New York City: The Safety Guide
BY Michella Ore
New York City is fairly safe as long as you’re paying close attention to your surroundings. People are out at all hours which means there’s a good chance you won’t be entirely alone but some parts of the city tend to be more populated than others (Soho vs. Bushwick, BK). If you’re new to the city or visiting, it’s better to travel in a group until you feel familiar/safe with your route.
When it comes to general laws, sidewalk drinking is not legal (but you’ll see many skirting it by placing their bottles in a paper bag). Jaywalking is technically illegal but you’ll be hard pressed to find any New Yorkers waiting for the light to turn green before they cross the street.
To minimize chances of getting pickpocketed, make sure you keep your belongings sealed in the front of your jacket or in a bag that is always visible (side pockets can get particularly tricky when you’re in a tight space). If you’re listening to music, keep your volume turned down so that you can listen for updates – whether the train’s hit an unexpected delay or it’s time to switch cars. And for women, while cat-calling might not be as aggressive as it once was, it’s still especially important for any person who is feminine-presenting to be mindful of their surroundings. If you’re unsure or feel uncomfortable, it’s always best to move to a place where you do feel safe – don’t worry about drawing attention or offending anyone; move first, question later.
If you're planning to visit New York City, check out our local guides to discover the best places to go.
