Top 20 New York neighborhoods. The emoji-friendly guide🗽🌆

An overview of 20 different neighborhoods in New York City, covering topics such as why to live there, the people who live there, attractions, businesses, housing prices, and pet-friendliness. The neighborhoods featured range from upscale and luxurious to bohemian and affordable, and include areas such as Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. Each neighborhood is given an emoji to provide a quick visual representation of its character. Overall, this guide serves as a useful resource for anyone looking to learn more about the diverse and dynamic neighborhoods that make up New York City.

1. Battery Park City 🏙️

• Why live there: Battery Park City is a luxurious and safe neighborhood located right by the Hudson River. It offers a peaceful and tranquil living environment with stunning views of the water and the city skyline.
• People: Battery Park City is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: Battery Park, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and the Museum of Jewish Heritage are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its proximity to the World Trade Center and the Statue of Liberty.
• Businesses: Battery Park City is home to a mix of upscale restaurants, retail stores, and businesses.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.5 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $4,000 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $6,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with plenty of parks and walkways.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and ferry.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

2. Chelsea 🎨

• Why live there: Chelsea is a vibrant and lively neighborhood with a thriving arts and culture scene. It is also known for its great restaurants and nightlife.
• People: Chelsea is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of artists, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The High Line, Chelsea Market, and many art galleries are some of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its art galleries and trendy nightlife.
• Businesses: Chelsea is home to a mix of businesses, including art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.6 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,700 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,800 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $5,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with the High Line and many parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

3. Upper East Side 🏛️

• Why live there: The Upper East Side is a prestigious and upscale neighborhood with beautiful architecture and high-end shopping.
• People: The Upper East Side is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of wealthy families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, and the Guggenheim Museum are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its luxurious living and high-end shopping.
• Businesses: The Upper East Side is home to many upscale boutiques, designer stores, and restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.9 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,600 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $6,000 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with plenty of parks and walkways.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

4. Greenwich Village 🏠

• Why live there: Greenwich Village is a bohemian and artistic neighborhood with a rich history and unique charm.
• People: Greenwich Village is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of artists, students, and young professionals.
• Attractions: Washington Square Park, the Stonewall Inn, and the Blue Note Jazz Club are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its artistic and intellectual history, as well as its vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
• Businesses: Greenwich Village is home to a mix of businesses, including vintage shops, bookstores, and cozy cafes.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $2.4 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,800 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $4,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $6,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and small parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

5. Harlem 🎶

• Why live there: Harlem is a vibrant and historic neighborhood with a rich culture and great food.
• People: Harlem is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of African American and Hispanic communities, as well as young professionals and families.
• Attractions: The Apollo Theater, the Studio Museum in Harlem, and the Harlem Art Walking Tour are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its rich cultural history and jazz music scene.
• Businesses: Harlem is home to a mix of businesses, including soul food restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $729,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,000 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

6. Williamsburg 🎸

• Why live there: Williamsburg is a hip and trendy neighborhood with a vibrant nightlife and great food scene.
• People: Williamsburg is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of artists, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The Brooklyn Brewery, the Williamsburg Waterfront, and the Music Hall of Williamsburg are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its hipster culture and street art.
• Businesses: Williamsburg is home to a mix of businesses, including vintage shops, artisanal coffee shops, and trendy bars.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.3 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,400 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $4,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with bike lanes and walkable streets.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and ferry.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

7. Astoria 🍻

• Why live there: Astoria is a diverse and affordable neighborhood with a great food and nightlife scene.
• People: Astoria is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of Greek, Hispanic, and Eastern European communities, as well as young professionals and families.
• Attractions: The Museum of the Moving Image, Socrates Sculpture Park, and the Astoria Park are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its great food and affordable housing.
• Businesses: Astoria is home to a mix of businesses, including traditional Greek restaurants, craft beer bars, and boutique shops.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $756,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,900 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,300 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $3,000 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Astoria is moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

8. Park Slope 🌳

• Why live there: Park Slope is a family-friendly neighborhood with tree-lined streets, beautiful brownstones, and great schools.
• People: Park Slope is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and the Brooklyn Museum are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its beautiful architecture and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Businesses: Park Slope is home to a mix of businesses, including independent bookstores, artisanal coffee shops, and farm-to-table restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.7 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,200 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,900 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $4,000 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

9. Lower East Side 🍔

• Why live there: Lower East Side is a trendy and lively neighborhood with a great food and nightlife scene.
• People: Lower East Side is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of young professionals, students, and artists.
• Attractions: The Tenement Museum, the New Museum, and the Essex Street Market are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its street art and trendy restaurants.
• Businesses: Lower East Side is home to a mix of businesses, including indie boutiques, tattoo parlors, and fusion restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.1 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $4,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

10. Tribeca 🏭

• Why live there: Tribeca is a luxurious and upscale neighborhood with great restaurants and easy access to the waterfront.
• People: Tribeca is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of wealthy families, young professionals, and celebrities.
• Attractions: The Tribeca Film Festival, the Hudson River Park, and the Oculus are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its luxurious living and high-end restaurants.
• Businesses: Tribeca is home to a mix of businesses, including designer boutiques, fancy spas, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $4.3 million.
• Studio: Average price is $3,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $5,000 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $8,000 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with plenty of parks and walkways.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

11. SoHo 👜

• Why live there: SoHo is a trendy and fashionable neighborhood with great shopping and nightlife.
• People: SoHo is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of young professionals, artists, and tourists.
• Attractions: The New York City Fire Museum, the Angelika Film Center, and the Prada store are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its high-end shopping and trendy restaurants.
• Businesses: SoHo is home to a mix of businesses, including designer boutiques, art galleries, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $2.6 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,900 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $4,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $6,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with cobblestone streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

12. Upper West Side 🎭

• Why live there: The Upper West Side is a family-friendly neighborhood with great schools, cultural attractions, and easy access to Central Park.
• People: The Upper West Side is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: The American Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Center, and the Beacon Theatre are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its cultural attractions and beautiful architecture.
• Businesses: The Upper West Side is home to a mix of businesses, including gourmet food stores, independent bookstores, and upscale restaurants.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.9 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,400 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,500 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $5,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

13. Long Island City 🌉

• Why live there: Long Island City is a rapidly growing neighborhood with a great arts scene and easy access to Manhattan.
• People: Long Island City is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of young professionals, artists, and families.
• Attractions: The MoMA PS1, the Queensboro Bridge, and the LIC Flea & Food are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its growing arts scene and great views of the Manhattan skyline.
• Businesses: Long Island City is home to a mix of businesses, including artisanal coffee shops, trendy bars, and art galleries.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $790,000.
• Studio: Average price is $2,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $4,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

14. Dumbo 📸

• Why live there: Dumbo is a trendy and artistic neighborhood with great views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• People: Dumbo is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of artists, young professionals, and families.
• Attractions: The Brooklyn Bridge Park, the St. Ann's Warehouse, and the Empire Stores are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its stunning views and trendy art scene.
• Businesses: Dumbo is home to a mix of businesses, including artisanal chocolate shops, upscale restaurants, and art galleries.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $2.2 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,900 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $4,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $6,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with cobblestone streets and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and ferry.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

15. East Village 🍸

• Why live there: The East Village is a bohemian and trendy neighborhood with great nightlife and arts scene.
• People: The East Village is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of artists, students, and young professionals.
• Attractions: The Astor Place Theatre, Tompkins Square Park, and the Museum of the American Gangster are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its punk rock history and trendy bars.
• Businesses: The East Village is home to a mix of businesses, including vintage shops, tattoo parlors, and trendy bars.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.3 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,700 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,700 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $5,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and small parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

16. Jackson Heights 🌈

• Why live there: Jackson Heights is a diverse and affordable neighborhood with great food and cultural events.
• People: Jackson Heights is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of Hispanic, South Asian, and LGBTQ+ communities, as well as young professionals and families.
• Attractions: The Jackson Heights Greenmarket, the Queens Pride Parade, and the Queens Museum are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its diverse community and great food.
• Businesses: Jackson Heights is home to a mix of businesses, including ethnic restaurants, specialty food stores, and community centers.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $530,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,400 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $1,800 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,400 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

17. Greenwich/West Village 🏠

• Why live there: Greenwich/West Village is a historic and charming neighborhood with beautiful architecture and a great food and shopping scene.
• People: Greenwich/West Village is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Stonewall National Monument, the Jefferson Market Library, and the Cherry Lane Theatre are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its historic buildings and trendy restaurants.
• Businesses: Greenwich/West Village is home to a mix of businesses, including boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and art galleries.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $2.6 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,800 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $4,200 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $6,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and small parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

18. Carroll Gardens 🍕

• Why live there: Carroll Gardens is a charming and family-friendly neighborhood with great food and easy access to the waterfront.
• People: Carroll Gardens is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Carroll Gardens Greenmarket, the Carroll Park, and the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its Italian-American heritage and great pizza.
• Businesses: Carroll Gardens is home to a mix of businesses, including Italian restaurants, artisanal cheese shops, and cozy cafes.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.8 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,200 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,000 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $4,500 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets and small parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

19. Prospect Heights 🌺

• Why live there: Prospect Heights is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with great food, cultural attractions, and easy access to Prospect Park.
• People: Prospect Heights is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and artists.
• Attractions: The Brooklyn Museum, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and the Barclays Center are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its cultural attractions and beautiful brownstones.
• Businesses: Prospect Heights is home to a mix of businesses, including artisanal food markets, independent bookstores, and trendy bars.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $1.5 million.
• Studio: Average price is $2,500 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $3,300 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $4,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Very pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of parks.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

20. Bay Ridge 🌊

• Why live there: Bay Ridge is a charming and affordable neighborhood with great views of the water and easy access to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.
• People: Bay Ridge is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees.
• Attractions: The Bay Ridge Greenmarket, the Shore Road Park, and the Narrows Botanical Garden are just a few of the many attractions in this neighborhood.
• Famous for: Its beautiful waterfront views and great seafood.
• Businesses: Bay Ridge is home to a mix of businesses, including seafood restaurants, family-owned delis, and cozy cafes.
• Housing prices: Median home price is $815,000.
• Studio: Average price is $1,600 per month.
• 1BR: Average price is $2,100 per month.
• 2BR: Average price is $2,800 per month.
• Pedestrian-friendly: Moderately pedestrian-friendly with some wide sidewalks and bike lanes.
• Public transportation: Easy access to the subway and bus.
• Pet-friendly: Many buildings allow pets.

The final notes

If you're looking to relocate to New York City and researching its neighborhoods, there are several factors you should consider to find the best fit for you. Here are 10 important factors to keep in mind:

💰 Cost of living: New York City can be expensive, so it's important to research the cost of living in each neighborhood to ensure it fits within your budget.

🏠 Housing prices: Housing prices can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood, so make sure to research the median home prices and rental prices for each area.

🚇 Transportation: New York City has a great public transportation system, but some neighborhoods may have better access to subway lines or buses than others. Consider how you plan to get around the city when selecting a neighborhood.

🚶 Pedestrian-friendly: Some neighborhoods may be more pedestrian-friendly than others, with wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and parks.

🎭 Attractions: Consider the attractions and amenities each neighborhood has to offer, such as museums, parks, restaurants, and nightlife.

🌈 Diversity: New York City is known for its diversity, so if you're looking for a neighborhood with a particular cultural or ethnic community, research which areas may best fit your needs.

🔒 Safety: Crime rates can vary by neighborhood, so make sure to research the safety of each area before making a decision.

🏫 Education: If you have children, research the quality of schools in each neighborhood.

🐾 Pet-friendliness: If you have pets, research which neighborhoods have pet-friendly apartments and amenities.

🚗 Commute time: Consider the distance and time it will take you to commute to work or other important destinations from each neighborhood.

By keeping these factors in mind and researching the different neighborhoods of New York City, you can find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. Good luck with your search!