Is Brooklyn Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Brooklyn, like many large cities, has both safe and less safe areas. Generally speaking, the majority of neighborhoods in Brooklyn are safe and friendly for solo female travelers, especially during the day. It is a diverse place with plenty of people around, reducing the likelihood of isolated incidents. It’s advisable to keep the normal city precautions like not displaying valuables openly, using common sense especially at night, and staying in well-lit, populated areas. Overall, Brooklyn is relatively safe for solo female travelers.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.9 /5

Based on 8 experiences from local women

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How safe is Brooklyn?

Safety at night:Moderate

Brooklyn is generally secure but it, like any city, varies from neighborhood to neighborhood. Some areas are very safe like Brooklyn Heights or Park Slope, while others can be slightly more dangerous. Public transportation, such as subways and buses, tend to be safe, even at night. It's generally advisable to stay in busier areas and be aware of your surroundings after dark. Walking alone at night isn't recommended in unknown or poorly lit areas. Always take precautions as you would in any other city.

Public transportation:Safe

Brooklyn's public transportation, predominantly the subway system, is generally safe. Naturally, during daytime hours and on well-traveled routes, it tends to be safer. Additionally, the presence of station agents and other MTA workers contribute to the overall safety. However, just like any other urban environment, awareness of your surroundings is recommended. Late at night, it might be better to use a taxi or rideshare service. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid appearing overly lost or vulnerable. As long as you take some basic precautions, you should generally feel safe.

Street harassment:Moderate

While Brooklyn is considered a safe part of New York, unwanted attention in the form of street harassment can still be experienced on occasion. It is not a daily occurrence for many, but it's not completely unheard of either. Busy areas or late nights can see a slight increase in such behavior. As always, be aware of your surroundings and move in well-lit, populated areas if possible.

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Brooklyn, the rate of petty crimes like theft, pickpocketing, and vandalism is considered to be moderate. It is preferred to stay alert in crowded places, don’t leave your belongings unattended and be aware of your surroundings to avoid unnecessary circumstances. However, the community vigilance and active local police force work relentlessly to reduce such instances.

Is Brooklyn worth visiting?

Solo travel

Brooklyn has authentic, tasty foods characteristic of each neighborhood. As it’s large, there are more residential areas as well as a few unsafe areas the deeper south / more east you get. However. overall there’s a clear sense of culture and history behind the city. Be sure to check out Prospect Park, Brooklyn Heights, as well as the Williamsburg / Greenpoint neighborhoods for more tourist and newer attractions.

Posted: March 23, 2024

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Solo travel

I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Williamsburg. Walk down the street and find 10 things to do, most nights. Take the train to easily get from place to place. Lots of expensive shopping if you’re into that, or interesting window-shopping - that’s fun too. Some really cool vintage/thrift shops. Multiple small venues for live music. TONS of places to eat and drink. I have stayed at the Pod Hotel in Williamsburg several times, all good experiences, relatively affordable. Use common sense and you will be as safe as anywhere else in the country. Especially in Williamsburg, if you stick to the main streets after dark, you will be fine. There is a likelihood you will encounter street harassment, but nothing more than what is, unfortunately, common and to be expected. All in all, Williamsburg is interesting and fun, a good location to get to other places from, not super cheap - but you can try to stick with free events and activities, or window-shopping, the Pod Hotel is great IMO, and yeah…just go see New York, why not try Williamsburg.

Posted: January 26, 2024

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Is Brooklyn safe for women?

Safety index

3.9 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Crime index

1.4 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Like any big city, you just have to be smart and keep your senses about you. I have only a handful of times I have been afraid of being physically hurt or harassed, and I have lived in Brooklyn for about a year and a half. Some areas will likely have more pick-pocketers than others, like Downtown Brooklyn or Atlantic-Barclays simply because these busier areas, but I have never personally had a problem in Brooklyn.

Posted: December 1, 2024

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Brooklyn is safe depending on the area that you live in. I live in a very prominent neighborhood with a lot of restaurants and fun activities to do. My building is 24/7 security guards. So, you don’t have to worry about no weird stuff happening

Posted: November 1, 2024

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Meet locals in Brooklyn

Shae

About Me

Digital Nomad Black girlie in tech. Spend half the year traveling (and avoiding the cold)

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Laura

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Hello! My name is Laura , I’m a student majoring in education. I’m starting my travel journey and would love to learn more about other cultures.

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Violet

Brooklyn

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I’m an author and film fan who loves this hot, fun, annoying, expensive, bustling city! I love to travel and I love to give and receive advice about great local spots.

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Ilana

Brooklyn

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I’m Ilana and love photography, and have started traveling to out of my interest for other cultures but also to take some amazing photos! I am looking to find a group of women across the globe to help continue to open me to different cultures and experiences. I love art, reading, hiking, and cooking.