New York City is arguably the center of the world and as one song states, a “concrete jungle where dreams are made.” Living here is exciting, but choosing exactly where to live in this sprawling urban area might feel overwhelming, especially for newcomers. If you’re trying to choose a Manhattan neighborhood to call home, here are five of our top picks:
Carnegie Hill
One of Manhattan’s prized sections, Carnegie Hill runs from Fifth Avenue east to Third Avenue between East 86th to 96th Streets. The area is quiet, and its streets are great for strolling because of the numerous shops and historical landmarks. The neighborhood is close to the Central Park and the Guggenheim. Many people here live in high rise buildings and apartments that are more reasonable than those just south on the Upper East Side. According to Zumper, median rents in this East Harlem enclave are priced well-below NYC averages – a studio apartment costs around $1900, while a 2-bedroom unit fetches around $3000.
Upper West Side
The Upper West Side is a rather large community of 200,000 New Yorkers sandwiched between Central Park and Riverside Park. You may recognize many of its residential buildings from popular TV shows like 30 Rock and Seinfeld. UWS is a great place for people who want to live an active lifestyle because of its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to cultural attractions. The area is also littered with diners and cafes that offer different cuisines. Notable neighborhood landmarks include the American Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Center, and the New-York Historical Society. One of the more expensive neighborhoods in the City, the average cost of living here is pricier than in other areas of New York. According to Rentcafe.com, the average rent in Upper West Side is $4,158.
Lenox Hill
Lenox Hill is a community that spans from East 60th Street to East 77th Street and is bordered by Park Avenue to the west and East River to the east. This upscale neighborhood has some of the fanciest real estate in Manhattan. While more expensive, the area is near medical facilities (such as Lenox Hill Hospital), has great access to schools, and is one of the best places in NYC to raise kids. Currently, the average rent in Lenox Hill is $3,921.
Lincoln Square
Considered an “artistic neighborhood,” Lincoln Square has several art-related landmarks and facilities including the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic among others. The area also has all the convenience that modern lifestyle could offer, especially in the retail and cultural aspect. Columbus Avenue also has a lot of boutique shops for your fashion needs. The average rent in this area averages at $4,015.
Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island may feel secluded to some, but the neighborhood is very commutable. The narrow island is in NYC’s East River and is about 2 miles long. The area is quiet and relaxed with fewer than 10,000 residents. The neighborhood is great for people moving to NYC because of its community-like atmosphere. Basketball courts, baseball fields, playgrounds and other sports facilities abound in the area. If you are looking for a place to stay that offers great value for money, this place has an average rent of $3,354.
Moving to New York City can be quite challenging, especially when looking for a place to stay. The neighborhoods mentioned above are some of the best places where you can live your new city life well by yourself, with a partner, or with the whole family.