upper West Side, providing beautiful views and recreational opportunities.

The area has good subway access and is well-connected to other parts of Manhattan and the city’s subway network.

Best places to stay in NYC in Upper West Side for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): The Wallace Hotel , great 5-star good value for money hotel located on West 76th Street, Upper West Side, in a quiet location within easy walking distance to Central Park. It offers spacious comfortable rooms.
• Mid-range ($$): Hotel Beacon , great 4-star hotel located on Broadway, Upper West Side, short distance from the famous Central Park, close to subway, easy access to all Manhattan attractions.
• Budget ($): HI New York City Hostel , very popular backpacker hostel located on Amsterdam Avenue, a short walk from Broadway Street, Central Park, Riverside Park, and the 103rd Street Subway Station.

4. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is a great area to stay in NYC if you appreciate a creative, artsy, and eclectic atmosphere, and you want a local, authentic experience and a break from the typical tourist destinations. 

Greenwich Village is known for its artistic and bohemian history. The neighborhood features picturesque tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and cobblestone streets in some areas, providing a charming and unique atmosphere.

Greenwich Village is home to iconic places like Washington Square Park, the Village Vanguard jazz club, and the Stonewall Inn, an important site in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

You’ll find a wide range of dining options, including cozy cafes, restaurants, and bars. The neighborhood is known for its culinary diversity.

Greenwich Village offers unique boutiques and specialty shops, making it a great place for shopping for distinctive items.

The neighborhood comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene, including live music venues, comedy clubs, and bars.

Greenwich Village is relatively centrally located, making it easy to access other parts of Manhattan and the city using public transportation.

Best places to stay in NYC in Greenwich Village for first-timers:

• Mid-range ($$): The Marlton Hotel , 4-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Greenwich Village, offering a complimentary daily breakfast. It is a short walk from Washington Square Park, as well as subway stations, and New York University (NYU).
• Mid-range ($$): Washington Square Hotel , 4-star hotel short walk from Washington Square Park, New York University, and the subway station.
• Mid-range ($$): Walker Hotel Greenwich Village , 4-star hotel located in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, within walking distance from Union Square and the Union Square subway station.

5. Lower East Side & Soho

The Lower East Side or Soho are great locations for visitors who want to experience a vibrant, trendy, and artsy side of New York City. Both neighborhoods offer unique cultural and culinary experiences. 

The Lower East Side is known for its vibrant and hip atmosphere, with a mix of old and new New York. It boasts a lively nightlife scene with many nightclubs, bars, and live music venues. It’s especially popular with a younger crowd.

 Soho is known for its high-end shopping with designer boutiques, art galleries, and stylish shops lining its cobblestone streets.

Best places to stay in Lower East Side & Soho for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): The Dominick Hotel , great 5-star hotel, located on Spring Street, SoHo, featuring free airport shuttle service, an outdoor swimming pool, and family rooms.
• Mid-range ($$): citizenM New York Bowery , 4-star accommodation located on Bowery, Lower East Side, within walking distance from Bloomingdale’s, SoHo, Lower Manhattan, and Little Italy. 
• Budget ($): Best Western Plus Soho Hotel , great 3-star hotel situated in Walker St, Chinatown, close to Soho and Lower East Side. Easy access National September 11 Memorial & Museum, Brooklyn Bridge and New York University.

6. Williamsburg/Brooklyn

Williamsburg is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more local and authentic New York City experience. The neighborhood is known for its artistic and hipster culture. You’ll find street art, galleries, and a vibrant creative scene.

Williamsburg features unique boutiques and vintage shops, making it a great place for shopping for one-of-a-kind items.

Williamsburg is renowned for its dining and nightlife scenes. You can explore a wide range of restaurants, bars, breweries, and music venues.

The waterfront area offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and provides pleasant walks along the East River.

Williamsburg has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. The Williamsburg Bridge provides a direct connection to Manhattan’s Lower East Side, making it easy to explore both boroughs.

Take a note that Williamsburg Bridge is not as centrally located as some Manhattan neighborhoods. Be prepared for a slightly longer commute to major tourist attractions.

Best places to stay in NYC in Williamsburg/Brooklyn for first-timers:

• Luxury ($$$): The William Vale , 5-star hotel featuring a rooftop swimming pool, short distance from East River Ferry stop and the Bedford Avenue Subway Station (L Train).
• Mid-range ($$): Penny Williamsburg , 4-star accommodation offers free bikes for guests, and 24-hour front desk. It’s close to the subway station, easy to explore both Williamsburg and Manhattan.
• Budget ($): Pod Brooklyn , 3-star popular accommodation, short distance from Music Hall of Williamsburg, a subway station, and State of New York – East River State Park.

7. Long Island City/Queens

Long Island City (LIC), Queens, is an excellent area to book your accommodation if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, appreciate great views of the Manhattan skyline, and don’t mind a slightly longer commute to the city’s central attractions. 

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a more relaxed and less crowded environment after a day of exploring the bustling city. LIC is ideal for those who appreciate art, scenic riverfront views, and a diverse dining scene.

LIC offers some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. Many hotels have rooftop bars or rooms with spectacular views of the city.

LIC has good subway and bus connections to Manhattan and other parts of the city. You can quickly reach Midtown and downtown Manhattan.

You can enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views at parks like Gantry Plaza State Park along the East River. There are cultural sites like MoMA PS1, the SculptureCenter, and the Noguchi Museum, making it great for art enthusiasts.

Best places to stay in NYC in Long Island City/Queens for first-timers:

• Budget ($): LIC Hotel , 3-star great value for money accommodation, only 20 mins subway ride from Central Park, only a few mins walk from a grocery store and subway station (Court Square).
• Budget ($): Hyatt Place Long Island City , 3-star good value for money hotel located in the middle of Queens, close to subway station and Target, easy access to major attractions in Manhattan.
• Budget ($): LIC Plaza Hotel , great 3-star good value for money hotel located in the center of Queens. It is within walking distance from 2 different metro stations, a short train ride away from the popular Midtown Manhattan.

In conclusion, Midtown Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, Soho, Williamsburg, and Long Island City are the best and safe places to stay in New York City for first-timers and tourists. Safety can vary within areas, and it’s essential to exercise caution regardless of where you stay. 

You can continue reading these articles about NYC and USA:

• Best places to stay in New York City for families with kids
• Where to stay in Boston first time

There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to New York City. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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Is NYC Safe? Everything You Need to Know

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 2024

Is it safe to travel to New York right now? Is NYC dangerous with crime, and at night, and if you’re alone or solo? Here’s how to stay safe in New York City and avoid crime.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in New York

Table of contents

• Is NYC safe for solo female travelers?
• Is New York safe to travel for families?
• Is it safe to drive in New York?
• Are cabs (and Lyft & Uber) safe?
• Is it safe to bike in New York City?
• Is the metro safe to take?
• Is street food safe to eat?
• Can you drink tap water from the faucet in NYC?
• Is NYC safe at night?
• Are hotels and Airbnb’s safe?
• Is Brooklyn Safe?
• Is Manhattan Safe?
• Which NYC neighborhoods are safest for staying in?
• How to stay safe in NYC

We’ve been to a lot of cities throughout our years of travel, all around the world and in all levels of safety, from Guatemala City (not so safe) to Taipei, Taiwan (ridiculously safe).

Because New York City is our home, we are always comparing NYC to various things about a new city we visit. We always compare transportation safety, when stores and restaurants close, how crowded the streets and neighborhoods are and most importantly, if we feel safe.

To answer the question if New York City is safe for travel and for visiting right now, the answer is a big “yes.” New York City is one of the safest cities you can travel to and we’re going to show you why.

Let’s explore why we think NYC is safe, especially for solo travelers, female travelers, groups and families. We’ll cover everything from walking around, neighborhoods to stay in, taxis, scams and more!

Let’s get started.

Is NYC safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, NYC is absolutely safe for solo female travelers and is one of the best solo travel destinations I know of. I’ve been walking around NYC alone since I was about 17 years old. I’ve never been mugged, tricked, scammed or pickpocketed and I really don’t know many people who have.

Okay, there was this one time during the pandemic that I was out for a run and coming off the Manhattan Bridge when a homeless man threw a bottle at me, but it was an isolated incident and could’ve happened to anyone at any time.

I want to be completely honest with you as I detail how safe NYC is, and break down the rumors of anything dangerous going on here that could affect your visit. If having some safety items packed would make you feel best, you can read my list of products for solo female travelers .

If you look at the statistics, mainly at this NYC.gov website with citywide crime stats , you can arm yourself with knowledge about the incidence of crime in NYC. Crime targeted at visitors is really quite difficult to come by, and it’s because NYC is a very safe place to be female, solo, in a group of women or a family.

Is New York safe to travel for families?

Yes, NYC is one of the best places for families to travel. There are so many wonderful and safe attractions for families, like museums for children, awesome zoos like the Bronx Zoo and Central Park Zoo, entertainment like theatre for children and lots of options for fun restaurants and parks.

NYC is a fantastic and safe destination for families, even with young kids, toddlers or teens. Your trip to NYC will be memorable and we doubt you will have any run-ins with crime, so you do not need to worry at all about this aspect of travel!

In my guide of how to plan a trip to NYC with a baby , you can see all about my experience with a little one! I cover safety, emergencies and more.

Is it safe to drive in New York?

Yes, it is safe to drive a car in NYC, but it is strongly suggested to be ready for start-and-stop traffic, difficulty finding parking and high tolls on bridges and tunnels. Driving in NYC is not necessarily for the faint of heart.

We took a trip out to Montauk . We needed to drop the car off in New Jersey and thought it would be a good idea to pass our place in Brooklyn to drop off our stuff. In theory, this was a great idea because it meant that we didn’t have to travel back into Brooklyn with all of our stuff.

In practice? Terrible idea.

Going through the tunnel to get to New Jersey was a nightmare. We waited on the West Side Highway for well over an hour in traffic. Never again!

Nonetheless, we still felt safe throughout our entire journey driving across Long Island and into Brooklyn.

Are cabs (and Lyft & Uber) safe?

Yes, and in fact, Lyft and Uber are the way to go if you need a ride share or a car ride in NYC. These ride apps are suggested in order to always be paying a clear price and to track your ride as you go.

As for cabs, you can now request a ride in a yellow or green NYC taxi cab with the app Curb. This can sometimes even save you money when compared with riding Uber or Lyft, and will make it so that you do not have to haggle pricing with your driver. Download Curb and get $5 off, here .

To get $10 off your first ride with Lyft, use this Lyft link here to download the app and get started riding in NYC.

Is it safe to bike in New York City?

Yes, it’s safe to bike in NYC, especially since the city has focused on and invested a LOT in bike lanes for much of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s busiest areas. Both of us did the Five Boro Bike Tour (a 40-mile bike ride) in 2018 and had a lot of fun! NYC really prioritizes biking culture.

However, you should always wear a helmet, as your safety is a priority, and you don’t have control over drivers’ driving skills when you are on the road on a bicycle. It is also imperative to abide by the rules of the road, only drive in the same direction as traffic, use bike lanes and always, always stop at red lights and stop signs.

Is the metro safe to take?

Yes! The NYC subway is one of the most robust and famous metro systems on Earth. It is excellent for transportation and we detail this in what to know before your trip to New York .

Like we mentioned before and as we’ll mention as we move onward in this guide, we’ve never experienced harm in the NYC subway.

Is street food safe to eat?

We love eating street food, all around the world, and here at home in New York City. Our favorite street foods are Halal street carts like chicken-and-rice or falafel-and-rice, Halal chicken kebabs, pretzels, Mr. Softee ice cream from ice cream trucks, and virtually any food truck is going to have great food, from Thai to Mexican.

Dan is now a vegetarian, but when he ate meat, he’d often grab a hotdog from the various carts all throughout the city. They are all generally safe, but depending on your level of cleanliness expectations, YMMV.

Can you drink tap water from the faucet in NYC?

Yes, you can drink tap water from the faucet in New York City, and in fact, NYC has some of the BEST drinkable tap water in the world! The tap water is (quite frankly) delicious in NYC, and if you order it for your table at a restaurant, it will always be free.

Is NYC safe at night?

Yes, NYC is quite safe at night! Do what you’d do in your home city by avoiding dark alleys, streets where no one else is walking and deserted places. All around, you’ll see that NYC has a ton of nightlife, and everyone loves experiencing NYC at night!

Also note that the sun will go down around 4:30pm during December, and due to Daylight Savings Time, will not set until 6pm until mid-March the following spring. For this reason, you’ll find an onset of darkness in the late afternoon for much of winter, so “nighttime” is a fact of life for about a third of the year in NYC. See more in our guide to the best and worst times to visit NYC .

Are hotels and Airbnb’s safe?

Yes, hotels in NYC are totally safe! Our best rule of thumb is to always read reviews online at multiple websites (Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor) before making your booking.

Airbnbs are typically safe as well; note that if you choose to be sharing an Airbnb, like a private room, you will be staying in the host’s home, and you should check that the individual has a verified Airbnb account, for your safety.

As for hostels in NYC, always lock your valuables in a locker if you’re sharing a room, and stay clear of shady guests (or report them to the hostel staff).

Even as NYC locals, we like having a hotel experience! We’ve stayed at The Local NY in Long Island City and can wholeheartedly recommend staying here, for you.

Is Brooklyn Safe?

For the most part, yes. Dan lived in Brooklyn starting in 2015 and we started living together in 2018. We lived in Brooklyn Heights , Fort Greene , Boerum Hill and Clinton Hill. Dan has lived in Prospect Heights and Park Slope.

Our friends mostly live in Williamsburg, South Slope, Kensington and the neighborhoods that we’ve lived in.

Brooklyn is residential with a growing mix of commercial things opening to support the new high rise apartments being built in Downtown Brooklyn and Williamsburg. Once you start to venture out into the older neighborhoods, things become much more local and quiet. They’re still safe, because people live here and want a safe place for themselves.

But as a traveler, it might not be what you’re expecting in terms of things to do.

There are bad parts of Brooklyn that are well known. I’ll define “bad parts” by me not feeling safe when walking around by myself. There’s also a correlation with elevated crime rates. You won’t see the fancy new construction buildings in these types of neighborhoods.

When I always tell people about Brooklyn, I say that if there’s something that you find online that you want to see, chances are that the neighborhood that it’s in is safe.

Is Manhattan Safe?

Yes! Manhattan is also a big place with lots of diversity. I’ve started living on the Upper West Side starting in 2013 and lived in a few places in that neighborhood until I moved to Brooklyn. The UWS is one of the safest places because it’s so well lit and there is generally a lot of traffic and people out and about at all hours of the night.

Dan has gone running at night in both Brooklyn and Manhattan. There’s a particular route that goes over the Manhattan Bridge, around the bottom tip of Manhattan and then up the West Side. Then run across Manhattan (14th, 23rd, 34th street) and back down the east side until the Manhattan Bridge again.

In the winter months when it gets dark early, no parts of the route feel unsafe at reasonable hours. There are usually plenty of people commuting to and from work or having drinks with coworkers.

Keep in mind, quiet and dark streets at 2am don’t feel safe anywhere. So some of the more quiet and secluded sections of Manhattan tend to feel a bit too quiet for my liking. You can almost always find a Taxi or call an Uber or Lyft to get you out of a situation if you feel unsafe.

Which NYC neighborhoods are safest for staying in?

There are so many NYC neighborhoods where it is safest to stay in a hotel, hostel, Airbnb or rented apartment, but to be honest, it is hard to find a neighborhood that will be dangerous, unless you go wayyyyy far out into Brooklyn or the Bronx (I mean way far out).

If you are visiting for a long weekend, a day, a week or a month, you will likely stay in areas that are in Manhattan or close to the central parts of Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens, and so, you don’t have to worry at all about safety.

Here are a few verifiably safe neighborhoods where crime is virtually nonexistent and you can cast fears aside of anything being dangerous. If you’re deciding between Airbnb, a hotel or a hostel, see our guide to choosing the best type of accommodation for your trip .

The Upper West Side, Manhattan

The Upper West Side is very neighborhood and family-oriented, with several hotels, a few hostels like Hostelling International at 106th Street, and plenty of Airbnbs.

The Upper East Side, Manhattan

The Upper East Side (which we detail in our guide to the best NYC neighborhoods for living in ) is also very neighborhoody, and home to families, young professionals, museums, shopping and restaurants. You’ll feel very safe here, no doubt.

Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn

Brooklyn Heights looks like a movie set and has virtually no crime or danger. This neighborhood makes you forget you’re in a big city because of its fancy historic homes, beautiful architecture and history. See our guide to traveling in Brooklyn Heights, here , and then book your Airbnb.

SoHo, NoHo & NoLiTa, Manhattan

SoHo, NoHo and NoLita in Manhattan are uber-trendy neighborhoods with lots of visitors and lots of locals as well. In these areas, you’ll find excellent dining, bars, cafes and high-end shopping, along with options for taking great trip photos.

You can do a lot of fun and free things in NYC and there are lots of hotels as well.

Chelsea, Flatiron & Gramercy, Manhattan

These Manhattan neighborhoods between Midtown and Downtown are very friendly to visitors and for that reason, they’re known for being easy to navigate, and safe for all travelers, including women, families and solo travelers. I walk there all the time, and you can see what it looks like in these photos of the NYC Chelsea neighborhood .

West Village & TriBeCa, Manhattan

The West Village and TriBeCa are very different from each other, but are both walkable neighborhoods found on the west side of Manhattan and on the Hudson River. Both are safe, and I would never sense danger in either. There are lots of hotels big and small around here, along with lovely Airbnbs.

Park Slope, Brooklyn

Park Slope is home to one of Brooklyn’s most-loved neighborhoods for young professionals, couples and families, and with its location near Prospect Park, and landmarks like the Brooklyn Public Library, it is highly safe for visitors and fun as well! If you’re a remote worker and traveling, you’ll be happy to know that Park Slope has lots of cafes with WiFi that are great for working with a laptop .

How to stay safe in NYC

The theme of this article is that NYC is in fact safe; however, we’re used to it here in New York City because we’ve had a lot of experience living here and have heard from friends, coworkers and our community of things to watch out for.

We want to share this information with you! Let’s see more tips you can use while you’re walking around during day and night on the street and in the subways.

Keep moving

NYC is a friendly place and sometimes you’ll get approached by someone random or strange. If you look like you’re not from here (i.e. reading a guidebook or map), someone might want to take advantage of you, try to sell you something or ask you for money.

If you feel uncomfortable, keep walking, say thank you and don’t engage with the conversation. Those types of people generally have a short attention span and won’t bug you for too long if that does happen.

One of my favorite ways to fend off people who approach me trying to ask for money or sell me something is to pretend I don’t speak English. Try this, and you may lose anyone’s attention very quickly, with no risk!

Don’t pay with a wad of cash

It’s extremely unlikely that you’ll get mugged in NYC, but it does happen from time to time to a minority of people. If you take out a giant stack of 20s or 100-dollar bills to pay for something, you might catch someone’s attention. This person may want to take your money from you (again, this is rare).

You have a lot of options to pay for things here if this type of dangerous situation becomes real. Credit cards, debit cards and Apple Pay are accepted almost everywhere, so I rarely pay for anything in cash. Cash is useful, so having a small amount of cash that you can use throughout the day is okay.

Beware of janky ATMs

It’s best to withdraw money from a major bank ATM in New York City so that your card does not get stuck in any third-party ATM you may see at a restaurant, bar or bodega (corner store/deli). Put your effort into safely withdrawing money at banks like Bank of America, Capital One, Wells Fargo, Santander or TD Bank, and avoid ATMs that are not inside banks.

Keep your credit card in view (or try to)

When paying for meals and drinks at restaurants and bars, a server or bartender may walk away with your credit card to process the transaction.

Always ask for a receipt and keep the receipt until you review your credit card statement online after your trip to NYC.

It is normal for servers to take your card from your table and process it at a cash register in another part of the restaurant or behind the bar, so you can expect this. It is not risky or dangerous. Just make sure you’ve been billed correctly and that you’ve received your credit card before you leave.

Don’t fall asleep on the subway (alone)!

I have one friend who was pickpocketed on the subway, but listen: it was late at night and he had fallen asleep, alone, on his way home. This is the type of behavior that can make you a target for crime.

If you are always alert, have your bag or backpack zippered, avoid flashing money or valuables and act confident in where you are going, you should have no problem taking the subway at any time of day or night.

The NYC subway runs 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. It never stops. We’ve taken the subway late at night coming home from parties, and we’ve taken it early in the morning while going to see the sun rise at the Empire State Building — really!

Always have a backup phone cable or battery charger for your smartphone

One of my worst fears is having my phone die while I’m out for a long day of taking photos in Brooklyn or entertaining friends from out of town with some of my favorite free things to do in NYC .

If your phone has a poor battery, bring a backup portable battery charger with you on your trip, or always have a phone cord with you for plugging in at a charging station on the street or in a restaurant. We like this one or this one from Anker.

Don’t fall for the most common NYC tourism scams

The most common scams in NYC that I know of are:

• Rickshaw rides or “pedicabs” in Midtown Manhattan or Central Park (never take a rickshaw ride)
• The “Buddhist monks” who ask for money in Midtown (a monk should never be begging)
• Black unspecified cabs outside all airports and train stations asking if you need a ride (you’d have to verbally agree to a price and this’ll be over market value). Take Uber or Lyft instead, and read more about all three NYC airports at this guide .
• Keep in mind that anyone offering you a cheap fair to “the airport” may not be specifying which airport , as there are three. Make sure you ALWAYS refer to NYC’s airports with their airport codes : JFK, LGA and EWR.
• Fake tickets for big attractions like museums, Broadway shows, Yankee games, comedy or performances (worse yet, never pay for the Staten Island ferry … it’s free!)
• Buying a subway MetroCard from anyone who’s selling them (you should only buy them in the MTA ticketing machines in the stations, or for buses, on the street near the bus stop)

If you avoid these (and as you can see, none of them are life-threatening), you will avoid danger on your trip to NYC and you’ll stay super safe the whole time. We are so excited for you and your trip to New York City!

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20 Safest Neighborhoods in NYC

When it comes to living in New York City, safety is a top concern for many. With its dense population and a myriad of people from all walks of life, it can be difficult to know exactly where to look for the safest neighborhoods in which to live. Fortunately, there are some areas of the city that have consistently been regarded as among the safest – especially with regard to crime rates.

If you’re considering taking up residence in NYC, here are some of the best options to consider. From the Upper West Side to the Financial District, each of these neighborhoods offers a unique blend of safety, convenience, and culture.

Location & Amenities

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Tribeca is one of the best places to live in New York and the top of our list of the 20 safest neighborhoods in NYC. Living in Tribeca offers residents an urban feel and most residents rent their homes. In Tribeca, there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.

Tribeca is located close to Battery Park City and the Financial District, meaning that it is full of amenities and services such as restaurants, bars, and stores. The area is also well-lit and populated, thanks to the influx of visitors. Additionally, the presence of NYPD personnel ensures that the neighborhood is always secure.

Tribeca’s public transportation system provides another layer of security. The MTA operates multiple bus lines in the area, which make it easy for commuters from all over the city to access Tribeca safely. In addition, several subway stations lie within walking distance from the neighborhood. This ensures that you can get around without having to worry about your safety.

When it comes to safety, crime rates are an important indicator. Fortunately, Tribeca reports some of the lowest crime rates in all of New York City. Property crimes have been significantly decreasing since 2000 and the number of violent crimes reported each year is low. This makes it clear that Tribeca is a safe place to walk around at night or during the day.

2. Battery Park City

Battery Park City is the best of everything – close to Brooklyn , close to everywhere in Manhattan, on the water, and a bit removed from the chaos of midtown. Living in Battery Park City offers residents an urban feel and most residents rent their homes.

Battery Park City has a strong security system in place that helps keep residents safe day and night. The area is surveilled by numerous cameras along its streets and parks, as well as regular patrol cars from the NYPD. And with dedicated security staff at all times, there is never a moment when this neighborhood isn’t kept under close watch.

When it comes to crime, Battery Park City has some of the lowest rates in all of NYC. In fact, a 2019 study found that it was one of the most secure areas in the city, with only minor infractions like vandalism and shoplifting reported. With so much safety and peace of mind, it’s no wonder why more and more people are choosing to make Battery Park City their home.

The people who live in Battery Park City are some of the friendliest in New York. From frequent community events to local businesses that look after their customers, this neighborhood has a true sense of community. It’s not uncommon to see neighbors helping each other out or just chatting on the street corner – something that adds to the overall feeling of safety in this area.

As you can see, Battery Park City is one of the best places for safety and security in New York City . Whether you’re looking for a new home or just a visit, this neighborhood offers everything you need to feel secure while still having all the benefits of city life.

Picturesque Nolita is a charming, upscale area with a trendy vibe. It’s known for its chic shopping scene and has plenty of designer jewelry shops, unique clothing boutiques, and home-design stores.

Nolita has long been known for its culture and safety. The area was founded by Italian American immigrants in the 1800s, and the strong sense of community that comes with that history means that people look out for one another. Plus, the low crime rate speaks volumes about how safe and secure this neighborhood is.

Nolita also offers residents plenty of amenities. From world-class eateries to popular boutiques, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a coffee shop to study at, restaurants to enjoy with friends, or a shopping destination to explore, Nolita has it all.

Nolita is also home to a thriving creative scene. The streets are lined with art galleries and unique stores, not to mention an eclectic mix of music venues and clubs. With all these attractions and activities, Nolita is sure to bring the best of what NYC has to offer.

From its rich history to its modern amenities, Nolita is truly a unique and special place to call home. If you’re looking for a safe and vibrant neighborhood in New York City, then Nolita may be the perfect place for you.

Trendy Dumbo’s cobblestone streets and converted Brooklyn warehouse buildings are the backdrop for independent boutiques, high-end restaurants, and trendy cafes. Old meets new in this neighborhood with stunning views of Manhattan.

DUMBO stands apart when it comes to safety features. The area is monitored by an active NYPD presence, with officers patrolling the streets 24/7. The streetlights are bright and well-maintained, while graffiti is quickly removed or painted over. Even during natural disasters like hurricanes, DUMBO remains prepared with evacuation plans and resources readily available.

DUMBO also has strict local laws that help keep the area safe. For example, alcohol is prohibited in public spaces, while open drug use is treated as a crime. Additionally, loitering and aggressive soliciting are strictly enforced and typically result in arrest or fines. These laws are regularly enforced not only by the police but also by members of the local community who take ownership of their neighborhood.

The people of DUMBO are an integral part of keeping the neighborhood safe. Residents work together to watch out for each other and report suspicious activity. Local organizations like Block Watch host regular events that allow citizens to get to know each other and work together to build a strong sense of community. This sense of community helps to create an environment where everyone looks out for one another, making DUMBO one of the most welcoming and secure neighborhoods in New York City.

5. Kips Bay

Kips Bay neighborhood, accessed from the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines, is bustling with chain restaurants and shops but still has remnants of its history, from a wooden home built in the 1700s to elegant brownstones and an old armory.

Kips Bay is a well-established neighborhood with a long history of solid community ties and friendly people. Located on the east side of Manhattan, it’s conveniently located near transportation hubs, shops and restaurants, as well as parks and other amenities. The area is also home to a diverse population of multi-generational families and young professionals.

The crime rate in Kips Bay has been steadily declining for decades, making it one of the safest neighborhoods in all of New York City. In fact, according to NYPD statistics, the total number of citywide crimes in 2019 was the lowest since records began being kept in 1993. Those same numbers show that Kips Bay reported only 28 violent crimes in 2019 – an impressive achievement given its size and location.

Kips Bay residents take pride in their neighborhood and actively work together to make sure it remains a safe and welcoming place to live. The local community board often partners with businesses, law enforcement agencies, and other organizations to promote safety initiatives in the area. There are also numerous neighborhood watch programs designed to ensure everyone feels safe walking around at night.

When you move to Kips Bay, you can rest assured knowing that you’ll be living in one of the highest-rated safest neighborhoods in New York City. With its low crime rate, diverse population, and active community involvement, Kips Bay is a great choice for anyone who seeks peace of mind.

6. Financial District

In the Financial District , there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many young professionals live in the Financial District and residents tend to be liberal. The public schools in Financial District are above average.

The Financial District has one of the lowest crime rates in all of New York City. According to the NYPD, this area has seen a sharp drop in violent crime over the past few years, making it one of the safest places to live.

This area of Manhattan is home to numerous businesses and banks, making it a top destination for security personnel. You can often see police officers and plainclothes detectives patrolling the streets, which helps to keep crime rates down.

The Financial District boasts modern infrastructure that keeps its citizens safe. Security cameras are placed throughout the area and sophisticated alarm systems are used to protect businesses and homes. The presence of these measures makes it difficult for would-be criminals to commit crimes without being noticed.

Finally, the Financial District provides easy access to public transportation, making it easier for people to get around quickly and safely. From buses and subways to cabs and ferries, there are plenty of options for transportation in the Financial District.

With its low crime rates, modern infrastructure, and great public transportation, the Financial District is one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City. Whether you’re a young professional or a parent looking for a safe place to raise your family, the Financial District offers it all.

7. Murray Hill

Murray Hill ’s tree-lined streets are filled with townhouses, modern apartment buildings, and businesses. It’s a popular home for recent college graduates and young professionals, who frequent the bars along Lexington and Third Avenues .

Murray Hill lies at the heart of Manhattan between Grand Central Station and the East River. Its boundaries stretch from 34th Street on the south to 40th Street on the north, and from Fifth Avenue on the east to Madison Avenue on the west. The area is close to both Midtown and Downtown, which makes it a great spot for shopping, dining, and going out.

Murray Hill has a relaxed vibe that appeals to all kinds of people who are looking for some peace and quiet in their lives. There’s a “neighborhoody” feel with plenty of charming eateries and boutiques dotting the streets. You can go for strolls in nearby Madison Square Park or soak up the sunshine in Gramercy Park. Plus, with its quiet, tree-lined streets and low crime rate, you can rest assured that Murray Hill is a safe neighborhood to call home.

The neighborhood is packed with amenities, including an array of grocery stores and convenience stores to make running errands easier than ever. Plus, it’s close to public transportation, making commuting around the city a breeze. There’s something for everyone in Murray Hill—from small boutique fitness studios and yoga centers to stylish bars and gastropubs.

While no neighborhood is 100% crime-free, Murray Hill is one of the safest areas in New York City due to its strong sense of community and well-lit streets. The NYPD keeps a watchful eye over the area, so you can rest easy knowing that your home is well protected. And with its relaxed atmosphere and abundance of friendly locals, you will quickly feel like part of this vibrant community.

8. Gramercy

Gramercy can be embracing in its cozy village charm. While you might not have a key to the members-only Gramercy Park , the rest of the neighborhood is a warm and inviting place to call home.

Gramercy has a long history of being one of the safest neighborhoods in all of New York City. It offers a mix of residents – from students to young professionals to retirees – that create a sense of community and sense of safety. In addition, local police are constantly patrolling the area as part of their ongoing efforts to keep crime levels low. As such, you can feel secure when crossing the streets at night or simply walking alone.

Gramercy sits atop a multitude of convenient public transportation options, making it easier to venture around the city and explore nearby areas. And with many stores, cafes, restaurants and leisure activities just steps away from home, there’s always something fun to do no matter what day or time of the week it is.

The city’s most fashionable neighborhood has no shortage of trendy spots for shopping and dining, but careful explorers will find Soho’s true charm in the cobblestone streets, cast-iron architecture, and sweeping lofts and galleries.

SoHo is located within walking distance to downtown Manhattan, and it offers great accessibility to other parts of the city. There are a variety of public transportation options such as multiple subway lines (1, A, C, E) and buses running throughout the area. Residents also appreciate easy access to bike lanes and taxis.

SoHo is known for its safe and secure atmosphere. The local police precinct is actively engaged in the community, responding to calls promptly and engaging with local businesses, residents, and visitors alike. Plus, SoHo boasts an abundance of street lights and cameras, making it increasingly difficult for criminals to operate once night falls.

In addition to its world-class security, SoHo has numerous amenities that make it a great place for residents young and old alike. From coffee shops and restaurants to art galleries and parks, you can find a little bit of everything here. Not to mention the many trendsetting boutiques in the area, which help make this neighborhood unique.

NoHo is a trendy neighborhood where creative meets chic. Architectural features range from 19th-century behemoths like the Great Hall of Cooper Union to sleek, modern high-rises.

Located within Manhattan’s historic district, NoHo is known for being an exceptionally safe area. The residential streets are lined with quaint brownstones and apartment buildings, each one carefully tended and secure. Crime is low throughout the neighborhood, with many locals feeling comfortable enough to keep their windows open even at night.

NoHo is home to all sorts of wonderful amenities. From restaurants, pubs, and cafes to art galleries, bookstores, and boutiques, there’s something here for everyone. With its bustling sidewalks and diverse range of shops and businesses, this neighborhood is a great place to explore and enjoy.

In addition to its abundance of amenities, NoHo enjoys easy access to the rest of New York City via multiple subway lines. Residents can reach anywhere in the city with ease, allowing them to move around more freely and safely than if they lived elsewhere.

11. Prospect Heights

Prospect Heights is a mellow Brooklyn neighborhood of brownstones and luxury condos, anchored by cultural institutions like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Brooklyn Museum. Affordable meets safe – the perfect NYC combination!

Prospect Heights is located in Brooklyn, near the iconic Prospect Park. It is conveniently located close to the Barclays Center, so sports and entertainment lovers aren’t too far away from the action. The neighborhood also offers several transportation options, making it easy to get around town.

Residents of Prospect Heights have access to a wide range of amenities, including shopping and restaurants. There are plenty of places for residents to enjoy, from luxury retail outlets to local boutiques and eateries. The nearby Prospect Park is an ideal place for families to spend time together, with its beautiful scenery and numerous activities.

When it comes to safety, Prospect Heights ranks high among NYC neighborhoods. The NYPD regularly patrols the area, ensuring that residents can go about their lives without worry. Additionally, the low crime rate means that residents don’t need to be concerned about their safety when out and about.

In addition to the amenities and safety, Prospect Heights also boasts some great attractions. From the world-famous Brooklyn Museum to the gorgeous Manhattan Bridge , there is something here for everyone. Additionally, Prospect Heights is just a short drive away from other Brooklyn attractions such as Coney Island and Brighton Beach.

12. Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights is a posh residential area of elegant brownstones. It’s known for its tree-lined promenade along the East River, with unrivaled views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

Brooklyn Heights borders two of the most peaceful neighborhoods in New York City – Dumbo and Cobble Hill. The streets are wide and lined with trees, creating a calming atmosphere. There are also plenty of parks, such as Brooklyn Bridge Park , where residents can spend time outdoors without worrying about their safety.

Most of the housing in Brooklyn Heights consists of historic townhouses, which are well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing. This helps to create an upscale look and feel throughout the neighborhood, making it a more desirable place to live.

The crime rate in Brooklyn Heights is significantly lower than in other parts of New York City. Recent statistics show that there were only 47 reported crimes in this area over the last six months, which is practically unheard of in NYC. Furthermore, the police presence is strong here, so you can rest assured knowing that your family is protected at all times.

In addition to its fantastic safety record, Brooklyn Heights has plenty of amenities that make it a great place to call home. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance, so you never have to venture out too far for basic needs. It’s also close to several public transportation options, so commuting is easy.

13. Greenwich Village

The epicenter of the city’s 1960s counterculture movement, the tree-lined streets of Greenwich Village are now a hub of popular cafes, bars, and restaurants. Jazz clubs and Off-Broadway Theaters can also be found amid the brownstones and New York University buildings.

Greenwich Village is home to many tight-knit communities that are quick to welcome newcomers. Whether you’re an NYU student or recent transplant to the city, you’ll find yourself quickly embraced by the villagers. They love nothing more than to share stories, show off their favorite spots, and welcome new faces into their homes.

If peace and quiet are your priorities, then Greenwich Village is second to none. It’s bustling but not overwhelming, providing plenty of opportunities for relaxation amidst the energy of the city. With far less street noise compared to other neighborhoods in NYC, it’s no wonder so many flock here for its serenity.

One of the major draws of Greenwich Village is its low crime rate – and thanks to its excellent police presence, it stays that way. Residents feel confident when leaving their homes knowing they can return with peace of mind. With its plentiful parks, historic landmarks, and serene streets, Greenwich Village truly is one of the safest neighborhoods in all of NYC.

14. Flatiron District

Named after the iconic wedge-shaped Flatiron Building , this commercial neighborhood is also home to tall apartment buildings and office high-rises. Locals and tourists alike frequent the hip bars, stalls at Italian food emporium Eataly and eclectic food trucks along Fifth Avenue.

The Flatiron District is easily accessible by subway, bus lines, and nearby airports. It’s also conveniently located near Midtown Manhattan, making it easy to get around the city without having to traverse too much of the borough. Public transportation is efficient and reliable, ensuring that residents get from Point A to Point B quickly and safely.

The Flatiron District is one of the safest areas in NYC. It has one of the lowest crime rates in the city, and the NYPD maintains an active presence in the area so that any criminal activity is immediately addressed. The neighborhood also has great lighting at night and plenty of CCTV cameras to monitor suspicious activity.

The Flatiron District is teeming with culture—from its eclectic art galleries and live music venues to its world-renowned restaurants and Famous Food Markets. Even if you don’t feel like heading out after work or on weekends, you can always find something interesting going on in this neighborhood.

The Flatiron District offers a variety of amenities for its residents, including some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment options in the city. There are also plenty of parks and green spaces for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat or just an afternoon stroll, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood.

15. Hell’s Kitchen

Adjacent to the theater district, Hell’s Kitchen has long been the home of actors and arts organizations. It’s also a hub of gay culture.

Hell’s Kitchen is known for its relatively low levels of crime compared to other areas of New York City. It is patrolled by a well-trained police force that provides residents with an extra layer of protection. Additionally, the area offers a variety of security options such as cameras and motion sensors, making it an ideal choice for renters looking for added peace of mind.

The people who live in Hell’s Kitchen are friendly and diverse. With a multitude of ethnicities, ages, and cultures represented, there is something for everyone here. Residents here take great pride in their community and make sure to keep their neighborhoods clean and safe. Whether you’re looking to socialize or just want to experience true New York City living Hell’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.

Despite being close to the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, Hell’s Kitchen still maintains a suburban vibe. You’ll find plenty of parks, shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore throughout your day—all within walking distance from each other. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a night out on the town or just take a peaceful stroll through the neighborhood, Hell’s Kitchen has something for everyone.

16. Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is home to Lincoln Center, which hosts performing arts institutions like the Metropolitan Opera and New York City Ballet. Amid the grand apartment buildings of Central Park West, the American Museum of Natural History presents everything from dinosaurs to outer-space exhibits. This aspirational area is a must on our list of the 20 safest neighborhoods in NYC.

The Upper West Side is known for having one of the lowest crime rates in all of New York City. According to recent statistics, violent crimes are extremely rare in this area, as are property crimes. This makes the Upper West Side one of the safest and most desirable neighborhoods in the city.

Not only is the Upper West Side diverse and safe, but it also offers plenty of amenities that give residents a sense of security and comfort. From well-lit parks and green spaces to 24-hour convenience stores and top-notch schools, there’s something for everyone on the Upper West Side.

17. Park Slope

Down-to-earth Park Slope is a residential area of tree-lined streets and historic brownstones in Brooklyn. It’s known for its open-minded community of families and young professionals.

Park Slope is one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City. With low levels of violent crime, it’s a great place to raise a family or just enjoy a peaceful life. The local police do an excellent job of keeping residents informed about safety and making sure everyone feels secure in the neighborhood.

Park Slope is known for its friendly atmosphere. Locals come together to help out their neighbors and create a strong sense of community. People from all walks of life are welcome here, so you can find plenty of fun activities, events, and places to explore. It also has plenty of parks and green spaces for kids and adults alike to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for great restaurants, shops, or entertainment venues, Park Slope has it all. From cozy coffee shops and art galleries to upscale boutiques and trendy nightclubs, there’s something for everyone in the neighborhood. Plus, due to its close proximity to Brooklyn Bridge Park and Prospect Park, there are plenty of outdoor activities available as well.

18. Crown Heights

Crown Heights is a rich mix of people all in one Brooklyn neighborhood. Visit the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, eat authentic Trinidadian food, or wander down the historical Eastern Parkway. It’s a safe and wonderful place to explore.

Park Slope is located near Prospect Park, offering easy access to green space, playgrounds, and athletic fields. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, with multiple subway lines and buses that make commuting a breeze. The area is also close to various amenities like stores, restaurants, schools, and more.

Park Slope offers a variety of services and amenities that contribute to its overall safety. Security cameras and foot patrols have been installed in many areas to deter crime, while an extensive network of volunteers provides support and outreach programs to keep residents informed on crime prevention measures. Street lights are monitored 24/7, ensuring darkness does not provide a cover for criminals.

The Park Slope neighborhood is home to a diverse population of families, professionals, and students who share a strong sense of community spirit. Residents here take pride in their neighborhood and are actively involved in efforts to maintain the safety of their community. They organize block parties, collaborate on community projects, and even launch initiatives to reduce violence in the area.

19. Cobble Hill

Laid-back Cobble Hill is a neighborhood in Brooklyn , known for its hip cafes, relaxed bars, and casual restaurants along Court Street, its main artery. Families and young professionals reside in many of the brownstones and single-family homes that line the leafy streets.

Living in Cobble Hill gives you the best of both worlds. It possesses a peaceful atmosphere that makes living and raising a family here a pleasant experience. With low crime rates and plenty of green spaces, such as Cobble Hill Park and Brooklyn Bridge Park, residents can feel relaxed and secure.

Cobble Hill is also an ideal place for families. The neighborhood boasts excellent schools, and there are plenty of kid-friendly cafés, restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, there are many cultural activities available in the area, such as the Brooklyn Historical Society , which offer educational opportunities for children of all ages.

Shopping-wise, Cobble Hill offers something for everyone. From small independent stores to major department stores, you can find everything you need. There is even a farmer’s market that operates year-round, offering fresh produce and other goods from local vendors.

20. Fieldston

Fieldston is a privately owned affluent neighborhood in the Riverdale section of the northwestern part of the New York City borough of the Bronx. If you think the Bronx isn’t safe, think again. Soon this borough will be as hot as Brooklyn, so act now to get your affordable piece of the Bronx.

The small size of Fieldston makes it easier for residents to keep an eye on each other, providing an extra layer of safety. The community also has its own strong Neighborhood Watch program that works with local law enforcement to help ensure safety on the streets. In addition, local police regularly patrol the area to deter any criminal activity.

Fieldston boasts plenty of amenities for its residents. At its center is an impressive public library that offers educational materials, multimedia equipment, and a variety of community resources. Just outside of town is the beautiful 3-acre Wave Hill public garden facility, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and acres of lush greenery. For shopping, local restaurants, and entertainment, there are several bustling commercial areas along Riverdale Avenue.

Fieldston is known as one of the best locations in the city for education. With top-rated schools such as Ethical Culture Fieldston School and Horace Mann School nearby, students have access to some of the best educational opportunities in the area.

No matter which neighborhood you call home, there’s no substitute for being mindful and attentive when it comes to staying safe in New York City. With vigilance and precaution, though, any of these locations can provide a secure environment to settle down and enjoy all that The Big Apple has to offer!

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10 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City

With its high-density population, cultural differences, and wage gaps ranging from homeless people to billionaires, New York City is home to swaths of people from all walks of life. And the media has been quick to pick up news of violence or crimes in NYC, especially between 2020 and 2023. So many people do expect that there will be more crime in NYC than in many other parts of the country. But what many people don’t know is how much crime has decreased in NYC over the last few decades.

There are quite a few neighborhoods in different areas of NYC that are not only safe by the standards of NYC but also by the national average as a whole. So let’s take a look at the seven safest neighborhoods in NYC.

hash-mark 10 Safest NYC Neighborhoods 

• Battery Park City
• Brooklyn Heights
• Greenwich Village
• Murray Hill
• Financial District

hash-mark 1. Tribeca

The safest neighborhood in New York City is Tribeca. Located in southern Manhattan along the banks of the Hudson River, Tribeca sits in one of the most prominent parts of Manhattan for the rich and famous. One of the most prominent parts of Manhattan for the rich and famous, Tribeca is one of the safest neighborhoods in all of New York. Over the past two decades, this area’s focus on crime reduction has helped make it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in NYC. Tribeca is also one of the most popular neighborhoods for celebrities who live in New York City . 

If you were to look for the safest neighborhoods in NYC twenty years ago or so, you likely would not have come up with Tribeca as one of the answers. But since then, there’s been a big focus on crime reduction, and it’s dropped by nearly 60% as of 2022 compared to 2000. So as time goes on, Tribeca is becoming a much safer place to live in NYC. 

hash-mark 2. Battery Park City

The second safest place to live in New York City is Batter Park City. Nestled on the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park City is a mostly residential neighborhood. This 92-acre area has a central focus on the massive green space that shares the same name — Battery Park — located to the south of the city. Battery Park City is bounded by the West Side Highway on its east, the Hudson River on its west, and the Hudson River Shoreline on its north and south. 

Data released from the FBI shows that Battery Park City has just over half the national crime rate, with only an estimated 1,373 crimes per 100,000 people. The vast majority of the crimes are property crimes, and only 12.4% of them are considered to be violent crimes. 

hash-mark 3. Kips Bay

Kips Bay is also one of the safest NYC neighborhoods. Kips Bay is located in midtown Manhattan, on the island’s east side. Kips Bay is bounded by the East River to the east, Third Avenue to its west, East 34th Street to its north, and East 27th Street on its south. Kips Bay used to be much larger when it was first settled in the 17th century but has reduced in size over the years as other neighborhoods have developed.

Like many other neighborhoods on this list, Kips Bay has had a massive focus on crime reduction over the last 30 years. With crime dropped by over 80% in this neighborhood, it’s become one of the safest places to live in NYC. As of 2021, there were only 180 people incarcerated per 100,000.

hash-mark 4. Park Slope

Park Slope is another one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City. It's also the safest neighborhood in Brooklyn . Located in northwestern Brooklyn, the peaceful, family-friendly neighborhood is famous for its gorgeous rowhouses, organic markets, and many parks and green spaces. It has a more suburban feeling than many parts of Brooklyn, yet still offers plenty of great bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. Plus, it has a violent crime rate that is 16% lower than the national average, making it one of New York’s safest communities.

hash-mark 5. Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights is also one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC. Brooklyn Heights is a mainly residential neighborhood that’s been around since 1834. Sometimes also called Brooklyn Village, this neighborhood is noted for its low-rise architecture and historical buildings.

Like in many other parts of the city, there has been a focus on lowering crime rates over the last half-century, and Brooklyn Heights has had an incredible 84% reduction in crime rate since the early 1990s, making Brooklyn Heights one of the safest neighborhoods in Brooklyn . As of 2021, roughly 375 people per 100,000 are incarcerated.

hash-mark 6. Greenwich Village

Another one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City is Greenwich Village. It's also one of the most well-known NYC neighborhoods for its appearance in movies and its many celebrity residents . Located on the west side of Manhattan, Greenwich Village is on the border of the Hudson River and is home to many celebrities due to its location and reputation, and being safe.

With one of the lowest incarceration rates in all of NYC, only 100 people are incarcerated per 100,000. But although incarcerations and violent crimes are down drastically, property crime can sometimes still be an issue in Greenwich Village, which may be due to the lavish living of some of its wealthiest residents.

hash-mark 7. Murray Hill

Yet another Manhattan neighborhood, Murray Hill, is located on the island’s east side. Nestled between the east river and Midtown Manhattan, Murray Hill is regarded as one of the most quaint neighborhoods in all of Manhattan. Throughout the 20th century, Murray Hill went from being a mercantile neighborhood to a much more upscale one, leading to a reduction in crime over the past century. 

Between 1990 and 2018, crime in Murray Hill dropped a staggering 80.7%, and very few violent crimes occur here anymore. In fact, in 2018 there were zero reported murders throughout the year, and only 1,021 combined crimes were reported of all kinds. 

hash-mark 8. Nolita

Nolita is another one of the safest places to live in NYC. The neighborhood gets its name from its geographical location relative to another Manhattan borough, Little Italy. Situated just north of Little Italy and Chinatown, Nolita used to be seen as part of Little Italy but has lost its Italian charm over the years and become its own distinct neighborhood nearby. 

The neighborhood of Nolita has transformed and become home to more wealthy, high-scale residents over the last 30 years. This could be part of why the crime rate has dropped so significantly in that time. While Nolita has more crimes on average than some of the other places on this list, it’s still one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC.

hash-mark 9. Financial District

The Financial District (aka FiDi) is another one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC. Known for being the home of Wall Street and one of the largest financial centers in the world, FiDi is a very safe neighborhood that is popular among young professionals who work in the area. Plus, it doesn’t attract as much tourist traffic as other Manhattan neighborhoods and features a low crime rate for New York City. In 2023, the property crime rate was 12.8 serious crimes per 1,000 residents (versus 14.7 in all of Manhattan) and 3.7 violent crimes (compared to 5.7 in the rest of Manhattan).

hash-mark 10. Chelsea

Chelsea is also one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City. Situated in between the Garment District and Greenwich Village on the West Side of Manhattan, Chelsea is one of New York’s most coveted neighborhoods. Residents will find a variety of gorgeous townhomes, low-rise apartment buildings, and luxury high-rises, along with art galleries, cafes, museums, upscale boutiques, and happening bars. Although 50 years ago, the area was much rougher, today, Chelsea is a safe, family-friendly community with a below-average crime rate compared to the rest of NYC. 

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New York City’s Safest Neighborhoods and Places to Live

June Homes Team

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Safety is among the most important criteria when deciding where to live. There is tons of information available online about crime statistics and safety ratings, but sifting through all that data for every neighborhood in a large city like New York is extremely time-consuming. 

We’ve done the hard work for you to lead you directly to the safest neighborhoods in New York City. We reviewed and compiled data from:  

• The NYC Crime Map ,
• Neighborhood Scout Reports  
• Crime Grade . 

12 of the Safest Places to Live in NYC:

Battery park city, manhattan, prospect heights, brooklyn, fresh meadows, queens, morningside heights, manhattan, inwood, manhattan, roosevelt island, manhattan, nolita, manhattan, bellerose, queens, upper east side, manhattan, chelsea, manhattan, greenwich village, manhattan, financial district, manhattan, what about the safety of nyc in general, areas to avoid in nyc, explore more about new york city.

Disclaimer: Safety is a shared responsibility and the well-being of a community depends on the collective efforts of its residents, local authorities, and visitors. Whether it’s safety at the workplace  or in a neighborhood, it is always a combined effort. While we have diligently researched and compiled data to guide you to some of New York City’s safest neighborhoods, it’s important to remember that safety can vary and change over time.

The following list is based on data from the NYC Crime Map, Neighborhood Scout Reports, and Crime Grade, and serves as a general guideline rather than a guarantee of safety. Always stay informed about the latest local safety measures and community initiatives.

Please consider this as a starting point for your own research, and always prioritize personal safety and awareness in any neighborhood.

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Battery Park City is a neighborhood in Manhattan that contains a little something for everyone. Residents enjoy lots of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and parks. During the week, you’ll see the many restaurants and coffee shops filled with professionals from the nearby financial district. But on weekends, the neighborhood belongs to the locals. The riverfront park will be full of joggers, picnickers, and families enjoying the outdoor green space. 

Battery Park City residents are far less likely than the average American to experience violent crimes or property crimes:

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Prospect Heights in Brooklyn is rated as one of the safest areas in New York City for raising a family. This is largely because of the low crime rates and solid public schools. Prospect Heights is home to a diverse group of residents with a thriving Caribbean-American community. 

And you’ll find lots to do here! Enjoy a stroll through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, explore treasures at the Brooklyn Museum, or take in a basketball game at Barclays Center.

Fresh Meadows in Queens earned notoriety as the New York Post’s choice for the safest neighborhood in all of New York City in 2022. Going well beyond crime stats, the post considered factors like flood zones, proximity to hospitals, emergency response times, evacuation routes, climate, and even rodent levels.  

Well situated between the Long Island Expressway and Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows offers easy access to the rest of the city. But with all the green space, it feels like a world away!

Located on the west side of Upper Manhattan, Morningside Heights is home to Columbia University and the Manhattan School of Music. Morningside Heights is a thriving community, made up of a diverse group of young professionals and families. The population is exceptionally well educated, with the most common education level being a Master’s Degree. The public school system in Morningside Heights is above average, and property values are high.

While Address Reports’ crime data is unavailable for this neighborhood, data from Niche shows that the risk of robbery, theft, burglary, and murder is all far lower in Morningside Heights than the national average. 

At the Northernmost tip of Manhattan, you’ll find Inwood, the traditionally Dominican neighborhood that’s growing in diversity while retaining its mom-and-pop vibe. Chain stores haven’t taken over the area, which is still home to lots of local small businesses, which line Dyckman and West 207th streets and keep the neighborhood feeling like a community.   

Locals love the good schools and green space , which includes the popular Inwood Hill Park. Plus, with Broadway running directly through Inwood, you have easy access to some of the best culture and nightlife in the world!

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If you’re looking for a safe neighborhood with a killer view of the Manhattan skyline, check out Roosevelt Island. Still considered part of the Manhattan borough, Roosevelt Island is a small island in the East River.

Locals and tourists alike enjoy the tree-lined Four Freedoms Park at the southern tip of the island where you can find the FDR Hope Memorial. Residents appreciate the safety of living in this island neighborhood while still being conveniently located to access the rest of the city.

Nolita, Manhattan – Nestled between the hustle of SoHo and the bustle of the Lower East Side, Nolita offers a charming escape with its boutique shops and quaint dining spots. The neighborhood is small and personable, often considered a hidden gem with lower crime rates contributing to its appeal.

Bellerose is a working and middle-class neighborhood in Queens. It may be a bit of a trek from the city, but it’s still accessible by train or bus. This bit of distance comes with the benefit of making Bellerose more affordable than many of the other safest neighborhoods in New York City.

You can get more information on the current crime data at Crimegrade.org , which shows more reassuring crime statistics for Bellerose.

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If you can afford it , Manhattan’s Upper East Side is a safe haven in the heart of New York City. Nestled between Central Park and the East River, the Upper East Side is home to 5th Avenue’s Museum Mile, which contains cultural gems like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and El Museo del Barrio.  

Chelsea is a bustling neighborhood located on the West Side of Manhattan, known for its vibrant arts scene, high-end shopping, and the popular High Line park. Its crime rates are considerably low compared to the city average, particularly for a neighborhood with such a vibrant night-life.

Greenwich Village, known for its bohemian vibe and rich history, is a beloved neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. With its quaint tree-lined streets, world-class restaurants, and renowned performance venues like the Comedy Cellar and Blue Note, Greenwich Village maintains a neighborhood-like feel in the heart of the city. The area is also home to New York University , which means there is an increased police presence, and crime rates are lower than the city average.

The Financial District, located at the southern tip of Manhattan, is a bustling hub of business activity on weekdays, transforming into a calm, quiet neighborhood in the evenings and on weekends. The neighborhood is also home to several popular tourist attractions, like the New York Stock Exchange, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and One World Observatory. Despite its business focus, the crime rates here are among the lowest in the city.

As of January 2024, New York City has seen a continuation of the trend of reductions in most major crime categories when compared to January of the previous year. The NYPD reported substantial drops in several key areas of crime:

• Murders decreased by 25%.
• Rapes saw a reduction of 24.4%.
• Burglaries were down by 19.8%.
• Felony assaults decreased slightly by 1.5%.
• Grand larceny auto reported a decrease of 3.8%.

Additionally, shooting incidents were reduced by 10.8%, which also led to an 11.5% decrease in the number of shooting victims. The NYPD’s ongoing efforts in gun violence prevention are reflected in the seizure of 508 guns in January 2024 alone, contributing to more than 14,115 guns taken off the streets since the beginning of the current administration two years ago.

However, not all crime categories saw reductions. There was an uptick of 5.4% in robberies and a 0.4% increase in grand larceny. Bias incidents investigated by the NYPD’s Hate Crime Task Force across the five boroughs also increased by 12 incidents, driven by a rise in anti-Jewish incidents.

Overall index crime in the city dipped by 2.9% in January 2024 compared to January 2023, reflecting the NYPD’s continued focus on crime prevention and enforcement measures.

For more detailed statistics and ongoing updates, you can visit the NYPD’s official website and their CompStat 2.0 portal, which provides up-to-date crime-related statistics in the seven major crime categories.

Which borough in NYC is the safest?

Staten Island, the least populated of New York City’s five boroughs, continues to maintain its reputation as one of the safest areas in the city. Its relative seclusion, suburban feel, and lower population density often translate to fewer reported crimes compared to other boroughs, lending to its perception as a safe haven within the bustling metropolis. The borough is also known for its strong sense of community, which contributes to its overall safety.

Like anywhere, safety can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. As always, it is recommended for individuals to review the most current crime statistics and talk to residents to get a comprehensive understanding of the safety in specific neighborhoods.

Using historical data and common safety advice, here’s a compiled list of areas that have been mentioned in various sources over time as having higher crime rates or being potentially less safe, especially at night. It’s important to note that conditions in any neighborhood can change over time, and an area that was once considered less safe may have seen improvements.

Similar to NYC, safety in most larger cities across the United States will fluctuate for many years to come. For example, the safest parts of a city like San Diego CA are very now versus the last decade. Big cities, especially ones as large as New York City or San Diego , can change fast.

Always check the most current information and use your judgment when visiting these or any areas:

• Certain parts of the Bronx : Some neighborhoods in the Bronx have historically had higher crime rates, such as Hunts Point and Fordham.
• Parts of Brooklyn : Areas including East New York, Brownsville, and certain parts of Bushwick have been known for higher crime rates, though Bushwick has seen significant gentrification and change.
• Some areas in Harlem, Manhattan : Central and East Harlem have been areas of concern in the past, but like many parts of NYC, they have also seen redevelopment and improvement.
• Certain areas in Queens : Neighborhoods such as Jamaica and parts of Far Rockaway have had higher crime rates historically.
• Parts of Staten Island : Certain neighborhoods like Stapleton and Mariners Harbor have been noted for higher crime rates in the past.

Remember, this list is based on historical data and perceptions, and many of these areas are also home to vibrant communities, cultural attractions, and redevelopment projects that have contributed to safety improvements. Always stay informed with the latest local news and safety advice, and exercise standard urban safety precautions when exploring any city.

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• Best Neighborhoods in New York City for Young Professionals February 28, 2024
• New York City’s Safest Neighborhoods and Places to Live February 16, 2024
• Safest Neighborhoods in Brooklyn January 30, 2024

June Homes Team, with a passion for writing and a keen eye for detail, provides unique insights in their articles. Covering everything from finding the right neighborhood to understanding tenant rights, and even tips on moving, decorating, and saving on rent, June’s team delivers clear, concise, and practical advice.

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11 Safest Places To Stay In NYC: Area Guide & Hotel Picks 2024

By carrie green zinn.

It’s not at all difficult to find the safest places to stay in NYC – affordable ones too!

As a former local, and current frequent visitor, I have to say I feel very safe in New York City.

Why, you may ask, would a city with about 8.5 million residents and 66.6 million visitors per year feel safe? It’s because the New York City community generally has a “take care of your fellow humans” attitude. New Yorkers have your back.

One of the reasons for this vibe is the pride people have about their city and their individual neighborhoods.

New York’s unique neighborhoods each celebrate their own history, culture, and architecture, making the experience always interesting as you roam the city.

This post will focus on my top picks for the 11 safest places to stay in NYC.

11 Safest Places To Stay In NYC

New York has a reputation for being a very diverse city with a wide socioeconomic range. It has also become one of the safest cities to visit according to a 2023 Forbes report ranking New York City at #5.

Many of the neighborhoods I’m recommending are ones you see in your favorite movies and TV shows – safe and full of things to do !

An important note: I spent days roaming Manhattan, checking out hotels and gauging their safety. I considered walkability, trendiness, and of course, affordability. 

So, you can trust that if I didn’t feel safe on the property or in the neighborhood, then I didn’t include it in my list of the safest places to stay in NYC!

Another important note: I also didn’t include properties that only have “luxury” price points. But you’ll notice a wide range of prices because “off season” or January – March can be a lot less expensive than other times of the year.

Quick & Easy Links

  Flights & Hotels: I recommend Expedia   Vacation rentals: I recommend VRBO   Car Rental: I recommend Hertz   Tours: I recommend Viator   Gear: Check out my Travel Stuff   Create Your Travel Memory Books with MILK

→ Click the Map for Hotel Locations ← 

#1 Upper West Side

West of Central Park are the elegant, pre-war, Beaux-Arts buildings, American Museum Of Natural History, Columbia University, chic shops and restaurants, famous spots like Zabars, and the cafes of Columbus Avenue. 

The Upper West Side is conveniently located for a walk through the park to 5th Avenue or downtown to Times Square. And, there are plenty of subway stops to get you where you want to go. I place this neighborhood at the top of the safest places to stay in NYC.

Where To Stay In The Upper West Side

 The Lucerne Hotel 201 W 79th St

   I recommend the Lucerne Hotel because it’s a grand hotel with affordable prices, in a treasured landmark building built in 1904.

   The amenities include a lovely French Mediterranean restaurant, Nice Matin, and a full fitness center. They also provide wifi and laundry service. This is not a pet friendly hotel.

   $161 – $599 The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

   24/7 security and cameras on the premises.

→ Book The Lucerne Hotel Here!

#2 Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is a fantastic place to stay because of its more quiet streets, close access to Central Park , and beautiful architecture. These neighborhoods are filled with excellent restaurants, trendy cafes, fun boutiques, and loads of history.

 The Arthouse Hotel 2178 Broadway at W 77th Street

   I recommend the Arthouse Hotel because it’s a beautiful vintage boutique hotel with affordable prices, in a sophisticated historic building.

   The amenities include three unique restaurant and bar choices on the property. The hotel is dog-friendly and there’s a parking garage. The hotel offers many discounts and deals at different times of the year, which make it even more appealing. They also provide wifi and laundry service.

   $237 – $424 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Arthouse New York City Here!

#3 Midtown Near Lincoln Center

The midtown neighborhood near Lincoln Center is an outstanding area for convenience to all the tourist spots. This is absolutely one of the safest places to stay in NYC.

You’ll be near Times Square, landmarks like The Empire State Building, The Chrysler Building, Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and the United Nations.

Midtown is filled with hustle and bustle, high rises, luxury apartments, and shopping. These neighborhoods are right in the middle of the city and connect midtown and downtown with the East Side and West Side. It’s especially exciting here at holiday time.

Where To Stay In Midtown

 The Empire Hotel 44 West 63rd Street

   I recommend the Empire Hotel because it’s tucked into a perfect spot across from Lincoln Center, steps away from Central Park. It’s considered the iconic “crown jewel” of Midtown. 

   The amenities include a very special rooftop bar and swimming pool. It’s a dog-friendly hotel, offers valet parking, a fitness center, and all the modern amenities such as wifi and laundry service.

   $143 – $551 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Empire Hotel Here!

#4 The NoMad/Flatiron District

The North of Madison/Flatiron neighborhood is considered to be very up and  coming with its busy highrises, luxury condos, upscale stores, trendy bars and restaurants. There are a lot of hotels in this area which makes this one of the safest places to stay in NYC.

It is also considered to be midtown, which makes it easy walking distance to all the famous landmarks, such as Times Square, The Empire State Building, The Chrysler Building, Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and the United Nations.

Where To Stay In the NoMad/Flatiron District

 The Ace Hotel New York 20 West 29th Street

   I recommend the Ace Hotel because it’s in the fun and trendy NoMad/Flatiron District in a turn-of-the-century landmark building. The hotel has a lot of old time sophistication with a modern twist to the rooms and decor. The Ace Hotels are artsy spots around the country that offer a lot of cool events.

   The amenities include a great bar and French restaurant. It’s a dog-friendly hotel, offers valet parking, a fitness center, and all the modern amenities such as wifi and laundry service.

   $199 – $759 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Ace Hotel Here!

These streets are filled with interesting architectural styles, including historic brownstones, pre-war buildings, and modern condominiums. Chelsea attracts a diverse community of residents, including artists, professionals, and families. You will be close to the Chelsea Piers on the Hudson River and have convenient access to the Little Island, galleries, the Highline, and the awesome Chelsea Market.

Where To Stay In Chelsea

 The Hotel Chelsea 222 West 23rd Street

   I recommend the Hotel Chelsea because not only is it a famous hotel known for all of its former residents, but it’s in the very hip and historic Chelsea neighborhood. The building is a Victorian era marvel of red brick and wrought iron facade.

It was built in 1885 and has since become a part of the fabric of this part of Manhattan. A host of the world’s most famous writers, musicians, and artists lived and stayed at the Chelsea. Some of the best works were created there, romances started there, and several lives were lost there. 

The Hotel Chelsea is so steeped in history that there are literally dozens of books written about it and films made about it. The neighborhood is great and within walking distance to all the sites in Midtown and very close to the Village and Lower Manhattan spots.

   The amenities include three very famous dining and bar choices – El Quijote,The Lobby Bar, and Chelsea Cafe. It’s a dog-friendly hotel, and has a fitness center, wifi and laundry service.

   $288 – $885 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Hotel Chelsea Here!

#6 Gramercy Park

Gramercy is a charming residential neighborhood in midtown, known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and the famous Gramercy Park, a private park accessible only to residents of the surrounding buildings. This fact alone makes it one of the safest places to stay in NYC!

Gramercy is a perfect spot for walking to all the midtown landmarks such as Times Square, The Empire State Building, The Chrysler Building, Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and the United Nations and is close enough to lower Manhattan or uptown for any of your activities. You’ll find lots of great shopping and dining opportunities in this neighborhood.

Where To Stay In Gramercy

 The Freehand Hotel 23  Lexington Avenue

   I recommend the Freehand Hotel because its in a  great neighborhood close to one of the most exclusive parts of Manhattan – Gramercy Park. The hotel is filled with artistic flair and is housed in the former George Washington Hotel which was known as a home for many famous creatives. The Freehand hotel chain has hotels in major cities and they know what they’re doing!

   The amenities offer four fabulous dining choices, including a rooftop bar – Comodo, Bar Calico, Georgia Room, Smile To Go, and Broken Shaker. It’s a dog friendly hotel, has a fitness center, and wifi.

   $106 – $560 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Freehand Hotel Here!

#7 The SoHo District

SoHo is short for “South of Houston Street.” This is the very trendy neighborhood in Lower Manhattan with cobblestone streets and renovated factories. Known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere, SoHo is famous for its cast-iron architecture, upscale boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant street life. It’s a cultural hub and shopping destination, blending historic charm with modern creativity.

Where To Stay In SoHo

 The Arlo SoHo Hotel 231  Hudson Street

   I recommend the Arlo SoHo Hotel because SoHo is one of the premiere spots to visit in Manhattan. It’s chic and sophisticated artsy vibe makes it one of the safest places to stay in NYC. While the hotel is across from the chaotic entrance to the Holland Tunnel, it is just a few blocks from the heart of SoHo and on the fringe of Chinatown and Little Italy.  Some of the rooms even have views of the river!

   The amenities offer four world class dining choices, including a rooftop bar and a Bodega for food shopping –  Lindon, The Courtyard, and Foxtail. Ask for fitness passes to a local gym, and participate in one of the many events while you’re there. Its a pet friendly hotel and has wifi and laundry service.

   $199 – $667 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Arlo SoHo Hotel Here!

Tribeca is one of the truly iconic neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan. Known for it’s cobblestone streets and old warehouses, this area wrote the book on chic and trendy. It is upscale with a cozy vibe. You’ll find a bunch of fun cafes and restaurants and great shopping. Tribeca has become the home to many celebrities, so keep your eyes peeled! In recent years, Tribeca has become one of the safest places to stay in NYC.

Where To Stay In Tribeca

 The Roxy Hotel 2 Sixth Avenue

   I recommend the Roxy Hotel because it’s a perfect and safe spot if you want to be in the hub of Tribeca. The rooms are an elegant mixture of art deco and mid century modern. The history of the hotel and its famous guests is evident as  you roam around. It’s truly a gorgeous place to hang out!

   The amenities offer gorgeous spaces for relaxing and enjoying  dining and cocktails day or night. The Roxy Cinema is a one of a kind movie experience and the very famous jazz club Django (yes, my husband has played here) is hopping every night of the week. There is a laundry service, fitness center, wifi, and it’s a pet friendly hotel.

   $219 – $699 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Roxy Hotel Here!

#9 Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is the part of New York known for being the epicenter of rebellious, creative, and influential intellectuals. It’s the home of NYU, Bohemian lifestyle, and young energy. It’s a favorite part of New York for its brownstones and tree lined streets.

Where To Stay In Greenwich Village

 The Washington Square Hotel 103 Waverly Place

   I recommend the Washington Square Hotel because it’s an historic hotel, built in 1902, and is  directly across from the iconic Washington Square Park in the heart of Greenwich Village. While the park is often packed with a wide variety of people, musicians, vendors, and can sometimes feel a bit crazy and unsafe, the area is actually a vibrant and exciting place to be. Many famous writers, poets, and musicians have stayed and lived in the hotel which adds to its special vibe. From Hemingway to Dylan and the Rolling Stones, this hotel has seen a lot!

   The amenities include spa treatments, a fitness room, and three restaurant/bar options. There is a rooftop garden providing fresh vegetables for the hotel’s restaurants. It’s a pet friendly hotel, has wifi, and laundry service.

   $246 – $416 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Washington Square Hotel Here!

#10 The Lower East Side

The Lower East Side (LES) is a vibrant and historically significant neighborhood that is known for a rich cultural heritage that has undergone major changes in recent years.

From being a hub for immigrants in the early part of the  20th century, it is still home to a wide array of ethnic communities. The Jewish, Chinese, and Italian neighborhoods are still evident, but the area is also becoming a lot more chic and trendy. Its a popular place for young New  Yorkers to live because the rent prices tend to be more affordable.

Where To Stay On The Lower East Side

 The Public Hotel 215 Chrystie Street

   I recommend the Public Hotel because it’s a surprisingly nice and beautiful space amidst the busy Lower East Side. You would not even know the hotel existed if you weren’t looking for it. Tucked behind a wall of hedges, the property opens up into a sweet courtyard and offers a lot to its guests. Multiple popular fine dining and bar options, beautiful rooms, and lots of common spaces.

   The amenities include great restaurants and bars, a rooftop dining choice, and lots of relaxing seating spaces. They offer fitness classes to their guests free of charge, host many art events, and have a performance space. The hotel is pet friendly, has wifi, and a laundry service.

   $216 – $839 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Public Hotel Here!

#11 The Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District is a trendy and dynamic neighborhood located on the lower west side. Back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries it was the center for meatpacking businesses.

Now, it’s transformed into a very fashionable neighborhood with historic architecture and upscale boutiques and  restaurants. You’ll love it here for the easy access to the Highline, Gansevoort Market, the Whitney, and a ton of great galleries. These features keep the neighborhood lively and give it a spot as one of the safest places to stay in NYC.

Where To Stay In The Meatpacking District

 The Maritime Hotel 363 West 16th Street

   I recommend the Maritime Hotel because it’s a really unique building designed in a nautical theme in 1968, originally for the Maritime Union. Its very hip and modern and is considered to be the best hotel located right in the heart of the Meatpacking District.

   The amenities include nautical portholes for windows, workspaces, access to a gym and business center, and free bike rentals! Pet friendly, with a minibar and wifi, the hotel has two restaurants nestled beneath the hotel.

   $219 – $719 – The prices vary quite a bit, depending on the time of year, occupancy, and how far in advance you book.

→ Book The Maritime Hotel Here!

Areas To Avoid In NYC

There are most definitely some neighborhoods to avoid when touring New York City. Chances are you will not be drawn to these spots. Here is a little information on why you should avoid these neighborhoods for safety reasons.

~ Brownsville is in east Brooklyn. Brooklyn has many fabulous and very safe neighborhoods, like the DUMBO and Williamsburg areas. However, Brownsville is considered to be one of the city’s most dangerous and high crime neighborhoods.

~ Jamaica is in Queens and is considered to be the most unsafe neighborhood in spite of its residential area. It is a low socioeconomic neighborhood with a history of a lot of gang related crime.

~ Hunts Point is on the East River in the South Bronx. This neighborhood has had increasing violent crime rates over the years and in spite of the industry located there, a large percentage of the population live below the poverty line.

How To Get Around NYC Safely

New York City is a big place, but not so big that you can’t get everywhere you want to go during your visit. Here are some options for the safest way to maneuver around the concrete jungle. 

NYC By Subway

Subways are definitely a great idea and safe and convenient way to get around NYC. Many of the train cars have newer seats and are a bit cleaned up. 

I always recommend walking as much as possible in NYC because it’s so much fun to see everything! But when walking doesn’t work, the NYC Subway system will get you wherever you need to go. This is the most used and convenient public transport in the city.

PRO TIP #1:   Download the MY MTA app on your phone. This is the official Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) app for NYC subways and bus system. It has ALL the info you need, including maps and schedules for all the subways, bus, and rail systems.

PRO TIP #2: If you are using your Maps/GPS App on your phone, hit the “transit” view and it will tell you exactly where the closest subway station is and which train to take to your destination.

PRO TIP #3: There are several ways to pay for the public transportation systems. THE EASIEST thing to do is make sure you have your credit card loaded on your phone in your “wallet.” When you open that card you simply TAP the OMNY screen at the turnstile of the subway stop and it charges you. Like magic!

PRO TIP #4: OR you can purchase a Metrocard card on your phone or at a subway station and use it on the buses as well. Each ride costs $2.90, and a 7 day, unlimited ride card is $33. You can also swipe through the turnstile and pass the card to your travel partner behind you. It’s actually legit to do that with up to 4 people. 

PRO TIP #5: OR If you download an OMNY card and pay with the same card or device for 12 rides in a week, the rest of the week is free.

NYC By Uber, Lyft, Revel, or Taxi

Ride share apps are always a great, safe, and convenient way to get around NYC, but will cost you more. If you are with a larger group of friends or family however, it might be more cost effective to share a ride than pay for separate subway fares.

PRO TIP #6:   Load all the apps onto your phone in advance. Then check the prices of Uber, Lyft, and Revel before your order, to compare. Prices vary a lot at different times of the day and night. Taxis are also visible and available everywhere, but still require the old fashioned hailing-from-the-curb system. If the light on the top of the cab is on, that means it’s available. There is an app called Curb that you can download. But according to locals who have used it, the cabs don’t come as quickly as the other ride shares do.

Walking Around NYC

Walking in NYC is the most preferred (and my favorite) way to get around. It’s safe, easy to do, and you get to experience and see a lot more of the city that way. Map out your day and see how much of it you can do on foot. You’ll be surprised how much of the 13.4 miles of Manhattan you can cover between touring activities!

NYC By Ferry

NYC Ferries take commuters from Manhattan , Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island along the East River and Hudson River . You are likely to take the ferry as a tourist if you are visiting The Statue of Liberty or taking a sunset cruise . It’s a great way to see the city from the water and be out on a boat enjoying the fresh breeze. 

PRO TIP #7: Download the NYC Ferry App by Hornblower to have ready on your phone. For instance, when you walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into DUMBO and then take the ferry to Williamsburg, you’ll be all set to go. Through the app, you buy ferry tix on your phone with credit card and then a QR code gets scanned as you board the boat.

FAQs: Visiting NYC

Visiting New York for the first time? Here are some basic FAQs to help you orient your way around and feel safe while doing it!

Which NYC borough is the safest?

NYC is made up of five boroughs, Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.

You are most likely to be visiting and staying in Manhattan, which is my choice for any visitor. You’ll want easy access to all the activities and sites in the heart of New York and it’s safe to do so.

That being said, according to recent data, out of the five boroughs, Staten Island is considered the safest.

Staten Island is said to be safer than 47% of other US cities. This makes sense because Staten Island is known for more green space and family homes as compared to Manhattan and the other boroughs.

What is the safest area in Manhattan, New York?

According to many reports, NYC’s overall crime rates have dropped and continue to drop over recent decades. 

Some reports place Tribeca, on the south end of Manhattan and near the Hudson River, as the safest neighborhood because of the influx of so many of the rich and famous celebrities buying property and having a high focus on reducing crime.

The Upper West Side (UWS) and the Upper East Side (UES) are considered to be very safe, and are also home to many of New York’s wealthier residents. Both the UWS and UES have low violent and low property crime rates. 

Is downtown Manhattan safe at night?

New York is alive at night! And the area south of 14th St, referred to as “Downtown Manhattan,” is no different. It is absolutely safe in this part of town at night because there is so much going on! New Yorkers and tourists will find a lot to do in this part of the city, including some of the best restaurants, clubs, and rooftop bars with views.

The streets of Tribeca, SoHo, Greenwich Village, and the East Village are always bustling with activity. The streets and restaurants are well lit and feel safe.

That being said, as always, keep your guard up, be smart and cautious, have a plan of where you are going and how you are getting there. These are basic safety tips that will keep you aware while exploring downtown Manhattan at night.

Is it better to stay in Brooklyn or Manhattan?

As a first time visitor or for any vacation trip, I recommend staying in Manhattan. While Brooklyn can be a load of fun and has some great places to stay, if you are visiting to see New York, then stay in Manhattan. It will be much more convenient for you to access all the tourist attractions.

Now you know which are  the safest places to stay in NYC!

In a nutshell…

New York City is indeed the city that never sleeps and can keep every visitor energized and entertained at any time day or night.

When planning your visit, the safety of NYC is bound to be top of mind. If you’re vigilant in following common sense safety precautions, you’ll enjoy the welcoming and vibrant streets of the neighborhoods all over the city.

Use this guide to choose your safe place to stay in the Big Apple and enjoy some of the most iconic and fun things you can do on vacation! Safe Travels!

Carrie Green Zinn is the owner and author of Carrie Green Zinn – A Travel Blog, which helps travelers become inspired to explore and step out of their comfort zones. Carrie focuses on family vacations, empty nest travel, and girlfriend getaways. Her work is informed by her life as a former dancer, therapist, and school psychologist. She brings her passion for writing, photography, and making the world a smaller place to her ever growing blogging audience.

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Hi There! I’m Carrie.

I’m a native New Englander, turned New Yorker , turned California girl ! Following a dance career, working as a dance therapist, and being a school psychologist, I’m now ready to share my passion for photography and travel with you! I absolutely love seeing the world with my family and friends. I know you feel the same! Let’s go! 

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Home | News | New York’s Safest Cities of 2024

New York’s Safest Cities of 2024

Here are the 10 Safest Cities in New York for 2024

• Bedford Town
• East Fishkill Town
• Hyde Park Town
• Town of Carmel
• Lewiston Town and Village
• Yorktown Town
• Orangetown Town
• New Rochelle
• Webster Town and Village

See crime rates for the safest cities .

According to our most recent State of Safety report, New York is more worried about safety and crime than most states. Six in 10 respondents to our survey told us they have high levels of concern every day—the third-highest in the nation. Alternatively, survey participants noted a dip in personal experiences with crime compared to the previous reporting year.

In this report

• Property crime rates
• Violent crime rates
• Interesting findings
• The Safest Cities
• Methodology

How to make a safe home anywhere

• How other cities compare
• How other states compare

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NOTE: If your city is missing from our full report, it means that it was below the population threshold or didn’t submit a complete crime report to the FBI in 2022 .

2024 New York crime rates

We didn't have enough viable data to calculate statewide crime rates for New York this year or last. But if the safest cities are any indication, it looks like crime rates may be on the decline statewide.

The collective property crime rate of New York's safest cities is 6.6 incidents per 1,000 people—a huge decline from 18.0 last year. The collective violent crime rate of the state's safest cities is 0.5 incidents per 1,000 people, compared to 3.4 last year. 

Crime rates shared below reflect New York's statewide crime rates from our 2022 report, the last year the FBI received enough data to assess the state's crime rates.

Image: SafeWise Crime rates reflect per capita crime rates for New York and nationwide averages from our 2022 report. Not enough statewide data to calculate for the 2023 or 2024 report.

Property crime in New York: Fear vs. reality

While New Yorkers worry more about property crime than the average American, it doesn't concern them as much as violent crime and gun violence.

• Worry about property crime held steady year over year, with 53% of survey respondents worrying about it every day (US 52%).
• Fewer New Yorkers (20%) reported personal experiences with property crime this survey year as they did in the last survey (25%).
• New York respondents' experience with property crime is the fifth-lowest in the US.
• 65% of New York residents use some form of property protection (US 75%) with security cameras on top at 36%.
• 31% of New Yorkers said they added or increased security measures in the 12 months prior to the survey (US 35%). That's the fifth-lowest level of increased security measures in the country.

Attitudes about package theft in New York

• 32% of survey respondents in New York reported experiencing package theft in the 12 months prior to the survey (US 35%)—that represents a 27% decline year over year.
• 50% of participants expressed a high level of concern about package theft (US 53%).
• The preferred methods of package protection in New York are video doorbells (33%) and verified delivery (29%).

What security measures do New Yorkers use most?

Image: SafeWise

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What crimes are New York residents most concerned about?

Violent crime in New York: Fear vs. reality

Reports of personal experience with violent crime in The Empire State fell from 24% to 16% year over year. New York residents also had fewer experiences with gun violence this survey year.

• 68% of survey respondents reported a high level of concern about violent crime—the second-highest percentage in the country behind Louisiana.
• Just 3 in 10 New York residents (31%) reported feeling safe in their home state (US 45%)—this is the eighth-lowest level of confidence in the US.
• 28% of survey participants use some kind of personal protection like a stun gun or pepper spray, compared to 36% nationally.
• The most popular types of personal protection used by New York respondents this survey year were pepper spray (46%) and pocket knives (32%).

Attitudes about gun violence in New York

• 7 in 10 respondents said gun violence is the safety concern they worry about most on a daily basis (US 53%). This is the second highest in the nation behind Louisiana.
• The number of respondents with a personal gun violence experience (13%) dropped by 19% since the previous survey year (US 12%).
• There were 16 mass shooting incidents in New York in 2023, a 48% decrease from 31 incidents in 2022.
• Concealed firearms are the least-used form of personal protection in The Empire State, with just 7% using them, versus 41% nationwide. 
• Just 10% of respondents use a firearm to protect their property , compared to 28% nationwide.

A closer look at the safest cities in New York

For the purposes of this report, the terms “dangerous” and “safest” refer explicitly to crime rates as calculated from FBI crime data—no other characterization of any community is implied or intended.

• We couldn’t rank the safest cities in New York last year due to limited information reported to the FBI, so we don't have any year over year comparisons.
• 44 cities met criteria for ranking.
• Bedford Town is the safest city in New York—there were zero violent crimes reported and just 16 property crimes.
• 3 cities reported zero robberies: Bedford Town, East Fishkill , and Lewiston Town and Village .
• Every safest city reported less than 1 violent crime per 1,000 people. 
• 3 cities reported 6 or fewer burglaries: East Fishkill, the Town of Carmel , and Lewiston Town and Village.
• Every safest city reported fewer than 9 property crime incidents per 1,000 people.

The 10 safest cities in New York

How we determined the safest cities

Learn how we identified the safest cities on our methodology page .

Over 6 in 10 Americans surveyed don't have a home security system, despite over 50% of all burglaries being residential. Unfortunately, a majority of people who have a security system added it after they had a break-in. One of the best ways to stop a burglary before it happens—and get immediate help if a break-in is detected—is to add a monitored home security system.

Find out which companies we recommend for every budget and lifestyle in our roundup of the Best Home Security Systems —and learn the basics with our guide on Everything You Need to Know About Home Security . 

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Related articles on SafeWise

• Best Home Security Systems
• Best Home Security Cameras
• Best Video Doorbell Cameras
• Burglary Stats & Facts
• Over 50% Of All Burglaries Are Residential—How To Protect Your Family
• The Best Personal Safety Devices for Every Situation

Endnotes and sources

Find all endnotes and sources in our full methodology .

FBI Crime Data Explorer, " Documents & Downloads ." Accessed March 18, 2024.

• Offenses Known to Law Enforcement
• 2022 NIBRS Estimation Tables

Bureau of Justice Statistics, " National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) ." Accessed March 18, 2024.

Gun Violence Archive, " Mass Shootings ." Accessed March 18, 2023.

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9 Best and Safest Neighborhoods in Manhattan

You saved up and finally have enough money to live in New York City (NYC). Congratulations on being one step away on achieving the dream of living in one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world.

You planned everything for a long time, including how big you want your place to be, the amenities you want your NYC home to have, the distance of the nearest branch of your favorite restaurant, and so much more.

However, before going through your list of must-have facilities when renting your new place, make sure to also research on which sites are considered as the best and safest neighborhoods in Manhattan  save you the headache of constantly worrying about you and your family’s safety once you settle in your new place.

What Is The Best Area To Live In Manhattan New York City?

The dream of living in New York includes our yearning to experience urban life.

A place where you can walk around NYC’s busy streets, well-known shops, green markets , and city parks.

Luckily, New York has a great selection of neighborhoods where you can experience the city life while living in a safe part.

The following are some of the neighborhoods considered to have the best accessibility to all kinds of day and nightlife areas, and great apartment prices, all while having low crime rates:

New York’s Tribeca was hailed as the top 5 richest zip code in the United States by Bloomberg, but other than rich neighbors.

Tribeca also offers so much accessibility and safety to its residents that it became one of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan for a new home.

Another great reason to live in this upscale downtown area of Manhattan is to get a chance to spot some of your favorite celebrities. After all, with Tribeca’s popularity, many public figures reside in this part of the neighborhood. If you’re lucky enough, you might pass by one of them on one of your commutes.

Additionally, Tribeca’s neighborhood as one of the least number of crime rates, making it an ideal place to buy a home and settle down.

Battery Park City

Living at the heart of NYC’s busiest borough, people do not expect to experience a suburban quiet life.

But that environment is possible and available at Battery Park City.

It’s the best neighborhood in New York, especially for those who are looking for abundant outdoor space, playgrounds, accessibility to quality school to send your children, and friendly neighbors which mostly consist of families too. The area’s crime rate is also low, considering its high population density.

Flatiron District

Flatiron District is home to one of the most iconic buildings of New York, the Flatiron building.

If you’re looking to live your New York City life while living in an affordable and safe area, then Flatiron District is a great option.

Despite the low apartment rates, the spot is within walking distance from popular shops, restaurants, entertainment districts, and other facilities, commonly found on other more upscale and expensive neighborhoods of NYC .

Upper West Side

Considering Upper West Side sits near the busiest locations of Manhattan.

The area has the low crime rate and accessibility to one of NYC’s most famous and largest parks which is the central park.

It makes the Upper West Side a strong contender in terms of safety and beauty of the environment. Quite understandable why a lot of people move to NYC’s upper west side .

Washington Heights

Holding the title as the top 2 safest neighborhood in Manhattan from 2019 to 2020 — Washington Heights holds the record of 11 crimes per 1,000 residents. With an expansive area for greenery, you can expect to have a place where you can bike, stroll and jog, away from the usual smoke and noise pollution.

Upper East Side

This part of NYC, have almost the same accessibility and distance to most areas around its vicinity.

While its crime rate is slightly higher compared to the upper west side — the Upper Eastside has a record of 12 crimes per 1,000 residents in 2019-2020.

There are lots of people moving to Upper East Side , because of its comparatively lower median rent to the Upper Westside area.

If you’re looking on an area that’s more affordable, you can consider nearby Brooklyn, an alternative for those looking to relocate from the city. You can check our article comparing Brooklyn and Manhattan to learn the similarities and advantages on living in the two boroughs.

What Are The Safest Areas In NYC To Hang-out?

Now that you have prospect areas of the best places to look at when choosing your new home in New York, the next thing you should know is the best New York City neighborhoods you can visit for hanging out.

I know you already have a long list of tourist spots to see, but to give you more options to hang out with your friends and family, we compiled some of the best neighborhoods in NYC to visit where you can have fun.

These areas are also considered one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC. You don’t know the environment of these places might captivate you, so you can also consider hunting for your new apartment in these places.

Greenwich Village

Take a breather from NYC’s towering skyscrapers when you visit the Greenwich Village.

While lacking in modern buildings commonly found across NYC, Greenwich Village is still considered one of the best neighborhoods to visit.

Its well-maintained old townhouses and neighborhoods, with some structures as old as the 19th century. They are eye candies for those who want to score a cute picture for their next social media posts.

If you’re a lover of art, museum, and vintage buildings, you will surely feel at home at Chelsea.

One of the best neighborhood NYC has to offers.

It’s an extensive list of spots you can visit to retrace some of New York’s oldest history.

Lots of beautiful scenery, its a place where you can let loose at bars, or enjoy museum hopping to quench your love for art.

Murray Hill

Due to the great presence of Asian shop variety and residents of the area, Muray Hill has been dubbed as the Curry Hill or Little India of Manhattan.

While this spot is not on top of NYC’s best neighborhoods for nightlife and entertainment, the quaint atmosphere and affordable prices of housing and meals on this place make Murray Hill a great neighborhood to chill and live while being near the busier parts of NYC.

What Is The Safest Part Of New York City?

New York is divided into five different boroughs . Each has its own dangerous and safest neighborhoods. If you’re looking for a borough with the safest neighborhoods in NYC, Tribeca is the best place to consider.

According to the official government website of NYC’s crime map , it stated that this NYC borough, despite its big land area, this borough had been dubbed to have the safest places to live in New York City in 2020.

It’s clear that this reputation will remain for the coming years because of its low population density, and how the place have adequate distance from the heart of New York’s busiest spots.

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC

Now that we know the best place to look for your new home when considering safety above all else, it is equally important to know what part of NYC you should be extra careful when visiting.

Through referencing the NYC crime map to check for crime rates NYC had across the city for the past year, we can see that the domain within the Manhattan South Precinct’s.

The precinct compromise of the theater district, garment district, Koreatown, and midtown south, are the places which can be considered as the least safe neighborhoods of NYC — with a crime rate of 49 to 133 crime per 1000 residents during the beginning of January 2019 through the end of January 2020, it’s best to be extra careful when you’re around this places.

No need to completely avoid this neighborhood but It’s best to take extra precautions when going through these places; However, bear in mind that being alert of your surroundings for your safety is a practice you must always exercise whichever place you choose to live or walk around, may it be in New York or somewhere else.

Going through these precautions may sound laborious. However, living in NYC, where the city never sleeps, meant that crimes also have more opportunities to happen.

That’s why you have to be more proactive when making decisions to ensure that your home and your favorite hang-out areas are places where you can peacefully relax without worrying about your safety.

Do you have future plans on moving to New York? Do you prefer to move to Manhattan, you may want to check our list of best Moving Companies In NYC .

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Home » North America » New York City

Where to Stay in New York City (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

What do you picture when you think of New York City? Times Square, the Statue of Liberty,  Broadway, The West Village, Wall Street and the Financial District are just a few of New York’s most iconic tourist attractions. This city is packed with history, culture, food, fashion, and fun.

From Washington Square Park to Upper East Side, The Brooklyn Bridge and Greenwich Village, there’s heaps of area to explore! New York is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world.

But all of that excitement comes at a cost. Literally. New York City is one of the most expensive travel destinations, which is why we put together this no-stress guide on where to stay in New York City.

Written by our expert travel scribes, this guide will help you decide the best places to stay in New York. We will share our best-kept secrets and hidden gems, so you can find the best area to stay in New York for your style and budget. After reading this post, you’ll be able to book a place in New York with confidence and ease.

So get excited! Below we’ve covered our recommendations for where to stay in New York City.

Where to Stay in New York

New york neighbourhood guide – places to stay in new york, 5 best neighborhoods to stay in new york city, faqs about finding a place to stay in new york, don’t forget travel insurance for new york, final thoughts on where to stay in new york.

Backpacking New York on a budget is tough and digs don’t come cheap. But fear not, these are our top recommendations for the best places to stay in New York City.

We’ve got the best hotels, hostels and Airbnbs as well as covering the different areas. If you’re feeling flash, there are some luxury hotels chucked in there too!

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Best Hotel in New York – Freehand New York

Located at the heart of Midtown, Freehand New York is our top choice for where to stay in New York City. This hotel is close to the best landmarks, museums, and restaurants in New York. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and outfitted in a modern-rustic décor. The hotel has a coffee bar, dry cleaning service, and an on-site restaurant and bar. If you’re looking for luxury hotels that don’t break the bank then this is a good shout.

Best Airbnb in New York – Bright & Clean Union Sq Apartment

Perfectly located in West Village, this serviced apartment with every amenity you can imagine also has a shared garden with a bubbling fountain. It has a high-security monitoring system with 16 cameras throughout the building’s public areas and entry doors controlled by electric fobs. This place is recommended for where to stay in New York City if you want to have a home away from home. It’s one of the most incredible Airbnbs in Manhattan , and there’s a lot on offer!

Best Hostel in New York – American Dream Hostel

The Blue Moon Hotel is our top recommendation for a New York hostel if you’re on a budget. Walking distance to New York’s most famous landmarks, this hostel is close to shopping, dining, drinking, and more. It boasts private bathrooms and balconies, as well as refrigerators, coffeemakers, and minibars.

Midtown is the neighbourhood at the center of Manhattan. Stretching from the Hudson River to the East River, this neighbourhood is home to famous architecture, vibrant streets, and world-renowned landmarks. Midtown is one of the best places to stay in New York City for first-time visitors.

Lower East Side

Eclectic and vibrant, the Lower East Side is a neighbourhood that seamlessly blends history and modern times and is the best place to stay in New York for those on a budget. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, the Lower East Side was, for many decades, home to a thriving immigrant population.

East Village

With its youthful vibe and independent spirit, East Village is one of the most dynamic and distinct neighbourhoods in New York. It combines old-school charm and modern luxury, creating an atmosphere that encourages locals and visitors to explore its lively streets.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg isn’t just the coolest neighbourhood in New York City; it routinely ranks as one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the world, characterised by its thriving arts scene and vibrant nightlife. This is the place to see and be seen in New York.

Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is a classic New York neighbourhood and the best place to stay in New York for families. With its iconic architecture, tree-lined streets, and quintessential Brownstone townhomes, this is the New York that most people recognize from movies and TV.

New York City is one of the most massive and sprawling cities in the world. An epicentre for food, fashion, culture, finance and trade, NYC is truly a global metropolis.

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet; each year New York City attracts more than 50 million domestic and international visitors to tour its museums, gawk at its iconic sights, and stand at the centre of Time Square.

Divided into six boroughs, New York City is home to 59 neighbourhoods. Each borough has its own unique culture and atmosphere and could be a city all on its own. In fact, if Brooklyn was its own city, it would still be one of the biggest cities in the US. For that reason, we are going to focus on accommodation in Manhattan , NYC’s most famous and touristy borough.

Midtown Manhattan : This area is the heart of Manhattan, and where you will find NY’s most iconic landmarks, like Times Square, Grand Central Station, Rockefeller Centre, Broadway and Bryant Park.

Upper West / Upper East Side : North of Midtown Manhattan is the charming neighbourhoods, Upper West and Upper East Side. On either side of Central Park, these neighbourhoods are home to world-class museums, verdant parks, and famous addresses like Madison and Park Avenues. Expensive as can be, this is also one of the safest places in NYC .

Chelsea / East and West Villages / Lower East Side : Travelling south of Midtown, you’ll pass through Chelsea, the East and West Villages, and the Lower East Side before crossing the river to Brooklyn. All incredibly diverse and distinct, these neighbourhoods are where you’ll find great restaurants, vibrant bars, and a plethora of hip hideouts and trendy nightspots.

There are also loads of cool beach spots to explore from New York – Long Island, Cape May, and Montauk. If you choose to head to Montauk, check out these epic Montauk B&Bs .

Still not sure where to stay in New York City? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Let’s take a detailed look at the five best neighbourhoods in New York City. Each is a little different than the last, so be sure to check out which is right for you! But hey, it’s a must on your USA backpacking trip so you’ve got to make sure you stay in the right spot, right?!

1. Midtown – Where to Stay in New York City for the First Time

Midtown is the neighbourhood at the centre of Manhattan. Stretching from the Hudson River to the East River, this neighbourhood is home to famous architecture, vibrant streets, and world-renowned landmarks.

Many of the places to visit in New York are within walking distance of Midtown Manhattan and the great public transport links make getting to places like The Brooklyn Bridge, Greenwich Village and Upper East Side super easy.

Midtown’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly Times Square. Nicknamed “the crossroads of the world,” this part of Midtown is awash with bright lights, entertainment and shopping. You’ve also got epic views of the city from the Rockefeller Center and the iconic Empire State Building. You’ll also be super close to the Rockefeller Ice Rink if you visit in December .

No first trip to New York City is complete without a visit to Broadway. A historic and cultural landmark, the Great White Way is famous for hosting some of the greatest theatre and musical performances of all time. Whether you’re a longtime culture vulture or new to the scene, you won’t want to miss the chance to see a show on Broadway.

When it comes down to it, Midtown is quite “touristy,” but this means it’s home to some of the best attractions in NYC. That’s why Midtown is our pick for where to stay in New York for sightseeing.

The only downside here is that hotel prices are a bit more expensive and the hotel rooms are that bit smaller for the price! But hey, it’s the heart of NYC baby and it’s where some of the best hotels are located too. If you’re thinking about splashing the cash then there are some great luxury hotels here!

Best Affordable Hotel in Midtown – Pod 51

Pod 51 is a modern and charming three-star hotel in Midtown. It is a short walk from Bloomingdales and the Museum of Modern Art, surrounded by restaurants, bars and cafés. Rooms are comfortable and adorned in modern décor. There is also a rooftop terrace and garden for guests to enjoy. It’s one of the best hotels for the price in the city.

Best Hotel in Midtown – Freehand New York

Freehand New York is our top recommendation for where to stay in New York. It is centrally located, close to landmarks, museums, restaurants and more. Guests can enjoy comfortable and spacious rooms as well as a coffee bar and a dry cleaning service. There’s a charming on-site restaurant and stylish bar.

Best Airbnb in Midtown – Apartment with Private Terrace

Perfectly located in West Village, this stylish apartment has every amenity you can imagine. There’s also a private terrace where you can sit back and soak in the atmosphere of the city. It’s just a short walk from the Highline park with plenty of awesome places to eat nearby.

Best Hostel in Midtown – Chelsea International Hostel

Conveniently located on Manhattan’s East Side, the Chelsea International Hostel is one of our top recommendations for where to stay in Midtown, New York. Offering shared and private accommodations, this hostel has wifi, a terrace and self-catering facilities. It is close to bars, restaurants and New York’s top attractions like the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden and Bryant Park.

Things to See and Do in Midtown Manhattan

• Visit the iconic Broadway and watch an incredible play or musical performance.
• Snack on one of NYC’s finest bagels at Best Bagel and Coffee .
• Stand at the centre of Times Square , surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of New York City.
• Climb to the Top of the Rock (or ride the elevator) and take in the incredible views of NYC from the Rockefeller Center Observation Deck, you’ll get epic views of the Empire State Building from here.
• See unbelievable works of art at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
• Excite your senses at Spice Symphony .
• Grab a pint at the Carnegie Club .
• Take a walk down by the iconic East River .

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2.  Lower East Side – Where to Stay in Manhattan on a Budget

Eclectic and vibrant, the Lower East Side is a neighbourhood that seamlessly blends history and modern times. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, the Lower East Side was, for many decades, home to a thriving immigrant population.

Today, this southeastern New York City neighbourhood is a hub for art and culture as well as home to hip eateries and trendy bars. Here you’ll find a great variety of lively clubs, stylish restaurants, and fashionable boutiques.

While we wouldn’t say it’s cheap – this is New York City, after all – the Lower East Side is our pick for where to stay in New York on a budget, home to a myriad of affordable accommodation options.

Whether it’s a social hostel or a modern hotel, you’ll be able to find something to fit your style and budget on the Lower East Side. Here you’ll find the best hotels in terms of bang for your buck for sure.

Best Hostel in Lower East Side – Blue Moon Hotel

The Blue Moon Hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay on the Lower East Side. Walking distance to some of New York’s most famous landmarks, this hotel is close to shopping, dining, drinking and more. It boasts private bathrooms and balconies, as well as refrigerators, coffeemakers, and minibars.

Best Hotel in Lower East Side – citizenM New York Bowery

The CitizenM New York Bowery is one of our favourite hotels on the Lower East Side. Conveniently located in the middle of the city, this four-star hotel is close to bars, restaurants, museums and galleries. It boasts a variety of amenities that include an outdoor terrace, an on-site restaurant and 24-hour room service.

Best Hotel in Lower East Side – Redford Hotel

Classic and contemporary, the Redford Hotel is a great base for your time in NYC. It is located within walking distance of public transit as well as a number of New York’s top attractions. It has a swimming pool, and free wifi, and guests can enjoy free coffee and TV in their rooms.

Best Airbnb in Lower East Side – Modern Studio

This bright two-bedroom apartment is furnished with brand-new amenities, including a desk, ultra-comfortable queen-size bed, soft towels and a 26″ flat-screen TV with Netflix. This is an ideal place to stay in New York City if you want to have a home away from home. It’s also just a hop, skip and a jump from the Financial District and Houston Street.

Things to See and Do in Lower East Side

• Feel like a kid again and visit Economy Candy , where you’ll find aisles upon aisles of your favourite sweets and treats.
• Shop local artisans and independent vendors at the Hester Street Fair .
• Grab a drink and enjoy a great night out at Two-Bit’s Retro Arcade .
• Enjoy good beer and live music at Parkside Lounge , the perfect dive bar in New York City.
• Tease your taste buds with bold and delicious flavours at Goa Taco .
• Sink your teeth into a savoury slice of classic New York pizza at Rosario’s Pizzeria .
• Step back in time and explore New York’s history of immigration at the Tenement Museum .
• Go to the iconic Katz Deli over on Houston Street for a Reuben sandwich.

3.  East Village – Where to Stay in New York City for the Best Nightlife

The East Village is also where you’ll find some of New York City’s top nightlife. From cool dive bars and craft beer pubs to rooftop terraces and all-night clubs, this is where you want to stay if you’re looking to experience the best of New York after dark.

Best Affordable Hotel in East Village – East Village Hotel

Set in the heart of the city, East Village Hotel is a smart and stylish three-star hotel. Each of the hotel’s rooms is outfitted with a range of essential amenities, along with an on-site coffee shop/café. A short walk to the East Broadway Subway Station, this hotel is well connected to the rest of the city.

Best Hotel in East Village – Moxy NYC East Village

Moxy NYC East Village is one of our top picks for where to stay in the East Village. Set in the heart of this vibrant nightlife district, it is a short walk to bars, clubs, restaurants, and galleries. It has a number of key features as well as all the essential amenities for a great stay like a gym, bar and lounge.

Best Airbnb in East Village – Bright & Clean Union Sq Apartment

This cosy bright compact studio has the best location you can ever find in Manhattan. On the border of Chelsea, Meatpacking and West Village, it’s the perfect place to stay for a real New Yorker Experience.

Best Hostel in East Village – American Dream Hostel

American Dream Hostel is the closest hostel to East Village and one of the cheapest hostels in New York . A short walk away, this hostel is conveniently located in Manhattan’s Gramercy Park and Flatiron District neighbourhood. It offers private rooms, a common area, hot showers, and a delicious breakfast, you could even say it’s like a bed and breakfast. American Dream Hostel is surrounded by bars, clubs, and New York landmarks.

Things to See and Do in East Village, New York

• Dine on delicious dishes and enjoy a chill atmosphere at Mayahuel Mariposa .
• Sip urbane cocktails at Amor y Amargo .
• Enjoy outstanding drinks and an intimate setting at Death & Company .
• Dance the night away at Webster Hall .
• Try a variety of craft beers at Proletariat , a dark and cosy East Village hotspot.
• Indulge in the incredible dishes at Momofuku Ko .
• Treat yourself to a divine breakfast at Russ & Daughters .
• Savour fresh and flavourful dishes at Prune .

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4.  Williamsburg – Coolest Place to Stay in New York City

Across the East River in cool Brooklyn, you’ll find Williamsburg, a hipster hood that oozes cool around every turn.

At the centre of Brooklyn, Williamsburg is well connected to Manhattan and easy to reach from the rest of NYC. It’s home to eclectic restaurants, boutique shops, stylish bars, hip tattoo parlours, and rustic rooftop patios.

Best Affordable Hotel in Williamsburg – Pod Brooklyn

Pod Brooklyn is a modern and stylish three-star hotel – and our best recommendation for where to stay in Williamsburg. Located at the centre of this trendy neighbourhood, this hotel is close to bars, bistros, and boutiques. It has a bright and airy atmosphere, and rooms are outfitted with contemporary amenities and fixtures.

Best Hotel in Williamsburg – Hotel Le Jolie

Colourful décor, spacious rooms, and an unbeatable location are just a few of the reasons we love Hotel Le Jolie. Located in Brooklyn, this hotel is well-connected to the rest of the city, close to landmarks, restaurants, bars and public transit. Each room has a refrigerator, a private bathroom, and entertainment amenities.

Best Airbnb in Williamsburg – Entire Garden Apartment in Williamsburg

Located on the 3rd floor of a newly renovated apartment in North Williamsburg Brooklyn. Here you have a sun-splashed terrace apartment. Create a gourmet dinner, ride a bike, and relax on the terrace.

Best Hostel in Williamsburg – NY Moore Hostel

NY Moore Hostel is the best place to stay in trendy Williamsburg. At the heart of this lively neighbourhood, this hostel is close to fun bars, art galleries, hip restaurants, and independent shops.

This bright and colourful hostel has comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, a relaxing common room, and an awesome outdoor courtyard.

Things to See and Do in Williamsburg

• Sink your teeth into a good old fashion hot dog at Crif Dogs .
• Dine on flavourful modern Thai fare at Amarin Café .
• Work up an appetite at the Black Flamingo , an exciting dance club that serves incredible late-night tacos.
• Sample a wide variety of delicious dumplings at the Vanessa Dumpling House .
• Walk across the Williamsburg Bridge and take in the outstanding view of Brooklyn and New York City.
• Enjoy cheap drinks and delicious pizza at the Alligator Lounge .
• Shop for trinkets and treasures at the Brooklyn Flea Market .
• Dance until dawn at Output , a renowned club with a vibrant and lively dancefloor.

5.  Upper West Side – Where to Stay in New York City for Families

The Upper West Side is a classic New York neighbourhood. With its iconic architecture, tree-lined streets, and quintessential Brownstone townhomes, this is the New York that most people recognize from movies and TV.

The Upper West Side is our recommendation where to stay in New York City for families visiting.

Not only is the Upper West Side adjacent to the immense and expansive Central Park, but it is also home to world-famous cultural institutions like the American Museum of Natural History. Families with kids will love wandering through its exhibits, learning more about history, culture and the natural world.

In this neighbourhood, you’ll find family-friendly restaurants, attractions for all ages, and colourful candy stores – perfect for rewarding your little ones after a long day of New York sightseeing.

Best Hotel in Upper West Side – Hotel Newton

Located in Manhattan, Hotel Newton bursts with historic charm. Established in 1920, this fantastic three-star hotel boasts a variety of modern amenities, including a coffee bar and laundry service.

The rooms are comfortable, spacious and outfitted with wifi and a refrigerator. There’s also an on-site restaurant.

Best Hotel in Upper West Side – Belnord Hotel

Brimming with contemporary cool, Belnord Hotel is our best recommendation for where to stay on the Upper West Side. A short walk to NYC’s top attractions, this two-star hotel is surrounded by parks, restaurants, cafes and shops. Rooms feature modern décor and have private bathrooms, air-conditioning and free wifi access.

Best Airbnb in Upper West Side – Light and bright apartment

Just 100 paces from beautiful Central Park, this apartment is in a bright 6th-floor building with great light in a quiet neighbourhood. With a cosy kitchen, one bedroom and a sofabed, this is the perfect New York vacation rental for a small group. The building also has a washer and dryer too.

Best Hostel in Upper West Side – HI NYC Hostel

The HI NYC Hostel is conveniently located on the Upper West Side. It is well-connected throughout the city via the subway and a short walk to restaurants, parks, cafes, and landmarks.

HI NYC Hostel has an in-house theatre, billiards table, comfortable lounge, and recently renovated bathrooms. It also offers a laundry service and free wifi.

Things to See and Do in Upper West Side, New York

• Order a big salad or simply enjoy a cup of coffee at Tom’s Restaurant , a must-visit for Seinfeld fans.
• Dive deep into history, culture and the natural world at the incredible American Museum of Natural History .
• Take a virtual tour of the universe and beyond at the Hayden Planetarium .
• Enjoy five floors of fun at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan , where kids of all ages can experience interactive exhibitions and colourful displays.
• Indulge in sweet treats, cakes, and cookies at Levain Bakery .
• Pack a picnic and explore expansive and iconic Central Park , where you’ll find a pond, zoo, and plenty of walking paths.
• Dine on delicious and authentic Italian fare at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant .

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of New York and where to stay.

Which is the best area to stay in New York?

Midtown is our favourite place to stay. It puts you right at the heart of the city for the real NYC experience. There are loads of cool hotels like Freehand New York .

Where is a good place for families to stay in New York?

We recommend Upper-West Side for families. Its located perfectly to central park and it is full of incredible attractions that are also suitable for children of all ages.

Where can I stay in New York on a budget?

Lower East Side offers the most affordable options in New York. Hostels like Blue Moon Hotel are perfect if you are travelling with a lower budget.

Where is the coolest place to stay in New York?

Williamsburg is definitely New York at its coolest, and that’s saying a lot! It oozes character in its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars and shops. There is always something to see and do here.

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New York is one of the greatest cities in the world. It’s fast, fashionable, iconic, and fun. Whether you’re a history buff, culture fanatic, fashionista, dedicated foodie or first-time traveller, there’s something amazing for you in New York City.

Despite being a busy and bustling city, there are plenty of places to get a good night’s sleep in NYC.

To recap; Williamsburg is our top recommendation for the coolest neighbourhood in NYC. With its hip eateries and trendy bars, there’s always something going on in this central Brooklyn ‘hood.

Our top choice for the best hotel is the Freehand New York . Located in Midtown, this hotel is close to iconic sights, historic landmarks, and some of New York’s best restaurants and bars. You’re never far from the action when you stay at the Freehand New York.

Still not sure where to stay in New York City? Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mary Beth Skylis

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14 Most Beautiful Places To See In New York City

• New York City offers a vibrant and diverse experience with its famous streets, iconic buildings, and beautiful parks and gardens.
• The High Line is a must-visit urban oasis with lush greenery, gardens, and stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Washington Square Park, and Central Park are some of the most beautiful and culturally significant places to see in New York City.

New York City is one of the most vibrant destinations on the East Coast. Whether walking down its famous streets, visiting its iconic buildings, or discovering the beauty of New York City's parks and gardens - the city will have anything but a dull moment. New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and people from all over the world visit to immerse themselves in all that it has to offer.

With some of the most delicious world cuisine ( including some authentic Italian restaurants ), museums, a raging art and music scene, shopping, entertainment, and more - New York is the epitome of city life. Experiencing the city's hustle and bustle will be a lifetime trip. This city is home to some of the most beautiful and historical places in the United States. Choosing which sites to add to one's bucket list may be challenging with all the options. Here are ten of the most beautiful places to see in New York City.

UPDATE: 2023/09/28 22:43 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

More Beautiful Places To Visit In New York

New York is one of the world's biggest cities, and there are countless beautiful places that locals and tourists should visit. Therefore, this list has been expanded to include places such as the High Line, the Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, the Washington Square Park, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Have fun!

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In The Bronx: Complete Guide To NYC's Northernmost Borough

The High Line

The High Line in New York City is an urban oasis suspended above the bustling streets of Manhattan, and its tranquil ambiance and architectural ingenuity make it a must-visit destination, providing both locals and tourists a respite in the heart of the metropolis.

This elevated linear park, repurposed from a historic railway track, offers a serene escape amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Lush greenery, vibrant gardens, and public art installations adorn the path, creating a harmonious blend of nature and urbanity. The High Line provides stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River, offering a unique perspective of New York.

• Address : New York, NY 10011, United States
• Open hours: From 9 am to 10 pm

DUMBO, Brooklyn

DUMBO, short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is a famous neighborhood in Brooklyn. Nestled along the East River, it boasts a distinctive blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy, thanks to its cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline characterize this waterfront enclave.

DUMBO is a hub for art, culture, and innovation, hosting numerous galleries, boutiques, and tech startups. Visitors can revel in the enchanting scenery of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, enjoy a scenic stroll along the waterfront, and savor culinary delights at trendy eateries. DUMBO encapsulates Brooklyn's dynamic spirit, making it a compelling destination to explore.

It's possible to reach DUMBO by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge walking or by bike

Washington Square Park

Locals and tourists looking for an urban oasis amidst America's most populous city can find it at Washington Square Park. The place is a cultural crossroads, offering a serene respite, captivating ambiance, and a front-row seat to the lively spirit of Greenwich Village.

Located in Manhattan, the Washington Square Park features the iconic Washington Arch, a historic landmark. Trees, gardens, and a central fountain surround visitors. The park's bohemian atmosphere, abuzz with musicians, artists, and locals, lends it a dynamic character. The stunning arch frames views of the surrounding cityscape, adding to its allure.

• Address : Washington Square, New York, NY 10012, United States

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is often referred to as "The Met" (Yes, the same place that hosts the famous Met Gala). The museum is an architectural and cultural masterpiece in New York City thanks to its grand Beaux-Arts façade.

Beyond its architecture, the Met features a worldwide collection representing 5,000 years of history. Visitors admire over two million works, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The museum's diverse exhibits, including European paintings, Egyptian antiquities, and Asian art, offer a global journey through artistic expression.

• Address : 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
• Admission fees: $30 for adults, $22 for seniors, $17 for students
• Open hours: From Sunday to Thursday - 10 am to 5 pm; Friday and Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm

Central Park

Central Park is one of New York's most iconic attractions. People from all over the world visit to admire its beauty, and the best part - is that Central Park is free, and there are many ways to spend time there . This park is famous for its landscape design and is one of the city's most beautiful places. The park offers many things to do and see, where visitors can spend hours discovering different areas with some of the most picturesque views.

• The Central Park has 843 acres

Old City Hall Subway Station

With some of the most beautiful places in New York - Old City Hall Subway Station is a must-see when visiting the city. Initially opening in 1904, this hidden subway station has a mesmerizing architectural build and is a beautiful way to see New York's historical public transportation system. It is located at the end of the six-train line, and tours are available for guests who want to visit the old subway station.

• Admission fees: Between $35 and $50

Related: New York City's Springtime Waterways: Exploring The City's Rivers & Harbors On Boat Tours

Statue Of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a historical attraction in the city - a neoclassical structure that offers some of the most beautiful views in the city. People worldwide visit to witness the statue and all its beauty. With some of the prettiest parts of New York one can explore , a trip to the Statue of Liberty will show visitors the rich history of New York City. This is one of the best locations to take amazing pictures!

• Ferry fees: $12 (Children), $24.50 (Adult), $18 (Senior)
• Pedestal access: $12.30 (Children), $24.80 (Adult), $18.30 (Senior)

Prospect Park

New York City has some of the most beautiful parks, not just Central Park. Prospect Park is in Brooklyn, New York, and is home to a breathtaking green space in the city. From excellent trails, a botanical garden, waterfalls, and a zoo - Prospect Park is a must-visit when discovering beautiful areas in New York City. Whether walking in the park or having a picnic with family and friends, it's a lovely way to spend some time in the city's gorgeous outdoors.

• Famous events: Evening Under the Sphere, FallFur Picnic, Harvest Moon Circle

Brooklyn Bridge

Take a trip to Brooklyn Bridge to see one of the most iconic bridges in New York. Visiting New York's beautiful and historic attractions is one of the best parts of traveling in the city. Brooklyn Bridge’s stunning architectural build shows the city's vast history. It's a beautiful way to walk along the bridge, with many opportunities to take pictures and view the city's skyline.

It's possible to cross the Brooklyn Bridge using the pedestrian walkway.

Edge Observation Deck

Edge Observation Deck is an attraction in New York City that offers some of the most mesmerizing views of the city. It is 100 stories high and is a beautiful way to immerse in the city's beauty. It is one of the best ways to see the city's beauty from a high point. A trip to the Edge will be the experience of a lifetime with its glass floors, breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, and a bar for enjoyment.

• Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States

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New York is home to some of the most iconic neighborhoods. SoHo is a neighborhood worth visiting for those who want to experience New York's beautiful streets and breathtaking buildings. From art galleries, shops, street vendors, restaurants, a nightlife scene, and so much more - there is much to see and discover in this beautiful neighborhood in New York City.

• Things to do: Museum of Ice Cream, The Museum of Modern Art, Housing Works Bookstore

Madison Square Park

Home to some of the most beautiful parks - Madison Square Park is high on the list of New York's mesmerizing outdoor spaces. It is a fantastic place to visit to walk and enjoy New York in the spring. For nature lovers, the park offers various greenery to escape the busy city life. Whether taking a small snack or enjoying time with family or friends, it will be a beautiful and relaxing experience in the city.

• Address : 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States

Times Square

Times Square is one of the most popular destinations in New York City. People worldwide travel to see its iconic lights, billboards, buildings, and so much more. It is a must-visit when touring the city to see the town's beauty and all it is known for. Offering many shops and restaurants, the area has much to do and see, with many opportunities for pictures. Times Square is one of New York's most busy and thrilling areas and is worth experiencing for those traveling to the city!

The most common and convenient way to reach Times Square is by subway. Multiple subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, and S lines, serve the Times Square-42nd Street station.

Related: 10 Top-Rated Museums In New York City That Should Be On Your List

New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Visit the New York City Public Library to get views of its stunning architecture and immerse in the city's history. This extensive library is a charming destination to discover New York's diverse beauty and experience all the city's spaces. With a fantastic collection of books and areas to discover inside and outside the library, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New York City.

• Address: 476 Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street

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6 safest neighborhoods in Queens, New York, to live in 2024

Queens, one of the five boroughs of New York City, offers a vibrant and diverse atmosphere with a mix of residential areas, commercial districts and green spaces. Safety is usually the top priority for people settling in a new place. So, which are the safest neighborhoods in Queens with great amenities and a community feel?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safest neighborhoods in queens to live., 3. auburndale, 4. forest hills, 5. laurelton, 6. kew gardens hills, is queens new york safe, wrapping up.

Queens is the largest and fastest developing New York City borough. The Queens district economy is based on tourism (LaGuardia and JFK airports are both in the district), art, and entertainment , an industry that was dying in New York.

Are you planning to live in Queens, New York City, and are looking for the safest Queens neighborhoods? Look no further! This article comprehensively explores the best neighborhoods in Queens, known for their low crime rate and welcoming communities.

The list of the safest neighborhoods in Queens to live in has been sourced from Area Vibes and Metropolis Moving .

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1. Bellerose

Bellerose in eastern Queens is known for its quiet suburban atmosphere and peaceful residential streets. The area is primarily residential, with a mix of smaller apartment buildings and single-family homes. The neighbourhood has a lively commercial centre along Jamaica Avenue, with various amazing restaurants , cafes and shops.

It's also closely located to major transportation hubs, including the Long Island Rail Road and several other major highways, making it easy to access different parts of Manhattan and Queens.

Which part of Queens is the safest? Bellerose is undoubtedly the safest part of Queens. Its annual total crime is 302 (estimate) per 100,000 residents.

Bayside is an upper-middle-class neighbourhood in Northeastern Queens. It's considered one of the most affluent and expensive neighbourhoods in New York City.

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This neighbourhood's detached suburban-style homes give off a vibe similar to that of other wealthy Queens communities such as Douglaston and Little Neck. Bayside has a reported crime rate of 1065 (estimate) per 100,000 residents.

Nestled in the northeastern part of Queens, Auburndale is a beautiful upper-middle-class neighbourhood. It exudes a suburban vibe while remaining close to the city's excitement.

Families particularly favour Auburndale's because of its excellent public schools and recreational facilities, such as Kissena Park. Auburndale is considered one of the safest Queens neighbourhoods, with its annual crime rate estimated at 1,434 per 100,000 residents.

Forest Hills, with the ZIP code 11375, is in Queens Community District 6. It is primarily a residential neighbourhood in the central part of Queens, New York. Lined with tulip trees and Tudor houses, Forest Hills is safe, secluded, and relaxed.

It's home to Forest Hills Stadium, where events and concerts are hosted throughout the summer. There are plenty of parks nearby for nature lovers and families with young children. Forest Hills' annual total crime sits at 1,613 (estimated) per 100,000 residents.

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Laurelton is primarily a middle-class neighbourhood and part of the former town of Jamaica. It is surrounded by Rosedale to the east, Cambria Heights to the north, and Springfield Gardens to the west and south. It is a predominantly African American community with a thriving culture and rich history.

Laurelton boasts tree-lined streets, well-maintained houses , and a strong sense of community. It is also home to several green spaces, such as Brookville Park, a popular outdoor spot. Laurelton has a reported crime rate of 1,656 (estimate) per 100,000 residents.

Kew Gardens Hills, a popular Queens neighbourhood, is near several highways, including the Van Wyck Expressway, Grand Central Parkway, Long Island Expressway, and Jackie Robinson Parkway.

It’s one of the best places to live in New York as it offers residents a dense urban feel, and most of them own their homes. The public schools in Kew Gardens Hill are above average, and the neighbourhood has many restaurants, high-end clubs , coffee shops, and parks. Queens’ annual total crime is estimated at 1,734 (estimate) per 100,000 residents.

Worst neighborhoods in New York explored: Risky areas to stay away from

According to NYPD data , Queens has witnessed a decrease in major crimes over the past few years. Queens' overall crime rate is lower than in several other urban areas of similar size, making it one of the safer New York City boroughs. However, like other metropolitan areas, crime rates vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood.

Have you found the safest neighbourhood in Queens? Whether you seek a family-friendly place, a vibrant cultural hub, or a quiet suburban haven, Queens offers a diverse range of safe neighbourhoods to suit your needs. Queens New York safety rates can fluctuate, so staying informed and practising general safety measures is important no matter where you choose.

Tuko.co.ke has shared an article about the worst neighbourhoods in New York . New York, a vibrant metropolis teeming with life, also has areas where safety concerns are a top priority.

Whether you plan to settle in NY or are simply a tourist, navigating unfamiliar territory can be daunting. This article has information about the neighborhoods in New York City that consistently rank high in crime rates. Read it for more details.

Source: TUKO.co.ke