Is New York Safe? My Honest Review as a Tourist & Traveller

New York City is massive and, without a doubt, one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States. With its five boroughs and over 350 neighborhoods, plus iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty, it’s easy to see why so many people dream of visiting or even living in New York.

Today, I want to tackle a question that might feel a little less fun but is important for anyone planning a trip: Is New York safe? 

I’ll share my honest perspective based on multiple visits and personal experiences navigating the city as a tourist.

Is New York Safe – My Experience

I’ve visited New York several times, and before I dive in, I want to be clear: my perspective is limited to what it’s like as a tourist. Living in New York, or visiting different neighborhoods outside the usual tourist areas, can be a very different experience.

That said, I feel confident sharing my experience for other tourists, since I’ve spent quite a bit of time navigating the city. On all of my trips, I’ve never felt unsafe or in actual danger.

Of course, I also make a point of not putting myself in risky situations, and I usually stick to Manhattan and Brooklyn, which, in my experience, are fairly safe, especially in the popular areas.

One thing to note: New York has a lot of interesting characters. You may encounter people who are unhoused, struggling with mental health or addiction, or just acting unusual. Sometimes they may come close, shout, or behave oddly, but in most cases, nothing will happen. I usually just ignore it and keep walking, and it’s fine.

That said, your comfort level may vary. For someone from London, Sydney, or LA, this might feel normal, but for others, like someone from a smaller town, it could feel very unsettling.

These situations aren’t necessarily unsafe, but they can be uncomfortable. From my experience, that’s the most common “risk” a tourist is likely to encounter in New York.

Safest Areas to Stay in New York City

From my experience as a tourist, Manhattan felt the safest, especially around all the popular sights. Lower Manhattan and Midtown are perfect for tourists, during the day, the streets are full of locals and visitors, and you really don’t have to worry. I’ve spent most of my time there, and it always felt comfortable and safe.

In Manhattan, the most likely “risk” would be petty crimes like pickpocketing at busy tourist spots such as Times Square but personally, I’ve never had any issues.

Brooklyn is also great for visitors. Back in the day, people thought Brooklyn wasn’t safe, but that’s changed a lot. Neighborhoods like DUMBO, Williamsburg, Brooklyn Heights, and around Prospect Park are amazing, fun, and have a very cool, welcoming vibe. They’re perfect for exploring, grabbing coffee, or just soaking up the city’s energy.

I haven’t spent much time outside these areas, so I can’t confidently give recommendations for Queens or the Bronx. My advice is to stick to Manhattan and the popular parts of Brooklyn for the safest, most enjoyable experience as a tourist.

I recommend these hotels for you to stay at:

Book Here: Concorde Hotel New York

Book Here: The Renwick

Book Here: Aka Central Park

Where Should You Be More Cautious

Of course, New York is huge and mostly safe for tourists, but there are some neighborhoods where you just don’t want to be wandering around, day or night. 

Some of the stereotypes you’ve probably heard about gang violence and crime in parts of Brooklyn or the Bronx still hold a bit of truth, even though things have improved a lot over the years.

From what I’ve read and learned, Brownsville in Brooklyn is one of those areas where you really want to avoid wandering. In the Bronx, neighborhoods like Hunts Point, Mott Haven, and Highbridge have higher crime rates and aren’t exactly tourist-friendly. 

That said, you don’t have to freak out, the Bronx still has plenty of safe, fun areas, like the Zoo, Yankee Stadium, and Riverdale, so it’s not like the whole borough is off-limits.

Honestly, most tourists don’t need to go anywhere near these neighborhoods. Stick to Manhattan, the popular parts of Brooklyn, Queens hotspots like Long Island City, or even safe areas of the Bronx, and you’ll be perfectly fine.

Safety Tips for Tourists in New York

• Stick to the popular areas: Manhattan and most parts of Brooklyn are generally safe, day or night. If you’re wandering around after dark and feel uneasy, just grab an Uber, simple and safe.
  
• Don’t stress about the city’s characters: You’ll see all kinds of people, but most are harmless. A little noise or weird behavior is normal, just ignore it, keep walking, and you’ll be fine.
  
• Pickpocket-proof your stuff: Invest in a travel purse or handbag that’s designed to be pickpocket-proof. They’re not expensive and make wandering crowded streets like Times Square much less stressful.
  
• Know taxi and ride-share rules: Taxi fares from JFK to Manhattan are capped at around $100, so don’t let anyone try to overcharge you. Uber and Lyft have predictable pricing too.
  
• Use your common sense at night: Avoid poorly lit or deserted streets, especially outside the main tourist areas. Stick to main roads and busy streets.
  
• Keep your valuables secure: Don’t flash expensive phones, cameras, or jewelry in crowded areas. Keep wallets in front pockets and backpacks zipped.
  
• Emergency info: Save 911 for emergencies only, and know your hotel’s address in case you need to give directions or get a ride back.

Is New York Safe for Solo Female Travellers

I’d usually say yes, at least if you’re sticking to the parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn where most tourists spend their time. Those areas are busy, well-lit, and generally fine to wander, day or night. 

Of course, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx also have plenty of perfectly safe residential neighborhoods, but realistically, as a visitor, you’ll probably spend most of your trip in Manhattan or Brooklyn anyway.

I’ve done a few trips to New York solo and never felt unsafe, certainly no more than in any other big city in the world. You still use the same common sense: stay alert, avoid deserted streets late at night, and trust your gut.

One thing I’ll add from my own experience: when I came here backpacking, I noticed hostels in New York (and honestly the U.S. in general) aren’t quite like the ones in Europe or Latin America. Don’t expect the same social backpacker vibe, they’re often filled with students or people who just need temporary housing. Totally fine to stay in, but if you’re looking for instant travel buddies, it’s not really the same atmosphere.

FAQs About Safety in New York City

Is New York safe to visit?

I personally think so, at least as safe as a big city can be. I’ve been to New York many times now and never once felt unsafe or in danger. So yes, I’d definitely recommend visiting NYC.

Is New York worth visiting?

Absolutely. New York is one of my favorite cities, and if I had to recommend just one U.S. city to visit, whether you’re American or an international traveler, it would be New York. It’s iconic for a reason.

What is the best area to stay in New York?

For pure convenience, I’d say Midtown Manhattan, location-wise it’s hard to beat. But on my last visit, I stayed in Brooklyn and thought it was super cool too. Different vibe, but just as fun.

Is Manhattan safe?

From a tourist’s perspective, yes. Manhattan feels like the safest borough to wander around, it’s always buzzing with people, especially in the popular parts. Just keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded spots like Times Square.

Final Thoughts on Is New York Safe to Travel (Travel Safety in NYC)

All in all, I’d say New York is safe to visit, at least from my tourist point of view. Of course, like in any big city, there are neighborhoods that can be rough, but as a visitor you’re unlikely to end up there. 

I’ve been to New York several times, and I never felt uneasy or unsafe, I just had amazing trips every time.

The only thing that might catch you off guard are New York’s more “interesting” subway characters or the occasional street scene in Manhattan, but honestly, that’s part of the city’s personality. In my opinion, the real crime here is the $400 hotel rooms and $8 coffees they sell in Manhattan.

I hope this little guide helps answer the question “Is New York City safe?” and eases your mind before your trip.

Check Out My Other New York City Travel Guides

Is New York City Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

Best Time to Visit New York City: My Guide on When to Visit NYC

Worst Time to Visit: My Guide on When Not to Visit NYC

First Time in New York City: My First Timers Guide for NYC

Christmas in New York: My NYC Christmas Itinerary

New York City Itinerary: My Perfect Itinerary for NYC

Autumn in New York: My Guide for New York Fall Foliage

Is New York Safe: My Honest Review

Is New York Expensive: My Budget Breakdown

How Many Days in New York: My New York City Guide

Solo Travel New York City: My Guide on a NYC Solo Trip