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Jamaica, New York,NY

Neighborhood Data
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Jamaica, New York, is a vibrant neighborhood bustling with energy and rich cultural diversity, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to relocate to the southeastern part of the city. Known for its lively streets and welcoming community, Jamaica offers a unique blend of urban convenience and local charm. One of the biggest draws here is the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, a cultural hub that hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and performances, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to engage in creative pursuits. For shoppers and food lovers, the Jamaica Market is a must-visit, featuring an array of vendors selling fresh produce, international foods, and local goods that reflect the neighborhood’s multicultural roots.

Commuting from Jamaica to Downtown Manhattan is impressively convenient, taking about 30 to 40 minutes by various subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road, which has a major hub right in the heart of Jamaica. This easy access to Manhattan makes Jamaica a practical home base for professionals who want to enjoy a more affordable living space without sacrificing the perks of city life. Beyond transit, the neighborhood is dotted with several parks and green spaces such as Rufus King Park, offering a peaceful respite from the urban hustle. For families, there are also reputable schools and community centers that focus on fostering a safe and nurturing environment for children and adults alike.

Beyond its accessibility and amenities, Jamaica stands out for its rich history and ongoing development. The neighborhood has undergone significant revitalization efforts, resulting in modern residential buildings alongside historic architecture. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the wide array of dining options, from authentic Caribbean and Latin American dishes to trendy cafes and bakeries. Jamaica also hosts annual events like the Jamaica Day Festival, celebrating the neighborhood’s cultural heritage with music, dance, and food. For newcomers, this area offers a strong sense of community coupled with the excitement of city living, making it an appealing destination for anyone looking to settle in the southeastern part of New York City.

Jamaica Demographics

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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Types of Crime

Jamaica neighborhood crime 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 Home Prices 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 Performing Arts Center
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
Jamaica Multiplex
Cinema
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Q and P Patties Shop
Fast Food
min.
min.
Alcohol
Alcohol
min.
min.

Groceries

C-Town
Grocery Store
min.
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Ananda Bazar & Grocery
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Rose African Market
Convenience Store
min.
min.
109 Deli & Grill
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

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

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Triumph Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Merrick Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

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

Safety

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

Name Category Grades Rating
York Early College Academy
108-35 167Th St, Jamaica, NY
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Queens High School For The Sciences At York College
94-50 159Th St, Jamaica, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Ps 50 Talfourd Lawn Elementary School
143-26 101St Ave, 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
Emerson School (The)
108-35 167Th St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
New Dawn Charter High School Ii
89-25 161St St, Jamaica, NY
High School 9 - 9 School Score
Ps 48 William Wordsworth
108-29 155Th St, Jamaica, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Jamaica. 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 Jamaica 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.