What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Manhattan?

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Manhattan is home to over 50 neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and character. For first-time renters in Manhattan, it’s crucial to consider the safety of the neighborhood you’re considering moving into.

We also included other important factors such as walkability, infrastructure, and residents’ personal experiences so you can make an informed choice. If you’re considering moving to Manhattan, these are the safest neighborhoods.

Safest Areas in Manhattan:

• Battery Park City
• Tribeca
• Lincoln Square
• Chelsea
• Sutton Place
• Upper East Side
• Upper West Side
• Lenox Hill
• Roosevelt Island
• Murray Hill
• Nolita

Battery Park City

Battery Park City is a bustling neighborhood in Lower Manhattan known for its safety, diverse community, and stunning views of the Hudson River. Located near the World Trade Center, the neighborhood is home to luxury high-rise buildings, scenic parks, and trendy restaurants.

It is one of the safest neighborhoods in Manhattan, with a crime rate 38% lower than the national average. Violent crimes are 56%, while property crime is 35% lower. The area is 85% safer than other places in NYC. The Battery Park City Authority is responsible for maintaining the safety and well-being of residents.

The neighborhood’s walkability is highlighted by its well-maintained parks and paths, making it easy for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. The area is well connected by public transportation, including the 1, R, and W subway lines that provide easy access to other parts of Manhattan.

Tribeca

Tribeca, short for “Triangle Below Canal Street,” is one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its cobblestone streets, historic warehouses, and upscale living. The area is renowned for its vibrant arts scene and hosts the annual Tribeca Film Festival, attracting filmmakers and movie enthusiasts from around the world. Tribeca boasts a low crime rate, making it a safe haven for families and professionals alike.

With a mix of luxury apartments and loft-style homes, residents enjoy a high quality of life, complemented by a variety of trendy restaurants, chic boutiques, and beautiful parks. The neighborhood is also highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and a strong sense of community. Public transportation options are plentiful, including easy access to several subway lines and bus routes, providing seamless connectivity to the rest of Manhattan.

Lincoln Square

Lincoln Square is a peaceful neighborhood and one of the safest areas to live in Manhattan. It is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and is famous for its cultural institutions, such as Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, shops, and restaurants.

Regarding safety, the area recorded 0.99 crimes per 1000 residents, according to Data. There are local resources and organizations dedicated to keeping residents safe, such as the Lincoln Square Neighborhood Center

There are plenty of bike lanes and green spaces in the neighborhood for those who like to stay active. The neighborhood is also well-connected to the rest of Manhattan via the subway, with several subway lines running through the 66th St Lincoln Center station.

Chelsea

Chelsea is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood known for its thriving art scene, diverse population, and vibrant nightlife. The area is home to several world-renowned art galleries, including the Chelsea Art Museum and the Gagosian Gallery, that attract art lovers.

Chelsea is safer than 93% of the average US city, with 11.40 crimes reported per 1,000 residents, according to Crime Grade. The 10th precinct has a dedicated community affairs office, which works to build relationships between the police and the community.

The area has wide sidewalks and well-maintained streets, making exploring the neighborhood on foot easy. The streets are well-lit, with plenty of street lamps to provide extra safety. Its extensive public transportation system is served by several subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, and the A, C, L, and E trains to the 14th Street station. The MTA also operates bus routes to Manhattan.

Sutton Place

It is a small residential area known for its well-maintained streets, beautiful architecture, and luxurious homes. Sutton Place is considered so safe because of its low crime rates.

This area is also very walkable, with many parks, restaurants, and shops located within a few blocks of each other. The neighborhood is also home to several schools, making it an ideal location for families. Public transportation is also readily available, with several subway lines and bus routes passing through the area.

Upper East Side

Average rent for a private room is $1637/month

The Upper East Side of Manhattan is one of the most prestigious and safest neighborhoods in New York City, known for its world-renowned museums, luxury boutiques, and historic brownstone houses. The crime rate in this neighborhood is 11% lower than the national average, making it safer than 77% of other New York neighborhoods.

Upper East Side’s tree-lined streets, parks, and green spaces provide residents with a pleasant and safe walking environment. The area is also well-connected by a comprehensive public transportation system, including multiple subway lines and bus routes, making it easy for residents to get around the city. 

Additionally, the Upper East Side has several local organizations and resources to ensure the safety and security of its residents. These include the East 72nd Street Neighborhood Association, which promotes community safety through events and programs.

Upper West Side

Average rent for a private room is $1427/month

The Upper West Side in Manhattan is popular for its cultural institutions, such as the American Museum of Natural History and the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Its low crime rate, which is 1% lower than the national average, with violent crime being 23% lower, is one of the reasons this neighborhood attracts a large population. 

The other reason is its high walkability, with wide sidewalks, well-lit streets, and plenty of public parks. And if you want to get around the city, it’s accessible through the subway, train, or bus lines that connect the neighborhood to the city and other parts of Manhattan.

There is a wide range of ethnic neighborhoods in this area, which creates a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for excellent food, shopping, or cultural events, you’re sure to find something that you love in this neighborhood

Lenox Hill

Lenox Hill is a neighborhood located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, known for its luxury apartment buildings and high-end shops. It is also home to Lenox Hill Hospital, one of the oldest and most respected hospitals in New York City.

It is a safe neighborhood with only 286 violent crimes reported per 100,000 residents against a national average of 463. Everything is close to Lenox Hill, with shops, groceries stores, and restaurants located a few blocks away.

This makes it easy for residents to walk or bike to their destinations. The neighborhood is also well-connected to public transportation—the Lexington Avenue Subway is the most convenient option for residents—with trains running 24 hours a day.

Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island is a small neighborhood in Manhattan and a popular destination for families, students, and professionals looking for a safe and peaceful place to live.

The island is home to several parks, including the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, which provides stunning views of the city skyline. Its walkability is excellent, with well-maintained sidewalks and plenty of green space.

 Its public transportation system is detailed, with the Roosevelt Island Tramway and the F train running through the island’s center and connecting it to the rest of Manhattan. 

To maintain safety, the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department works closely with the police to provide a safe and secure environment for the residents of Roosevelt Island. You will love the strong sense of community, well-maintained infrastructure, and peaceful environment in the heart of New York City.

Murray Hill

Murray Hill is one of the safest neighborhoods known for its historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and vibrant cultural scene. The area’s energetic vibe and low housing costs attract students, recent graduates, and young professionals. It also has a low crime rate, adding to its list of desirable characteristics.

Besides safety, Murray Hill has plenty of sidewalks, well-lit streets, pedestrian-friendly intersections, well-maintained public spaces, and ample street lighting.

The public transportation in Murray Hill is also a highlight—with the Grand Central Terminal just a few blocks away—offering residents easy access to the rest of the city. Whether you’re looking to settle down, work, or visit, you can feel confident and secure in this charming and friendly community.

Nolita

Short for “North of Little Italy,” is a charming neighborhood known for its quaint streets, vibrant boutiques, and a lively culinary scene. Nolita exudes a unique blend of historical charm and modern flair, attracting a diverse mix of residents, from young professionals to families. The area is considered one of the safest in Manhattan, with low crime rates contributing to its appeal.

The neighborhood is highly walkable, with a plethora of trendy cafes, shops, and parks within easy reach. Nolita is also home to a number of art galleries and cultural venues, enhancing its vibrant atmosphere. Public transportation is accessible, with several subway lines nearby, making it easy for residents to explore the rest of the city while enjoying the tight-knit community feel that Nolita offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is safe in Manhattan?

Some of the safest places in Manhattan include Roosevelt Island, Battery Park City, Sutton Place, Lenox Hill, Upper East Side, and Murray Hill.

Is it safe to walk in Manhattan at night?

While Manhattan is generally safe during the day, it’s best to take precautions, be aware of their surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night. 

What is the best area to live in Manhattan?

The best neighborhoods to live in Manhattan include Tribeca, SoHo, Chelsea, Upper East Side, Greenwich Village, and Financial District.