Is New York Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

New York is generally safe for solo female travelers. With its well-connected public transit, well-lit streets, and 24/7 city life, women can feel comfortable traveling alone. However, safety is a relative term and always depends on your individual behaviors and precautions. Just like any large city, there may be areas that are less safe than others. Being aware of your surroundings, not showing valuables openly, and avoiding isolated and unfamiliar areas late at night are always smart moves. But, overall, NYC offers a relatively safe environment where solo female travelers can enjoy their travel adventures.

Safety rating

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How safe is New York?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

New York City is generally safe for solo female travelers, even at night. However, like any large and busy city, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings. The city is well-lit, and people are usually around, but some neighborhoods can be less safe after dark. Always stick to well-trafficked areas, avoid poorly lit streets, and use taxis or rideshare apps if you're uncomfortable or unsure. Make sure to research before venturing to any unfamiliar areas.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in New York is generally reliable and safe. The subway operates 24/7 and is regularly patrolled by the police. However, as with any large city, it's advisable to stay alert, especially during off-peak hours. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid empty subway cars, and don't hesitate to switch cars or get off at the next station if you feel uncomfortable. As long as you use your common sense, you should have no major issues while navigating the city.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

New York is generally considered a safe city for solo female travelers. However, street harassment can and does occur, much like it does in any large, densely populated city with various socio-economic backgrounds. This typically takes the form of catcalling or lewd comments but instances of more serious harassment and even physical harassment to occasionally occur. It is important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night or in less trafficked areas.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

New York City, like any major urban area, has its fair share of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. While the city is generally safe, it's always advisable to be mindful of your surroundings, keep personal belongings secure at all times, and avoid unlit or desolate areas at night.

Is New York worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 58 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

3.8/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.2/5

Group travel

Visiting New York was an unforgettable experience. I felt safe throughout my trip, even while exploring the city late in the evening. The food scene was amazing—there’s everything from affordable street food to international cuisine. I stayed in a budget-friendly hotel in Manhattan, which was convenient for getting around. Public transportation made it easy to explore different neighborhoods and iconic places like Central Park, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Posted: May 12, 2025
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Nyah

Nyah

United Kingdom

Group travel

I love love loved New York. I went in 2023 before trump was elected thankfully. One of my all time favourite trips - it was a school trip so I was with a massive class under the care of my teachers. Such an amazing time, the plane ride was painful haha but yeah so so fun.

Posted: April 17, 2025
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Group travel

I spent six days in New York City last summer. I felt safe. There were a few weird people, but they didn’t really care about others. And if they did, you just had to ignore them. Things to do: Brooklyn (DUMBO, Brooklyn Bridge), Central Park, Grand Central Terminal, Times Square, take the free ferry to see the Statue of Liberty, visit the 9/11 Memorial (I didn’t go inside), Summit One Vanderbilt (the ticket was around $50, I guess), and take the free cable car. I had a MetroCard, which was about $30–40 for a week. I stayed in New Jersey and took a bus every day. It happened to be free that week, so I was really lucky! The ride was about half an hour. I used the subway at the end of the day, tried to walk as much as possible, and occasionally took a bus during the day. The hotel was pretty nice.

Posted: March 7, 2025
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Solo travel

The streets were safe enough but I was very attentive in metro. There are cool restaurants all around the city. It’s called an expensive city but I believe there are budget friendly activities and restaurants

Posted: January 8, 2025
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Dalma

Dalma

Hungary

Family travel

We stayed at Brooklyn cause it was much cheaper than Manhattan, but still close enough to be at the Times Square in 30 minutes. The public transport is fascinating there, the metro network is easy to use and comparing to how much we used it, its relatively cheap. The food is expensive and full of calories but so so so delicious. It worths to try it, really. For program: watching a Broadway musical, visiting the Statue of Liberty and that small Zoo in the huge Central Park is a must. I liked every and each moment of this trip (even tho we visited Queens where I didn't felt that safe than anywhere else).

Posted: December 31, 2024Experienced: May, 2024
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Eva

Eva

Norway

Couple travel

It was my first time in NY,I really liked the city and the vibes but I dislike people there and prices. Of course KFC,McDonalds and etc. are cheap but if you want eat out in good restaurant it can costs you a fortune. The city very big,I would rather say enormous. Advice*always take 20 minutes extra because metro train cannot to come. Overall,NYC is the city where everyone can find something for their souls and pockets 🤗

Posted: December 28, 2024
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Is New York safe for women?

Safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 53 local experiences

Crime index

2.7 /5

Based on 53 local experiences

I have lived in NYC for nearly 10 years and have ventured through many areas within the city, and I very rarely have felt unsafe. It’s a walking and public transportation city, so there are always people out, even late at night on weekends especially. The emptier somewhere is at night the less safe I feel, unless I’m in a residential area such as Upper west side. Like any city, avoid confrontation, go about your day, and you’ll be just fine. I try not to take the subway after midnight, and I make sure to only have one earbud in so I can hear my surroundings, but only because of things you read in the news, nothing has actually happened to me. A note that NYPD does not actually do anything, so don’t rely on them to feel a false sense of security if they’re around. Overall I feel very safe here!

Posted: March 12, 2025
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New York is not too dangerous if you stay aware and avoid quiet alleys and parks at night. And stay away from the edge of subway platforms. Lock your doors and windows. Keep your wallet in your front pocket. Hold tight to your phone on the train at night. Stay away from the neighborhood called “East New York”. Don’t get too drunk.

Posted: February 22, 2025
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Safety in United States