New York City is a diverse and dynamic metropolis, comprising five boroughs:
- Manhattan,
- Brooklyn,
- Queens,
- The Bronx,
- Staten Island.
Each borough has numerous neighborhoods, each with unique characteristics and safety profiles.
Below, we list 15 of the safest neighborhoods in New York City. They offer residents peace and security.
Here we go!!
15 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City (NYC)
1. Tribeca
Have you ever wondered what’s the safest place in New York?
Tribeca is short for “Triangle Below Canal Street”. It’s the safest neighborhood in New York City. It’s located in southern Manhattan and become popular as a residential neighborhood. It has a thriving arts and cultural scene.
According to the data from AreaVibes:
Statistic | Tribeca | NYC | National |
Total Crime Rate (per 100k) | 8,017 (estimate) | 2,885 | 2,324 |
Violent Crime Rate (per 100k) | 992 (estimate) | 744 | 370 |
Property Crime Rate (per 100k) | 7,025 (estimate) | 2,141 | 1,954 |
The search results show that Tribeca has about 8,017 crimes per 100,000 residents. The citywide rate is 2,885 and the national rate is 2,324.
However, the locals and tourists can get relaxed and safe for the following crime components as it seems N/A in the report:
- Murder;
- Rape;
- Robbery;
- Assault;
- Burglary;
- Theft;
- Vehicle theft.
This is driven by a much higher property crime rate in Tribeca, estimated at 7,025 per 100,000 residents, compared to 2,141 per 100,000 citywide.
As for the violent crime rate, Tribeca is higher than the New York City and national averages.
It has an estimated 992 violent crimes per 100,000 residents versus 744 per 100,000 citywide and 370 per 100,000 nationally.
For a better view of safety in this neighborhood, I’m putting the crime rate map of Tribeca below. More red means more danger.
So most people believe that Tribeca is the safest area to live in New York City.
2. Battery Park City
Set on the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park City also is known as one of the safest parts of NYC. It has some stunning waterfront views and green spaces. This neighborhood has a crime rate lower than the national average. This makes it an appealing place to call home.
Overall, Battery Park City is secure and calm for its residents.
3. Kips Bay
Located in midtown Manhattan, Kips Bay is one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City. It’s a neighborhood that has significantly reduced crime over the past three decades.
Crime rates in Kips Bay have decreased by over 80%. It’s now a safe and welcoming place.
Plus, it’s in the center and near famous medical institutions. It has a lively community. This makes it a great choice for residents who want security and convenience.
4. Brooklyn Heights
Brooklyn Heights is a historic area. It’s known for its pretty brownstone houses and tree-lined streets. It has witnessed an impressive 84% decrease in crime since the early 1990s.
With its strong sense of community and well-preserved architecture, Brooklyn Heights offers residents a peaceful and secure environment away from the bustling city.
5. Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village is often in movies and home to many notable artists. It’s considered one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City.
Plus, it has a unique charm that attracts both residents and tourists.
Its incarceration rate is low. But it has occasional property crime issues.
However, the overall safety of the neighborhood remains high, and its vibrant atmosphere and cultural significance make it an appealing place to live.
You may also like: 15 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC
6. Murray Hill
Murray Hill is on Manhattan’s east side. It’s a quaint neighborhood known for its historic townhouses and lively social scene.
Over the years, it has experienced a substantial 80.7% decrease in crime between 1990 and 2018. Murray Hill has charming streets. It is near major attractions. It provides a secure home for its residents.
7. Nolita
Nolita, short for “North of Little Italy,” is located in downtown Manhattan.
It’s safe now. But, it has changed a lot recently and attracted richer residents. This shift has resulted in a notable drop in crime rates, making Nolita a safer neighborhood.
Nolita has trendy boutiques, upscale restaurants, and historic buildings. It offers a secure and stylish place to live.
8. Upper East Side
The Upper East Side is one of the luxury places to live in the city.
Here is a short overview of the crime rate and safety for the Upper East Side, based on Areavibes.com:
Statistic | Upper East Side | New York City |
Violent Crime Rate (per 100k) | 321 (estimate) | 744 |
Property Crime Rate (per 100k) | 1,844 (estimate) | 1,559 |
Total Crime Rate (per 100k) | 2,095 (estimate) | 2,136 |
The search results show that the Upper East Side has a lower violent crime rate than all of New York City. You can see from the table above that it has an estimated 321 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. This is versus 744 citywide.
But property crime in the Upper East Side is a bit higher than the city average. It has about 1,844 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The citywide rate is 1,559 per 100,000.
The total crime rate in the Upper East Side is 2,095 per 100,000 residents. This rate is like the New York City average of 2,136 per 100,000.
9. Carroll Gardens
Carroll Gardens, located in Brooklyn, is a family-friendly neighborhood as it’s one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City.
This neighborhood offers a tight-knit community with low crime rates. This makes it a great choice for families seeking safety and a sense of belonging.
10. Forest Hills
Forest Hills, situated in the borough of Queens, is a suburban oasis within the bustling city. This neighborhood has tree-lined streets and spacious homes. It has access to green spaces like Forest Park.
With its peaceful ambiance and crime rate lower than the city average, Forest Hills offers residents a safe and serene living environment.
11. Riverdale
It is in the northwest corner of the Bronx. Riverdale is known for its scenic beauty and spacious homes. It offers quite a peaceful retreat from the busy city. It has a low crime rate and a strong community.
12. Bayside
Bayside is also among the safest neighborhoods in New York City.
All in all, it’s a family-friendly neighborhood as it provides a safe environment and quality schools. Its welcoming community and well-maintained streets make it a sought-after place to live.
13. Astoria
Astoria is definitely one of the safest areas to live in NYC. It’s situated in western Queens and is known for its vibrant multicultural atmosphere and thriving food and arts scene.
Yes, it’s not without some crime there.
But overall, Astoria is quite safe and lively. It attracts a diverse population seeking both convenience and security.
14. Park Slope
Park Slope is in Brooklyn. People like its leafy streets, historic brownstones, and nearness to Prospect Park as it’s safe there. It offers a safe and family-friendly environment.
Also, the community is active and puts safety first. It takes part in neighborhood watch programs.
15. Lenox Hill
Lenox Hill, also situated on the Upper East Side, is also among the safest neighborhoods in New York City I’d like to mention.
All in all, it’s known for its upscale residential buildings and proximity to renowned medical institutions. The neighborhood offers a secure and luxurious living experience.
You may also like: 15 Best Places to Find Sublets in New York City
NYC Safest Neighborhoods FAQs
Are these neighborhoods safe for families with children?
Yes, many of the neighborhoods in this article are safe for families. They, such as Carroll Gardens, Forest Hills, and Riverdale, offer a family-friendly atmosphere, good schools, and low crime. This makes them ideal for raising children.
Some of the neighborhoods mentioned are known for luxury living and high costs. These include Tribeca and the Upper East Side.
However, there are also cheaper options. Take, Astoria and Park Slope, for example.
Overall, prices vary by neighborhood. They also vary by specific location within a neighborhood.
Conclusion
New York City is divided into diverse neighborhoods. Each has its own character and safety profile.
Many people think the city is unsafe. In some areas, crime rates have greatly decreased. We’ve mentioned fifteen of the safest neighborhoods in Manhattan. They offer safe living and cater to various preferences and lifestyles.
The city has options for everyone. They offer security and peace. For example, there are the vibrant streets of Tribeca.
I hope the safety picture of New York City is helpful for you. It can help you while planning your trip here.