Is New York City Safe for Travel in 2024?

New York City, United States
Safety Score
72

New York City (NYC), often called New York, is the most populous city in the United States. With almost 20 million people in its metropolitan statistical area and approximately 23 million in its combined statistical area, it is one of the world’s most populous megacities.

Warnings & Dangers in New York City

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

New York is a relatively safe city to travel to. If you follow the precautions and keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings, you can stay safe here.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is well developed and safe, with only pickpockets to be wary of when traveling on the metro during rush hour. Taxis are a safe way to get around the city, especially at night.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

New York attracts millions of tourists every year, so there are many pickpockets here who hunt for inattentive tourists. Always keep track of your belongings and do not leave wallets and phones unattended.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

The city is not subject to any serious risks of natural disasters.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of serious robbery and armed attack in New York City is low. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and not walking late at night in remote areas from the city center.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

There is a risk of terrorism in New York. The risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

The most common scams in New York involve street beggars and fake lotteries. Be suspicious of anyone who asks or offers you help.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in New York City. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is New York City for Tourists?

New York is a relatively safe city to travel to. The crime index here is at an average level.

The main problems are associated with petty theft, assault, vandalism, and drug trafficking.

New York is one of the safest major cities in the United States.

The per capita crime rate is lower than the national average, and in many small towns, there are large numbers of police officers almost everywhere in the city today.

Pickpocketing is the most common crime committed in the city and probably the only one that tourists should be cautious about.

Never leave your bags, wallets, or phones unattended.

Many shops throughout the city sell counterfeit goods intended directly for tourists (the locals know about them, so they avoid them).

Don’t give money to beggars on the subway, as a most lie and try to cheat passengers.

After dark, stay on well-lit streets and avenues.

Avoid lonely lanes.

Women usually have no problem staying in crowded places, but it’s always best to hang out with other people rather than alone.

Do not enter public parks after sunset.

New York has dropped by 80% since the turn of the century; many areas can still be considered dangerous.

However, most of them are located outside the city center, and tourists usually do not need to go there.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit New York City?

The United States visa policy consists of foreign nationals’ requirements to travel to, enter, and remain in the United States. Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the U.S. diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in New York City?

The United States dollar is the US currency, one of the main reserve currencies in the world. One dollar is divided into 100 cents.

How's the Weather like in New York City?

In New York City, the summers are warm and humid, the winters are icy and windy, and it is wet and partly cloudy year-round. The best time to visit New York is April to June and November and December.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in New York City?

Three major airports service new York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark International Airport (EWR).

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in New York City?

New York City comprises 5 boroughs sitting where the Hudson River meets the Atlantic Ocean. At its core is Manhattan, a densely populated borough that’s among the world’s major commercial, financial and cultural centers. Its iconic sites include skyscrapers such as the Empire State Building and sprawling Central Park. Broadway theater is staged in neon-lit Times Square. 

Is the Water in New York City Safe to Drink?

Tap water in New York City is safe to drink, but it’s best to use an affordable water filter just in case.

Is Uber Safe in New York City?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day and the distance traveled.

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