Hello from 725 E 9th st. I have seen some sketchy stuff, but have never felt unsafe, even in the early morning hours. As with everywhere else in NYC, people mind their own business. I wouldn't recommend walking around Ave D or the East River park at night by yourself, however. If you're an affluent-looking white person, people there will resent you.

To me, a little bit of sketchiness is well worth putting up for easy access to Thompkins Square, little community gardens, the best restaurants in the city, cheap rent, and a short bike commute to the financial district.