When you think of the safest states in the United States, New York might not be the first one that pops in your head. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t feel safe here. Before we cite the safest cities in New York for you to choose from, let’s learn some basic information about the Empire State.
About New York
New York is the fourth largest state in the United States by population, with 19.30 million residents, 40% of whom live in New York City and Long Island. The state was named by the arriving English after the Duke of York. The state’s capital is not New York City, as many might misconceive, but rather Albany, a city so unsafe that you won’t see it on this list of safest places to live in New York.
Now, let’s look at some vital facts about the state:
- Median age: 39
- Median household income: $68,486
- Median house value: $305,400
Now that the basics are out of the way, let’s dive into the cities that we consider are the safest in New York to help you make the right decision when moving there. Next to each entry, we’ve listed the number of property and violent crimes per 100,000 inhabitants, which were used as the basis for these rankings.
In addition to the crime rates, you’ll also find information about each city’s population, unemployment rates, home prices, and available amenities.
Safest Cities in New York in 2021
Rye
(Property: 456; Violent: 31)
- Population: 15,547
- Median age: 43
- Median household income: $192,688
- Median house value: $1,784,500
Not to be mistaken with the much larger town of Rye, the city was first incorporated as a village in 1904 and then as a city in 1942. It’s a place where one of the founding fathers, John Jay, was born and later buried.
Nowadays, the city of Rye has 15,547 inhabitants, a median household income of $192,688, and a median age of 43. Buying a house in Rye will cost you a median price of $1,784,500.
In this city with the lowest crime rates in New York, tourists and residents can expect to visit some exciting places. For one, you should never miss Playland Park. Located just 27 miles from Downtown Manhattan, this is where most people from the city bring their kids. Rye also holds dozens of events every year to celebrate its heritage — perfect for history buffs.
With an unemployment rate of 4.1%, residents in this city can easily expect to find a job. Additionally, public schools in Rye invest 78.6% more money per student than the average school in America.
Being one of the safest cities in America, the crime rate in Rye in 2019 looks like this: 15 property crimes (11 thefts, 1 burglary, 3 vehicle thefts) were reported, together with 1 violent crime, which was a robbery.
There are some negatives to living here, most notably the cost of living, which is 221.5% higher than the US average, and the real estate prices.
Long Beach
(Property: 589; Violent: 62)
- Population: 33,368
- Median age: 44.9
- Median household income: $97,022
- Median house value: $584,300
Located just south of Long Island, Long Beach is one of the best places to live in New York. Since its urban renewal in the 1990s, Long Beach became one of the most desirable bedroom communities in the US. People living here can quickly get to their jobs in New York City while living in a quiet and safe beach town.
Nowadays, Long Beach has a population of 33,368, a median household income of $97,022, and a median age of 44.9 years. Buying a house here costs a median price of $584,300.
Even though it’s one of the safest places to stay in New York, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea as there’s not much to do, except for the beaches and a few parks. However, its close proximity to New York City is its greatest perk. In addition, new residents are drawn by the unemployment rate of 4.4% and the public education investments that are 226% higher than the US average.
The report in 2019 shows that 66 property crimes (53 thefts, 5 burglaries, 8 vehicle thefts) and 19 violent crimes (17 assaults, 2 robberies) were committed in Long Beach. No murders were reported that year, which is a huge leap from the murder rate in New York City.
As expected, the cost of living is relatively high, sitting at 69.3% above the US average. However, this still makes Long Beach one of the best and cheapest choices in the area.
Glen Cove
(Property: 551; Violent: 29)
- Population: 27,062
- Median age: 40.6
- Median household income: $80,702
- Median house value: $568,300
Glen Cove is known for being one of the major landing points for immigrants — first from Ireland and Italy and, more recently, from Central and South America. It is also one of the safest areas in New York that drive down the Long Island crime rate.
Nowadays, 27,062 inhabitants, a median household income of $80,702, and a median age of 40.6 years are the figures that characterize Glen Cove. The median home cost is the lowest on this list so far, at $568,300.
Museums, a nature preserve, and plenty of other amenities are available to visitors and residents. Even though it’s not the most entertaining, its proximity to Queens and its unemployment rate of 2.2% make this city one of the best places to live in New York state.
Glen Cove’s low crime rates are another reason behind its popularity. In 2019, 84 property crimes (137 thefts, 12 burglaries, 2 vehicle thefts) were reported, along with 5 violent crimes (1 assault, 4 robberies). No rapes or murders were reported that year, fortunately.
In case you haven’t figured it out yet, the state of New York is expensive to live in. Glen Cove shares this characteristic, with the cost of living being 62.1% above the national average.
Port Washington
(Property: 511; Violent: 26)
- Population: 15,808
- Median age: 42.3
- Median household income: $141,667
- Median house value: $879,000
Aside from being one of the safest cities in New York, Port Washington used to be one of the major sand-mining towns in the US. Most of New York’s skyscrapers were built using local sand, until 1998 when the sand mines were redeveloped. By then, Port Washington became one of the cities near New York City where the rich can come to play golf and go yachting.
Today, 15,808 people are living in the city. The median household income is $141,667, the median age is 42.3 years, and a median home can be bought for $879,000.
Golf courses, marinas, and museums are just some of the entertainment options available in Port Washington. The city offers similar perks that you would find in any of the best small towns in New York state. Those visiting from the city can find a place to relax while being just miles away from their home and the rush of New York. Additionally, Port Washington has an unemployment rate of just 2.2%, and it invests 108.7% more into public education than the average American city.
Crime statistics from 2019 show that Port Washington is extremely safe: 91 property crimes (82 thefts, 6 burglaries, 3 vehicle thefts) and 6 violent crimes (4 assaults, 2 robberies) were reported. Like Glen Cove, no rapes or murders were reported that year, and overall crime in the town is 71% lower than the New York crime rate.
Once again, the cost of living prevents more people from moving here; Port Washington is 107.6% more expensive to live in than an average American city.
Irvington
(Property: 492; Violent: 116)
- Population: 6,423
- Median age: 41.3
- Median household income: $139,917
- Median house value: $960,200
Irvington is one of the most affluent places on the Hudson River. Located less than 20 miles from Times Square, it has become one of the top bedroom communities and best places to live in NY.
The latest data shows that the small village of Irvington has a population of 6,423. Their median household income is $139,917, the median age is 41.3 years, and the median house is valued at $960,200.
This charming place offers bike tours through its historic sites, scenic areas, and elaborate mansions to escape the nearby concrete jungle. Those moving here are encouraged by the low unemployment rate of 3.4% and the public school funding that is 130% higher than the national average, making it one of the best places to raise a family in New York.
When it comes to crime in Irvington, we have to work with estimates as villages in the state of New York don’t usually provide detailed data. However, even the estimates can attest to its safety, with around 447 property crimes and 117 violent crimes per 100,000 inhabitants. Both of these numbers are more than 60% below the state figures, according to New York state crime statistics.
Irvington is not even close to being considered a reasonably priced place. With a median home value that’s just shy of a million and a cost of living that’s 111% higher than the US average, not many can afford to move here.
Roslyn Heights
(Property: 492; Violent: 116)
- Population: 6,553
- Median age: 39.9
- Median household income: $137,150
- Median house value: $851,900
Roslyn Heights brings us back to Long Island. This is neither a city nor a village, but rather a hamlet, and it happens to be one of the best places to live in NY state.
Recent data shows that it has a population of 6,553. Their median household income is $137,150, the median age is 39.9 years, and a median home listed for sale in Roslyn Heights is valued at $851,900.
It has a Botanic Garden, an art museum, and many other amenities that will make any stay here pleasurable, whether it’s a short visit or a permanent move. Public schools invest 149% more money per student than an average American school, which makes it one of the best places to live in New York for families. Additionally, the unemployment rate of 4% is attractive as opposed to the national average of 5.9%.
Roslyn Heights is one of the safest towns in New York, with estimated property crime numbers at 447 per 100,000 people and violent crime numbers at 117.
Being so close to NYC and not having to worry about crime comes with a price — a cost of living that is 105% higher than an average American city.
Manhasset
(Property: 531; Violent: 125)
- Population: 7,985
- Median age: 47.3
- Median household income: $177,321
- Median house value: $1,508,800
Located less than 20 miles from Manhattan, Manhasset is one of the most prominent towns in New York. In 2005, it held the first spot on the Wall Street Journal’s list of best places to raise a family in the New York metropolitan area.
Today, Manhasset has a population of 7,985, a median household income of $177,321, and a median age of 47.3 years. Buying a house here will burn a hole through your pocket, with the median house value being $1,508,800.
When it comes to entertainment, there are various options available. For one, you can visit the Americana Manhasset, which is one of the most popular luxury shopping centers on the East Coast.
Also, the Leeds Pond Preserve is there for those who enjoy spending time in nature. Its proximity to the big cities while being away from the typical New York crime rate is one of the main advantages of living in Manhasset. The town has an unemployment rate of 3.7%, and it is located in one of the best school districts in the country.
When it comes to crime in Manhasset, estimates show that it had 482 property crimes and 126 violent crimes per 100,000 residents in 2019.
The main downsides of living in Manhasset are expensive housing and a high cost of living, which is 190.4% above the US average.
Tarrytown
(Property: 577; Violent: 136)
- Population: 11,302
- Median age: 44.7
- Median household income: $124,046
- Median house value: $691,400
Is New York safe? Tarrytown is another village that assures us of a positive answer. Tarrytown has 11,302 residents nowadays. Their median household income is $124,046, the median age is 44.7 years, and a median home has a value of $691,400.
The most interesting thing for tourists here is Sleepy Hollow, the neighboring village described in Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Spots, such as The Old Dutch Church, are visited by fans from around the world, making it one of the best small towns in New York for tourists. Moreover, the Rockefeller State Park Preserve is there for all your recreational needs and activities.
Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown also jointly operate the public schools in the area, and they receive 85% more funding than the average school in the US. The unemployment rate in Tarrytown is a mere 4.5%, and its crime rate warrants it a place on every list of safest places in New York. Estimates in 2019 tell us that Tarrytown reported 523 property crimes and 137 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.
Living in Tarrytown might be a dream come true for many, but not everyone can afford it; the cost of living is 73.4% higher than the US average.
Garden City Park
(Property: 602; Violent: 142)
- Population: 8,335
- Median age: 43.4
- Median household income: $108,894
- Median house value: $679,400
Another hamlet in North Hempstead, Garden City Park significantly contributes to bringing down the skyrocketing NY crime rate. Even though it’s located near Queens and New York City, Garden City Park does not share their crime rates.
Nowadays, 8,335 people live in this village. Their median household income is $108,894, the median age is 43.4 years, and a median home is priced at $679,400.
The village itself doesn’t offer a lot of amenities.
However, living in Garden City Park will allow you to avoid the crime rate in New York City while being close enough to access the amenities. It is the more affordable option, with less than a 30-minute train ride separating it from Manhattan. Living here means that you’re in one of the best school districts in the country that invests 89% more on education than the average American city.
Additionally, having an unemployment rate of just 3.1% means that you won’t have that much of a hard time finding a job here.
Sitting on the outskirts of one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC, Garden City Parks is estimated to have reported 546 property crimes and 143 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2019.
The main con of living in this small village is the cost of living, which is 81.4% higher than the US average. The lack of entertainment options also comes as a close second.
Peekskill
(Property: 742; Violent: 141)
- Population: 24,511
- Median age: 38.7
- Median household income: $57,206
- Median house value: $332,700
Peekskill was one of the early American industrial centers. Crayola’s manufacturer, the Binney & Smith Company, started here in 1864. Peekskill is the cheapest place to live in New York state on this list so far.
Today, the city has 24,511 residents, a median household income of $57,206, and a median age of 38.7 years. Peekskill has the most affordable housing on this list so far, with a median home value of $332,700.
Bear Mountain State Park, Blue Mountain Reservation, and a part of the Appalachian Trail are all located near Peekskill, making this city the best place to live in New York for nature enthusiasts. It also has one of the best-funded public education systems in the country, an unemployment rate of 5.6%, and a particularly low crime rate.
In 2019, Peekskill had 209 property crimes (196 thefts, 7 burglaries, 6 vehicle thefts) and 30 violent crimes (22 assaults, 7 robberies, 1 rape). No murders were reported that year, which is not unusual for the safest neighborhoods in New York.
Even though it’s cheaper than other cities on this list, the cost of living in Peekskill is still 27% higher than the US average. There’s also not much to do in the city, so those who have hobbies other than hiking, biking, and enjoying natural attractions will have to travel 45 miles to New York City for entertainment.
Most Popular Cities in New York Ranked by Safety
Yonkers
(Property: 1,004; Violent: 402)
- Population: 201,344
- Median age: 39
- Median household income: $63,849
- Median house value: $525,200
Yonkers sits just outside of the Bronx, is a Westchester County city, and ranks fourth among the most populated cities in New York. The city is famous due to the controversy behind the low-income housing built there during the 1990s.
Yonkers has a population of 201,344, a median household income of $63,849, and a median age of 39 years. Recent real estate data shows that a median house in the city costs $525,200.
The Untermyer Park and Gardens, the Hudson River Museum, and a few other attractions bring tourists to Yonkers. Its position just outside NYC makes it primarily a bedroom community for those working in the city.
The Yonkers, NY crime rate points to 1,826 property crimes (1,466 thefts, 208 burglaries, 152 vehicle thefts) and 708 violent crimes (436 assaults, 224 robberies, 42 rapes, 6 murders) in 2019.
The bright side to living in Yonkers is that its public education funding is 64.4% higher than the US average. However, the days of affordable housing in Yonkers are gone, as evidenced by the median home value.
The city’s unemployment rate of 6.6% is also slightly higher than the national average of 5.9%. To top it off, like many of the biggest cities in New York, the cost of living in Yonkers is 53.7% higher than average, representing another issue with living here.
New York City
(Property: 1,449; Violent: 539)
- Population: 8,230,290
- Median age: 36.7
- Median household income: $63,998
- Median house value: $680,500
The most populous city in the US, New York City, is surprisingly not at the bottom of this list, although its crime rates surpassed the overall New York crime rates.
Today, “The City That Never Sleeps” has a population of 8,230,290. The median household income is $63,998, the median age is 36.7 years, and the median home price is $680,500.
The Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway, and other famous attractions draw millions of tourists to New York City every year. Living in NYC is a dream for many, and those who achieve it can expect an unemployment rate of 6.3%, public schools with excellent funding, and property crime that’s lower than the national rate.
The NYC crime rate in 2019 shows that there were 122,299 property crimes (106,931 thefts, 9,846 burglaries, 5,522 vehicle thefts) and 47,821 violent crimes (31,336 assaults, 13,396 robberies, 2,770 rapes, 319 murders) reported in the city.
Additionally, according to the latest data, Staten Island and parts of Queens and Brooklyn are reported to be the best and safest neighborhoods in NYC.
We all know New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in. Apartments in up-and-coming neighborhoods quickly sell for millions of dollars, and the city’s cost of living is 87.2% above the national average.
Aside from this, New York city’s violent crime rate is 50% higher than the national average. So, although it’s not at the bottom of this list, it’s definitely not the safest place to live in New York in 2020, either.
Poughkeepsie
(Property: 1,999; Violent: 706)
- Population: 30,669
- Median age: 37.8
- Median household income: $43,794
- Median house value: $229,300
Poughkeepsie is a city located in the New York City metropolitan area. The area where the city is situated was purchased from Native Americans in 1686. The city was then officially incorporated in 1854.
Although it’s not the safest city in Upstate New York, Poughkeepsie is home to 30,669 people. The median household income is $43,794, the median age is 37.8 years, and the median home price sits at $229,300.
Poughkeepsie is the perfect place in New York for nature lovers. Surrounded by trails and parks, nature is this city’s greatest asset, along with its relative proximity to NYC. The unemployment rate in Poughkeepsie is 9.4%, which is higher than the US average. On the other hand, public schools receive more than sufficient funding, and the cost of living is only 5.7% higher than the US average, which, compared to most cities in New York, is reasonable.
The Poughkeepsie, NY crime rate in 2019 shows that the city had 513 property crimes (402 thefts, 73 burglaries, 38 vehicle thefts) and 235 violent crimes (143 assaults, 63 robberies, 26 rapes, 3 murders).
The crime rate is the main thing that keeps people from moving to this otherwise beautiful city. Specifically, violent crime in Poughkeepsie is 104% higher than the national average.
Ithaca
(Property: 2,909; Violent: 181)
- Population: 31,193
- Median age: 21.9
- Median household income: $34,424
- Median house value: $242,000
Ithaca is one of the best places to live in Upstate New York and one of the most popular college towns globally, as the famous Cornell University is located here.
The city has a population of 31,193. The median household income is $34,424, while the median age is dragged down to 21.9 years by the influx of college students. Lastly, the median house value is $242,000.
In this city, you’ll find the Ithaca Falls, which is quite a sight to see. Collegetown is the city’s center of entertainment. Those who decide to remain in Ithaca after college can enjoy an unemployment rate of just 4.8% and a reasonable cost of living (1.2% lower than average).
The Ithaca, NY crime rate in 2019 shows the following numbers: 840 property crimes (768 thefts, 56 burglaries, 16 vehicle thefts) and 41 violent crimes (26 assaults, 9 robberies, 5 rapes, 1 murder) were reported that year.
Isolation and harsh winters are what most Ithaca residents complain about. The property crime rate, which is above the state and national averages, is also a slight cause for concern when living here.
However, the NY murder rate is slightly higher than the figure in Ithaca, and overall violent crime in the city is 65% lower than the national average.
Newburgh
(Property: 2,660; Violent: 1,236)
- Population: 28,143
- Median age: 30.7
- Median household income: $41,769
- Median house value: $222,600
Located 60 miles north of NYC is Newburgh, a city that was once the headquarters of the Continental Army. More recently, the city had a similar misfortune to Flint, Michigan, which resulted in the city requesting help for its contaminated water supply in 2016. So, it’s probably not the best place to live in New York until this is resolved.
The population of Newburgh includes 28,143 people. Their median household income is $41,769, the median age is 30.7 years, and you can buy a house for a low median price of around $222,600.
A museum of modern art, a hiking/climbing trail, and the famous Orange County Choppers are common tourist spots in Newburgh. Those who like isolation will love this place, as it doesn’t have the hustle and bustle you would see in any of the top cities in New York. The cost of living is reasonable, at 10.7% above the national average. The public schools in Newburgh are on par with the rest of New York, which means they’re funded more than an average US city.
In 2019, crime data showed 640 property crimes (484 thefts, 137 burglaries, 19 vehicle thefts) and 317 violent crimes (213 assaults, 82 robberies, 19 rapes, 3 murders) reported in Newburgh.
The negatives of living in this city include an unemployment rate of 6.6% and the skyrocketing Newburgh, NY crime rate, which is above the state and national averages. The isolation of the city can be taken as either positive or negative, depending on personal preference.
Schenectady
(Property: 3,179; Violent: 892)
- Population: 65,129
- Median age: 36.2
- Median household income: $45,438
- Median house value: $125,400
Schenectady got its complicated name from a Mohawk word that means “beyond the pines.” This is where some of the most influential companies of the 20th century, such as General Electric and the American Locomotive Company, started. Nowadays, it’s considered one of the best places to live in New York, and you’ll find out why.
The city has 65,129 permanent residents with a median household income of $45,438 and a median age of 36.2 years. The median value of a home in Schenectady is a mere $125,400.
The Rivers Casino, Museum of Innovation and Science, and Via Aquarium are the go-to places when it comes to tourist attractions. What attracts new residents to the city is the mixture of an attractive setting, a low cost of living (15.8% below the national average), and public schools that receive 46% more than the average funding.
The Schenectady crime rate in 2019 shows 1,770 property crimes (1,392 thefts, 248 burglaries, 130 thefts) and 528 violent crimes (336 assaults, 133 robberies, 56 rapes, 3 murders) reported in the city.
With a violent crime that’s 112% higher than the national average, it’s not exactly considered a safe city. Other people might also find the city’s unemployment rate of 9.2% a little concerning.
Syracuse
(Property: 3,367; Violent: 705)
- Population: 141,491
- Median age: 31.2
- Median household income: $38,276
- Median house value: $88,200
According to Forbes, Syracuse ranked fourth among the best places to live in New York for families in 2010. It is also often described as the economic and educational heart of the region, with the biggest airport in the area located within the city.
Today, the city has a population of 141,491, a median household income of $38,276, a median age of 31.2 years, and a median home value of just $88,200.
Here’s why it remains to be one of the best places to live in Upstate New York: you can find everything you need for a comfortable visit or a pleasant life in Syracuse — from the local zoo and museums of art and technology to the lakes and parks you can relax in. In addition to all the necessary amenities, Syracuse’s cost of living is 21% lower than the US average. It also has one of the best public school systems in the country — something it shares with most other cities in New York.
The Syracuse, NY crime rate in 2019 looks like this: 4,464 property crimes (3,051 thefts, 850 burglaries, 563 vehicle thefts) and 1,129 violent ones (759 assaults, 246 robberies, 105 rapes, 19 murders) were reported.
Clearly, Syracuse has an issue with both violent and property crimes. Moreover, at 9.3%, the city’s unemployment rate is above the national average, with only minimal job growth over the past year.
Rochester
(Property: 3,804; Violent: 897)
- Population: 205,077
- Median age: 32
- Median household income: $35,590
- Median house value: $75,200
Rochester is where companies such as Kodak, Western Union, and Xerox started, and it had the second-largest economy in New York until 2010. Being the state’s third most populous city, it’s not surprising that Rochester is not one of the safest cities in Western New York.
Nowadays, Rochester’s population is 205,077. Their median household income is $35,590, the median age is 32 years, and the median house value is the lowest on this list at $75,200.
Rochester has a zoo, a water park, and plenty of other entertainment options that make the city suitable for families. Additionally, houses are cheap, living costs are 21.6% lower than the US average, and public schools invest 113.53% more money per student than average.
In 2019, 7,142 property crimes (5,222 thefts, 1,269 burglaries, 651 vehicle thefts) and 1,540 violent crimes (976 assaults, 429 robberies, 102 rapes, 33 murders) made up the Rochester, NY crime rate figures.
Finding work in Rochester might be a tricky task, as the unemployment rate is 10.2%. The property and violent crime rates are 65% and 97% higher than the New York average, respectively, making it seem like an unsafe place. However, those who find these numbers tolerable might find the perfect home in Rochester.
Buffalo
(Property: 3,836; Violent: 1,019)
- Population: 254,290
- Median age: 33.1
- Median household income: $37,354
- Median house value: $85,300
Buffalo ranks second among the most populated cities in New York. It’s commonly called the City of Light because it was one of the earliest adopters of electric power.
Nowadays, the city has 254,290 inhabitants. Their median household income is $37,354, the median age is 33.1 years, and a median home in Buffalo sells for $85,300.
Located just 16 miles from Niagara Falls, Buffalo is one of the top cities in New York for tourists. Other amenities in the city include the Buffalo Zoo, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Museum of Science, and everything else you’d expect a city of this size to have. Buffalo offers low real estate prices, a low cost of living (20.5% below average), and excellent public education (119% higher investment than the US average) to those who decide to make it their home.
However, looking at the Buffalo, NY crime rates might dissuade you from moving here. In 2019, 8,298 property crimes (6,009 thefts, 1,610 burglaries, 679 vehicle thefts) and 2,533 violent crimes (1,563 assaults, 802 robberies, 121 rapes, 47 murders) were reported, earning it a spot near the bottom of this list.
To add to the high crime rates, Buffalo also has an unemployment rate of 7.1%, so finding a job here might not be as easy as in an average American city.
Binghamton
(Property: 4,368; Violent: 797)
- Population: 43,601
- Median age: 35.8
- Median household income: $34,487
- Median house value: $77,800
The last spot on this list of the safest cities in New York belongs to Binghamton, the county seat of Broome County. The city was one of the most prosperous cities in the US, earning itself the nickname “The Valley of Opportunity.” The city produced cigars, shoes, and computers, but today, the economy’s main driving forces are healthcare and education.
Binghamton has 43,601 residents. Their median household income is $34,487, the median age is 35.8 years, and a median house costs $77,800, making it one of the best places to live in the New York state, especially for those who can’t afford to live in the big cities.
People come to this city to visit the Roberson Museum and Science Center, the Discovery Center, which focuses on getting children interested in science, and the Museum of History & Art. Binghamton University is one of the city’s largest employers and why interest in the city is exponentially increasing every year. The cost of living (25.5% below average) and the well-funded public schools also attract new residents.
The Binghamton, NY crime rate is what keeps people on their toes. In 2019, 1,907 property crimes (1,429 thefts, 417 burglaries, 61 vehicle thefts) and 355 violent crimes (245 assaults, 66 robberies, 42 rapes, 2 murders) were reported, which is pretty high for a city of this size.
Aside from the skyrocketing crime rates, the unemployment rate of 10.4% and negative job growth over the past year are a cause for concern for those looking to move here.
Conclusion
Those thinking about visiting or moving to New York tend to equate the state with the city. We rarely consider how the state of New York is much larger than NYC and that there are other better and safer cities and towns to consider.
We hope this list of the safest cities in New York has widened your options of places to visit or move to in the Empire State. Now, all you have to do is decide which place — be it hamlet, village, town, or city — suits you and your family’s needs.