Are NYC subways safe for tourists?

Is the NYC subway safe? The short answer is yes. The subway system (just like city parks) reflects the overall safety of the city. And when New York City violent crime is near record lows and subway ridership is at record highs, it is safe to assume nothing will happen to you on the subway.



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We're talking a very marginal difference, of course, because both are extremely safe and there's very little crime in either location, but yes, the subway is safer.

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A New York Times analysis of M.T.A. and police statistics shows that the possibility of falling victim to violent crime in the subway remains remote, even as the rate of violent crimes — murder, rape, felony assault and robbery — per subway ride has more than doubled since 2019, before the pandemic's disruption.

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The other boroughs are much less crowded and much more spread out, making taxis or the subway a better option. When touring around at night in unfamiliar areas, you might want to play it safe and hail a taxi rather than walk. New Yorkers and visitors alike descend below the ground to take the subway.

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Is the Subway the best way to get around NYC? Generally, yes. The subway is the cheapest and most efficient way to get around New York City IF you know what you are doing. It usually gets you from one part of the city to another faster than taking a taxi or uber.

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Tap to pay your fare with your contactless credit/debit card, smartphone, or OMNY card, or pay with a MetroCard.

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Buses are your best option if you are traveling from East to West across the city. If it's a pleasant day try to rent a bike or ride a NYC ferry. You will see more of the city and have fun. NYC has many ride sharing options.

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Times Square is a lively and fairly busy area both day and night. It is also a magnet for pickpockets and other petty thieves who blend into the crowded streets. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables tucked away and out of reach. Check out our posts ranking the 70 hotels in Times Square.

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Once you've taken 12 paid rides in a seven-day period, you can ride free for the rest of the week. Here's an example: A rider uses the subway to get to and from work, and takes it on weekends to go into Manhattan to meet friends. They also use the local buses in their neighborhood to run errands.

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By Bus. Taking a bus to and from NYC can often be the most inexpensive way to get to Manhattan. Some popular bus company names are Megabus, Boltbus, and Greyhound and most bus companies will drop passengers off at major landmarks.

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To pay your fare at subway turnstiles, AutoGates, and onboard buses (including Select Bus Service buses), simply tap your own contactless credit or debit card, smart device, or OMNY card on the OMNY reader.

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Credit cards are accepted everywhere. In New York (and in the rest of the US) people that use credit cards are more common than those that use cash. In many ways, it is comparable to using a debit card. Debit cards will work at ATMs and you can pay more and more with them in restaurants and stores in New York as well.

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Subway. One of the most popular ways to get around New York is the New York Subway. This is a great way to get around the city as you avoid any traffic. With 472 subway stations, the New York City subway is the largest subway system in the world as measured by total number of stations.

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Never carry a wallet in a rear pocket, use a front trouser or an inside coat pocket. Be particularly aware of your purse/wallet in crowded situations, such as rush hour trains and buses. If you are jostled in a crowd, be aware that a pickpocket might be responsible.

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8 Safety Tips To Stay Safe In NYC
  • Try to blend in with the locals. ...
  • Don't hesitate to ask for help. ...
  • Keep valuables tucked away. ...
  • Don't wander into dark, unpopulated areas at night. ...
  • Pay extra attention on the subway. ...
  • Taking a taxi or Uber in New York City is safe. ...
  • Airports and Safety. ...
  • Solo Travelers.


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Sit in the “Conductor car” usually in the middle of the train during off-peak hours. You are less likely to get harassed or be victimized in this car. Avoid end cars when possible especially during late night hours. Cover jewelry and turn gem stone rings inward towards the palm side of your hand.

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Yes, the JFK air train, connecting subways and the LIRR are very safe. The Long Island Railroad now has service to both Grand Central and Penn Station. Subways leaving Jamaica always have lots of people on them who come off the JFK air train. The E train is express all day long and is very safe.

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A subway ride is $2.75 per person. A taxi has an immediate base fare of $2.50, then you pay for the mileage. Better off with the subway generally. But...if you are four people, don't have unlimited subway cards, and are going a short distance...TAXI!

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