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Upper East Side, New York,NY

Neighborhood Data
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For anyone considering a move to the Upper East Side, New York, NY offers a charming blend of classic elegance and modern conveniences. This neighborhood is well-known for its beautifully preserved brownstones and upscale apartment buildings that line tree-shaded streets. Residents enjoy a calm, residential atmosphere while still having access to bustling city life just a short distance away. The Upper East Side is home to some of the city’s most prestigious schools, beautiful parks, and a welcoming community vibe that makes it a desirable place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

One of the standout attractions in the Upper East Side is its proximity to world-class cultural institutions. The famous Museum Mile, which includes renowned spots like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, offers endless opportunities for art lovers and culture seekers. The neighborhood also boasts beautiful green spaces such as Central Park, providing plenty of options for outdoor activities, from jogging and biking to leisurely picnics. Additionally, Madison Avenue features some of the best high-end shopping and dining experiences in the city, making it easy to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle without straying too far from home.

Although the Upper East Side feels like a peaceful retreat, it’s conveniently close to Downtown Manhattan, making daily commutes and weekend outings straightforward and efficient. With multiple subway lines and bus routes connecting this neighborhood to the heart of the city, getting to Downtown for work or leisure is quick and hassle-free. Whether you’re heading to Wall Street, the Financial District, or catching a Broadway show, the Upper East Side strikes a perfect balance between serene living and urban excitement, providing a wonderful place to call home in New York City’s vibrant southeast.

Community Snapshot

Population 180,326
Density (People/sqml.) 114,844
Median Age 44.3
Married Couples
47%
47% of the population of Upper East Side aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
17%
17% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

17% of the Upper East Side 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 17% 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

Upper East Side neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Upper East Side demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Upper East Side has a population of 180,326, 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 114,844, Upper East Side 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 44, 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 Upper East Side

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Upper East Side neighborhood age breakdown chart

Upper East Side Crime Map

The Upper East Side 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 $1,510,751
Median Rent $2,666
People/Household 1.9

Home Price Breakdown

Upper East Side neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 62% Own 38%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 55% After 2010 45%

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 Upper East Side, home prices come in around $1,510,751, 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 Upper East Side 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 $2,666, rental rates in Upper East Side 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

Pick-A-Bagel
Coffee Shop
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Ella's Cafe
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Comic Strip Live
Theatre Arts
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Eleanor Roosevelt High Residence
Attraction
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Food & Drink

Barrel to Bottles
Alcohol
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Stumble Inn
Bar
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Groceries

SNOB
Bakery
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Gristedes
Grocery Store
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Parks

John Jay Park
Park
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St. Catherine's Park
Park
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Shops

Aaron Emanuel Salon
Hairdresser
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#1 Farmer's Market
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

2 Av/E 75 St
Bus Stop
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2 Av/E 78 St
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

77th Street
Transit Station
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72nd Street
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Value Price Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Duane Reade
Pharmacy
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Health Care

The Dermatology Specialists
Doctor
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National Dental
Dentist
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Safety

FDNY Engine 44
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
The Cathedral School
319 E 74Th St, New York, NY
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
The Allen-Stevenson School
132 E 78Th St, New York, NY
High School KG - 9 School Score
The Hewitt School
45 E 75Th St, New York, NY
High School KG - 12 School Score
The Birch Wathen Lenox School
210 E 77Th St, New York, NY
High School KG - 12 School Score
St Jean Baptiste High School
173 E 75Th St, New York, NY
High School 9 - 12 School Score
The Caedmon School
416 E 80Th St, New York, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Ps 290 Manhattan New School
311 E 82Nd St, New York, NY
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Upper East Side 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 Upper East Side 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 $143,365
Household Income $169,966
Unemployment 2.9%

Income Breakdown

Upper East Side 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 Upper East Side, median household incomes average $169,966, 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 strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Upper East Side, the unemployment rate is just 3%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

The Upper East Side is renowned for its cultural attractions and upscale amenities. Key highlights include the Museum Mile along Fifth Avenue, home to world-class institutions like The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, and the Neue Galerie. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts elegant shopping along Madison Avenue, beautiful green spaces such as Central Park and Carl Schurz Park, and a variety of fine dining options ranging from classic New York steakhouses to chic international cuisine.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, the Upper East Side is rich in historical landmarks. Besides the famous museums like The Met and the Guggenheim, the neighborhood hosts the iconic Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the New York City mayor, located in Carl Schurz Park. The historic brownstones and pre-war buildings along streets like Park Avenue and East 72nd Street also reflect the area’s architectural heritage. Additionally, the Frick Collection, housed in the former mansion of industrialist Henry Clay Frick, is another notable cultural landmark.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

The Upper East Side is well-served by public transportation, making commuting convenient. The neighborhood is primarily accessible via the Q train along the Second Avenue Subway, which has improved transit options significantly. The 4, 5, and 6 subway lines run along Lexington Avenue, providing quick access to Midtown and Downtown Manhattan. While there are no major highways cutting directly through the Upper East Side, the FDR Drive runs along the East River, offering a direct route for drivers heading north or south along Manhattan’s east side.

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