best places to live in new york city

By: Yevgeniya Yelkina & Rebecca Lewinter

New York City is the capital of the world. With its culturally rich historic background, and diverse residents, NYC will remain one fo the most coveted places to live in the world. But where does one start to even attempt at finding a home in this concrete jungle? There are so many factors to weigh out when deciding on that perfect NYC lifestyle everyone craves. Here. we bring you our list of neighborhoods in the city that we feel stand out among the rest.

Best for nightlife:

          1. Lower East Side

This pick may surprise a few. But think again, because the lower east side is not only packed with nightlife but its also safe and relatively inexpensive compared to that of its neighbors. There are definitely a few drawbacks though- think noise and dirtiness- but for those who like to live where they party this is definitely a good option.

Housing Cost: 2 bedroom, $1675

Safety:

         2. Tribeca

If your motto is “safety first” then this is the place for you. Unfortunately, in this city, safety usually comes with a price- and in this case it’s a big one. While this neighborhood is blessed with little crime, great schools and a vibrant community, living here is not cheap. However, while the price tag is high the payoff is higher.

Tribeca; photo by Jeff Chien-Hsing Liao; image courtesy of nymag.com

Best for Families:

       3. Park Slope

Over the last few years, Park Slope has become the latest neighborhood to undergo the gentrification process. While some have mocked Park Slope’s new up-and-coming hipster vibe, there is no doubt that this neighborhood now has plenty to offer. Park Slope has great schools, low crime, plenty of parks and is only about a half hour commute to the Upper West Side. For families looking for a safe community at a good price this is the place to look. But look fast, Park Slope is making a fast ascension out of the middle class budget.

2 Bedroom: $1700

3 Bedroom: $3300

† http://www.parkslopeapt.com

         4. Sunnyside

This is Queens treasure is perfect for commuting families on a tight budget. The subway to Midtown takes only about sixteen minutes and prices are usually pretty reasonable. Ultimately, what this community lacks in nightlife, shopping and restaurants it makes up for in accessibility, prices, safety and good schools.

         5. Morningside Heights

2 Bedroom: $3500

While it may be on the pricier side, this area has great restaurants and shopping, with occupancy of a younger crowd. Families can enjoy some peace and quiet, as the nightlife is not as prominent. It is easily accessible, which makes it a great location for traveling to and from other areas of the city.

Morningside Heights; Ari Mintz for The New York Times

        6. Williamsburg

2 Bedroom: $1699

3 Bedroom: $2299

† Craigslist listings

This multicultural area of Brooklyn has a large religious Jewish population, with a growing young and trendy scene. The area has become an influential hot-spot for indie rock, hipster culture, and has been the home for many local art enthusiasts. As rapid development in retail space continues to grow, there has been an influx in the population that currently resides in this area.

         7. Astoria

2 Bedroom: $2000

3 Bedroom: $2700

†http://apartments.oodle.com/astoria-ny/

This safe and quiet area of Queens has cheaper-priced living spaces. Located  on the northwestern corner of the borough, Astoria is within a quick and easy commuting route into Manhattan. The area is traditionally Greek, but residents from many ethnic backgrounds reside in this historic neighborhood.

Victorian houses in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn. Image courtesy of Rebecca Lewinter

      8. Ditmas Park

2 bedroom: $1,575

http://www.trulia.com/for_rent/NY/Brooklyn,5102,Flatbush_-_Ditmas_Park/

Over the years, Ditmas Park has become a diverse neighborhood full of musicians, older folk, and young families. As the interest for Ditmas Park continues to grow, with New Yorkers wanting to leave the busy streets of Manhattan for a calmer, family-friendly setting, the Victorian flare of this neighborhood, along with its diverse groups of people, continues to win over new residents. More and more people are moving to the area in search of Victorian houses that give you bigger bang for your buck. The area is filled with hip restaurants, and night-time hotspots. It has the perfect balance of hip and cool, without being chaotic.

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