New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world. Every year, millions of people flock to the “city that never sleeps” for its abundance of culture, entertainment, and more. With its vibrant nightlife, famous landmarks, and unique attractions, it’s no surprise that New York City has been such a popular destination for tourists.
But with all its attractions comes an important question– how safe is New York City for tourists? In this blog post, we will explore the safety measures that are in place in New York City to ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable stay. From crime rates to public transportation systems, you’ll get an inside look at what makes NYC such a secure place to visit.
The rise in crime rates
New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but it is also one of the most dangerous. The rise in crime rates over the past few years has made many visitors to the city wary of their safety.
Violent crime in New York City has been on the rise since 2014, according to NYPD data. In 2017, there were a total of 5,963 violent crimes reported, an increase of nearly 1,000 from the previous year. This includes murders, rapes, robberies, and assaults. While this is still lower than the high of 6,252 violent crimes reported in 2001, it is a worrying trend nonetheless.
The vast majority of violent crimes in New York City are concentrated in a few specific areas. The South Bronx and North Brooklyn are particularly dangerous, with significantly higher rates of violence than the rest of the city. Harlem and East Harlem are also areas to avoid if possible.
Of course, it’s important to keep perspective – even with these increases, crime rates in New York City are still relatively low compared to other major metropolitan areas around the world. But it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when travelling in any unfamiliar place.
What are the safest areas in New York City?
New York City is one of the safest cities in the world for tourists. While there are always areas to be aware of, overall, the city is very safe.
The safest areas in New York City are typically the more tourist-friendly areas. This includes Midtown Manhattan, Times Square, and Central Park. These areas are heavily populated with police officers and security guards, so crime is very low. Additionally, these areas are well-lit and have a lot of foot traffic, so you’ll always feel safe.
Of course, there are always going to be some areas that are safer than others. The Upper West Side and Upper East Side are generally considered to be the safest neighborhoods in NYC. These neighborhoods are affluent and have little crime. So if you’re looking for a safe place to stay while in New York City, these two neighborhoods are your best bet.
Areas to avoid in New York City
There are certain areas of New York City that are best avoided by tourists. These areas tend to be more dangerous and have higher crime rates.
The Bronx is one area that should be avoided. This borough has a high rate of violent crime, and tourists are often targets for criminals.
Harlem is also an area to be avoided. This area can be very dangerous, especially at night, and there are often reports of crime and violence.
The South Bronx is another area that should be avoided. This borough is known for its high crime rate and gang activity.
Finally, avoid Brooklyn’s Brownsville neighborhood at all costs. This area has a very high rate of violent crime and tourists should not visit this area unaccompanied.
Queens is another borough that should be avoided by tourists. Like the Bronx, Queens has a high rate of violent crime. In addition, there are many gangs operating in this borough, so visitors should be cautious.
Brooklyn is also an area that should be avoided by tourists. While Brooklyn does not have the same high level of violent crime as the Bronx and Queens, it does have a lot of petty crime such as pickpocketing and mugging. Additionally, there are many areas of Brooklyn that are known for being unsafe at night.
NYPD’s safety tips for tourists
If you’re planning a trip to New York City, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers and how to stay safe. Here are some safety tips from the NYPD:
- Always be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. If you feel unsafe, move to a more crowded area or call 911.
- Keep your belongings close to you and don’t leave them unattended in public places.
- Be cautious when using ATMs and only use machines that are in well-lit areas.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash.
- Don’t flag down taxis on the street – only use licensed cabs from reputable companies.
- When possible, travel with someone else and let someone know where you’ll be going and when you expect to return.
How to avoid getting mugged or pickpocketed
The best way to avoid getting mugged or pickpocketed is to be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep your belongings close to you. Be especially cautious in crowded areas and when using public transportation.
Keep your valuables in a safe place, like a hotel room safe or locked compartment on your person, and carry only the cash you need for the day. If you must carry a purse or backpack, keep it securely fastened and close to your body. Pay attention to people who seem to be loitering or following you, and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right. If you think you’re being followed, go to a busy, well-lit area or call the police.
Conclusion
New York City is an incredible place to visit, with lots of attractions and a vibrant atmosphere. While it may be safer than other large cities in the world, there are still some areas that can be dangerous for tourists.
It is important to do your research before visiting any destination and always exercise caution when walking around unfamiliar places. Traveling in groups, avoiding dark alleys and staying aware of your surroundings are all great ways to help ensure you have a safe trip to New York City – so make sure you keep these tips in mind!