Best Neighborhoods in Manhattan
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What’s the first thing you think about when you hear someone mentioning New York? Why, Manhattan, of course! This most famous New York borough has been an inspiration for countless people for centuries. It’s a place where all diversities meet and form a unique way of living. If you find yourself in the middle of the bustling streets, you will soon realize how energized you’ve become. This island is one of the most glorious ones. The island that never stops moving, never sleeps, and never ceases to amaze! Here, everybody has a place for themselves, for Manhattan embraces all. If you have decided to relocate to this part of New York, but you still haven’t decided where exactly, then take a look at what we think are the best neighborhoods in Manhattan. After that, reliable Manhattan Movers NYC will help you with everything regarding your relocation. So, keep reading!
What are the best neighborhoods in Manhattan?
Manhattan: the beating heart of New York City and a hub for many of the world’s most famous landmarks, eateries, and theaters. If you’re thinking of relocating to or within this iconic borough, you’ve come to the right place. Now that we have settled that matter, it’s time to take a look at some most attractive districts to reside in. This list is made based on several factors we included, such as the quality of education, crime rate, chance for employment, the overall cost of living, and accessibility to other parts of the City.
Find out more about:
- Hell’s Kitchen,
- Murray Hil,
- Tribeca,
- Nolita,
- Upper East Side,
- Upper West Side,
- Harlem,
- Midtown,
- Chelsea,
- Greenwich Village,
- East Village,
- Soho,
- Financial District,
- Chinatown,
- Little Italy,
- Noho,
- Lower East Side,
- Gramercy,
- Upper Manhattan.
Hell’s Kitchen
None of the neighborhoods in Manhattan have transformed that much like Hell’s Kitchen. It deserved the name way back in the 1880s during frequent riots. At some point, one of the police officers described the current situation by using this expression. And, so we have it even today. However, the situation has changed a lot. Today, this neighborhood has a low crime rate, and it offers its residents very good schools, amazing nightlife, and an abundance of high-quality restaurants and coffee shops, especially on Ninth Avenue.
Also, the proximity to numerous Broadway theaters and Actors Studio is a great plus for those who wish to enjoy some of the best plays and musicals any theater in the world has to offer. Moreover, it turned out that this part of the island is very popular with young actors who want to try their luck. Also, in this Manhattan neighborhood, living expenses trend higher due to its central location. For instance, a one-bedroom might cost around $3,500/month. Notably, Hell’s Kitchen boasts several renowned schools, like P.S. 51 Elias Howe and the Professional Performing Arts School, making it attractive for families.
Murray Hill
Murray Hill, positioned in East Manhattan between East 40th and East 30th Streets, from Madison Avenue to the East River, is a blend of classic New York charm and modern city living. Once a haven for post-graduates, its transformation into a more upscale neighborhood is reflected in its rising cost of living. Housing in Murray Hill offers a mix: from historic brownstones to high-rise condos, like The Corinthian or Manhattan Place, presenting a spectrum of prices. On average, a one-bedroom apartment might be rented for around $3,000 to $4,000/month, although luxury accommodations can push higher. Beyond housing, the neighborhood is dotted with eateries, bars, and cafes. Families will appreciate the presence of schools such as the British International School of New York and P.S. 116 Mary Lindley Murray, both offering reputable educational environments in the heart of the city.
Tribeca
Nestled in the lower part of Manhattan, Tribeca is synonymous with upscale living and a chic urban vibe. As its name suggests, this “Triangle Below Canal Street” boasts of tree-lined streets interspersed with historic warehouses, many converted into luxurious loft residences. Not surprisingly, Tribeca has attracted a multitude of celebrities, making it a hotspot for star sightings. Its allure isn’t just skin deep; the neighborhood is known for its exclusivity, and this is reflected in its real estate prices. Properties here command some of the highest price tags in the city, with lofts and condos frequently priced in the multimillion-dollar range.
However, for families considering a move, Tribeca offers a strong incentive: education. Schools like P.S. 234 Independence School and the Manhattan Early Childhood Center are among the city’s top-rated. The area isn’t just residential; it’s also home to attractions like the Tribeca Film Festival and the scenic Hudson River Park. Though it’s a bustling urban enclave, Tribeca maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to the city’s average, making it not just a luxurious but also a secure place to live.
As for housing, purchasing in Tribeca can see price tags exceeding $3 million for a condo, while monthly rents for a standard one-bedroom apartment typically range from $4,000 to $7,000, with luxury units commanding even higher prices. With its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, Tribeca offers a unique urban living experience. For those considering this neighborhood, it’s essential to factor in both the high cost of living and the unparalleled quality of life it provides.
Nolita
From the very name, you can guess it is north of Little Italy. Nolita combines historic and hip within the boundaries of this neighborhood. It is very trendy, with many sophisticated boutiques. The spirit of Italy is felt all across, and here you can taste authentic Italian pastries, as well as the best cupcakes in the City. It is also important to mention that this area of New York is safe, and the crime rate is very low. This can be the perfect neighborhood for you if you enjoy diversity, if you’re trendy, or want to become trendy. So, don’t hesitate to contact some of the best Nolita movers and relocate. If we could explain this neighborhood with only one word, it would definitely be ‘fun’!
Moreover, being trendy doesn’t mean spending a fortune. Historically a more affordable extension of its northern neighbor SoHo, Nolita’s popularity in recent years has seen a surge in living costs. For instance, a one-bedroom rental can range from $3,500 to $5,000 a month, while buying property can mean shelling out upwards of $1.5 million for a modest-sized apartment.
Despite its upscale transition, Nolita maintains a community feel. When it comes to education, the neighborhood is serviced by schools like P.S. 130 Hernando De Soto, known for its immersive bilingual programs. A stroll through Nolita is a sensory delight. Elizabeth Street Garden offers a green oasis amidst the urban sprawl, and the area is peppered with boutique shops, indie bookstores like McNally Jackson, and eclectic eateries. From enjoying a cup of gourmet coffee at La Colombe Torrefaction to savoring Italian delicacies at Rubirosa, Nolita offers a rich tapestry of experiences in a compact, stylish package.
Upper East Side
The Upper East Side, located between Central Park and the East River, is the epitome of old New York charm. The cost of living here is high, with one-bedroom rentals averaging between $3,000 and $4,500 per month. The area boasts some of the city’s most prestigious schools, including The Dalton School and The Brearley School. Cultural aficionados will appreciate the proximity to Museum Mile, which houses institutions like The Met and The Guggenheim. While often perceived as a more reserved part of town, the Upper East Side has experienced a significant drop in crime rates over the past decades, making it one of the safest neighborhoods in Manhattan, so you can contact movers in Upper East Side right away and relocate. You’ll get to enjoy Madison Avenue, which is globally renowned for luxury shopping and iconic advertising agencies.
Upper West Side
Adjacent to Central Park’s western border, the Upper West Side offers a perfect blend of urban and green spaces. Typically, monthly rents range from $2,800 to $4,500 for a one-bedroom apartment. Renowned educational institutions like Columbia University and the Juilliard School call this area home. Popular spots like Lincoln Center and the American Museum of Natural History offer endless cultural experiences. In terms of safety, the Upper West Side maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to other neighborhoods in Manhattan. It may be interesting to know that this area was the setting for the classic TV show “Seinfeld.”
Harlem
Harlem is a beacon of cultural and historical significance. Rentals are generally more affordable here, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $2,000 to $3,000 monthly. Schools like the Harlem Children’s Zone Promise Academy offer stellar education. Key attractions include the Apollo Theater and the Studio Museum in Harlem. Historically, Harlem had a higher crime rate, but recent years have witnessed a notable decline, aligning more with city averages. Harlem has been the birthplace of multiple artistic movements, including the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s.
Midtown
The heart of the Big Apple, Midtown, is where business and entertainment converge. Given its central location, expect to pay anywhere from $3,500 to $6,000 for a one-bedroom rental. Midtown doesn’t house as many schools as residential neighborhoods, but institutions like The United Nations International School stand out. It’s a hub for iconic attractions: Times Square, Broadway theaters, and The MoMA, to name a few. As with any bustling area, crime rates can be slightly higher, though increased police presence is notable. Interestingly, among all neighborhoods in Manhattan, Midtown boasts the highest concentration of skyscrapers, truly defining NYC’s skyline.
Chelsea
Chelsea, a district bounded by the Hudson River and Sixth Avenue, is an enchanting mix of modernity and the echoes of days gone by. The High Line, an elevated urban park repurposed from an old railroad track, serves as an idyllic retreat from city life. With art galleries and theaters like the Joyce adding to the cultural tapestry, it’s a hotspot for art enthusiasts. The average rent for a one-bedroom in Chelsea hovers between $3,800 and $4,600. Its relatively low crime rate further boosts its appeal among residents. Schools like P.S. 11 William T. Harris stand out for their academic excellence. Apart from the famous Chelsea Market, the district offers a vast array of gourmet dining and boutique shopping experiences, making it ever-vibrant.
Greenwich Village
Once the nucleus of New York’s avant-garde and bohemian culture, Greenwich Village now masterfully blends its storied, artistic past with a contemporary rhythm. Its tree-lined streets tell tales of legends like Bob Dylan, who once roamed here. While the area retains its historic charm, living here comes at a price, with rents for a one-bedroom apartment averaging around $4,000. The crime rate is moderate but leans towards the safer spectrum. The sprawling campus of New York University adds youthful energy. Iconic Washington Square Park remains the heart of the village, an urban oasis punctuated by street performers and chess games. Eateries, jazz joints like the Blue Note, and theaters abound, ensuring there’s always something happening.
East Village
Carving its niche away from the broader Greenwich Village, East Village exudes an edgy, ever-evolving spirit. Its past resonates with punk rock vibes, and traces of this legacy still echo in its music venues and bars. A typical one-bedroom rental is priced at around $3,500. Over the decades, safety has improved considerably, thanks to community and police efforts. So, if you are moving with kids, it is safe to call movers East Village to help you relocate. Among the array of schools, the East Side Community School stands out. With spots like St. Mark’s Place offering everything from tattoo parlors to sushi bars and community gardens providing green spaces, the neighborhood balances grit with charm.
Soho (South of Houston Street)
Luxurious Soho, with its European flair, stands tall as a beacon of style and opulence among the neighborhoods in Manhattan. Its historic cobblestone streets juxtapose with contemporary art galleries and high-end boutiques. The area’s industrial past shines through its iconic cast-iron facades. Living in such elegance isn’t cheap; one-bedroom rentals can often fetch upwards of $5,500 monthly. With a lower-than-average crime rate, safety isn’t a major concern. While predominantly commercial, it’s also family-friendly, housing schools like P.S. 130 Hernando De Soto. Beyond shopping, its art spaces, upscale cafes, and restaurants like Balthazar ensure a vibrant urban experience. So, if you want to immerse yourself in true luxury, movers Soho are at your disposal, and your move will be swift and efficient.
Financial District
The Financial District, with its looming skyscrapers and the hum of Wall Street, isn’t just Manhattan’s business epicenter. By night, the district sheds its formal attire, revealing hidden bars and eateries. However, amidst this bustle, a one-bedroom typically rents for around $3,600. Despite its high footfall, it boasts a commendable crime rate. Educational institutions such as the Peck Slip School cater to the growing residential population. Post-business hours, the region transforms: attractions like the 9/11 Memorial, One World Observatory, and the departure point for Statue of Liberty ferries offer both contemplative spaces and touristic thrills. If you want the best combination of work and personal enjoyment, this neighborhood is for you. Contact movers in Finnacial District as soon as you can and relocate.
Chinatown
As one dives into Chinatown, the transition is almost palpable. Among the neighborhoods in Manhattan, it stands out with its rich East Asian cultural tapestry. Vibrant banners, bustling markets, and the scent of authentic cuisine create an immersive experience. Despite being a nucleus of activity, a one-bedroom unit is reasonably priced at around $2,800. While its narrow streets once saw higher crime, increased patrolling has made a positive impact. While schools are limited, institutions like P.S. 124 Yung Wing are noteworthy. For those seeking culinary adventures, Chinatown is a haven, so, if you are among them, Chinatown movers will gladly relocate you. Between eateries, the Canal Street Market, and festivals like Lunar New Year, there’s always a pulse of activity.
Little Italy
Little Italy, historically an Italian immigrant hub, is a colorful Manhattan slice retaining its rich heritage. While rental prices here range from $2,500 to $4,500 for a one-bedroom, purchasing property can hover around $1.2 million. Its crime rate is slightly above the Manhattan average, but walking patrols and community vigilance help. Schools like P.S. 130 Hernando De Soto are pillars here. The annual San Gennaro Feast is a must-attend, and authentic Italian eateries line Mulberry Street. A key fact? Despite its name, Little Italy has seen a reduction in size, majorly due to the expansion of Chinatown.
Noho
Noho, or “North of Houston Street,” is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Manhattan. Rentals typically span $3,500 to $6,000 monthly for a one-bedroom. Its crime rate is below the NYC average, so you shouldn’t hesitate when it comes to contacting movers in Noho and scheduling the moving date. The district houses institutions like Grace Church School. Must-visits include the Bowery Mural Wall and eateries like Il Buco. Did you know? Noho’s historic district covers a mere 15 blocks but showcases some of NYC’s most cherished architecture.
Lower East Side
The Lower East Side (LES) has evolved from an immigrant gateway to a hotbed for nightlife and culture. Rentals can set you back $2,300 to $4,000 for a one-bedroom while buying might mean spending upwards of $1 million. Crime rates are generally on par with the city average. P.S. 142 Amalia Castro stands as a prominent educational institution. Don’t miss the Tenement Museum or the thriving art scene. Intriguingly, LES was home to many iconic musicians, including Lady Gaga! This neighborhood has reliable movers as well, so put your trust in Lower East Side movers and plan a relocation.
Gramercy
Gramercy, with its private park, is one of the quieter neighborhoods in Manhattan. A one-bedroom rental averages $3,000 to $5,000, but a unique Gramercy Park key can increase property value by tens of thousands. It boasts a low crime rate. Schools like P.S. 40 Augustus Saint-Gaudens are notable. The National Arts Club and Irving Place’s historic restaurants are standout spots. A surprising fact? Only residents around Gramercy Park possess keys to this exclusive green space, so have that in mind when you contact Gramercy movers and start planning your relocation there.
Upper Manhattan
Stretching from Harlem to Inwood, Upper Manhattan offers diverse living experiences. Rental costs vary widely, from $1,800 in Washington Heights to over $3,500 in more upscale pockets. Crime rates fluctuate but have seen a general decrease. Schools like A. Philip Randolph Campus High are central to the community. Highlights include The Cloisters Museum and vibrant cultural events in Harlem. Historically, Upper Manhattan was once home to the Polo Grounds, where NY Giants baseball played.
Moving tips
Before you begin to search for the best neighborhoods in Manhattan, you first need to prepare yourself for this step. It’s a lot of work, and it requires careful planning. Hiring affordable movers in Manhattan can truly ease the process. With their help, you will have a chance to get yourself ready and be up to the task. One of the most important things to have in your mind is the budget. Set the budget, and stick to it. Keep in mind that the budget is not the wish list but something that ought to remind you how you need to spend your money. Priorities first, remember that! What you can do is calculate how much money you need to spend on necessary things. Then, it’s important to be efficient and execute everything on time. So, make your own schedule and act according to it.
On the other hand, all of these wouldn’t be worth it if you fail to do the packing part. Now, packing is a serious piece of job, but it’s not the most difficult one. The important thing is to be systematic and know how to wrap your belongings in order to prevent them from breaking. Moving companies can also give you a hand regarding this and help you move your personal possessions and find alternatives for storage in Manhattan. With all these tips, you will be well-prepared and ready to move.
Enjoy your Manhattan lifestyle in whichever neighborhood you choose
Navigating the eclectic mix of neighborhoods in Manhattan can be both exhilarating and challenging. From the historic charm of Little Italy to the upscale serenity of Gramercy, each area offers a unique tapestry of experiences, costs, and lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking cultural vibrancy, educational prowess, or simply a place that feels like home, Manhattan’s neighborhoods have something tailored for every individual. Embarking on a journey through these districts is to understand the heartbeat of the Big Apple truly.
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