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Jamaica, New York,NY

Neighborhood Data
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Jamaica, New York, NY is a vibrant neighborhood filled with a rich blend of cultures and a bustling community spirit. Known for its diverse population, Jamaica offers a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers looking to experience a true melting pot of cuisines, traditions, and arts. Residents enjoy easy access to a variety of local eateries serving everything from Caribbean jerk chicken to authentic South Asian dishes. The area also boasts numerous parks and community centers, making it a great place for families and individuals who appreciate outdoor activities and neighborhood events. For those who love shopping, Jamaica is home to the Jamaica Colosseum Mall, a popular destination for trendy fashion bargains and unique finds.

One of Jamaica’s standout attractions is the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, a hub for cultural enrichment offering theater performances, art exhibitions, and educational workshops. This makes the neighborhood a great choice for artists and art lovers alike. Additionally, Rufus King Park provides a wonderful green space with playgrounds and sports facilities, perfect for weekend relaxation or getting some fresh air after work. For history enthusiasts, the King Manor Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past, highlighting its connection to Rufus King, a signer of the U.S. Constitution. The neighborhood’s diverse offerings make it a lively and engaging place to call home.

When it comes to connectivity, Jamaica’s location in the southeast of New York City offers excellent transportation options, making it just about a 30-minute ride to Downtown Manhattan via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or subway. This convenience is a big plus for those commuting to the heart of the city for work or leisure, while still enjoying the more relaxed pace and community feel of Jamaica. The neighborhood’s accessibility is complemented by nearby bus routes and major roadways, ensuring residents can easily get around. Whether you’re moving here for the cultural vibrancy, the community vibe, or the convenient transit links, Jamaica provides a well-rounded living experience in one of the city’s most dynamic areas.

Community Snapshot

Population 139,579
Density (People/sqml.) 31,116
Median Age 38.7
Married Couples
45%
45% of the population of Jamaica aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
30%
30% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

30% of the Jamaica 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 30% 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

Jamaica neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Jamaica demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Jamaica has a population of 139,579, 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 31,116, Jamaica 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.

With an average age of 39, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Jamaica

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Jamaica neighborhood age breakdown chart

Jamaica Crime Map

The Jamaica crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $604,612
Median Rent $1,770
People/Household 3.4

Home Price Breakdown

Jamaica neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 53% Own 47%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 67% After 2010 33%

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 Jamaica, home prices come in around $604,612, 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 Jamaica 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 $1,770, rental rates in Jamaica 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

Tim Hortons
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Jamaica Multiplex
Cinema
min.
min.
Jamaica Performing Arts Center
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Alcohol
Alcohol
min.
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Nolasko Grocery
Deli
min.
min.

Groceries

C-Town
Grocery Store
min.
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Meat Town Supermarket
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
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Jamaica Playground
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Jackie Beauty Salon
Beauty
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Leone One Stop
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

109th Drive & 157th Avenue
Bus Stop
min.
min.
108th Avenue & 157th Street
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Triumph Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Merrick Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Dentist
Dentist
min.
min.
Amazing Medical Services
Doctor
min.
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Safety

New York Ladder Company 133
Fire Station
min.
min.
FDNY E275 L133
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Ps 40 Samuel Huntington
109-20 Union Hall St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Emerson School (The)
108-35 167Th St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Jamaica Children'S School
109-20 Union Hall St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School KG - 3 School Score
Eagle Academy For Young Men Iii
171-10 Linden Blvd, Jamaica, NY
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Ps 160 Walter Francis Bishop
109-59 Inwood St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Jhs 8 Richard S Grossley
108-35 167Th St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Hs For Law Enforcement And Public Safety
116-25 Guy R Brewer Blvd, Jamaica, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Jamaica combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Jamaica can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $29,687
Household Income $76,820
Unemployment 6.7%

Income Breakdown

Jamaica Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Jamaica average around $76,820, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Jamaica, the unemployment rate is 7%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Jamaica, Queens, is known for its vibrant multicultural atmosphere and numerous attractions. Highlights include the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, which offers art exhibitions and performances, and Rufus King Park, a historic green space perfect for outdoor activities. The area also boasts the Jamaica Colosseum Mall, a hub for shopping and dining, and the nearby King Manor Museum, the historic home of Rufus King, a signer of the U.S. Constitution.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Jamaica is home to several notable landmarks and historical sites. King Manor Museum is a key historic site, showcasing the life of Rufus King, an influential Founding Father. The Jamaica Performing Arts Center is another cultural landmark, hosting various community events and performances. Additionally, the neighborhood has the historic Rufus King Park and the Queens Library at Jamaica, which is an architectural landmark and cultural resource for residents.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Jamaica is a major transit hub in Queens, with easy access to several key highways and public transportation options. The Long Island Expressway (I-495) runs nearby, providing convenient car access to other parts of New York City and Long Island. Jamaica Station is a major transportation center served by the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), the AirTrain to JFK Airport, and multiple subway lines including the E, J, and Z trains, making it one of the most accessible neighborhoods in Queens.

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