Areas to Avoid in New York City: Tourist Safety Tips

New York City is far safer than its reputation suggests. Crime rates have been falling for decades, and the tourist areas of Manhattan are among the safest urban zones in America. Times Square, Central Park, the High Line, and the Brooklyn Bridge area are well-policed and busy at all hours.

The NYPD is the largest police force in the United States, with a significant presence in all tourist areas. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and most visitors experience nothing more than the occasional aggressive panhandler.

That said, NYC is a city of 8.3 million people, and common-sense precautions apply. This guide covers the specific areas and situations where tourists should be more aware.

These areas have higher crime rates than Manhattan's tourist zones. Most are in outer boroughs that tourists have no reason to visit:

• East New York (Brooklyn): Consistently one of the highest-crime neighbourhoods in the city. No tourist attractions here.
• Brownsville (Brooklyn): Similar profile to East New York. Located in eastern Brooklyn, well away from tourist areas.
• South Bronx: Parts of the South Bronx have higher crime rates, though the area has improved significantly. The Bronx Zoo and Yankee Stadium are in safe, well-policed sections.
• East Harlem (above 96th Street, east of Park Avenue): Has gentrified but still has rougher pockets, particularly late at night.
• Port Authority and Penn Station areas: The immediate surroundings of these transit hubs can feel uncomfortable, with panhandling and occasional drug activity. Move quickly through these areas to your destination.

These neighbourhoods are not "war zones." They simply have higher-than-average crime rates. Most crime is not directed at tourists, and walking through during the day is generally fine.

The NYC subway carries over 3 million riders daily and is overwhelmingly safe. High-profile incidents make the news precisely because they are unusual. Still, here are practical tips:

• Stand back from the platform edge until the train arrives. This is common sense but especially important on older platforms without barriers.
• Avoid empty carriages. If a car is empty and the rest of the train is full, there is usually a reason (smell, broken AC, or a disturbed person). Move to a busier car.
• Keep valuables secure. Phone theft is the most common subway crime. Do not leave your phone on the seat next to you or loosely in your hand near the doors.
• Late night: The subway runs 24/7 and is generally safe even late at night. If you are uncomfortable, ride in the conductor's car (usually in the middle of the train, marked with a sign).
• Panhandlers: Ignore aggressive panhandlers. Do not engage. Most are harmless but some can become confrontational.

NYC has fewer tourist scams than many European cities, but here are the main ones:

• Times Square characters: Costumed characters (Elmo, Spider-Man, etc.) will pose for photos then aggressively demand tips. It is fine to take photos, but decide in advance if you want to tip ($2 to $5 is reasonable).
• CD sellers: Someone hands you a "free" CD, then demands payment. Refuse to take anything handed to you on the street.
• Fake bus tours: Unlicensed "tour" operators near major attractions sell tickets to non-existent or low-quality tours. Book through reputable companies only.
• Restaurant overcharging: Some tourist-trap restaurants near Times Square add automatic tips, cover charges, or inflated prices. Check the bill carefully.
• Three-card monte: Street gambling in tourist areas. The game is rigged. You will lose.

These areas are consistently safe and well-suited for tourists:

• Upper West Side: Residential, family-friendly, and home to the American Museum of Natural History. Very safe at all hours.
• Midtown (5th Avenue to 8th Avenue): Heavy police presence, constant foot traffic, and well-lit streets make this one of the safest areas.
• SoHo and Greenwich Village: Affluent, busy neighbourhoods with low crime rates and excellent dining.
• Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO: Beautiful waterfront areas with Manhattan views, the Brooklyn Bridge, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Financial District: Quiet at night but very safe. The area around the 9/11 Memorial is heavily policed.

Read our full New York accommodation guide for neighbourhood recommendations.

These everyday habits will keep you safe in New York City:

• Walk with purpose. Looking like you know where you are going deters would-be scammers and pickpockets. Even if you are lost, keep walking until you can check your phone in a shop or cafe.
• Use crossbody bags rather than backpacks or shoulder bags. In crowded areas (subway, Times Square), keep bags in front of you.
• Do not flash expensive items. Showing off expensive jewellery or waving large amounts of cash is an invitation for trouble in any major city.
• Trust your instincts. If a situation feels wrong, leave. Step into a shop, restaurant, or hotel lobby.
• Save emergency contacts. NYPD: 911 (emergency) or 311 (non-emergency). Your country's consulate number should be saved in your phone.