This Peaceful Town Full of Colonial Charm & Horse Farms Is the Safest in New York — And It’s Less Than An Hour From NYC

A canopy of ancient trees shades winding country lanes in this peaceful and historical community , and centuries-old colonial homes even peek out from behind white fences. Just 55 minutes north of Manhattan, Bedford, NY feels like another world entirely — a pastoral retreat of rolling hills, horse pastures, and charming hamlets where life moves at a much gentler pace. And now, Bedford has another claim to fame: it’s officially been named the safest city in all of New York State in a new ranking from SafeWise for the second year in a row. It’s an accolade that feels well-earned. Bedford is known for its tight-knit community and dedicated local law enforcement. But it’s not just about safety — this Westchester County gem is steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty . Once founded in 1680, Bedford Village retains its classic New England-style green, historic courthouse, and 18th- and 19th-century homes to this day. The John Jay Homestead offers visitors a peek into the life of America’s first Chief Justice, while the surrounding countryside is dotted with sprawling horse farms and scenic riding trails that have earned Bedford a reputation as one of the region’s equestrian capitals . Both residents and visitors can enjoy a blend of small-town charm and upscale sophistication, with cultural institutions like the Bedford Playhouse and Caramoor Center for Music & the Arts offering year-round performances. And nature lovers can even explore the Mianus River Gorge Preserve or the Westmoreland Sanctuary for hiking, birdwatching, and peaceful escapes. In short? Bedford is where timeless history, bucolic scenery, and a genuine sense of community meet — and now it has the stats to prove it’s one of the safest places you could call home in New York . The top 10 safest cities in New York for 2025 --------------------------------------------- 1. Bedford, NY 2. Carmel, NY 3. Rye, NY 4. Oneonta, NY 5. Hyde Park, NY 6. East Fishkill, NY 7. Scarsdale, NY 8. Yorktown, NY 9. Saugerties, NY 10. Town of Ogden, NY Source: https://secretnyc.co/safest-city-in-ny-2025-bedford-ny/