Yorkville, which is on Manhattan's Upper East Side, has always been among the most secure neighborhoods in New York City. At mid-2025 levels, property crime rates are at a mere fraction of many other boroughs. Residents see about 1 property crime occurrence per 55 residents per year in central sections, and even fewer in quieter havens, a rate often quoted as around 13–14 occurrences per 1,000 persons.
Crime in New York City is still a top priority, but the larger trend is promising. Big felony crime is down around 5–6% since mid-2024, while overall tallies are still slightly above pre-pandemic levels. Even so, murders and shooting encounters are still at historic lows—fewer than one a day on average, a threshold not seen since before 2020.
Taking a closer look, Yorkville is still much safer than the general city-wide averages. Both its violent crime and property crime indices are lower than for New York City as a whole, Yorkville frequently receives a "B+" safety rating on neighborhood review websites. Local precincts emphasize high levels of responsiveness and community policing, with prevalent neighborhood watch initiatives.
In online spaces such as Reddit and neighborhood discussion forums, residents typically characterize Yorkville as "quiet, stable, and family-friendly." One poster posted:
"I feel perfectly safe walking home at night, even with my kids."
Another added that "side streets feel like small-town NYC, neighborly and low-key."
Evening routines mirror that security: individuals ride their bikes along the East River Esplanade at night, runners traverse the 86th Street Subway, and families walk to local cafes. Public spaces such as Carl Schurz Park and block parties are often populated with residents without concern.
The Yorkville community keeps evolving its safety culture. Local block associations organize “coffee with cops” events, encouraging residents to build relationships with law enforcement. Many newer buildings have upgraded security, keycard access, surveillance cameras, and 24/7 concierges.