Generally speaking, New York State fares well regarding safety compared to the rest of the United States.
Although the state has a violent crime rate of 18th in the U.S., the state is 9th lowest in property crime.
The State of New York features a violent crime rate of 3.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is slightly lower than the national average of 4.0.
The property crime rate was 13.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is five incidences lower than the U.S. rate of 19.6.
Overall, New York’s cities fare well in the safety index, which is a combination of law enforcement to resident ratio and FBI crime statistics.
61 New York cities score a 0.3 or higher on the safety index, which is an impressive level of safety.
Based on these statistics, if you are planning to travel to New York, it is best to understand which are the safest places in the state.
Keep reading to learn more!
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10 Safest Cities in New York
Stillwater
This lovely village of only around 8,000 residents kicks off our list.
Eclectic and charming, Stillwater boasts a violent crime rate of only 0.1 and a property crime rate of 2.2.
Located north of Albany on the Hudson River, Stillwater has an old and charming Main Street with the Stillwater Blockhouse, a historical building perched right on the Hudson, which is perfect for American history buffs and romantics alike.
Malverne
In Long Island’s Nassau County, the small village of Malverne boasts a population of only around 8,000 residents.
This location is favored by residents who work in New York City but still want a small-town feel and lifestyle.
With a violent crime rate of just 0.2 and a property crime rate of 1.2, Malvern is an excellent place to visit and live, especially if you want a taste of the hustle and bustle of a major metropolis, but just a small taste!
Cornwall
Located in Orange County, which is considered a suburb of New York City, Cornwall is another small and charming town to make this list.
Featuring a population of just under 10,000 residents, there is plenty of activities, shops, and history in this gorgeous small town, so it is definitely worth exploring.
With a violent crime rate of just 0.2 and a property crime listed at 0.7, you do not need to worry about any incidences during your exploration!
Mount Hope
Also located in Orange County, which seems to be an incredibly safe county overall, Mount Hope is an amazing place to visit if you are in the area.
It is low-key, quaint, and offers all the desired features of a small town.
With a tiny population of only 6,000 residents, Mount Hope boasts a 0.2 violent crime rate and 0.9 property crime, so you can visit worry-free.
Rye
If you are unfamiliar with Rye, then you must become acquainted with this charming little Westchester County town.
Home to the infamous Rye Playland, which is an iconic amusement park where they filmed multiple scenes from Big, the city boasts a violent crime rate of only 0.1.
As there are several Westchester County towns on this list, you can visit them all in a single weekend to safely enjoy the small-town USA!
Northport
Nestled on the North Shore of Long Island in Suffolk County, Northport features a population of around 7,200 residents and is truly a pleasant and nice little place to call home or just visit for the day.
With a violent crime rate of 0 and a property crime rate of only 1 per 1,000 locals.
The best part of visiting Northport is the harbor, which is located right on the Long Island sound, so you can take a picturesque ferry across to Connecticut or stay local and enjoy the many seafood restaurants in town.
Highlands
The historical Highlands is yet another small town in Orange County (are you detecting a safety theme yet?) that is one of the safest on this list.
With a population of only around 8,000 residents, Highlands gives visitors and locals a quiet and peaceful existence.
Local attractions include plenty of outdoor activities along the Hudson River and West Point is located within the town.
Stop by this idyllic location during the fall to see some incredible foliage!
Kirkland
This Oneida County city, which is not far from Utica, NY, is a charming place to visit, regardless of where you are from.
With many restaurants on Main Street, you can try out the regional fare which includes a mildly spicy pasta dish known as chicken riggies, tomato pizza pie, sausage rolls, and fried meatballs.
Kirkland boasts an impressive violent crime rate of 0 and a property crime rate of just 0.5, which is why it is third on our list.
Sleepy Hollow
Second, on our list is a major win for the Hudson Valley.
Sleepy Hollow, home to the Headless Horseman, was named the second-safest destination in the Empire State.
Located in Westchester County on the eastern bank of the Hudson River, those that think of Sleepy Hollow think of a scary movie.
No worries though, there is nothing scary about this beautiful small town.
With property and violent crime rates of zero, there is nothing to worry about here!
Lewisboro
Drumroll, please!
The safest destination in New York State is Lewisboro, which is a small town in Westchester County with a population of just 12,500 residents.
Named the safest town in the state, Lewisboro is a treat to visitors and residents alike.
Nestled in a scenic area near the Connecticut border, there is plenty to appreciate when visiting.
From a charming Main Street to stunning scenery, Lewisboro has violent and property crime rates of 0, which is incredibly impressive!
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to New York State
While New York State is generally a safe place to visit and the above towns are the safest, so you are unlikely to have an issue, it is always best to follow several rules of thumb when traveling anywhere.
Here are five top safety tips to ensure you have a wonderful visit!
Tip #1 – Conduct Research About a Location
Knowing your destination in depth before arriving will go a long way.
Read other traveler reviews online and talk to locals about the best and worst places to visit so you are not put in a dangerous situation.
Tip #2 – Never Draw Attention to Yourself
Those who look like they are from out of town are more vulnerable to crime, so blend as much as possible.
This can be accomplished by choosing inconspicuous clothing that does not draw attention.
Also, be discrete when looking at maps and approach strangers carefully for information.
Tip #3 – Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi
Never let the convenience of Internet access overtake your judgment.
When using public Wi-Fi, hackers are looking to steal valuable data including your Social Security number or credit card information.
Therefore, if you are sitting at a café or using other public Wi-Fi, do not use it to make major transactions with sensitive information.
Tip #4 – Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Never let your guard down to take the best photo for social media.
Always watch your personal effects and utilize keen judgment when speaking with strangers.
A major joy of traveling is talking to the locals about their culture and experiences, but if you have a bad feeling, listen to it.
Tip #5 – Do Not Flash Expensive Items on Public Transit
Many who visit New York State start in New York City since it is the focal point of the United States.
While this bustling metropolis can be a wonderful place to visit, you must never flash expensive items or cash on public transit.
Many of the towns on this list are within a train ride of New York, keep items in your pocket (or do not bring them at all) when traveling to these destinations via public transportation.
New York Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: New York Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like in New York State?
New York’s climate is classified as continental, which means it has four distinct seasons: spring, which runs from March to May, summer, which goes from June to August/September, autumn, which is from September to November, and winter, which is from December to February.
Your location in New York can present quite different weather patterns.
Downstate New York has much milder temperatures and seasons compared to the Adirondack Mountains and Western New York, which feature harsher weather.
What is the best time of the year to visit New York?
Each of the four seasons has an appeal, but most visitors prefer late summer through fall, especially in August when the ocean and lake waters are warm. The fall presents the annual foliage color show, which is stunning in certain areas.
What is the worst time of the year to visit New York?
The answer to this question depends on where you are planning to visit and if you prefer hot or cold.
Visiting New York City is the worst time of the year, which is ironically also the most popular time.
The subways, streets, and attractions are overflowing with visitors and the weather is swelteringly hot and humid.
The worst time to visit Western New York for many is the winter due to the frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall.
Based on the statistics and rankings, New York State seems to be a relatively safe place compared to other states in the U.S., but it is always important to exercise caution and do research before traveling anywhere.