Lower East Side

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Active Rental Listings
174
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Active Sales Listings
239

Lower East Side, located in Manhattan, New York City, is a vibrant and historically significant neighborhood that offers a diverse and exciting urban experience. Known for its rich immigrant history, artistic culture, and trendy atmosphere, the Lower East Side has undergone significant transformations over the years while still retaining its unique character.

The neighborhood is home to a wide range of residents, including young professionals, artists, and long-standing community members. Its dynamic mix of cultures is reflected in the numerous ethnic restaurants, shops, and markets that line the streets. Delving into the Lower East Side's culinary scene reveals a world of flavors, from traditional Jewish delis and Ukrainian pierogi joints to hip cafes and fusion eateries.

Art and culture thrive in the Lower East Side, with numerous galleries, music venues, and theaters scattered throughout the area. The neighborhood's artistic heritage is celebrated through events like the annual LES Art Week and the thriving street art scene that adorns its walls. Institutions like the Tenement Museum offer glimpses into the neighborhood's immigrant past, preserving the stories of those who shaped the area.

Parks and green spaces provide a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. The East River waterfront offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and opportunities for outdoor activities like jogging and biking. Sara D. Roosevelt Park is a local favorite, providing space for picnics, sports, and community gatherings.

Transportation in the Lower East Side is convenient, with subway lines and bus routes connecting residents to the rest of the city. The F, M, J, and Z subway lines serve the area, making it easy to access other neighborhoods and attractions.

Overall, the Lower East Side is an energetic and ever-evolving neighborhood that offers a vibrant blend of history, culture, and contemporary urban living.


Image Credits Photo by Aleks Marinkovic on Unsplash , Infrogmation, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Neighborhood Snapshot


train

Transit Score:

98/100

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Walk Score:

96/100

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Bike Score:

96/100


Commute Times


to Penn Station

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16.5 min

local_taxi

22 min

to Grand Central Terminal

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21.6 min

local_taxi

20.7 min

to Columbus Cir

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12.1 min

local_taxi

11.2 min

to Financial District

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34.5 min

local_taxi

29.4 min

to Union Square

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25.1 min

local_taxi

28.1 min

to Downtown Brooklyn

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45.4 min

local_taxi

30.2 min

to Long Island City

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31.7 min

local_taxi

25.6 min


Buildings Fun Facts


Oldest Building in Lower East Side

Built in 1828

511 GRAND STREET

Cheapest Building in Lower East Side (sold, p/sqft)

$546

570 GRAND STREET

Most Expensive Building in Lower East Side (sold, p/sqft)

$5,367

27 ESSEX STREET

Biggest Building in Lower East Side (total FAR)

1,230,250 ft

570 GRAND STREET


Subway Lines

Map of the neighborhood location

New Developments

Photo for  Hillman Coop  - 530 GRAND STREET Cooperative in Lower East Side, Manhattan
Hillman Coop 530 Grand Street, New York, NY 10002 Cooperative in Lower East Side
Photo for  East River Coop  - 570 GRAND STREET Cooperative in Lower East Side, Manhattan
East River Coop 570 Grand Street, New York, NY 10002 Cooperative in Lower East Side
Photo for  Hillman Coop  - 500 GRAND STREET Cooperative in Lower East Side, Manhattan
Hillman Coop 500 Grand Street, New York, NY 10002 Cooperative in Lower East Side
Photo for  The Amalgamated Dwellings  - 504 GRAND STREET Cooperative in Lower East Side, Manhattan
The Amalgamated Dwellings 504 Grand Street, New York, NY 10002 Cooperative in Lower East Side
Photo for  100 NORFOLK STREET  - 100 NORFOLK STREET Condominium in Lower East Side, Manhattan
100 Norfolk Street, New York, NY 10002 Condominium in Lower East Side
Photo for  The Chrystie  - 229 Chrystie Street Condominium in Nolita, Manhattan
The Chrystie 229 Chrystie Street, New York, NY 10002 Condominium in Nolita

Popular Buildings

History of Neighborhood

photo of Lower East Side The Lower East Side, located in Manhattan, New York City, has a rich and storied history that spans centuries. Initially settled by Dutch colonists in the 17th century, the area became a hub for immigrants starting in the mid-19th century, particularly those from Eastern Europe. Waves of Jewish, Italian, and Irish immigrants flocked to the neighborhood, seeking better opportunities and a new life in America.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Lower East Side was teeming with tenement buildings, housing a dense and diverse population. The streets bustled with activity as residents worked in the garment industry, sweatshops, and small businesses. The neighborhood became a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions.

Over time, the Lower East Side underwent significant changes. The construction of the Williamsburg Bridge in 1903 improved accessibility, and the area saw a decline in population as residents moved to other parts of the city. The Great Depression of the 1930s and the urban decay that followed brought further challenges to the neighborhood.

In the latter half of the 20th century, the Lower East Side experienced a revitalization. Artists and bohemians were drawn to the area's affordable rents and unique character, leading to the emergence of a vibrant artistic scene. Iconic venues like CBGB, the birthplace of punk rock, became synonymous with the neighborhood's cultural influence.

Today, the Lower East Side continues to evolve. Gentrification has brought new developments, upscale boutiques, and trendy bars, attracting a younger and more affluent demographic. Despite these changes, the Lower East Side retains elements of its immigrant past, with landmarks like the Tenement Museum preserving the history and stories of those who once called the neighborhood home.

Architectural Style

Architectural style of Art Deco
Art Deco Art Deco architecture, prominent during the 1920s and 1930s, is known for its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and lavish ornamentation. Characterized by sleek lines and the use of materials like chrome, glass, and terracotta, Art Deco buildings exude a sense of modern sophistication and glamour.
Architectural style of Beaux-Arts
Beaux-Arts Beaux-Arts architecture, rooted in the academic tradition of the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, emphasizes grandeur, symmetry, and classical ornamentation. Buildings in this style often boast elaborate sculptures, decorative friezes, and monumental entrances, conveying a sense of opulence and sophistication.
Architectural style of Federal Style
Federal Style Federal-style architecture, prevalent in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, showcases symmetry, delicate moldings, and often, brick construction. Federal buildings typically feature fanlights, elliptical windows, and slender columns, representing a refined and elegant aesthetic rooted in America's early history.
Architectural style of Italianate
Italianate Italianate architecture draws inspiration from Italian Renaissance designs. Buildings in this style feature decorative brackets, arched windows, and elaborate cornices. This architectural style is elegant and timeless, often seen in both residential and commercial buildings, adding a touch of Mediterranean charm to New York's streets.
Architectural style of Modern & Contemporary
Modern & Contemporary Modern and Contemporary architecture focuses on simplicity, clean lines, and open spaces. Contemporary designs often incorporate cutting-edge materials and technologies, emphasizing functionality and environmental sustainability. These buildings represent the evolution of architectural styles, reflecting the spirit of the present era.
Architectural style of Tenement
Tenement Tenement buildings are multi-story apartment structures that were common in densely populated urban areas. These buildings often feature narrow units with minimal amenities and basic facades. Tenements historically provided affordable housing for working-class families, shaping the social fabric of cities.

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions

photo of Tenement Museum
Tenement Museum
photo of Katz's Delicatessen
Katz's Delicatessen
photo of Eldridge Street Synagogue
Eldridge Street Synagogue
photo of The Bowery Ballroom
The Bowery Ballroom
photo of The New Museum
The New Museum
photo of East River Park
East River Park
photo of The Museum at Eldridge Street
The Museum at Eldridge Street
photo of Essex Street Market
Essex Street Market

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits Jay manday, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Rhododendrites, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Found5dollar, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , MusikAnimal, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Gsd97jks, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Fatih Ergun, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Sdkb, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Entertainment

photo of Dining and Culinary Experiences
Dining and Culinary Experiences The Lower East Side is a culinary hub, with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and food markets. From traditional ethnic cuisines to innovative fusion dishes, there is something to satisfy every palate. Food enthusiasts can explore a range of dining options, from fine dining establishments to casual street food vendors.
photo of Art Galleries
Art Galleries The neighborhood is home to numerous art galleries that feature contemporary and emerging artists. These galleries often host rotating exhibitions, showcasing various mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
photo of Theater and Performance Spaces
Theater and Performance Spaces The Lower East Side boasts several theaters and performance spaces that present a variety of theatrical productions, including off-Broadway shows, experimental theater, comedy acts, and storytelling events. The Abrons Arts Center and Theater for the New City are popular venues in the area.

Entertainment Image Credits Kidfly182, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Andre Carrotflower, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Tatarstan.ru, CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Popular Restaurants

photo of Russ & Daughters Cafe
Russ & Daughters Cafe A renowned Jewish deli and cafe known for its bagels, lox, and traditional smoked fish.
photo of Clinton Street Baking Company
Clinton Street Baking Company Famous for its delicious pancakes and brunch options.
photo of Katz's Delicatessen
Katz's Delicatessen A New York institution serving up mouthwatering pastrami sandwiches and other deli classics.

Restaurants Image Credits Coalfather, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Autopilot, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Alex Lozupone, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Famous people connected to Lower East Side

photo of Harry Houdini Harry Houdini
photo of Al Pacino Al Pacino
photo of Harvey Keitel Harvey Keitel
photo of Blondie Blondie

People Image Credits LaPine Studios, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , By Peter Martorano, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , David Shankbone, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , Private Stock Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Movies

photo of movie The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel

photo of movie How to Make It in America

How to Make It in America

photo of movie Inside Llewyn Davis

Inside Llewyn Davis


Movies Image Credits Amazon Studios, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Pier86, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Mike Zoss ProductionsScott Rudin ProductionsStudioCanalBLT Communications, LLC, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Statistics for Lower East Side

Recent Sales Activity
Date Unit Action
11/14/2025 105 Norfolk Street 8B Listed for sale at $1,850,000
11/13/2025 108 Leonard Street 10K Listed for sale at $2,195,000
11/13/2025 170 Norfolk Street 10 Listed for sale at $650,000
11/12/2025 259 Bowery 2A Listed for sale at $3,495,000
11/06/2025 49 Chambers Street 8F Listed for sale at $1,500,000
11/05/2025 577 Grand St F607 Listed for sale at $957,500
11/05/2025 157 Broome Street 1A Listed for sale at $475,000
11/05/2025 504 Grand Street B42 Listed for sale at $1,599,000
11/05/2025 417 Grand Street D1106 Listed for sale at $1,025,000
11/05/2025 387 Grand Street K1407 Listed for sale at $1,100,000