Is West Farms safe?
The Bronx, New York · safety score updated nightly
Be careful — go in daylight and stay on the busier streets.
VibeLoco rates West Farms as “Caution”.
What makes up this score?Recent news
Gogo's take on West Farms
“Go with care. West Farms is primarily a residential and transit-oriented Bronx neighborhood bordering the Bronx River and the southern edge of the Bronx Zoo. While daytime visits around major transit corridors and park access points are generally routine, elevated property and violent crime rates in the 48th Precinct mean visitors must stay vigilant, especially after dark.”
About the area
West Farms is a dense, culturally diverse Bronx community characterized by apartment complexes, local mom-and-pop storefronts, and historic industrial heritage along the Bronx River. It serves as a gateway to the Bronx River Greenway and the Bronx Zoo, though residential side streets see limited tourist activity.
- Urban Dense
- Transit Hub
- Working-Class
- Culturally Diverse
Walking and biking in West Farms
Walk score: 92/100 · Bike score: 68/100
Citi Bike stations are available across the neighborhood, offering quick connections to the scenic, off-street Bronx River Greenway trail.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Immediate pedestrian access to the Bronx River Greenway and Drew Gardens
- Direct subway connectivity via the 2 and 5 express/local train lines
- Vibrant, affordable Dominican, Puerto Rican, and West African food spots
Cons
- Elevated rates of robbery and felony assault compared to NYC borough averages
- High neighborhood poverty rate exceeding 30% alongside strained public infrastructure
- Spikes in illicit street activity and diminished foot traffic late at night
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is moderately noticeable, mainly around major transit hubs, under elevated subway structures, and near commercial intersections along Boston Road.
What West Farms is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Streets are lively with school children, commuters heading to the subway, and active local bodegas, feeling generally safe.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Busy foot traffic along commercial avenues like East Tremont and Boston Road, with normal daytime urban precautions advised.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Activity thins out off main retail avenues; remain aware of surroundings around transit hubs and dimly lit residential blocks.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Streets are mostly quiet with occasional loitering near commercial strips and subway exits; walking alone is not recommended.
Transit, parking and getting around
MTA operates extensive transit here, anchored by the West Farms Sq-E Tremont Av subway station (2 and 5 trains) and multiple bus lines including the Bx9, Bx19, Bx21, Bx36, Bx40, and Bx42.
On-street parking is highly congested with competitive alternate-side regulations, and dedicated parking garages are scarce and pricey.
Things to do in West Farms
- Stroll along the Bronx River Greenway and explore Drew Gardens community open space
- Walk to the southern entrance of the world-renowned Bronx Zoo
- Sample authentic Latin and Caribbean bakeries and eateries along Boston Road
Local favorites
- Moho Burrito · Mexican Restaurant · 4.4★ (310)Popular local spot serving hearty burritos, tacos, and quesadillas with fast counter service.
- Sabrosura 2 · Latin American Restaurant · 4.3★ (840)Neighborhood mainstay known for generous portions of Dominican and Chinese-Latin fusion specialties.
- Tio Pepe Restaurant · Spanish & Caribbean Restaurant · 4.2★ (460)Laid-back neighborhood eatery offering classic roast pork, mofongo, and seafood dishes.
Neighborhoods near West Farms
Common questions about West Farms
Is West Farms safe to walk at night?
Take care after dark: stick to lit main streets or take a ride.
Is West Farms a good place to live?
On safety, West Farms scores 52/100 — below average, so visit at different times of day before deciding to move.
How walkable is West Farms?
Walk score 92/100 and bike score 68/100. Most errands can be done on foot.
Which areas near West Farms are safer?
Pelham Parkway-Van Nest (70), Parkchester (66), Belmont (The Bronx) (63) score higher nearby.
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