Washington Heights

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Active Rental Listings
148
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Active Sales Listings
184

Washington Heights is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood located in the northernmost part of Manhattan, New York City. Stretching from 155th Street to 190th Street, bordered by the Hudson River to the west and Harlem River to the east, this diverse and historic area is known for its unique charm, dynamic community, and strong Latinx influence.

The neighborhood's architecture is a mix of pre-war buildings, historic brownstones, and some modern developments, creating a charming and eclectic streetscape. Washington Heights is steeped in history, evident in landmarks such as The Morris-Jumel Mansion, Manhattan's oldest house, which offers a glimpse into the area's colonial past.

One of the neighborhood's biggest draws is Fort Tryon Park, an expansive green oasis featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the Hudson River. Within the park is The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art dedicated to medieval European art, offering visitors an enchanting cultural experience.

Washington Heights has a strong Latinx identity, with a large Dominican population that has influenced the area's vibrant food scene, with numerous local eateries offering authentic Caribbean and Latin American cuisine. Strolling along 181st Street, one can find an array of restaurants, bodegas, and lively street vendors selling delicious empanadas and other treats.

The neighborhood's sense of community is palpable, with various community events, festivals, and markets taking place throughout the year. Residents also enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities, including sports leagues, yoga studios, and community centers.

Although Washington Heights has undergone some gentrification in recent years, it remains a place where people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate their heritage, shaping the neighborhood's unique character and spirit. With its rich history, diverse community, and cultural offerings, Washington Heights continues to be a vibrant and sought-after destination in Manhattan.


Image Credits Photo by Michael Smith on Unsplash , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Neighborhood Snapshot


train

Transit Score:

100/100

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Walk Score:

96/100

directions_bike

Bike Score:

72/100


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 Washington Heights

Built in 1882

7 SYLVAN TERRACE

Cheapest Building in Washington Heights (sold, p/sqft)

$300

2440 Amsterdam Avenue

Most Expensive Building in Washington Heights (sold, p/sqft)

$5,841

775 RIVERSIDE DRIVE

Biggest Building in Washington Heights (total FAR)

806,236 ft

120 CABRINI BOULEVARD


Subway Lines

Map of the neighborhood location

New Developments

Photo for  Hudson View Gardens  - 116 PINEHURST AVENUE Cooperative in Washington Heights, Manhattan
Hudson View Gardens 116 Pinehurst Avenue, New York, NY 10033 Cooperative in Washington Heights
Photo for  143 BENNETT AVENUE  - 143 BENNETT AVENUE Cooperative in Washington Heights, Manhattan
143 Bennett Avenue, New York, NY 10040 Cooperative in Washington Heights
Photo for  730 FT WASHINGTON AVENUE  - 730 FT WASHINGTON AVENUE Cooperative in Washington Heights, Manhattan
730 Ft Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10040 Cooperative in Washington Heights
Photo for  West Gate House co-op  - 860 WEST 181 STREET Cooperative in Washington Heights, Manhattan
West Gate House co-op 860 West 181 Street, New York, NY 10033 Cooperative in Washington Heights
Photo for  255 CABRINI BOULEVARD  - 255 CABRINI BOULEVARD Condominium in Washington Heights, Manhattan
255 Cabrini Boulevard, New York, NY 10040 Condominium in Washington Heights
Photo for  The Riviera  - 790 RIVERSIDE DRIVE Cooperative in Washington Heights, Manhattan
The Riviera 790 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032 Cooperative in Washington Heights

Popular Buildings

History of Neighborhood

photo of Washington Heights Washington Heights has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Originally inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe, the area saw European settlement in the late 17th century. The name "Washington Heights" was derived from Fort Washington, a Revolutionary War fort built by the Continental Army on the site in 1776. The fort was strategically positioned on a high ridge overlooking the Hudson River, hence the name "Heights."

Throughout the 19th century, the neighborhood remained largely rural, with farms and estates dotting the landscape. In the late 1800s, the development of the elevated subway system spurred urbanization, attracting residents seeking affordable housing and accessibility to downtown Manhattan.

During the early 20th century, the neighborhood experienced an influx of immigrants, particularly from Jewish and Irish communities. However, it was in the mid-20th century that Washington Heights witnessed a significant demographic shift. In the 1960s and 1970s, a large number of immigrants from the Dominican Republic settled in the area, establishing the strong Latinx identity that still characterizes the neighborhood today.

Over the years, Washington Heights has faced economic challenges, but community resilience and pride have played a crucial role in its revitalization. The neighborhood's rich history, coupled with its diverse cultural heritage, has drawn attention to its unique charm, attracting new residents and businesses alike.

Today, Washington Heights stands as a thriving and dynamic neighborhood, where its past intertwines with the present, creating a vibrant tapestry of culture, community, and history.

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 Brownstone
Brownstone Brownstone architecture, prevalent in New York City, features elegant brown sandstone facades. Often seen in rowhouses, these structures exhibit a harmonious blend of ornate details and historic charm, showcasing intricate carvings and stylish entryways.
Architectural style of Colonial
Colonial Colonial architecture reflects styles prevalent during the colonial period in America. Typically, these structures are characterized by symmetrical designs, brick or wood siding, and gabled roofs. Colonial buildings often have classical details and represent the early architectural heritage of the United States.
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 Pre-War
Pre-War Pre-War buildings, constructed before World War II, are characterized by their architectural grandeur. These structures boast spacious layouts, high ceilings, intricate moldings, and often, beautiful parquet floors. They represent an era of detailed craftsmanship and classic design.
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.
Architectural style of Victorian
Victorian Victorian architecture encompasses a wide range of styles from the Victorian era. These buildings are known for their ornate details, vibrant colors, and eclectic designs. Victorian structures often feature decorative trim, bay windows, and intricate patterns, reflecting the opulence and diversity of the 19th century.

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions

photo of The Cloisters
The Cloisters
photo of Fort Tryon Park
Fort Tryon Park
photo of Morris-Jumel Mansion
Morris-Jumel Mansion
photo of Hispanic Society of America
Hispanic Society of America

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Asaavedra32, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Entertainment

photo of Live Music and Performances
Live Music and Performances Several venues in Washington Heights host live music performances, concerts, and theatrical productions. The United Palace, in particular, is a historic theater that frequently hosts concerts and other entertainment events.
photo of Dining and Food Scene
Dining and Food Scene Washington Heights is known for its vibrant food scene, offering a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Residents can explore a diverse range of cuisines, including Dominican, Caribbean, Latin American, and more. There are also local bakeries, bodegas, and street vendors serving delicious treats and snacks.
photo of Cultural Events and Festivals
Cultural Events and Festivals The neighborhood celebrates its rich cultural heritage through various events and festivals. Residents can enjoy Latinx and Caribbean festivals, art fairs, music performances, dance showcases, and other cultural events that bring the community together.

Entertainment Image Credits Alexey Komarov, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Bohemian Baltimore, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Joaquín Sorolla, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Popular Restaurants

photo of La Casa del Mofongo
La Casa del Mofongo Specializing in Puerto Rican cuisine, La Casa del Mofongo offers a variety of mofongo dishes, as well as other traditional Puerto Rican delights.
photo of Malecon
Malecon Known for its flavorful Dominican and Latin American dishes, Malecon is a neighborhood favorite, especially for its succulent rotisserie chicken.
photo of Buddha Beer Bar
Buddha Beer Bar A cozy spot for craft beer enthusiasts, Buddha Beer Bar offers a selection of local and international brews along with tasty pub fare.

Restaurants Image Credits Bohemian Baltimore, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , HarshLight from San Jose, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Uri Tours (uritours.com), CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Famous people connected to Washington Heights

photo of Lin-Manuel Miranda Lin-Manuel Miranda
photo of Elizabeth Acevedo Elizabeth Acevedo
photo of Manny Ramírez Manny Ramírez
photo of Cardi B Cardi B

People Image Credits Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , Avery Jensen, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons , Googie man, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons , Anthony Kane, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Movies

photo of movie Orange Is the New Black

Orange Is the New Black

photo of movie Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

photo of movie Law & Order

Law & Order


Movies Image Credits Netflix company, Jenji Kohan (Producer), Jordan Jacobs (Art Director), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Universal Television, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , NBC / Universal Television / Wolf Productions, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Statistics for Washington Heights

Recent Sales Activity
Date Unit Action
01/05/2026 30 Bogardus Place 6B Listed for sale at $385,000
12/17/2025 880 181st Street 6G Listed for sale at $355,000
12/17/2025 854 West 181st Street 5D Listed for sale at $439,000
12/12/2025 549 West 187th Street Listed for sale at $1,740,000
12/10/2025 70 Haven Avenue 4A Listed for sale at $399,000
12/09/2025 541 159th Street Listed for sale at $1,800,000
12/09/2025 225 Bennett Avenue 2R Listed for sale at $249,998
12/09/2025 790 Riverside Drive 5F Listed for sale at $500,000
12/08/2025 720 West 173rd Street 23 Listed for sale at $300,000
12/03/2025 807 Riverside Drive 6E Listed for sale at $465,000