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Howard Beach, New York,NY

Neighborhood Data
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If you’re considering a move to the southeast part of New York City, Howard Beach is a charming neighborhood that offers a unique blend of suburban calm and urban convenience. Known for its welcoming community vibe, this area is perfect for families, young professionals, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. One of the standouts of Howard Beach is its strong connection to waterfront living, with beautiful parks like the Howard Beach Waterfront Park offering scenic views, picnic spots, and leisurely walking paths. The neighborhood also boasts a variety of local eateries and shops, giving it a small-town feel despite being part of New York City.

Howard Beach is particularly attractive for those who appreciate easy access to nature alongside city living. Residents enjoy proximity to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, a great spot for bird watching, kayaking, and hiking. For families, the area is served by reputable schools and community centers that create a supportive environment for children’s education and recreation. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts seasonal events and local markets that foster a tight-knit community spirit. Whether you’re taking an evening stroll along the water or grabbing a slice at a local pizzeria, Howard Beach offers plenty of opportunities to feel right at home.

Commuting from Howard Beach to Downtown Manhattan is relatively straightforward, making it a practical choice for those working in the city. The Howard Beach – JFK Airport subway station provides direct access to the A train, which can take you to Midtown and Lower Manhattan in about 45 minutes, depending on the time of day. This convenient transportation link also connects residents to JFK Airport, ideal for frequent travelers. With its blend of tranquil living, community charm, and convenient transit options, Howard Beach stands out as a welcoming neighborhood that balances the best of city and suburban life.

Community Snapshot

Population 26,763
Density (People/sqml.) 15,654
Median Age 46.2
Married Couples
52%
52% of the population of Howard Beach aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Howard Beach, 26% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 26% 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

Howard Beach neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Howard Beach demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Howard Beach has a population of 26,763, which is larger than many other New York neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 15,654, Howard Beach 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 46, 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 Howard Beach

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Howard Beach neighborhood age breakdown chart

Howard Beach Crime Map

The Howard Beach 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 $692,930
Median Rent $1,860
People/Household 2.9

Home Price Breakdown

Howard Beach neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 27% Own 73%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 69% After 2010 31%

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 Howard Beach, home prices come in around $692,930, 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 Howard Beach 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.

With an average rent price of $1,860, rental rates in Howard Beach are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
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Liberty Coffee Shop
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Multiplex Cinemas
Cinema
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Penn Theatre
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

McDonald's
Fast Food
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Wines & Spirit of Howard Beach
Alcohol
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Groceries

Stop & Shop
Grocery Store
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Bella Frutta
Grocery Store
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Parks

Walter Ward Playground
Park
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Speedway
Convenience Store
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7-Eleven
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Cross Bay Boulevard & 161st Avenue
Bus Stop
min.
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Cross Bay Boulevard & 159th Avenue
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS
Pharmacy
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Brooklyn Developmental Disabilities Services Offices
Hospital
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Health Care

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Safety

FDNY E331
Fire Station
min.
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FDNY E331 L173
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Robert H Goddard High School For Comm Arts 7 & Technology
138-30 Lafayette St, Ozone Park, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Ps 232 Lindenwood
153-23 83Rd St, Howard Beach, NY
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Ave Maria Catholic Academy
15820 101St St, Howard Beach, NY
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
St Helen Catholic Academy
8309 157Th Ave, Howard Beach, NY
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Ps 146 Howard Beach
98-01 159Th Ave, Howard Beach, NY
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Ps 377
150-15 Raleigh St, Richmond Hill, NY
Elementary School PK - KG School Score
Academy For Young Writers
1065 Elton St, Brooklyn, NY
High School 6 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Howard Beach. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Howard Beach offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $49,780
Household Income $125,285
Unemployment 4.3%

Income Breakdown

Howard Beach 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 Howard Beach, median household incomes average $125,285, 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 Howard Beach, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, 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 types of homes are common?

Howard Beach features a diverse range of housing options, including single-family detached homes, semi-attached houses, and multi-family buildings. Many of the residences are mid-20th-century bungalows and ranch-style homes, offering a suburban feel within New York City. The neighborhood is known for its well-maintained properties with tree-lined streets, making it attractive for families and longtime residents alike.

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

Yes, Howard Beach hosts several community events that foster local engagement. One notable event is the annual Howard Beach Italian Festival, which celebrates the neighborhood's rich Italian-American heritage with food, music, and parades. Additionally, the Howard Beach Civic Association organizes seasonal events and clean-up days to promote neighborhood pride and community involvement.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Howard Beach is conveniently located near major transportation routes. The neighborhood is served by the Howard Beach–JFK Airport subway station on the A line, providing direct access to Manhattan and the Rockaways. It is also close to the Belt Parkway, which connects residents to other parts of Queens and Brooklyn. Additionally, the AirTrain JFK is accessible from Howard Beach, offering easy transit to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

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