New York City may be one of the most iconic destinations in the world, but when it comes to safety, it ranks far from the top. According to a recent WalletHub report comparing safety levels across more than 180 cities in the United States, NYC ranked 117th. This result highlights several ongoing challenges beyond crowded trains and pricey apartments.

The study evaluated cities using 41 safety-related factors. These included rates of violent crime and traffic deaths, as well as broader elements such as economic stability, access to healthcare, preparedness for natural disasters, and protection against financial fraud.

In today’s world, urban safety isn’t just about avoiding dangerous neighborhoods. It’s also about whether residents can afford housing, withstand financial hardships, and access essential services. Despite having a large police force and improvements in some crime statistics, New York’s overall ranking remains in the lower half of U.S. cities.

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One of the most significant issues dragging down the city’s score is the cost of living. High housing prices, healthcare expenses, and inflation continue to strain many households, threatening residents’ financial security. Combined with economic uncertainty, these pressures weigh just as heavily on the safety ranking as crime does.

For perspective, several major cities ranked even lower:

10 Least Safe Cities in the U.S.

• New Orleans, LA
• Memphis, TN
• Baton Rouge, LA
• Detroit, MI
• Baltimore, MD
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Houston, TX
• San Bernardino, CA
• Philadelphia, PA
• Cleveland, OH

These cities share similar struggles: high crime rates, economic instability, and limited access to insurance and other financial protections.

WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo explained that the safest cities do more than reduce crime. They also shield residents from financial risks — such as employment instability, homelessness, identity theft, and lack of health coverage.

On the opposite end of the ranking, mid-sized cities with stable economies and lower crime rates performed the best:

Top 5 Safest Cities in the U.S.

• Warwick, RI
• Overland Park, KS
• Burlington, VT
• Juneau, AK
• Yonkers, NY

So while New York City isn’t among the most dangerous places in the country, its 117th position underscores that there’s still plenty of room for improvement — something longtime New Yorkers likely already know.

Full Report Here : Safest Cities in America (2025)