There’s a reason millions of people call New York City home. It’s home to some of the most famous places in the world. But beyond the major landmarks and destinations, the Big Apple has a wide variety of places to discover, each with its own set of hidden gems. If you’re thinking about relocating to NYC, one of the first things you’ll want to do is select the right neighborhood to live in.
NYC’s neighborhoods are distinct and unique, offering residents a different flavor and lifestyle. Choosing the right neighborhood can take your NYC experience from good to great. If you aren’t sure where to start, use this guide to explore some of NYC’s top neighborhoods and find the perfect apartment to get settled in.
Five great neighborhoods in Manhattan, according to statistics
One of the most popular—and most densely populated—boroughs in NYC is Manhattan, and it’s getting more residents every single day! This is because Manhattan is home to some of the best neighborhoods in all of the city.
Take a look at five of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan, according to the stats.
Murray Hill
Tell your Manhattan movers you’re headed to Murray Hill, and they’ll know exactly where to go! This booming neighborhood is located in the upper-most area of lower Manhattan, just before Midtown. Currently, it’s home to around 26,000 New Yorkers and boasts a dense urban feel, complete with great eats, nightlife and entertainment.
Murray Hill is broadly ranked as #6 of the best neighborhoods to live in New York City because of its central location and diversity. Check out Murray Hill by the numbers:
- The median rent is $2,761, with about 60% of residents choosing to rent;
- Property crimes are far below the national average;
- This neighborhood trends younger—only 11% of residents are families with children;
- The neighborhood is up and coming, with a rising median income of $135,000.
Battery Park City
NYC locals know all about the flock to Battery Park City. This neighborhood has developed substantially over the last decade and currently has a population of just over 13,000. It’s located on the lower end of Manhattan under Tribeca, spanning the New Jersey-facing coastline.
Recently named the #1 best neighborhood to raise a family in New York City, it’s got everything you want in a neighborhood. Here’s how Battery Park City shakes out statistically:
- The median rent is $3,332, with 80% of residents choosing to rent;
- Both violent and property crime are below the national average;
- Residents are very well educated: 44% hold a bachelor’s degree, 42% hold a master’s;
- The public school system serving Battery Park City has a B ranking, with many schools ranking A+.
Greenwich Village
New Yorkers are quite familiar with the quiet streets and peaceful serenity of Greenwich Village. This neighborhood holds its own flavor against the dense, bustling cityscape of Manhattan. Home to almost 28,000 people, Greenwich Village is located on the east bank, north of Tribeca and just east of NoHo.
Recently ranked the #3 best neighborhood to live in New York City and one of the best for young professionals, it’s a place with tons of diversity, opportunity and charm. Here’s what the stats for Greenwich Village look like:
- Median rent is $2,460, and the median home value is $1,319,880;
- The area skews liberal and is home to a dense LGBTQ+ population;
- Nearly 90% of area residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher!
Financial District
The financial district has it all! It’s a great place to live, work and raise a family, not to mention seek entertainment and enjoy the city. More than 25,000 people call the Financial District home, enjoying its central location in lower Manhattan. It’s a denser neighborhood than many others, but well worth it to be near the things you love.
The Financial District ranks high for both livability and for professionals. It’s #18 of the best neighborhoods to live in New York City. Here’s how the Financial District breaks down:
- 76% of residents rent, at a median rental price of $2,971 per month;
- The median household income is higher than other NYC neighborhoods, at $151,872;
- 49% of residents have a bachelor’s degree, while 36% hold a master’s or higher;
- Public transportation is a chief feature of the area, with subway, train and ferry access.
Lower East Side
Creative bohemians and urban gentry reside alongside each other in NYC. For those who value diversity and for singles who are looking for an amazing nightlife along with good eateries and renowned stores, the Lower East Side in lower Manhattan is just the right spot! Over 60,000 people reside here, and for good reason.
Housing here is affordable, and the neighborhood is vibrant and bustling, which is perfect for those who crave energy and action. Take a look at the Lower East Side’s stats:
- The large majority of residents rent, with median rents around $1,000;
- The population is very diverse and filled with young professionals;
- Median household income for the neighborhood is $45,500.
Top neighborhoods outside Manhattan
While Manhattan is a popular choice for many newcomers to NYC, there are a ton of neighborhoods in the city’s other boroughs that make wonderful homes, too!
Known for its amazing atmosphere, one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn is none other than Park Slope. Park Slope is relatively affordable, has a low crime rate and excellent public schools and is home to a diverse community. Here you will find massive stretches of green space, as well as top-rated bars and restaurants. Artists and creative experts love the area for its heritage art and cultural centers. NYC’s Park Slope is an all-around great choice when it comes to neighborhoods.
Life in the Big Apple can also be fun if you choose to live in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill neighborhood. Located in the vicinity of the prestigious Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill has an amazing combination of charm and elegance for those who want a relaxed and safe living environment. Cobble Hill is slightly cheaper than Manhattan and has amazing houses—some of which date back to the nineteenth century but come equipped with modern facilities and amenities.
Beyond these few, there are plenty of great neighborhoods to find around New York City. Don’t forget to check out Kips Bay, Nolita, SoHo, Chelsea, Tribeca and many more!
Finding a suitable apartment in NYC
Once you’ve settled on the perfect neighborhood for your family, you’ll need to choose the right home. For many in NYC, rental apartments are the way to go.
However, finding a suitable apartment in NYC can be a daunting task if you’re unprepared. To make this challenge a little easier, use these tips.
- Viewing apartments for rent: Apartment search websites can be helpful in identifying a few properties you’re interested in, but the best way to choose an apartment is to see it in person. Set up viewings for your ideal apartments and take a tour. Make sure to note each apartment’s details, pros and cons.
- Submitting an application: If you think you’ve found the perfect apartment, you’ll need to submit a rental application. Keep in mind that most applications require a small application and background/credit check fee. After you’ve submitted the application, it usually takes 24 to 48 hours for the landlord to decide if you can rent the apartment or not.
- Signing the lease: If you are approved for the apartment, sign the lease ASAP so it doesn’t slip away! Make sure you read the lease agreement carefully and get a good understanding of its terms before signing, but don’t delay.
- Moving in: With the lease signed and the apartment yours, it’s time to move. Prepare a moving checklist to ensure an easy and smooth moving process. Then, hire a reliable moving company to help you out and get all your belongings to your new home safely.
Getting settled in NYC after your move
After you’ve chosen the perfect neighborhood in NYC and found a good apartment, it’s time to get settled and explore all that the city has to offer. Get to know your local neighborhood, but then venture out to see and do things all around the Big Apple. Exploring NYC will help you get your bearings and find some of your favorite local spots right away.
Of course, there are number of must-visit places like Times Square, the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge. However, there is so much more to see! An organized walking or biking tour can introduce you to some popular finds and hidden gems and let you explore some of NYC’s history.
New York also has a seemingly unlimited number of hang outs for foodies. There are restaurants all over the city serving cuisines from around the world. A food tour is a great place to start if you want to check out the local eats.
Additionally, NYC’s night tours are ones you shouldn’t miss. The whole city comes to life after the sun sets, and you’ll get to see an entirely different side of New York’s culture.
With all that in mind, start preparing for your move to NYC! If you’ve found a great place to live in one of NYC’s hot neighborhoods, start preparing your moving checklist and hire a reliable moving company today.