Discover the most Glamorous Luxury neighborhoods in new york
If you’re looking for an upscale apartment and have no idea how to navigate luxury neighborhoods in New York, this article is for you. Each neighborhood in NYC has it’s own vibe - so it’s important that vibe aligns with your lifestyle. This article outlines the top 10 NYC neighborhoods for luxury living and what makes each of them special, so you can figure out which neighborhood most aligns with your own lifestyle goals.
Understanding NYC’s Neighborhoods
New York City is split up into 5 Boroughs - Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island. Each borough is further divided into neighborhoods of varying sizes. Neighborhoods are delineated by city streets. Each neighborhood has it’s own sense of community, caters to its own type of personality and provides a certain type of lifestyle. Where you live says a lot about how you live. People tend to stick close to home, so the five to ten square blocks around where you live better align with your priorities.
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Top 10 Luxury Neighborhoods in New York
When creating this list on luxury neighborhoods in New York City, I really wanted you to be able to picture what it might be like to live in each neighborhood. For that reason, these descriptions include details about local businesses, general vibes, and community hot spots.
1. TribecA
Vibe: Trendy, laid back but high end. Great for foodies who like staying out late.
Landmarks: The Woolworth building, the Jenga building, The Oculus, Ghostbuster’s Fire Station
Popular Businesses: Paros, Fouquet’s, Grand Banks
Unique Features: Lots of celebrities, like Taylor Swift and Beyonce have homes in Tribeca. The area is full of light airy lofts, trendy bars and restaurants and many high net worth individuals. Its cobblestone streets and brownstones keep Tribeca looking quintessentially New York even as more modern buildings crop up.
Tribeca stands as one of Manhattan's most coveted neighborhoods, known for its blend of trendiness and sophistication. The vibe here is effortlessly stylish yet relaxed, making it a hot spot for food enthusiasts and night owls alike. The neighborhood boasts airy lofts, upscale bars, and renowned eateries such as Paros, Fouquet’s, and Grand Banks. Its cobblestone streets and classic brownstones give it a timeless New York feel, even as contemporary buildings continue to enhance its landscape. The name is short for Triangle Below Canal Street (Tri-Be-Ca).
Tribeca's allure is heightened by its high-profile residents, including celebrities like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. Landmarks like the iconic Woolworth Building, the striking Jenga Building, and the modern Oculus add to its allure, while the famous Ghostbusters Fire Station brings a touch of cinematic charm.
It's the city's third most expensive neighborhood, with the average apartment selling for around $2,900,000.
2. Greenwich Village
Vibe: There are two distinct vibes to Greenwich Village. The southern part of the neighborhood is perfect for people who like being in the center of the action. It’s characterized by its unique blend of cheap eats, upscale dining, high end cocktail spots and dive bars. On weekend nights expect the South Greenwich Village neighborhood to be bustling with activity as many New Yorkers convene in this neighborhood to start their night out.
The northern part of Greenwich Village is more residential and higher end. Expect more townhomes, quieter more residential streets and fewer bars and restaurants.
Landmarks: Washington Square Park, Edgar Allen Poe’s House, NYU
Popular Businesses: Comedy Cellar, The Blue Note Jazz Club, Minetta Tavern, Family Meal
Unique Features: The heart of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park. There you will find arguably the richest mix of New Yorkers the city has to offer. In the park, residents can people watch, picnic, read, shop or just enjoy the outdoors.
This is my favorite of the luxury neighborhoods in New York — and the neighborhood I’m proud to call home! Greenwich Village offers a dynamic blend of vibrant energy and serene residential charm, catering to diverse tastes and lifestyles. The southern part of the neighborhood pulses with activity, featuring a lively mix of affordable eats, upscale dining, sophisticated cocktail lounges, and classic dive bars. It's a nightlife hub where New Yorkers flock on weekends to enjoy the eclectic atmosphere. In contrast, the northern section presents a more tranquil, upscale experience with elegant townhomes, quiet streets, and charming brownstones. Washington Square Park, the heart of the Village, serves as a lively gathering spot where residents can enjoy picnicking, people-watching, or simply soaking in the park’s vibrant ambiance. Popular spots such as the Comedy Cellar, The Blue Note Jazz Club, and Minetta Tavern add to the neighborhood’s allure, making Greenwich Village a captivating blend of cultural richness and residential sophistication.
3. West Village
Vibe: Quiet and residential. Full of high end restaurants and bars. Great for a romantic evening.
Landmarks: Friends apartment, Sex and the City apartment, Stonewall National Monument
Popular Businesses: Via Carota, The Mary Lane, Waverly Inn, Hudson Clearwater, Cherry Lane Theatre
Unique Features: The West Village is arguably the most quintessentially and cinematic New York City neighborhood. Cobblestone streets and classic brownstones make the West Village the ideal backdrop for movies and TV shows like Sex and the City and Friends. Quiet, tree lined streets provide a respite for lucky townhome owners from the hustle and bustle of the rest of New York City.
The West Village epitomizes the quintessential New York City experience with its serene, residential charm and sophisticated ambiance. This tranquil neighborhood is renowned for its upscale restaurants and intimate bars, making it perfect for a romantic evening out. Iconic landmarks such as the Friends apartment, the Sex and the City apartment, and the Stonewall National Monument add to its storied allure. The West Village's cobblestone streets and classic brownstones create a picturesque setting, often featured in movies and TV shows like Sex and the City and Friends. The quiet, tree-lined streets offer a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle making it a coveted enclave for those lucky enough to call it home. Popular dining spots like Via Carota, The Mary Lane, Waverly Inn, and Hudson Clearwater contribute to the neighborhood’s sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.
4. Soho
Vibe: Bustling, trendy, fashionable and high end.
Landmarks: The Drawing Center,
Popular Businesses: Shuka, Leslie Lohman Gallery, Spring Street Park
Unique Features: Soho’s cobblestone streets and industrial-chic buildings give the neighborhood a quintessentially New York feel. Home to shops selling the world’s leading designer brands, Soho is New York City’s shopping Mecca. Its well known as a haven for artists, as art galleries line both sides of Soho’s streets.
Soho is the epitome of trendy, high-end New York City living, where fashion, art, and culture converge. This bustling neighborhood is famous for its cobblestone streets and industrial-chic buildings, offering a quintessential NYC aesthetic. Soho is the city’s premier shopping destination, with designer boutiques and flagship stores drawing shoppers from around the globe. The area’s artistic roots remain strong, as art galleries like the Leslie Lohman Gallery line its streets. Soho’s mix of luxury, creativity, and urban energy creates an unmatched experience for those who crave the city’s trendiest side.
5. Upper West Side
Vibe: quite, relaxed, residential, and cultural
Landmarks: Central Park, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Natural History Museum
Popular Businesses: Tatiana, Dizzy’s, Sushi Kaito
Unique Features: It’s proximity to Lincoln Center and other landmarks, the Upper West Side is a New York City cultural destination. It’s also a neighborhood that’s seen a drastic increase in the number of sales as more people move uptown for a quieter more relaxed existence. The picturesque, tree-lined streets make the neighborhood feel relaxed, residential and cozy.
The Upper West Side offers a serene, culturally rich environment that attracts those seeking a relaxed, residential vibe within New York City. The neighborhood’s close proximity to iconic landmarks like Central Park, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and the Natural History Museum makes it a cultural hub. With its picturesque, tree-lined streets and cozy atmosphere, the Upper West Side has become increasingly popular among buyers looking for a quieter lifestyle away from the downtown hustle. The area’s charm lies in its blend of relaxed residential living and easy access to the city’s top cultural experiences, making it an ideal choice for those who value both tranquility and the arts.
6. williamsburg
Vibe: Trendy, artsy, laid back
Landmarks: McCarren Park, Marsha P Johnson Park, Grand Ferry Park
Popular Businesses: Atithi, Birds of a Feather, Kokomo Restaurant & Lounge
Unique Features: Williamsburg is a foodie paradise. From fast casual to Michelin star, Williamsburg has an impressive roster of restaurants. The neighborhood also boasts expansive views of the Manhattan skyline. With its artsy atmosphere, vintage boutiques and trendy restaurants, Williamsburg is an incredible mesh of cool and luxury.
Williamsburg is the perfect blend of trendy, artsy, and laid-back living. Known as a foodie paradise, the neighborhood offers a diverse dining scene, from fast-casual eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants. Popular spots like Atithi, Birds of a Feather, and Kokomo Restaurant & Lounge reflect its eclectic culinary landscape. Williamsburg’s artsy vibe is complemented by vintage boutiques, stylish cafés, and an impressive array of green spaces. With expansive views of the Manhattan skyline and a mix of cool, creative energy and luxury living, Williamsburg is a magnet for those seeking both urban vibrancy and a unique, stylish lifestyle.
7. Cobble Hill
Vibe: Quiet and laid back
Landmarks: Cobble Hill Park
Popular Locations/Businesses: Lillo Cucina Italiana, La Vara
Unique Features: With an average purchase price of $1,963,000, Cobble Hill is Brooklyn’s most expensive neighborhood. It’s quiet, tree lined streets, classic brownstones, and locally owned businesses make the neighborhood the perfect place for people who want to be close to Manhattan but away from the hustle and bustle.
Cobble Hill is Brooklyn’s most sought-after neighborhood, known for its peaceful, laid-back vibe. With an average purchase price of $1,963,000, it’s also the borough’s most expensive area. The charm of Cobble Hill lies in its quiet, tree-lined streets, classic brownstones, and a strong sense of community fostered by locally owned businesses. Popular spots like Lillo Cucina Italiana and La Vara add a touch of local flavor to the area’s culinary scene. Anchored by the picturesque Cobble Hill Park, the neighborhood offers a serene retreat while still being just a short distance from Manhattan, making it ideal for those who crave tranquility without sacrificing convenience.
8. Flatiron
Vibe: Vibrant & bustling, refined & professional
Landmarks: The Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park
Popular Locations/Businesses: Eataly, The Ned, Rezdora
Unique Features: Flatiron is located smack dab in the middle of downtown so no matter where you need to go, you can get there from Flatiron. During the day, it’s full of business professionals heading to their jobs or shoppers enjoying the litany of stores along fifth avenue. At night. During the night New Yorkers flock to Flatiron to grab a bite to eat or a cocktail at one of the neighborhoods many great restaurants or bars.
Flatiron is a vibrant, bustling neighborhood that seamlessly blends professional energy with refined living. Located in the heart of downtown Manhattan, Flatiron offers unmatched convenience, making it easy to access any part of the city. By day, the streets buzz with business professionals who work in Flatirons many office buildings and shoppers enjoying the many stores along Fifth Avenue. By night, the neighborhood transforms into a lively destination where New Yorkers gather to dine or unwind with a cocktail. Flatiron’s dynamic mix of work, play, and dining options makes it one of the city’s most appealing places to call home.
9. central park South
Vibe: High end, luxury, established
Landmarks: Central Park, The Museum of Modern Art, the Plaza, Columbus Circle
Popular Businesses: Sant Ambroeus, Bellini
Unique Features: Central Park South is home to some of the most high end buildings in New York City, which are collectively known as Billionaire’s Row. This neighborhood is expensive, and it’s proximity to the largest park in the city make it an incredibly desirable location to live in. The tall buildings lining the park have incredibly impressive views.
Central Park South is synonymous with high-end luxury and sophistication. This prestigious neighborhood, home to some of New York City’s most exclusive residences, is famously known as Billionaire’s Row. With landmarks like Central Park, The Museum of Modern Art, The Plaza, and Columbus Circle nearby, the area offers a perfect blend of culture, elegance, and urban convenience. The neighborhood's iconic towers provide stunning views of the park and the city skyline, enhancing its appeal. Renowned dining spots like Sant Ambroeus and Bellini add to the refined atmosphere. Central Park South's combination of established luxury, prime location, and breathtaking vistas make it one of the city’s most desirable addresses.
10. Hudson yards
Vibe: Sharp, angular, imposing
Landmarks: The High Line, The Vessel, The Edge
Popular Businesses: Ci Siamo, Zou Zou’s, Kamasu
Unique Features: With its plethora of brand new luxury towers, Hudson Yards is the most expensive neighborhood in New York City. It’s average sales price of $7.5 Million is more than double Soho’s.
Hudson Yards is New York City’s most expensive neighborhood. It’s characterized by sharp, angular architecture and towering glass buildings that exude modern luxury. With an average sales price of $7.5 million it’s the pinnacle of high-end living. The neighborhood is home to striking landmarks like The High Line, The Vessel, and The Edge, which offer breathtaking views and unique experiences. Hudson Yards’ impressive skyline and brand-new luxury towers create a bold, imposing presence that defines the cutting edge of urban opulence in Manhattan.
What to consider when choosing your Neighborhood
There are a lot of great neighborhoods in New York City, so when it comes to picking the right one for you, carefully considering the following criteria.
Location
Where you live dictates a lot about how you live. People tend to stick close to home - especially in a city as walkable as Manhattan. Make sure the neighborhood provides convenient access to the landmarks and cultural institutions that are important to you. Check out some restaurants and bars in the area to see if they have the vibe and ambiance you’re looking for. It’s also crucial to assess the neighborhood’s proximity to transit - make sure that you have access to the MTA lines that get you where you need to go.
Lifestyle & Community
Some neighborhoods are hustling and bustling, and some are quieter and more residential. Figure out what kind of vibe you want to experience 90% of the time - you can always head farther out on days you want to get a little more action or take a break from it all.
Price & Investment Potential
Certain areas are up and coming and some have already arrived. If you’re buying a home with an eye to appreciation potential, make sure you look at the neighborhood’s historic price trends.
Explore for yourself
The best thing you can do to understand if a neighborhood is right for you is to live in it! Book a hotel for a week or two or crash at a friend’s place while they are out of town. Staying in a particular neighborhood will give you the best idea of what it might be like to live there.
FAQ
What is the richest area in New York?
In terms of net worth, the Upper East Side and Central Park South likely house New York’s wealthiest individuals.
What is the fancy neighborhood in New York?
While “fancy” is a subjective term, the areas of NYC that might fit the bill are The West Village, Soho, Tribeca, The Upper East Side, and Central Park South.
Where are the rich houses in New York?
The most expensive apartments in New York City are found on Billionaire’s Row. The Row is home to the most expensive apartment ever sold in NYC - which went for a whopping $230 million and the most expensive home currently on the market - which is listed for just under $200 million. The West Village, Greenwich Village, Tribeca, Soho, The Upper East Side, the Upper West Side and Flatiron are other neighborhoods with plenty of high end homes.
Where do billionaires live in NYC?
Billionaire’s live all over New York City. Many own homes in one of the luxury towers found in the stretch of the city right below Central Park which are collectively known as Billionaire’s Row. However, many high net worth individuals own townhomes in the West Village, Tribeca or the Upper East Side which regularly go for over $20 million.
What is the nicest part of New York?
There are lots of nice parts of New York City - it all depends on what you’re looking for. The West Village, Greenwich Village, Soho, Tribeca, The Upper West Side, The Upper East Side, Cobble Hill, Williamsburg and Carrol Gardens area ll considered highly desirable neighborhoods.
What neighborhood do most celebrities live in NYC?
Tribeca likely boasts the most celebrity homes. Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Harry Styles and Tom Brady have all own homes in Tribeca. The West Village is another neighborhood frequented by celebs. Swift’s iconic song “Cornelia Street'“ is about a property she property she once inhabited in the West Village.
What is the most elegant Avenue in New York City?
5th Avenue is an iconic part of New York City. The Avenue used to house the richest New Yorkers and the architecture on 5th captures the opulence of the Gilded Age and 19th century New York elite. Nowadays, shoppers can admire the buildings while shopping at the highest end boutiques - think Armani, Dior, Prada, and Tiffany’s - that flank 5th ave.
What is the nicest street in NYC?
Charles, Bank, Morton, Perry and Grove are all quintessential and iconic West Village streets. In fact, Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment, set in the upper East Side on the show, is actually located on Perry Street, and the Friend’s apartment is on the corner of Grove and Bedford.
Your Dream Home is Waiting
If you’re considering buying a home in one of the many luxury neighborhoods in New York, I’d love to help guide you through the process. Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to make a move, feel free to reach out with any questions. Let’s make your NYC real estate dreams a reality! And don’t forget to download my FREE Ultimate Buyer’s Guide — it’s packed with valuable insights and tips to help you make the best decision for your future.
