About Manhattan
Just mention New York City to tourists and locals alike, and they'll envision the best attractions in Manhattan, from the Whitney Museum of American Art to the Sky Portal at One World Observatory. But what truly defines the borough is its neighborhoods. Let’s start with downtown. Hit the streets of the Lower East Side to discover a thriving nightlife scene, where music venues like the Bowery Ballroom feature well-known indie bands. The West Village, with its charming cobblestone streets, is the East Coast birthplace of the gay rights movement. Meanwhile, Hudson Yards, Manhattan's newest destination, is known for its lofty condos, luxurious shopping (hello Neiman Marcus), and the Vessel, a climbable landmark. Several blocks south is the arts district, Chelsea, where both galleries and shops are steps away from the High Line, an elevated park. Uptown neighborhoods are just as distinctive. The Upper West Side is brimming with cultural offerings, including the American Museum of Natural History and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Across town is the Upper East Side and its Museum Mile, which features two biggies: the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Head north above 110th Street to enjoy Harlem's Restaurant Row, the center of the area's burgeoning culinary scene. Afterward, catch a concert at the legendary Apollo Theater. Then there's Inwood, a bustling enclave in northern Manhattan. It’s home to the Met Cloisters, sprawling Fort Tryon and Inwood Hill parks, and stunning views of the Hudson River.
How much does it cost to rent a Manhattan apartment?
Rents across the city vary by neighborhood. Building amenities and square footage are also factors. The median asking rent for Manhattan during the first quarter of 2020 was $3,497, though apartments in many neighborhoods are cheaper.
How much does it cost to buy a Manhattan apartment?
It depends on the location, amenities, home size, and housing type. During the first quarter of 2020, the median asking price for a home in Manhattan was $1,549,000, though homes in many neighborhoods can be purchased for much less.
Is the cost of living higher in Manhattan or Brooklyn?
When it comes to food, entertainment, or getting around town, affordable options abound in both boroughs.
How do you decide where to live in Manhattan?
There are more than 50 neighborhoods in Manhattan, all with their own unique personality. SoHo, Battery Park City, Hell's Kitchen, Kips Bay, Flatiron, Washington Heights, and the rest have plenty to offer, including a diverse range of good eats.
Where are dogs allowed in Manhattan?
Manhattan is very pet-friendly, with dog parks scattered all over the borough. During off-peak hours, canines can run off-leash in Central Park. Afterward, hit Shake Shack, and order up a treat from its dog menu.
How many parks and playgrounds are in Manhattan?
There are more than 100 public parks, many with basketball courts, athletic fields, and a swimming pool.
Is getting around Manhattan easy and cheap?
NYC's transit system, a network of subways, and buses run by the MTA, makes traveling around Manhattan fast, easy, and affordable. There's also no need to own a car, thanks to cost-effective sharing services like ZipCar and Uber.
What are some things to do in Manhattan?
Little indulgences are a big part of urban life — detox like a real New Yorker at the Russian and Turkish Baths in East Village. Grab a cocktail at the Campbell, a hidden bar in Grand Central Terminal. Or you can lunch or munch your way through the Chelsea Market.
Is Manhattan one of the five boroughs?
Yes, even though for many, the term Manhattan is synonymous with New York City. It's because Manhattan was New York City before the addition of the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island more than a century ago.
