New York City is often painted as a dangerous place filled with crime and homelessness. But the numbers tell a different story. In 2024, the Big Apple attracted 64. 3 million visitors, just a little less than the record 66. 2 million in 2019. This is impressive, especially considering the tourism sector was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts predict that in 2025, visitor numbers will top the 2019 record, with at least 67 million people expected.
So, what's the secret behind New York's enduring appeal? It's not just the iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or Times Square. Business travelers and tourists alike are drawn to the city's vibrant culture, entertainment, and hospitality. For instance, the reopening of the Four Seasons in Midtown is a big deal. It shows that the hotel industry is bouncing back from the pandemic.
Manhattan's office buildings are far from empty. In fact, many are so full that tenants are struggling to find space. This goes against the common belief that many offices are abandoned due to the shift to remote work during COVID-19.
Social media and popular culture also play a role. Instagram and Facebook are filled with happy photos of families and friends enjoying New York's sights. TV shows like "Saturday Night Live" and events like the New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square make the city look like a fun and exciting place to visit. Word-of-mouth from visitors who had a great time also helps to attract more people.
But what about the crime? Yes, there are concerns about safety, especially in the subways where murders have increased. However, the chances of being assaulted are actually quite low, around one in two million, based on NYPD and MTA data. This is why subway ridership has continued to rise, reaching 1. 195 billion in 2024, up from 1. 15 billion in 2023.
Compared to other large cities like Chicago, New York's visitation levels are doing much better. Even though Chicago has more convention facilities, it hasn't seen the same tourism renaissance as New York. This shows that the issues often highlighted in New York aren't as bad as they seem.
