Best places to live in New York attract people from all over the world with its unique charm and energy. Do you want to move to New York? There are not only job opportunities that many people dream of, but also diverse cultures. Life in New York City, for most people, is an adventure and a chance of self-challenge and growth. From the street art of Brooklyn to the skyscrapers of Manhattan, from the jazz of Harlem to the neon lights of Times Square, every corner of NYC is full of charm. So where should you live? Here is a list of the best places to live in New York for your reference.
List of Best Places to Live in NYC
New York has a variety of options to live in, from historic neighborhoods to emerging modern neighborhoods, each with its own unique appeal. Whether pursuing the fast pace of urban life or yearning for a quiet and comfortable living environment, New York can meet the needs of different residents. Below is Niche’s list of the top 10 best places to live in New York in 2024.
| Rank | Neighborhoods in NYC | Population | Median Home Value | Median Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Great Neck Plaza | 7,443 | $391,400 | $2,263 |
| 2 | Hell’s Kitchen | 65,019 | $1,361,009 | $2,564 |
| 3 | Great Neck Gardens | 1,139 | $1,136,600 | – |
| 4 | Kensington | 1,445 | $1,414,800 | $3,501 |
| 5 | Ardsley | 5,013 | $800,000 | $3,501 |
| 6 | Chelsea | 63,288 | $1,292,410 | $2,623 |
| 7 | Syosset | 18,807 | $816,200 | $2,718 |
| 8 | Morningside Heights | 36,539 | $1,173,328 | $2,165 |
| 9 | Kips Bay | 32,729 | $954,993 | $2,856 |
| 10 | Greenwich Village | 27,455 | $1,514,113 | $2,909 |
Best places to live in New York (Details)
1. Great Neck Plaza, North Shore of Long Island
| Population | 7,443 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $391,400 |
| Median Rent | $2,263 |
| Median Annual Salary | $43,130 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $6,810/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $6,233/month |
Located in the heart of Long Island, New York, Great Neck Plaza is a vibrant community. Since 1930, this place has been known for its bustling business district and a variety of high-end shops and restaurants. Great Neck Plaza is a transportation hub that houses the Great Neck Station, which serves as a stop for the Long Island Rail Road. It is also a mix of commercial and residential areas, including various types of homes.
Despite its small size, the village is fully-equipped. The area is home to more than 260 retail stores, more than 90 multi-type developments, 148 single-unit developments, approximately 40 office buildings, two four-star hotels, a nursing home, and several facilities for elder people. Great Neck Plaza offers a unique living experience with its suburban tranquility combined with the convenience of the city. Therefore, it is one of the best places to live in NYC.
2. Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan
| Population | 65,019 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $1,361,009 |
| Median Rent | $2,564 |
| Median Annual Salary | $44,551 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $4,937/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $4,167/month |
Hell’s Kitchen is a vibrant neighborhood located on the west side of Midtown Manhattan. Historically, Hell’s Kitchen was a poor area of Manhattan with high crime rate. But over the past few decades, the area has undergone a dramatic transformation into a trendy, upscale residential area.
Hell’s Kitchen is known for its extensive dining options, offering a diverse food from fast food to Michelin-starred restaurants. It is also a popular spot for nightlife and shopping. There are many clothing and department stores along 8th and 9th Avenues. In addition, Hell’s Kitchen is home to some of New York’s iconic buildings and museums, such as the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum. Hell’s Kitchen is ideally located close to Central Park, the Theater District and Chelsea. Moreover, the area is easily accessible with multiple subway and bus lines. Overall, Hell’s Kitchen is a community of food, shopping, culture and transportation, and has become a popular residence and tourist destination in New York City.
3. Great Neck Gardens, North Shore of Long Island
| Population | 1,139 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $1,136,600 |
| Median Rent | – |
| Median Annual Salary | $60,367 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $6,150/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $3,743/month |
Great Neck Gardens, a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts of New York, is one of the best areas to live in New York City. Located on the North Shore of Long Island, it is known for its quality living environment and educational resources. Great Neck Gardens is ideally located near the New York City borough of Queens, about an hour’s drive from Manhattan. It is a small residential area that offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city and is perfect for families. The community is known for its high standard of living and excellent public schools, making it one of the best places to live in New York on Long Island for a family.
In addition, residents of Great Neck Gardens enjoy an abundance of outdoor activities and recreational facilities. There are several beautiful parks within the community such as Steppingstone Park, Kings Point Park, Allenwood Park, Firefighters’ Park and Cutter Mill Park, It offers a variety of activities and leisure spaces from waterfront views to children’s playgrounds. These parks not only provide a peaceful place away from the daily bustle of life for local residents, but also a great place for visitors to explore the natural beauty of Long Island.
4. Kensington, Brooklyn
| Population | 1,445 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $1,414,800 |
| Median Rent | $3,501 |
| Median Annual Salary | $173,320 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $25,470/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $6,700/month |
Kensington is also one of great places to live in New York. It is a unique neighborhood in Central Brooklyn, New York, known for its peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. Kensington is home to immigrants from all over the world, including residents from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mexico and other countries. This cultural diversity is reflected in the neighborhood’s restaurants, shops and markets. Known for its Victorian homes and pre-war apartment buildings, the community offers residents a living experience that is both modern and historic. Housing options are more diverse and affordable than anywhere else in Brooklyn. In addition, residents of Kensington have easy access to multiple subway lines that provide quick connections to Manhattan and other Brooklyn areas. The pace of life in the community is slower, which is very rare in New York. At the same time, the neighborhood in the area remains friendly.
5. Ardsley, Westchester County
| Population | 5,013 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $800,000 |
| Median Rent | $3,501 |
| Median Annual Salary | $79,557 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $11,392/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $1,697/month |
Ardsley is a small town located in Westchester County, New York, known for its friendly community, quality schools, and beautiful environment. One of Ardsley’s community characteristics is its close neighborhood and rich history. The people of Ardsley have always worked to preserve and showcase the town’s social, cultural and architectural history, so that residents can understand how it has evolved. The residents of Ardsley enjoy both the tranquility of the suburbs and the convenience of the New York City. Ardsley is highly rated for its quality of life, with residents proud of its excellent school system and beautiful natural scenery. Overall, Ardsley is one of the best places to live in New York.
6. Chelsea, Manhattan
| Population | 63,288 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $1,292,410 |
| Median Rent | $2,623 |
| Median Annual Salary | $126,222 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $6,288/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $1,697/month |
Chelsea in New York is a vibrant neighborhood known for its fashion and food. As one of New York’s art centers, Chelsea is known for its galleries, art shows and new brands, it is a paradise for art lovers. Chelsea is also home to the High Line, a park that blends nature with the city features. This park becomes an integral part of local residents’ life.
Apartment buildings along the way, such as 225 West 28th Maverick Chelsea, Oskar, and Abington House, are well-designed and full of stories. Residents of Chelsea can enjoy spacious living spaces and convenient transportation. It is also considered by many people to be one of the best places to live in NYC, because of its diverse accommodation options and affordable prices. Chelsea, a vibrant community that not only offers urban conveniences but retains its small-town charm, is a great place to live and visit.
7. Syosset, North Shore of Long Island
| Population | 18,807 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $816,200 |
| Median Rent | $2,718 |
| Median Annual Salary | $79,557 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $6,288/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $1,697/month |
Syosset has a fantastic environment and a good school district, making it one of the most expensive and best areas to live in NYC. Education is an attractive point of Syosset, with a number of highly rated schools. It boasts 13 public schools, including Syosset High School, which is ranked 32nd in New York and 158th in the country.
Syosset is close to major highways and railways, making commuting to the center of New York easy. From spacious detached villas to comfortable townhouses, you can find all kinds of properties that meet the needs of different families. Accommodation in Syosset is dominated by high-end homes, many of which have modern amenities and designs. With wide green coverage and complete leisure and living facilities, Syosset provides residents with a rich choice of activities. Therefore, Syosset is an ideal place for many families to choose to settle down in New York.
8. Morningside Heights, Manhattan
| Population | 36,539 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $1,173,328 |
| Median Rent | $2,165 |
| Median Annual Salary | $106,916 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $6,288/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $1,697/month |
Morningside Heights is a little different from the rest of New York City. It is known for its higher education and rich cultural atmosphere. Morningside Heights is also regarded as the “academic acropolis” because it is home to Columbia University and Barnard College. Based on these two educational institutions, this neighborhood attracts many scholars and students from all over the world.
In addition, Morningside Heights is home to some important cultural landmarks, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. This magnificent Gothic architecture frequently hosts art exhibitions, thus attracting many art lovers. Morningside Heights has an excellent network of subway and buses, making commuting very easy. Whether you’re a student or a worker, Morningside Heights will be one of the best places to live in New York.
9. Kips Bay, Manhattan
| Population | 32,729 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $954,993 |
| Median Rent | $2,856 |
| Median Annual Salary | $148,076 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $8,022/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $6,053/month |
Kips Bay is a neighborhood on the east of Manhattan in New York City and one of the best places to live in New York. Education and healthcare in the Kips Bay are all excellent. Several schools, such as CUNY’s Baruch College, as well as several hospitals, are located in this area. Kips Bay has also witnessed many important event during the Revolutionary War.
Kips Bay is equipped with excellent public transport and pedestrian-friendly streets. Whether by subway, bus or on foot, it’s easy to commute between the neighborhood and the rest of New York City. Kips Bay is also blessed with complete facilities, including cinemas, banks, gyms, shopping centers, etc., so as to provide residents with a convenient life. Kips Bay has a beautiful environment and is one of the best areas to live in New York for those who love outdoor activities. With several parks and green spaces, such as Asser Levy Playground and Stuyvesant Square Park, residents can enjoy beautiful scenery and take a leisurely walk.
10. Greenwich Village, Manhattan
| Population | 27,455 |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value | $1,514,113 |
| Median Rent | $2,909 |
| Median Annual Salary | $146,600 |
| Average Living Expenses for a Family | $4,260/month |
| Average Living Expenses for a Single Person | $3,067/month |
Greenwich Village is a historic and cultural community located in the west of Downtown Manhattan. Known for its Bohemian cultural roots and artistic heritage, this area is quite inclusive. Washington Square Park, the heart of Greenwich Village and home to the Washington Square Arch, is one of New York City’s iconic places. The people of Greenwich Village also love music. Jazz and rock music play an important role here, and many famous jazz clubs, such as the Village Vanguard, are located here.
Greenwich Village is not only a gathering place for artists, but also a tourist attraction. It appeals to tourists from all over the world to experience its unique atmosphere and charm. The cafes, bars, bookstores and small restaurants here all exude a chic style that makes people feel different from normal New York life.
Tips for choosing best areas to live in NYC
As one of the world’s most famous metropolises, New York is known for its iconic skyline and bustling streets. Moving to New York City, you will enjoy convenient transportation, abundant educational resources and countless job opportunities. However, moving to New York also means that you are supposed to adjust to the high cost of living and small living space. So, what are the best areas to live in NYC? Here are some ideas for you to consider.
1. Calculate your budget.
Budget is a crucial factor in choosing a home that directly affects your quality of life and financial health. It is generally recommended to limit housing expenses to no more than 30% of your monthly income. This will ensure that you can pay rent while still having enough money for other living expenses, such as food, transportation, entertainment, etc.
When looking for a rental on a budget, take into account all housing-related expenses. This includes not only the rent itself, but also utility fees, such as Internet charges, property management fees, deposits and agency fees. In addition, if you choose to share an apartment, you also need to consider possible financial disputes in the future.
2. Limit your commuting time.
Commuting time is also an important factor that can’t be ignored when renting an ideal apartment in New York. A long commute can interfere with your breaks and social activities. Choosing a residence with a short commute will allow you to spend more time on personal interests, thus, improving your quality of life. On a limited budget, there may be a trade-off between rent and commuting time. For example, residents of downtown Brooklyn can enjoy shorter commute, but rents may be relatively high. In this case, you need to consider whether you are willing to pay a higher rent in order to reduce your commuting time.
3. Take transportation around your accommodation into account.
With a mature public transport network, New York offers a variety of ways to commute, including subways, buses, trains and ferries. It is vital to know what transportation options are available in your chosen housing area and whether they are easily connected to your work or study location. Therefore, living near a subway station or bus stop is always your best bet. On top of that, you also have to consider the reliability of the transport, including how often the subway line runs and whether there are frequent delays.
4. Decide if you prefer hustle or quiet.
Choosing a quiet or bustle environment according to personal preference is crucial to the living experience. If you prefer a quiet environment, you can look for homes that are located away from major traffic lines and commercial areas to avoid noise and pedestrian disruption. You can also choose apartments near green spaces. These places are not only quiet, but also beautiful, and residents can easily feel the nature.
If you prefer a bustle city life, you can choose apartments in the city center and business district. Whether you’re looking for quiet or bustle living environment, choosing a home that matches your lifestyle and personal preferences will greatly improve your quality of life.
5. Consider the safety of your accommodation.
When choosing your apartment in New York, security is an important factor that cannot be ignored. A safe living environment can not only protect your personal and property safety, but also provide you with a peace living environment.
Before you decide to rent, you should research the crime rate of the neighborhood. You can also visit the neighborhood of the potential residential area and note whether there are good lighting facilities, security cameras and other security measures. When signing a lease, pay attention to the clauses in the contract regarding safety responsibilities. Besides, consider buying renter’s insurance to protect your property from unexpected events such as theft and fire.
What you need to know before you go to New York
Different boroughs
There are 5 boroughs of NYC, each with its own unique character, culture and history. Here is a brief overview of the five districts:
- Manhattan: Manhattan is the most famous district in New York City, known for its skyscrapers, business center, financial district (Wall Street) and Times Square. There are many landmarks here, including Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is also home to the United Nations headquarter.
- Brooklyn: Brooklyn is the most populous borough in New York City and is known for its unique neighborhoods, cultural diversity, and historic architecture.
- Queens: Queens is the largest borough in New York City and one of the most racially and ethnically diverse in the United States.
It owns John F. Kennedy International Airport and Flushing, the second largest Chinatown in New York City. - Bronx: Bronx is the only borough connected to the mainland United States and is known for its rich culture and history. It is the home of the New York Yankees and has the famous Yankee Stadium. The Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden are also important landmarks in the area.
- Staten Island: Staten Island is known for its quiet suburban life and natural beauty. Staten Island has a rich historical and cultural heritage, including the Staten Island Museum and the Staten Island Botanical Garden. It’s also a great way to see the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.
Comfortable climate
New York City is located in the northeast of the United States and has a typical temperate continental climate. This means that New York City has four distinct seasons, each with its own distinctive features.
Summer is a time of high rainfall, high humidity, and occasional hurricanes or tropical storms. Fall is one of the most pleasant seasons in New York City, with a mild climate that makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities and admiring leaves. Snowfall is a common phenomenon in winter, sometimes causing traffic jam. But New York is equipped with indoor heating, so people can live comfortably in the winter.
Convenient transportation
Known for its convenience and extensive coverage, New York City’s transit system, operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), includes subways, buses, and ferries. Thus, it can meet the needs of citizens and visitors almost 24/7.
New York’s subway system is one of the most complex and historic public underground rail systems in the world, with 472 stations and 27 lines. The MTA’s bus system has 253 local routes and 71 express bus routes in the five boroughs of New York City. The bus fare is the same as the subway, and both are the means of daily transportation that most people will choose.
High cost of living
New York City is known for its high cost of living. Home prices in New York City, in particular, have remained stubbornly high, with the median home price in New York City topping $400,000. In some areas, such as Manhattan, prices are sky-high, reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars per square meter.
Higher education in New York City is also expensive. At New York University, for example, the official tuition and living expenses for undergraduate students in 2024-2025 total about $93,184, including $62,796 for tuition, $24,652 for accommodation and meals, and $1,442 for books. Medical expenses are also a non-negligible part of the cost of living. The cost of health insurance at New York University, such as the NYU Comprehensive Plan, is up to $4,000.
All in all, living in New York is expensive. If you want to save money, the best way is to contact us. We have a professional team who will recommend affordable and suitable homes in New York for you.
Everything about best neighborhoods in NYC
By staying in best places to live in New York, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant, multicultural and innovative environment. From skyscrapers to historic neighborhoods, from bustling commercial centers to tranquil suburbs, New York offers a variety of living options. While the high cost of living and small living space are inevitable, the convenient transportation, abundant educational resources and career opportunities offered by New York City make it a dream city to live for many people. uhomes.com will be your loyal partner, allowing you to choose the best places to live in NYC and find your home in New York.
FAQ
New York City is a vibrant and multicultural metropolis, with each area having its own unique charm and features. Here are some of the neighborhoods widely recognized as the best places to live in NYC.
- Great Neck Plaza
- Hell’s Kitchen
- Great Neck Gardens
- Kensington
- Ardsley
- Chelsea
- Syosset
- Morningside Heights
- Kips Bay
- Greenwich Village
For families, choosing the right place to live also requires consideration of quality educational resources and quiet and beautiful green spaces. There are several neighborhoods in New York City that are considered among the best to live in because of their safety, quality schools, green spaces, and family-friendly atmosphere. Here are some recommended areas: Kips Bay, Morningside Heights, Syosset, Ardsley, etc.
When looking for cheap flats in NYC, there are usually several key factors to consider. First of all, geographical location is one of the main factors affecting rental prices. Typically, areas away from downtown and popular business districts, such as the Bronx, parts of Queens and some fringe areas of Brooklyn, have relatively low rents. Secondly, the type and condition of the apartment will also affect the price. Old buildings or shared apartments tend to have lower rents. uhomes.com lists some of the cheap apartments in NYC for you.
- Aspen Heights Buffalo: From $699/month
- Bernard Brooklyn Home: From $890/month
- Agate Brooklyn Home: From $933/month
- Incite at Troy: From $935/month
- The Meserole Williamsburg Home: From $990/month
- 23 East 109th Street: From $1,275/month
New York City’s richest neighborhoods are known for their luxury, uniqueness, and celebrity residences. Here are the richest areas in NYC.
- Hudson Yards: As New York City’s newest luxury development, Hudson Yards is known for its sky-high housing prices and symbol of modern urban luxury. The median home sale price in Hudson Yards is more than $3.2 million, making it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in New York City.
- Tribeca: Tribeca has been transformed from an industrial area to a high-end residential area with spacious lofts, unique charm and high-end boutiques.
- Upper East Side: The Upper East Side is one of the most expensive areas in New York due to its prime location near Central Park and Fifth Avenue. Historically, it has been one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in New York City.
- Soho: Soho is also transformed from an industrial area to a high-end residential and business district. There are several historic iron buildings, high-end boutiques, luxury apartments and high-end retailers.
One of the safest areas in New York City is Battery Park City. This neighborhood at the southern tip of Manhattan is known for its tranquil waterfront setting, open green spaces and low crime rates. Battery Park City offers a wealth of lifestyle amenities, such as dining, bars, coffee shops and parks. Moreover, it attracts nearby professionals to spend weekends and holidays here.
