Upper East Side

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Active Rental Listings
1,303
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Active Sales Listings
2,683

The Upper East Side is a prestigious and affluent neighborhood located in Manhattan, New York City. Known for its elegant residential buildings, upscale shopping destinations, and world-class cultural institutions, the Upper East Side exudes an air of sophistication and refinement.

Residentially, the Upper East Side is primarily composed of luxurious townhouses, high-end condominiums, and co-op apartments. The neighborhood attracts affluent residents who appreciate the proximity to Central Park, which offers a serene oasis amidst the urban hustle and bustle. The tree-lined streets are filled with beautiful architecture and well-maintained sidewalks, making it a pleasant area for strolling.

Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue are renowned for their high-end boutiques, designer stores, and flagship stores of luxury brands. These avenues cater to the discerning fashionistas and shoppers seeking the latest trends and exclusive items. Additionally, the neighborhood offers a wide array of fine dining establishments, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes and trendy bars.

Cultural institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the Frick Collection contribute to the neighborhood's cultural allure. These world-class museums showcase priceless works of art and host various exhibitions, attracting art enthusiasts from around the globe. In addition, the Upper East Side is home to esteemed private schools, prestigious universities, and renowned medical institutions.

Overall, the Upper East Side embodies elegance, sophistication, and a refined lifestyle. It provides a mix of luxurious living, high-end shopping, exquisite dining, and cultural enrichment. With its central location, beautiful architecture, and access to premier amenities, the Upper East Side continues to be a coveted destination for those seeking an affluent and cultured residential experience in Manhattan.


Image Credits Annalisa Welinder, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Photo by Clay LeConey on Unsplash

Neighborhood Snapshot


train

Transit Score:

100/100

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Walk Score:

99/100

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Bike Score:

81/100


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 Upper East Side

Built in 1860

171 EAST 73 STREET

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

$0

116 EAST 63 STREET

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

-

-

Biggest Building in Upper East Side (total FAR)

884,424 ft

150 EAST 69TH STREET


Subway Lines

Map of the neighborhood location

New Developments

Photo for  880 5th Avenue  - 880 5th Avenue Cooperative in Upper East Side, Manhattan
880 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10021 Cooperative in Upper East Side
Photo for  150 East 61st Street  - 150 East 61st Street Cooperative in Lenox Hill, Manhattan
150 East 61st Street, New York, NY 10065 Cooperative in Lenox Hill
Photo for  1185 Park Avenue  - 1185 PARK AVENUE Cooperative in Upper East Side, Manhattan
1185 Park Avenue 1185 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10128 Cooperative in Upper East Side
Photo for  The Park 900  - 900 PARK AVENUE Condominium in Upper East Side, Manhattan
The Park 900 900 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10075 Condominium in Upper East Side
Photo for  425 EAST 79 STREET  - 425 EAST 79 STREET Cooperative in Yorkville, Manhattan
425 East 79 Street, New York, NY 10075 Cooperative in Yorkville
Photo for  650 PARK AVENUE  - 650 PARK AVENUE Cooperative in Upper East Side, Manhattan
650 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10065 Cooperative in Upper East Side

Popular Buildings

History of Neighborhood

photo of Upper East Side The history of the Upper East Side in Manhattan is a story of transformation and development. Originally, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lenape, who fished and farmed along the banks of the East River.

In the late 18th century, the Upper East Side began to see its first wave of residential development. Wealthy New Yorkers built country estates along the waterfront, seeking respite from the crowded and rapidly industrializing lower part of the city. These estates lined the area that is now known as Millionaires' Row, stretching along Fifth Avenue.

By the late 19th century, the Upper East Side became a desirable residential neighborhood for the city's elite. Grand mansions and townhouses were constructed, creating an exclusive enclave for the upper class. The construction of Central Park in the 1850s further enhanced the neighborhood's appeal, providing residents with a picturesque recreational space.

During the early 20th century, the Upper East Side saw a shift towards high-rise apartment buildings and the construction of luxury co-ops and condominiums. This allowed for a greater density of residents while still maintaining the neighborhood's elegant character.

In recent decades, the Upper East Side has continued to evolve, with new residential and commercial developments contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. It remains a sought-after neighborhood, attracting affluent residents, renowned cultural institutions, and upscale businesses.

Today, the Upper East Side blends its rich history with modern amenities, creating a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary luxury.

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 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 Post-modern
Post-modern Post-modern architecture represents a departure from strict design conventions, blending traditional elements with contemporary forms and materials. Architects play with diverse styles, creating eclectic buildings that challenge architectural norms. Post-modern structures celebrate creativity, allowing architects to experiment with innovative designs and artistic expression.
Architectural style of Renaissance Revival
Renaissance Revival Renaissance Revival architecture draws inspiration from the Renaissance period, featuring arched windows, pilasters, and decorative motifs reminiscent of Italian and French Renaissance designs. This style showcases a harmonious blend of classical elements, creating buildings that exude timeless elegance.

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions

photo of The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
photo of Guggenheim Museum
Guggenheim Museum
photo of The Frick Collection
The Frick Collection
photo of Central Park
Central Park

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits Hugo Schneider, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , CVB, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / “New York City (New York, USA), Central Park -- 2012 -- 6725” / CC BY-SA 4.0For print products: Dietmar Rabich / https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:New_York_City_(New_York,_USA),_Central_Park_--_2012_--_6725.jpg / https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

Entertainment

photo of Art Galleries
Art Galleries The neighborhood features a number of art galleries showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. Art lovers can explore exhibitions, attend openings, and connect with the local art scene.
photo of Fitness and Recreation
Fitness and Recreation The neighborhood provides options for fitness enthusiasts, including gyms, yoga studios, and boutique fitness centers. There are also opportunities for outdoor recreation in Central Park, such as jogging, cycling, and picnicking.
photo of Fine Dining
Fine Dining The Upper East Side is known for its diverse and upscale dining scene. It offers a plethora of restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, ranging from Michelin-starred establishments to charming neighborhood eateries.

Entertainment Image Credits Jamesmcardle, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ed Yourdon, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Deans Charbal, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Popular Restaurants

photo of The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges
The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges Located inside The Mark Hotel, this upscale dining establishment offers a sophisticated menu created by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
photo of Maison Kayser
Maison Kayser A popular French bakery and café chain known for its freshly baked bread, pastries, and casual dining options.
photo of Serendipity 3
Serendipity 3 A whimsical restaurant and dessert spot famous for its indulgent frozen hot chocolate, desserts, and eclectic menu.

Restaurants Image Credits Shoichi Iwashita, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ben W, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Famous people connected to Upper East Side

photo of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
photo of Woody Allen Woody Allen
photo of Bill Murray Bill Murray
photo of Anderson Cooper Anderson Cooper

People Image Credits Series: Robert Knudsen White House Photographs, 1/20/1961 - 12/19/1963Collection: White House Photographs, 12/19/1960 - 3/11/1964, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Georges Biard, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , David Shankbone, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , ,

Movies

photo of movie Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl

photo of movie Sex and the City

Sex and the City

photo of movie The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby


Movies Image Credits Snaevar, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Keete 37, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Francis Cugat, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Statistics for Upper East Side

Recent Sales Activity
Date Unit Action
11/05/2025 508 EAST 78 STREET 4F Listed for sale at $400,000
11/05/2025 1160 Park Avenue 1A1CRES Listed for sale at $1,675,000
11/05/2025 19 East 72nd Street 13C Listed for sale at $11,900,000
11/05/2025 360 East 72nd Street C1801 Listed for sale at $4,950,000
11/05/2025 137 EAST 66 STREET 1A Listed for sale at $400,000
11/05/2025 360 East 72nd Street C3301 Listed for sale at $2,100,000
11/05/2025 1050 Fifth Avenue 5D Listed for sale at $3,650,000
11/05/2025 205 East 59th Street 20B Listed for sale at $1,845,000
11/05/2025 225 East 86th Street 204 Listed for sale at $985,000
11/04/2025 136 East 76th Street 15B Listed for sale at $1,650,000