New York seems to be a single city composed of numerous small towns – and where to stay in New York you choose to stay in will determine your travel experience. If you love leafy streets and quiet cafés, the West Village is a cozy pick. Want bright lights and fast subway access? Midtown puts you right in the action. The museum opening days and the leisurely Sunday walks will lead you to choose the Upper West Side as an optimal place to stay in New York. While the art lovers will enjoy the gallery district in Chelsea, SoHo, and Nolita are two places to search for unique shops when considering where to stay in NYC.
Every NYC neighborhood has its own vibe, so where you should stay really comes down to what you want to do. To make the choice easier, uhomes.com breaks down the 10 top areas to stay in New York who each area suits you best and the small local details that help you pick the right base.
10 Best Places to Stay in New York
1. West Village
Pros:
West Village has charming streets and historic brownstones, which make you feel super cozy and neighbourly. There are also tons of cute cafes, boutiques, and restaurants, so dining and shopping are really easy in this best area to stay in NYC.
Cons:
Housing and rent prices are pretty steep in the West Village compared to other NYC areas. In addition, the streets can get pretty crowded and noisy, especially on weekends.
Choosing the West Village will tell you the answer to where to stay in New York. It’s all about narrow, tree-lined streets and low brownstones with stoops. The independent shops invite you to explore, giving the whole area a real neighborhood feel. Corner cafés like Blackstone Coffee Roaster and Cafe Panino Mucho Giusto open early and stay friendly late. Bakeries and delis serve comfort food that locals love. Hudson River Park is close by — perfect for morning runs or sunset views, all without leaving Manhattan.
Dining here is local and real: old diners, small trattorias, cocktail bars where they remember your order. Weekend markets include Chelsea Market and Abingdon Square Greenmarket, and music venues blend into the block. Christopher Street and Stonewall sit quietly in the neighborhood, mixing history with everyday life.
Getting around in this best place to stay in New York is easy. Several subway lines at Houston St, 14 St, and W 4 St-Wash Sq stations and the PATH make SoHo, Chelsea, and Midtown just a few stops away.
Apartments for rent in West Village
- 15 Bank Apartments, located in White Plains, has modern 1- and 2-bedroom units with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and in-unit washers and dryers. You can also enjoy a 24-hour gym, a pet-friendly dog park, and co-working spaces.
- 148 West 10th Street provides pet-friendly one-bedroom apartments in the West Village, offering southern exposure, a fireplace, and laundry facilities. 148 West 10th Street, New York, is also conveniently located near public transportation, dining, and shopping options.
2. Midtown Manhattan
Pros: The location of Midtown Manhattan can’t be beat – you’re basically within walking distance or a short ride from all the famous sights. Additionally, is an affroable area to live in NYC.
Cons: It gets so packed with tourists that it can feel pretty hectic. Plus, it’s noisy and crowded, with a real corporate vibe—not exactly peaceful.
For your first time in New York, Midtown makes sense when you want to find where to stay in NYC — it keeps things simple. You’re just steps away from Broadway with a short walk, as well as Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and MoMA for the culture and art lovers. In addition, Midtown is also packed with things to see, Fifth Avenue shopping hosts many fashion brands, and Bryant Park and Central Park for a morning run.
And with the subway station at Times Square–42 St and 34 St-Penn Station running everywhere, getting across the city is easy from Midtown, one of the reasons that it can be one of the best places to stay in New York.
When you’re short on time, having everything nearby is a huge plus in the Midtown neighborhood. You’ve got cheap pizza like Joe’s Pizza Broadway and Carnegie Pizza, and plenty of highly rated dining options such as Yard House, Connolly’s, and Joe Allen right there. If you’re after good food, easy sightseeing, and a convenient base, you can’t go wrong with Midtown.
Apartments for rent in Midtown Manhattan
- Find modern apartments for rent at 555TEN, located in NYC’s Midtown West neighborhood. This pet-friendly, smoke-free building offers furnished studios, 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments, all with central air. The location of 555 10th Ave puts you close to schools like FIT and Fordham University’s Lincoln Centre campus.
- Kips Bay Court offers premium places to live in New York City that near School of Visual Arts, CUNY Baruch College, and Parsons School of Design, with modern amenities and pet-friendly studios to 4-bedrooms.
3. Upper West Side
Pros: It’s a fantastic spot for museum-hopping and art lovers, plus Central Park is just a short walk away. Honestly, the whole area has a really peaceful, residential feel – which is mostly a good thing.
Cons: Keep in mind that it is on the pricier side, and don’t expect much nightlife. Since it’s not super central, you’ll be taking the subway or a bus to get to most other places.
It’s hard to beat the Upper West Side as a home base when you find where to stay in New York on a budget. In this best area to stay in NYC, you’ve got Central Park and Riverside Park, which is perfect for you to have a morning jog, an afternoon with a book, or just escaping the city noise without going far.
Culture-wise, you’re in a sweet spot. Lincoln Center and the American Museum of Natural History are basically right there. Feel like catching the ballet or wandering past dinosaur skeletons? This best place to stay in NYC that will meet your needs. And don’t think it’s all quiet and sleepy in Upper West Side, and it provides you with tree-lined streets that are full of great eats, laid-back bars such as George Keeley, The Dead Poet, and The Gin Mill and a fantastic weekend farmers’ market. Plus, the express subway at 86 St, 79 St, and 72 St stations makes it a breeze to get downtown or over to Brooklyn.
Apartments for rent in Upper West Side
- The Greystone offers modern Upper West Side rentals with studio, 1-, and 2-bedroom apartments, also equipped with a full-time doorman, gym, lounges, rooftop, and easy access to major NYC universities.
- Hotel 99 offers long-term student housing in Upper West Side, near Columbia University and NYU, with subway access, shops, dining, and easy reach to city landmarks.
4. SoHo
Pros: The area has excellent shopping, plenty of stylish places to eat, a charming atmosphere, and quick connections to lower Manhattan.
Cons: At times it comes across as overly trendy, attracts lots of tourists, hotels are very pricey, the streets get crowded during the day but can feel unusually quiet once night falls.
SoHo – short for “South of Houston Street” – is one of the best areas to stay in NYC that feels right. It used to be an industrial area, until artists moved in and left their mark – and that creative vibe is still totally alive today. What makes it such a cool place to stay in New York for newcomers? People can easily be lined up with those beautiful cast-iron buildings that give SoHo its unique look. And inside those historic spaces, you’ll find everything from global fashion icons like Chanel and Dior to independent art galleries and chic little boutiques.
When it’s time to take a break – and trust me, you’ll want to – this best location to stay in New York has plenty to offer. Grab a coffee at Fanelli Café, Cafè Belle, and The Lost Draft. Also, you can try the famous green pasta at a local gem like II Corallo Trattoria, or check out one of the many upscale restaurants such as Milady’s, Maison Close Restaurant, and Piccola Cucina Osteria Siciliana around.
Apartments for rent in SoHo
- 213 6th Ave NYC offers furnished shared flats with kitchen, living room, and great transit access to nearby universities.
- 81 Sullivan St SoHo offers high-end apartments with furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, in-unit laundry, kitchen appliances, bike storage, and easy NYC access.
5. Nolita
Pros: Nolita has that cozy, village vibe with cool little shops, cafés, and restaurants on every corner. You can walk over to SoHo, Little Italy, or the Lower East Side in just a few minutes.
Cons: Living in Nolita, you may face a higher cost of living, and weekends get packed with visitors. The constant foot traffic can feel a bit overwhelming if you live there.
Curious about where the best place to stay in New York is? Nolita is an optimal choice for the first time, and a perfect little pocket downtown that’s just easy, and you can walk to many places in less than 10 minutes. Nolita is all low-key cobblestone streets, not crowded avenues. You find yourself at a corner spot for a coffee, and you just get it—this is the New York people imagine.
It’s got the good stuff without the nonsense. You want a killer pastry? The old-school Italian spots are right there. Feel like shopping? You are just steps away from the SoHo area, but you can duck into cool, one-off boutiques instead of the big chains. The evenings in this best neighborhood in NYC are quiet, but you’re never more than a few blocks from a great little bar or restaurant at The Musket Room, Local 92, and Balthazar that feels like a secret.
Nolita, as one of the best locations to stay in New York, gives you that downtown energy, with a wide range of art galleries waiting for you to explore, try different cuisines in the restaurants, and the feeling that you’re somewhere real, without the chaos.
Apartments for rent in Nolita
- 31 Prince Street Nolita offers renovated pre-war walk-up residences with modern kitchens, in-unit laundry, hardwood floors, high ceilings, and bright one-bedroom layouts.
- 227 Mulberry Street offers luxury apartments with doorman, elevator, gym, pet-friendly policy, modern kitchens, marble baths, hardwood floors, and select penthouses with terraces.
6. Flatiron District
Pros: The Flatiron District has a fantastic, central location. You’ll find cool architecture, excellent food, and shopping, with Madison Square Park as a nice bonus.
Cons: It’s light on major tourist attractions, though, and the weekday hustle and bustle can be intense since it’s a major business area.
Honestly, if you’re staying in Manhattan, just look at Flatiron for where to stay in New York on a budget. You’ve got the Flatiron Building right there to have a nice look. The Madison Square Park is a large green space that is perfect for a coffee, a walk, or it doesn’t matter. The whole area just feels like New York is the city that has old buildings next to new ones, always buzzing but not crazy.
The dining options are kinda ridiculous in this best location to stay in New York, including Boqueria Flatiron, Sagaponack, and Tarallucci e Vino Union Square. Getting Thirsty? Clemente Bar is cool, Gramercy Tavern is a classic, or you can go for the old-school vibe at Old Town Bar to enjoy nightlife in NYC.
Union Square is like a 5-minute walk north. They’ve got that great farmers market, more shops, and like, every subway line at 23 St, 18 St, and 6 Av stations are convenient for you. Midtown’s right there, too, so you can get anywhere easily. It’s just a stupidly convenient spot.
Apartments for rent in Flatiron
- Henri on 24 in Flatiron offers modern studio apartments with open kitchens, bright living spaces, stylish finishes, and easy access to dining, shopping, and transportation.
- 800 Sixth Avenue offers luxury rentals with studios to two-bedrooms, featuring modern amenities, rooftop lounge, fitness center, concierge, and prime location near Madison Square Park and subways.
7. Upper East Side
Pros: The Upper East Side is known for being quiet and upscale, with beautiful brownstones. It’s also super convenient for Central Park, museums, and high-end shopping.
Cons: The house rent and daily costs in the area are very high, and people will feel less lively at night compared to downtown neighborhoods.
Want to know where is the best place to stay in NYC? Try the Upper East Side. With more residential and relaxed atmosphere, and can give you a nice break from the non-stop energy. Living in the Upper East Side, you’re right next to Central Park, that a great place for a morning jog or an evening walk.
Instead of giant skyscrapers, there’s plenty to do in the UES. The great shopping, such as The Shops at Columbus Circle and 75 Rockefeller Plaza. There are also lots of good places to eat, including Luke’s Bar & Grill, L’incontro by Rocco, and Botte UES. Or to grab a coffee at Handcraft or 787 Coffee, and Hutch and Waldo. You’re just a short walk from The Museum of Modern Art, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center, these historical landmarks make you know more about New York City. Besides, getting around the city is easy with the 5 Av/59 St subway station, which allows you can get downtown quickly. Another one of the best things is the safety, and you can come back to a quieter, safer area at the end of the day.
Apartments for rent in Upper East Side
- 301 E 94th St offers furnished, pet-friendly apartments with central air, in-unit laundry, walk-in closets, and some with private balconies. Options range from studios to two-bedrooms, making it a convenient choice for students near Weill Cornell, Hunter College, Columbia, and Juilliard School.
- 220 East 72nd Street offers furnished 2- and 4-bedroom Upper East Side apartments with modern kitchens, in-unit laundry, building amenities, outdoor spaces, and easy access to nearby universities.
8. Williamsburg
Pros: This neighborhood has such a young, local energy – it’s really charming, with tons of great restaurants and cool bars everywhere. The shopping scene is fantastic too. And getting into Manhattan is a breeze, since it’s just one quick subway stop away.
Cons: Don’t expect a lot of classic tourist sights around Williamsburg. The cost of living can get pretty pricey, and nights might be a bit noisy with all the activity.
Finding where to stay in New York City? Williamsburg in Brooklyn will tell you the answer. There are colorful street art, unique boutiques, and vintage shops that fill its streets, giving it a distinctive local charm that you can experience.
Williamsburg is also a paradise for food lovers, and you can start your day at Sweet Fire Cafe & Studio or Canary Cafe. For brunch, popular spots like Kabob Shack and The Commodore never disappoint. Pizza enthusiasts can visit L’Industrie Pizzeria or Williamsburg Pizza Union Avenue for the best slices in the city. New York is one of the never-sleep cities that has plenty of rooftop bars, live music venues, and local pubs such as Duff’s, Blinky’s, and Rocka Rolla.
The waterfront is one of the tourist spots in Williamsburg that provides the best views of the Manhattan skyline, adding to the area’s appeal. You can also take the East River Ferry offers a quick and scenic route into Manhattan.
Apartments for rent in Williamsburg
- One Domino Square in Williamsburg offers modern student apartments from studios to 3-bedrooms with stylish design, great views, and proximity to Pratt, Cooper Union, and NYU Tandon.
- 250 North 10th Street offers pet-friendly studios to two-bedrooms with in-unit laundry, modern amenities, rooftop deck, fitness center, and easy Manhattan access.
9. Dumbo
Pros: You get incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge from Dumbo. It’s a great spot for photos or just a chill walk by the water. The neighborhood has a calm, artsy feel, with lots of galleries, cool cafes, and unique shops to check out.
Cons: The big downside is the cost—housing here is super expensive. Also, while it’s quiet during the week, the waterfront can get packed with tourists on weekends.
Dumbo stand as one of the best places to stay in New York. You can get beautiful views, artsy spots, and plenty of reminders of its industrial Brooklyn background. Those old brick warehouses now hold lofts, galleries, and indie shops, so wandering the streets kinda pulls you between the past and now.
You’re staying right in the middle of a postcard, with the iconic Manhattan Bridge framing your view of the skyscrapers. Also, the riverside paths are perfect for you to go jogging, have picnics, or just watch ferries glide by. In addition, you can take advantage of the convenient transition: short rides or a quick walk put you in Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn, but when you come back, you get a quieter, more local vibe with great cafés, bakeries, and a surprisingly strong restaurant scene. For short stays, it’s excellent — easy to explore on foot, friendly for couples and families, and full of little discoveries.
Apartments for rent in Dumbo
- 181 Front Street in Brooklyn offers modern student apartments from studios to 3-bedrooms with convenient amenities, ideal for NYU Tandon, ASA, Brooklyn Law, and Pace students.
- Pearl House NYC at 160 Water Street in the Financial District offers modern student housing with studios, 1- and 2-bedroom apartments. Amenities include a fitness center, 24/7 tech-smart package room, secured bike and resident storage.
10. Chelsea
Pros: There are lots of art galleries and a lively cultural scene, and it’s also close to the High Line park and has many highly rated dining options and shops nearby.
Cons: Some streets can get crowded and noisy, especially during events. Additionally, it is a bit far from parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Chelsea is one of the best options that will feel perfectly at home when you are looking for where to stay in NYC. The urban vitality is perfectly combined with livable and accessible streets. The High Line Park makes it easy to have morning walks or weekend strolls, a short escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Art lovers really feel at home here. Chelsea is filled with galleries – such as Tagiara Tala Gallery, Miles McNally Gallery, and 303 Gallery, among others. There are also many cafes, restaurants, and low-key tourist attractions where people can have a cup of coffee or something to eat, and there are some quiet corners for relaxation. The Chelsea Market is popular with students, which also adds to the charm, with fresh food supply, small shops, and a lively but not overly noisy atmosphere.
The several subway lines A, C, and E, at the 23 St, 18 St, and 14 St / 8 Av stations, make you easily to go to other places, or access Midtown Manhattan, Lower Manhattan, and even parts of Brooklyn. The night here has a special charm – cozy cocktail bars, small theaters, and restaurants beloved by locals are all available.
Apartments for rent in Chelsea
- Abington House in West Chelsea offers luxury, pet-friendly studios and 1-bedrooms with in-unit laundry, air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, modern kitchens, and stylish bathrooms. Abington House NYC is located near FIT, ASA College, and SVA.
- Beatrice Apartments in Chelsea offers modern student housing with studios to two-bedrooms, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens, and shared lounges. Amenities include a gym, pool table, balconies, and convenient access to FIT, NYU, SVA, and nearby transit.
Where Not to Stay in New York
- Harlem
We advise you to be a little more cautious in Harlem, especially late at night and avoid being alone. You can not find as many services specifically compared to other areas in Manhattan. In addition, you may find challenges when navigating the public routes in Harlem, especially if you’re unfamiliar with these areas. - The Bronx
Places such as Hunts Point and Fordham have higher crime statistics that people need to avoid. The main disadvantage of The Bronx is that it is far from many hotspots in New York City, which are quite spread out, so you’ll likely need to drive a car to go to the tourist spots, or you’ll need to have longer travel times. - Long Island City
Getting to Manhattan from parts of Queens like Long Island City or Jamaica is a long haul on the subway. On top of that, the trains in Long Island City don’t run as often. You’ll also find that options for dining and nightlife are more limited for a visitor.
FAQ
For a first trip to New York, Midtown is a great base because it puts you near major attractions like Times Square and Broadway. Other popular neighborhoods are Greenwich Village for its cozy cafes and atmosphere, SoHo for art and shopping, the Upper West Side for a quieter feel near Central Park, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn for a trendy scene with great skyline views.
If you’re visiting New York for the first time, staying in Midtown Manhattan is your most convenient choice. It puts you right in the heart of the action, close to iconic first-time sights like Times Square and Central Park. For other great alternatives, Greenwich Village offers a cozy, charming feel, SoHo is a hub for shopping and art
If safety is a priority, consider areas like Tribeca, the Upper East Side, or the West Village, which offer secure, active environments. Even generally safe zones like Midtown require extra vigilance in crowded tourist spots to avoid pickpockets.
A good strategy is to stay in Midtown Manhattan but not directly in Times Square. By choosing a hotel a few blocks away from the main square, you get the convenience of Midtown’s central location while escaping the overwhelming hustle and bustle, ensuring a more relaxed stay.
If you want to explore on foot, Manhattan is your best bet, with especially walkable areas like the Bowery and Greenwich Village. In Brooklyn, neighborhoods such as Boerum Hill and Cobble Hill are also great, known for their pedestrian-friendly streets, dense concentrations of shops and restaurants, and lively atmospheres.
For your first trip to New York, prioritize the iconic Manhattan sights. Make sure to see Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the view from Top of the Rock, and save time to explore Central Park. Also, don’t miss world-class museums like The Met and the American Museum of Natural History.
Four days in New York is the perfect amount of time to hit the city’s major highlights and get a real taste of its energy. Be prepared for a packed itinerary and a lot of walking, but it’s enough to make you fall in love with the Big Apple.
