Morningside Heights
Morningside Heights is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood located in the upper west side of Manhattan, New York City. Stretching from 110th Street to 125th Street, it is bordered by Morningside Park to the east and Riverside Park to the west. The neighborhood is primarily known for its prominent educational institutions, cultural landmarks, and lush green spaces, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
At the heart of Morningside Heights is Columbia University, an Ivy League institution renowned for its academic excellence. The university's sprawling campus, with its iconic Low Library and Butler Library, gives the area a distinct college-town atmosphere. Nearby, Barnard College, Manhattan School of Music, and Union Theological Seminary contribute to the neighborhood's academic buzz.
Cultural attractions are abundant in Morningside Heights. The Riverside Church, with its impressive Gothic architecture and strong social justice legacy, stands as a prominent landmark. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, one of the largest cathedrals in the world, hosts various events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. The neighborhood also houses the acclaimed American Museum of Natural History, offering a captivating learning experience for all ages.
Morningside Heights boasts a diverse culinary scene, featuring restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to various tastes and budgets. From international cuisine to trendy brunch spots, residents can find an array of dining options to satisfy their palates.
Green spaces are abundant, providing a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. Morningside Park, with its picturesque landscapes and recreational facilities, offers a tranquil oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Riverside Park, along the Hudson River, provides a scenic waterfront pathway perfect for jogging, cycling, or leisurely strolls.
The neighborhood's transportation network is well-developed, offering convenient access to other parts of Manhattan and beyond. With a mix of historic charm, academic energy, and cultural richness, Morningside Heights remains an attractive destination for residents seeking a lively and intellectually stimulating community.
Image Credits InSapphoWeTrust from Los Angeles, California, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Neighborhood Snapshot
Transit Score:
100/100
Walk Score:
96/100
Bike Score:
56/100
Commute Times
to Penn Station
16.5 min
22 min
to Grand Central Terminal
21.6 min
20.7 min
to Columbus Cir
12.1 min
11.2 min
to Financial District
34.5 min
29.4 min
to Union Square
25.1 min
28.1 min
to Downtown Brooklyn
45.4 min
30.2 min
to Long Island City
31.7 min
25.6 min
Buildings Fun Facts
Oldest Building in Morningside Heights
Built in 1890
4 WEST 109 STREET
Cheapest Building in Morningside Heights (sold, p/sqft)
$5
301 WEST 108 STREET
Most Expensive Building in Morningside Heights (sold, p/sqft)
$3,680
478 CENTRAL PARK WEST
Biggest Building in Morningside Heights (total FAR)
1,109,765 ft
80 LA SALLE STREET
Subway Lines
Popular Searches in Morningside Heights
Popular Buildings
History of Neighborhood
The neighborhood's transformation began in the late 1800s when the Croton Aqueduct was extended to the area, providing a crucial water supply and encouraging development. In 1887, Columbia College (now Columbia University) relocated from midtown Manhattan to Morningside Heights, kickstarting the neighborhood's reputation as an academic hub.
Over the next few decades, Morningside Heights experienced significant growth, attracting other educational institutions, including Barnard College and Teachers College. The construction of the iconic Cathedral of St. John the Divine began in 1892, further shaping the area's character.
During the early 20th century, Morningside Heights evolved into a thriving residential neighborhood. Beautiful brownstones and apartment buildings were constructed, and its population became more diverse, including an influx of Jewish, Irish, and Italian immigrants.
The neighborhood faced challenges in the mid-20th century, like many urban areas in the United States. However, it experienced a revitalization in the 1960s, thanks to community efforts to preserve its historic architecture and foster cultural institutions.
Today, Morningside Heights stands as a vibrant community blending educational institutions, cultural landmarks, and residential charm. Its rich history and continuing evolution make it a cherished part of Manhattan's tapestry, drawing residents and visitors alike to its dynamic and intellectually engaging atmosphere.
Architectural Style
Landmarks and Cultural Institutions
Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits InSapphoWeTrust from Los Angeles, California, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Chris06, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , William Porto, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ingfbruno, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , The original uploader was Cmatta at English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 2.5 , via Wikimedia Commons , ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Louis Waweru, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Entertainment
Entertainment Image Credits Gigi alt, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Senseplain, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , bryan..., CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Popular Restaurants
Restaurants Image Credits Danny-w, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Bb337, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Jim.henderson, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Neon Tommy, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Famous people connected to Morningside Heights
People Image Credits Photograph: Leon PerskieScan: FDR Presidential Library & Museum, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , Marion S. Trikosko, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Movies
Spider-Man (2002)
Inside Llewyn Davis
Orange Is the New Black
Movies Image Credits selbst vektorisiert, Vorlage: Filmplakat, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Mike Zoss ProductionsScott Rudin ProductionsStudioCanalBLT Communications, LLC, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Netflix company, Jenji Kohan (Producer), Jordan Jacobs (Art Director), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Statistics for Morningside Heights
| Date | Unit | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 11/15/2025 | 400 Riverside Drive K | Listed for sale at $425,000 |
| 11/14/2025 | 656 West 125th Street ICONIC | Listed for sale at $20,000,000 |
| 11/13/2025 | 375 Riverside Drive 13E | Listed for sale at $1,450,000 |
| 11/12/2025 | 70 La Salle Street 20F | Listed for sale at $939,000 |
| 11/05/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 29D | Listed for sale at $1,340,000 |
| 11/03/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 19E | Listed for sale at $1,865,000 |
| 10/30/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 18B | Listed for sale at $2,370,000 |
| 10/30/2025 | 395 Riverside Drive 7C | Listed for sale at $895,000 |
| 10/29/2025 | 609 West 114th Street 54 | Listed for sale at $1,150,000 |
| 10/28/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 27D | Listed for sale at $1,320,000 |
| 10/28/2025 | 100 La Salle Street 8C | Listed for sale at $599,000 |
| 10/27/2025 | 80 La Salle Street 9E | Sold for $285,000 |
| 10/27/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 14A | Listed for sale at $2,395,000 |
| 10/27/2025 | 390 Riverside Drive 5G | Listed for sale at $715,000 |
| 10/23/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 12E | Sold for $1,036,932 |
| 10/21/2025 | 549 West 123rd Street 13C | Sold for $605,000 |
| 10/21/2025 | 380 Riverside Drive 2CD | Listed for sale at $1,850,000 |
| 10/16/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 24A | Listed for sale at $2,575,000 |
| 10/15/2025 | 380 Riverside Drive 7B | Sold for $570,000 |
| 10/15/2025 | 549 West 123rd Street 14C | Sold for $718,000 |
| 10/15/2025 | 380 Riverside Drive 2D | Listed for sale at $1,250,000 |
| 10/15/2025 | 380 Riverside Drive 2C | Listed for sale at $600,000 |
| 10/15/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 8H | Listed for sale at $2,500,000 |
| 10/15/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 23A | Listed for sale at $3,900,000 |
| 10/14/2025 | 552 Riverside Drive 4B | Listed for sale at $799,000 |
| 10/09/2025 | 504 West 111th Street 33 | Sold for $775,000 |
| 10/09/2025 | 615 West 113th Street 2 | Listed for sale at $265,000 |
| 10/09/2025 | 250 Manhattan Avenue 1A | Listed for sale at $550,000 |
| 10/08/2025 | 395 Riverside Drive 1E | Listed for sale at $300,000 |
| 10/04/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 23G | Listed for sale at $1,795,000 |
| 10/01/2025 | 510 WEST 123 STREET 55 | Sold for $313,238 |
| 09/29/2025 | 395 Riverside Drive 7F | Sold for $1,136,000 |
| 09/25/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 19A | Listed for sale at $2,495,000 |
| 09/24/2025 | 417 Riverside Drive 1D | Listed for sale at $600,000 |
| 09/24/2025 | 420 Riverside Drive 1C | Listed for sale at $1,900,000 |
| 09/24/2025 | 300 West 108th Street 5D | Listed for sale at $849,000 |
| 09/24/2025 | 301 West 110th Street 7E | Listed for sale at $625,000 |
| 09/22/2025 | 615 West 113th Street 85 | Sold for $515,000 |
| 09/22/2025 | 100 Claremont Avenue 17A | Listed for sale at $2,455,000 |
| 09/18/2025 | 417 Riverside Drive 5F | Listed for sale at $425,000 |
| 09/18/2025 | 611 West 111th Street 25 | Listed for sale at $1,200,000 |
| 09/18/2025 | 301 West 108th Street D1 | Listed for sale at $1,085,000 |
| 09/18/2025 | 611 West 111th Street G2 | Listed for sale at $550,000 |
| 09/17/2025 | 40 Tiemann Place 4A | Sold for $463,000 |
| 09/15/2025 | 532 West 111th Street 5 | Sold for $1,075,000 |
| 09/12/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 27A | Sold for $2,875,000 |
| 09/12/2025 | 609 West 114th Street 55 | Sold for $499,000 |
| 09/11/2025 | 615 West 113th Street 71 | Sold for $625,000 |
| 09/09/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 12C | Sold for $1,915,000 |
| 09/04/2025 | 600 West 111th Street 14C | Sold for $1,955,000 |
| 09/03/2025 | 404 Riverside Drive 8A | Sold for $1,650,000 |
| 08/27/2025 | 509 West 122nd Street 20 | Sold for $688,000 |
| 08/19/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 24C | Sold for $1,680,000 |
| 08/19/2025 | 507 West 111th Street 61 | Sold for $851,000 |
| 08/14/2025 | 100 La Salle Street 19H | Sold for $530,000 |
| 08/13/2025 | 549 West 123rd Street 6D | Sold for $475,000 |
| 08/12/2025 | 370 Riverside Drive 15C | Sold for $1,220,000 |
| 08/11/2025 | 543 West 122nd Street 14H | Sold for $2,850,000 |
| 08/01/2025 | 200 Claremont Avenue 25 | Sold for $560,000 |
| 08/01/2025 | 535 West 110th Street 11G | Sold for $750,000 |
| 07/31/2025 | 4 WEST 109 STREET 4D | Sold for $729,000 |
| 07/31/2025 | 523 West 121st Street 43 | Sold for $953,500 |
| 07/28/2025 | 90 La Salle Street 5A | Sold for $550,000 |
| 07/27/2025 | 390 Riverside Drive 7A | Sold for $1,100,000 |
| 02/27/2023 | 100 Claremont Avenue 18D | Listed for sale at $1,275,000 |
| 06/09/2022 | 543 West 122nd Street 12B | Listed for sale at $1,320,000 |
| 08/25/2021 | 504 West 110th Street 5B | Listed for sale at $615,000 |
| 05/21/2020 | 3117 Broadway 23 | Listed for sale at $625,000 |
| 01/28/2015 | 390 Riverside Drive 11C | Listed for sale at $737,800 |
| 03/01/2012 | 301 West 110th Street 9H | Listed for sale at $649,500 |