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Chinatown, New York,NY

Neighborhood Data
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If you’re considering moving to Chinatown in New York, NY, you’re in for a vibrant and culturally rich experience. This neighborhood is a bustling hub of activity, filled with colorful storefronts, delicious eateries, and a strong sense of community. One of the biggest draws for newcomers is the authentic dining scene, featuring everything from traditional dim sum to hand-pulled noodles. Walking through the streets, you'll find iconic spots like the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, where you can try unique flavors such as black sesame or lychee. For those who appreciate arts and crafts, the Museum of Chinese in America offers fascinating exhibits that showcase the history and contributions of Chinese Americans. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or just love lively street markets, Chinatown has something special to offer.

Living in Chinatown means you’re never far from the heart of Downtown Manhattan. With just a short commute, you can easily access the financial district, the World Trade Center, and the bustling business hubs nearby. This proximity is a huge advantage for those who work in or frequently visit Downtown but want a neighborhood with a distinct cultural vibe and a more affordable cost of living compared to other parts of Manhattan. Public transportation options are abundant, with multiple subway lines running through or near the area, making it simple to get around the city quickly and conveniently. This balance of accessibility and character makes Chinatown especially appealing for young professionals, families, and anyone eager to immerse themselves in a dynamic urban environment.

The community spirit in Chinatown is truly one of its standouts. Throughout the year, residents and visitors alike enjoy vibrant festivals such as the Lunar New Year Parade, which lights up the streets with colorful dragon dances and traditional performances. Local businesses, from herbal medicine shops to bustling bakeries like Tai Pan Bakery, add to the neighborhood’s charm and convenience. For daily needs or a quick grocery run, markets like the Hong Kong Supermarket provide fresh produce and specialty Asian ingredients. Plus, the area is known for its tight-knit feel, where neighbors often know each other and cultural traditions are kept alive with pride. If you’re relocating, Chinatown offers an authentic slice of New York life that’s both welcoming and full of character.

Community Snapshot

Population 10,792
Density (People/sqml.) 71,006
Median Age 44.8
Married Couples
44%
44% of the population of Chinatown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
12%
12% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

12% of the Chinatown population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 12% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Chinatown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Chinatown demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 10,792, the number of residents who reside in Chinatown is about average in size compared to other New York neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 71,006, Chinatown is more densely populated than many other New York neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 45, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Chinatown

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Chinatown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Chinatown Crime Map

The Chinatown crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $1,028,100
Median Rent $1,493
People/Household 2.1

Home Price Breakdown

Chinatown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 85% Own 15%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 79% After 2010 21%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Chinatown, home prices come in around $1,028,100, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Chinatown can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $1,493, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Ten Ren
Coffee Shop
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Penguin Ice Cream
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

186f Kepler
Art Gallery
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Chinatown
Attraction
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Food & Drink

Penguin Ice Cream
Sweets
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The Crown
Bar
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Groceries

Audrey Bakery & Cafe
Bakery
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Taipan Bakery
Bakery
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Mian Tian Sing Hair Salon & Nail
Beauty
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Oriental Culture Enterprises Co
Books
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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51 Chrystie St
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Canal Street
Transit Station
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Canal Street
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

18 Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Tyka Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Health Care

Bella Dental
Dentist
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Bowery Dental
Dentist
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Safety

NYPD 5 PCT
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Ps 130 Hernando De Soto
143 Baxter St, New York, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Ps 42 Benjamin Altman
71 Hester St, New York, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Murry Bergtraum High School For Business Careers
411 Pearl St, New York, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Urban Assembly Maker Academy
411 Pearl St, New York, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Urban Assembly School For Emergency Management (The)
411 Pearl St, New York, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
High School For Dual Language And Asian Studies
350 Grand St, New York, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Pace High School
100 Hester St, New York, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Chinatown. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Chinatown can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $51,269
Household Income $102,267
Unemployment 5.1%

Income Breakdown

Chinatown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Chinatown, median household incomes average $102,267, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Chinatown, the unemployment rate sits at around 5%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Chinatown in New York City offers a vibrant, bustling lifestyle deeply rooted in Chinese culture and traditions. Residents and visitors experience a lively atmosphere filled with markets, street vendors, and authentic eateries. The neighborhood is known for its close-knit community, rich cultural festivals like the Lunar New Year Parade, and an active street life that blends old-world charm with urban energy.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Chinatown hosts several community events annually that celebrate Chinese heritage and culture. The most notable is the Lunar New Year Parade, which features dragon dances, traditional music, and fireworks. Additionally, the Chinatown Ice Festival in winter and the Moon Festival in the fall are popular gatherings that bring residents and tourists together to enjoy cultural performances and food.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Chinatown is home to several landmarks and historical sites, including the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), which preserves and showcases the history of Chinese immigrants in the U.S. Another key site is Columbus Park, a central green space where locals practice tai chi and play mahjong. The Mahayana Buddhist Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Manhattan, is also a significant cultural and spiritual landmark.

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