The Heart of New York City
Manhattan, often referred to as "The City" by locals, is the cultural, financial, and commercial hub of New York City. Known for its iconic skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-renowned landmarks, Manhattan offers a unique blend of luxury living, historic charm, and urban convenience. From its bustling streets to quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods, Manhattan truly offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a dynamic nightlife, world-class dining, high-end shopping, or quiet parks, Manhattan delivers an unparalleled lifestyle.
The heart of New York City and a global symbol of ambition, culture, and sophistication, Manhattan stands as one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the world. From the iconic skyline of Midtown and the historic brownstones of the Upper West Side to the cobblestone streets of SoHo and the tree-lined avenues of the Village, Manhattan offers a world-class urban experience defined by diversity, luxury, and opportunity. Every neighborhood carries its own rhythm, blending architectural character with modern innovation and unmatched access to arts, dining, and commerce.
Manhattan is the cultural and financial core of New York City, home to Central Park, Broadway, Wall Street, and countless global institutions. It’s a borough where history meets modernity—offering penthouse condominiums with skyline views, historic co-ops with timeless craftsmanship, and pre-war townhomes on tree-lined blocks. Residents enjoy easy access to public transit, world-renowned dining, high-end shopping, elite schools, and parks within minutes of every neighborhood. Manhattan’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer both the world’s fastest pace and moments of peaceful escape among its green spaces and waterfront promenades.
Key Facts about Manhattan, NY | |
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Area | ~22.8 sq mi (59.1 km²) |
Borough | Manhattan (New York County) |
Established | 1624 (as New Amsterdam); became part of NYC in 1898 |
Population (recent est.) | ~1.6 million residents |
Notable Neighborhoods | Upper East Side • Upper West Side • Midtown • SoHo • Tribeca • Greenwich Village • Harlem • Financial District • Chelsea |
Signature Attractions | Central Park • Times Square • Broadway • Wall Street • Empire State Building • The High Line • Fifth Avenue shopping • Museum Mile |
Main Roads | Broadway • Park Avenue • Fifth Avenue • Madison Avenue • West End Avenue • FDR Drive • West Side Highway |
Transit | Extensive subway network • PATH trains • NYC Ferry • Grand Central Terminal • Penn Station |
From glass-clad high-rises overlooking Central Park to landmark brownstones rich with history, Manhattan defines urban luxury. Its real estate market is both resilient and globally sought-after—offering not just a place to live, but a connection to the heartbeat of the world’s most iconic city.
Located at the heart of New York City, Manhattan is bordered by the Hudson, Harlem, and East Rivers and anchored by icons like Central Park, Wall Street, and the Empire State Building. With one of the world’s most advanced transit systems, residents and visitors move effortlessly between neighborhoods, boroughs, and regional hubs.
Subways, buses, ferries, commuter rail, and dedicated bike lanes deliver unmatched connectivity. Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station link to national rail, while bridges and tunnels connect to the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and New Jersey. Manhattan’s grid, walkability, and density make it uniquely efficient and livable.
Connectivity & Transportation — Manhattan, NY | |
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Location Map & Overview | Central NYC borough on an island bordered by the Hudson River (west), East River (east), and Harlem River (north). Broadly organized as Downtown, Midtown, and Uptown, each with distinct cultural, commercial, and residential character. |
Nearby Boroughs & Areas |
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Attractions & Landmarks |
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Public Transit |
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Main Roads & Highways |
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Typical Transit Times* |
*Varies by route & peak hours
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Parking | Street parking is limited; public & private garages are common. Use SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve. |
Walking & Cycling | Exceptionally walkable with protected bike lanes, Citi Bike share, and scenic corridors like the Hudson River Greenway and Central Park Loop. |
Taxi & Ride Apps | 24/7 Yellow Cabs plus Uber and Lyft; luxury black-car and chauffeur services widely available. |
Airport Access |
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Accessibility & EV | Many stations and all buses provide ADA options; accessible taxis by request. Public EV charging available in numerous garages and residential towers across Manhattan. |
Penn Station • Grand Central Terminal • Oculus/World Trade Center
Pier 11/Wall St • Midtown West • East 34th St • Battery Park City
Citi Bike stations throughout Manhattan with tap-and-ride access
Manhattan sets the global standard for urban mobility—walkable, connected, and convenient—placing culture, commerce, and parks within easy reach.
Manhattan’s real estate market remains one of the most competitive and globally recognized in 2025. Characterized by luxury condominiums, historic brownstones, and high-rise co-ops, the borough continues to attract both domestic and international buyers seeking stability, prestige, and long-term appreciation. As of late 2025, the median sale price is approximately $1.25M, with a median price per square foot near $1,350. The luxury segment, particularly in neighborhoods like Tribeca, SoHo, and the Upper East Side, continues to see resilient demand despite inventory fluctuations. Rental prices remain among the nation’s highest, supported by corporate relocations, limited space, and strong professional tenant demand.
Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
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1BR Condo / Co-op | $975,000 (est.) | $1,300 | $4,500 | 4.5% (est.) |
2BR Condo / Apartment | $1,650,000 (est.) | $1,350 | $6,800 | 4.2% (est.) |
3BR Luxury Condo | $3,200,000 (est.) | $1,450 | $10,500 | 3.9% (est.) |
Townhouse / Brownstone | $5,500,000 (est.) | $1,300 | $15,500 | 3.4% (est.) |
Penthouse / Ultra-Luxury Residence | $10,000,000+ (est.) | $2,000+ | $25,000+ | 3.0% (est.) |
Methodology & Notes: Market medians reflect Q3–Q4 2025 data from New York City MLS and CoreLogic analytics. Prices per square foot derived from closed luxury transactions across major neighborhoods. Rental figures sourced from StreetEasy and Zillow, averaged across doorman, non-doorman, and new development inventory. Yields vary by location, amenities, and building age.
Life in Manhattan is defined by vibrant diversity, cultural prestige, and urban sophistication. From Central Park to the waterfront promenades, the city offers a lifestyle unmatched in energy and access. Each neighborhood—from the artistic charm of SoHo and Tribeca to the elegance of the Upper East Side and the modern pulse of Hudson Yards—offers its own character, community, and convenience.
Situated at the core of New York City, Manhattan is bordered by the Hudson, East, and Harlem Rivers. It encompasses iconic areas such as Downtown, Midtown, and Uptown, each offering its own architectural style and rhythm.
A blend of professionals, creatives, and long-time residents defines Manhattan’s neighborhoods. From tight-knit Upper West Side blocks to vibrant Downtown loft districts, community thrives amid cosmopolitan diversity.
Manhattan’s dining scene ranges from Michelin-starred restaurants in Midtown and Tribeca to iconic delis, food halls, and hidden speakeasies. Culinary innovation meets tradition on nearly every block.
Home to world-renowned institutions including Columbia University, NYU, and The New School. Dozens of elite private schools and public programs offer rigorous academics and cultural enrichment opportunities.
A spectrum of living options: historic brownstones, pre-war co-ops, modern glass towers, and luxury condominiums. Prices vary dramatically by neighborhood, building amenities, and proximity to Central Park or river views.
Exceptional connectivity through 20+ subway lines, buses, ferries, and bike-share systems. Most residents rely on public transit or walking—cars are optional but rarely essential for daily life.
Four-season climate: warm summers, crisp autumns, cold winters, and blooming springs. Parks and waterfront areas offer year-round recreation from ice-skating to open-air concerts.
Luxury retail along Fifth Avenue, cultural landmarks like the Met and MoMA, and recreational havens including Central Park and Hudson River Park. Premier healthcare and wellness centers are found citywide.
Densely populated yet remarkably diverse—Manhattan attracts executives, artists, and global investors alike. A strong mix of renters and homeowners ensures constant movement and opportunity.
Unmatched culture, dining, and global connectivity. High walkability, 24/7 energy, and access to the world’s best business, art, and educational opportunities.
High cost of living, limited space, and fast-paced lifestyle. Parking scarcity and competitive housing markets are typical urban trade-offs.
Enjoy Central Park, The High Line, Hudson River Greenway, and rooftop gardens. Seasonal festivals, open-air concerts, and recreational sports bring outdoor vibrancy to city life.
Manhattan’s lifestyle blends timeless sophistication with modern vitality—where every street, skyline, and green space reflects the pulse of a city built for ambition and inspiration.
Manhattan offers an exceptional range of world-class amenities—from luxury healthcare and high-end shopping to cultural institutions, fine dining, and parks. Below is a curated look at some of the most defining features that shape daily life in one of the most iconic urban centers in the world.
Families in Manhattan benefit from access to some of the nation’s best public, private, and independent schools. The New York City Department of Education (NYC DOE) operates zoned and specialized public schools across the borough, complemented by prestigious private academies and international institutions offering IB and advanced college-prep curricula.
Educational options range from neighborhood elementary schools and elite public high schools to Montessori preschools and world-renowned private academies. Many schools emphasize STEAM programs, performing arts, global studies, and college readiness. Always confirm zoning, application timelines, and program availability through the NYC DOE or individual institutions.
School / Preschool | Type | Location | Highlights |
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PS 6 – Lillie D. Blake School | Public (K–5) — NYC DOE District 2 | Upper East Side | Highly ranked neighborhood school with strong academics, arts integration, and community engagement. |
PS 234 – Independence School | Public (K–5) — NYC DOE District 2 | Tribeca | Project-based learning, science & technology labs, and arts programs in a family-friendly downtown setting. |
PS 87 – William T. Sherman | Public (K–5) — NYC DOE District 3 | Upper West Side | Balanced literacy, strong parental involvement, and enrichment programs in music and the arts. |
The Anderson School (MS 334) | Public Gifted (6–8) — NYC DOE District 3 | Upper West Side | Rigorous academics, accelerated math and science, and citywide gifted program admissions. |
East Side Middle School (MS 114) | Public (6–8) — NYC DOE District 2 | Upper East Side | Academic excellence, leadership focus, and strong foreign language programs. |
Stuyvesant High School | Public Specialized (9–12) | Battery Park City | Top STEM magnet school with global reputation; admissions via SHSAT exam; competitive academics and research programs. |
Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts | Public Specialized (9–12) | Lincoln Square | Renowned for performing and visual arts; academic rigor combined with professional arts training. |
Hunter College High School | Public Gifted (7–12) | Upper East Side | Highly selective, university-affiliated, offering college-level courses and enrichment programs. |
The Brearley School | Independent (K–12, all girls) | Upper East Side | College-prep institution emphasizing humanities, science, and leadership in a supportive, rigorous environment. |
Trinity School | Independent (K–12, coed) | Upper West Side | Founded in 1709; academic excellence, community engagement, and diverse extracurricular programs. |
Collegiate School | Independent (K–12, all boys) | Upper West Side | One of the oldest independent schools in the U.S., known for classical education and academic rigor. |
Dalton School | Independent (K–12, coed) | Upper East Side | Progressive private school with individualized learning plans and interdisciplinary approach. |
Park Avenue Christian Preschool | Private Preschool | Upper East Side | Play-based and early literacy focus with nurturing community and small class sizes. |
Montessori Schools of Manhattan | Private Preschool / K | Multiple Campuses | Montessori curriculum emphasizing independence, sensory learning, and cultural studies. |
Barrow Street Nursery School | Independent Preschool | West Village | Play-centered approach focused on curiosity, diversity, and early social development. |
Districts: Manhattan public schools are overseen by NYC DOE Districts 1–6. Tip: Specialized high schools (e.g., Stuyvesant, LaGuardia, Bronx Science) require separate entrance exams or auditions. Verify up-to-date admissions, waitlists, and transfer policies through the NYC Department of Education and each institution’s official site.
Manhattan remains one of the world’s most liquid and resilient real estate markets, driven by international capital, constrained land supply, and diverse asset types—from co-ops and luxury condominiums to income-generating rentals and mixed-use properties. Trophy neighborhoods and transit-rich corridors offer strong end-user demand and durable leasing fundamentals.
Why Manhattan? Global financial and cultural hub, deep rental pool, and persistent brand appeal. Investors weigh building type (co-op vs. condo), carrying costs, and regulatory frameworks (rent stabilization and short-term rental rules) when modeling returns. Prime assets with amenities, views, or landmark locations tend to preserve value across cycles.
Luxury 1BR: mid-$4Ks–$6Ks/mo
Luxury 2BR: ~$6.5K–$9.5K/mo
Prime 3BR: ~$10K–$15K+/mo
Ranges vary by doorman status, amenities, new development, and park/river proximity.
Manhattan’s combination of global demand, limited supply, and diversified neighborhoods offers investors multiple paths—from yield-oriented rentals to blue-chip luxury holds—while careful attention to building rules, taxes, and regulations preserves long-term performance.
At the heart of New York City, Manhattan offers a lifestyle defined by urban sophistication and global opportunity. From the art galleries of Chelsea to the luxury towers of Midtown and the tree-lined streets of the Upper West Side, every neighborhood delivers its own character, convenience, and cultural energy.
Housing options range from historic brownstones and prewar co-ops to modern high-rise condos and amenity-rich rentals. Pricing varies dramatically by neighborhood and building type, with downtown and Central Park–adjacent residences commanding the highest premiums. Investors and residents alike benefit from Manhattan’s steady demand and international market visibility.
Daily life here blends convenience and culture—residents enjoy world-class dining, arts institutions, and shopping within minutes of their homes. Commuting is effortless via the subway network, ferries, and walkable streets, while an ever-growing mix of parks and green spaces offers calm amid the city’s pace.
With its unmatched mix of career access, architecture, and cultural prestige, Manhattan remains one of the world’s most coveted places to live, whether as a permanent residence, pied-à-terre, or investment property.
Explore Manhattan Real Estate →Manhattan combines global prestige, cultural depth, and investment opportunity—a destination where business, lifestyle, and luxury converge in one skyline.
1,614,893 people live in Manhattan, where the median age is 40 and the average individual income is $99,441. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Manhattan, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Nora Gardner, Aughton Training Systems, and Rolfing & Yoga by Chelsey.
Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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Shopping | 1.98 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 0.7 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 3.62 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 3.8 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 0.94 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.08 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.05 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.35 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 2.86 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 4.73 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.61 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 4.32 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.67 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.84 miles | 11 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 4.6 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.27 miles | 12 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.43 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.4 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Manhattan has 771,791 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Manhattan do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 1,614,893 people call Manhattan home. The population density is 115,294.385 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
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