The Safest Neighborhoods in NYC: A Complete Guide for 2025
New York City is one of the most exciting and diverse places in the world. Whether you’re moving to NYC, visiting for the first time, or just looking for a safe area to live, safety is always a top priority.
While the city has come a long way from its rough past, some neighborhoods are safer than others, offering low crime rates, family-friendly communities, and a greater sense of security.
In this guide, we’ll break down the safest neighborhoods in NYC across all five boroughs, compare crime rates, and provide tips on how to stay safe in the city.
Quick Summary
New York City is made up of five boroughs, each with its own safe and secure neighborhoods. In Manhattan, the safest areas include the Upper West Side and Tribeca, offering low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Brooklyn’s safest communities include Park Slope and Brooklyn Heights, both known for their family-friendly environment and historic charm. Queens offers secure areas like Forest Hills and Bayside, which are ideal for those seeking quiet, suburban vibes within the city. In The Bronx, areas like Riverdale stand out as low-crime zones, while Staten Island is the most family-friendly borough, with neighborhoods like Great Kills and Tottenville ranking among the safest.
Crime rates vary by borough, but NYC living overall continues to improve its safety. In this guide, we’ll cover the criteria for evaluating safety, crime rate comparisons, and essential value tips for staying secure while enjoying the city.
Overview of Safety in NYC
New York City (New York State) has undergone a major transformation over the last few decades, becoming one of the safest large cities in the United States. While certain areas still experience crime, the city’s overall crime rate has steadily declined thanks to increased policing, surveillance technology, and community engagement programs.
However, like any big city, NYC has its share of safety concerns. Property crimes, risk, scams, and occasional violent incidents can still occur, which is why knowing which neighborhoods are the safest can help you make the best decision for where to live or visit.
Criteria for Evaluating Neighborhood Safety
To determine the safest neighborhoods in NYC, we consider several key factors:
- Crime Rates – Data from the NYPD and crime tracking reports.
- Police Presence – The number of patrol officers and precincts in an area.
- Community Engagement – Active neighborhood watch programs and local involvement.
- Family-Friendliness – Schools, parks, shops, boutiques and residential safety.
- Lighting & Surveillance – Well-lit streets and security cameras in public areas.
- Walkability & Public Transportation – The ease of access, safely commuting without a car.
By looking at these factors, we can highlight the best neighborhoods across the five boroughs.
Manhattan’s Safest Neighborhoods
Manhattan (including Lower Manhattan) is the heart of NYC, filled with skyscrapers, architecture, bustling streets, and some of the city’s most luxurious real estate with great history and culture. If you’re looking for a safe place to live in the borough, these neighborhoods stand out:
1. Upper West Side
- One of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in NYC with great bus transport system.
- Home to Riverside Park and Central Park, providing plenty of green space.
- Strong police presence and low crime rates.
2. Tribeca
- Known for its high-end lofts and celebrity residents, great nightlife.
- Very low crime rates and a quiet, upscale atmosphere.
- Great for families and professionals looking for a secure place to live.
3. Battery Park City
- A waterfront community with a suburban feel.
- Extremely safe, with private security in addition to NYPD patrols.
- Ideal for families and professionals who want a peaceful environment.
Brooklyn’s Safe Communities
Brooklyn offers a mix of historic brownstones, trendy neighborhood parts, and quiet residential areas. Here are some of its safest spots:
1. Park Slope
- Consistently ranked one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC.
- Known for its excellent amenities, schools and family-friendly vibe.
- Active neighborhood watch and strong community engagement.
2. Brooklyn Heights
- A picturesque area with cobblestone streets and beautiful brownstones.
- Low crime rates and a strong community feel.
- Close to the waterfront with breathtaking Manhattan views.
3. Bay Ridge
- A quiet, suburban-style neighborhood with a strong police presence.
- Great for families, with parks, schools, and low crime rates.
- Affordable compared to other Brooklyn neighborhoods.
Queens’ Secure Areas
Queens is known for its diverse communities, excellent schools, and safe residential neighborhoods. Here are some top choices:
1. Forest Hills
- One of the safest and most family-friendly areas in NYC.
- Well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and great schools.
- Low crime rates and strong neighborhood involvement.
2. Bayside
- A quiet, suburban-feeling area with high safety ratings.
- Home to many professionals and families.
- Great parks and excellent schools, alongside with museums.
The Bronx’s Low-Crime Zones
The Bronx has seen significant safety improvements in recent years. While some areas still struggle with crime, these neighborhoods are among the safest:
1. Riverdale
- A quiet, affluent area with a suburban feel.
- Low crime rates and a strong sense of community.
- Great schools and scenic views of the Hudson River.
2. Pelham Bay
- A peaceful residential neighborhood.
- Known for its parks, schools, and low crime rates.
- A good option for those looking for affordable housing in a safe environment.
Staten Island’s Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
Staten Island is NYC’s quietest borough, offering the most suburban-like experience. These neighborhoods are among the safest:
1. Great Kills
- A safe and family-friendly area with excellent schools.
- Low crime rates and a strong community presence.
- Plenty of parks and green spaces.
2. Tottenville
- One of the most peaceful neighborhoods in NYC.
- Known for its large homes, parks, and strong police presence.
- A great place for families looking for space and safety.
Comparisons of Crime Rates by Borough
While every borough has safe neighborhoods, Manhattan and Staten Island generally have the lowest crime rates, followed by Queens and Brooklyn. The Bronx has historically had higher crime rates, but neighborhoods like Riverdale and Pelham Bay are exceptions.
Crime rates can vary within each borough, so always check the latest statistics from NYPD reports before making a decision.
Local Resources for Safety Information
For up-to-date crime reports and safety tips, check out these resources:
- NYPD Crime Map – www.nyc.gov/nypd
- 311 NYC – Report non-emergency concerns and get local updates.
- Nextdoor App – Connect with neighbors and stay informed.
- Local Community Boards – Attend meetings to stay involved.
Tips for Staying Safe in NYC
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially on public transportation.
- Use apps like Google Maps or Citizen for real-time safety updates.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, move to a safer area.
- Know where your nearest police precinct or help station is located.
