Bed-Stuy, Jefferson and Marcy

As with any area you are unfamiliar with nothing beats your own instinct. Walk around at different times of the day and especially when you would be coming and going most. I lived not far from that area, it's a world's difference from one block over on Nostrand. Most of the homes seem owner-occupied and for the most part well-kept, that says alot about the area to me. It's very convenient to Super Food Town and other stores in Restoration Plaza as well as the express A stop at Nostrand. Close to many bus routes as well. It really comes down to your own comfort level, though, so check it out for yourself.

I moved there as a young, single female 8 years ago and had not a shred of trouble. I lived on Jefferson between Thompkins and Throop and walked down your block regularly to go to the Y and the train. That said, you really should do some walking about and see how you feel. Walk over to Common Grounds on Thompkins and also check out Lewis Avenue from Jefferson on up to Fulton. There's lots to do there and I think you'll find the neighborhood welcoming. Even before it became as gentrified as it is, I found it welcoming. I remember that flophouse and other things like it, and all I can say is, this is New York. Where ever you go or live, you need to be aware of what's around you. If you aren't involved in shenanigans, they're unlikely to follow you home. Also, I moved to Bed-Stuy after spending two years in Park Slope. In PS, I was followed home from the train at 6 pm, followed up the street out of a restaurant at 9, and the list goes on. And I wasn't followed because I was a young, hot model or particularly vulnerable looking. I was followed because the assumption was that because I could afford the neighborhood, I had something in my wallet. I believe the assumption was, back when I moved to Bed-Stuy, that just by living there I'd pretty much given it up that my wallet was empty. I prefer to think that this is a neighborhood where people look out for their neighbors, which is definitely something I did not experience in PS.
Good luck, and WELCOME!