West Harlem
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Active Rental Listings
63
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Active Sales Listings
27
West Harlem, situated in the northern part of Manhattan, is a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood that has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Bordered by the Hudson River to the west, Morningside Heights to the south, and Hamilton Heights to the north, West Harlem has become a magnet for residents and businesses seeking a unique blend of history and modernity.
One of the defining features of West Harlem is its diverse and dynamic community. The neighborhood is known for its cultural institutions such as the Apollo Theater, a historic venue that has hosted legendary performances by African American artists. The area is also home to Columbia University's Morningside Heights campus, contributing to a lively academic atmosphere. Residents and visitors can explore the numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues that dot the landscape, fostering a sense of creativity and expression.
West Harlem's architectural landscape is a mix of historic brownstones and pre-war buildings, reflecting its rich history. Striking a balance between preserving its cultural heritage and embracing contemporary development, the neighborhood has seen an influx of new restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, adding a modern flair to its streets.
Transportation in West Harlem is convenient, with access to multiple subway lines and bus routes. The proximity to parks such as Riverside Park and Morningside Park provides residents with green spaces for recreation and relaxation. As West Harlem continues to evolve, it remains a captivating destination, offering a blend of history, culture, and urban vitality.
Image Credits Jim.henderson, CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Neighborhood Snapshot
train
Transit Score:
100/100
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Walk Score:
97/100
directions_bike
Bike Score:
73/100
Commute Times
to Penn Station
directions_bus
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
directions_bus
12.1 min
local_taxi
11.2 min
to Financial District
directions_bus
34.5 min
local_taxi
29.4 min
to Union Square
directions_bus
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
directions_bus
31.7 min
local_taxi
25.6 min
Buildings Fun Facts
Oldest Building in West Harlem
Built in 1880
78 WEST 132 STREET
Cheapest Building in West Harlem (sold, p/sqft)
$213
369 WEST 126 STREET
Most Expensive Building in West Harlem (sold, p/sqft)
$3,464
369 WEST 126 STREET
Biggest Building in West Harlem (total FAR)
408,812 ft
1 TUDOR CITY PLACE
Subway Lines
New Developments
3333 Broadway, New York, NY 10031
Rental Building in West Harlem
362 West 127th Street, New York, NY 10027
Condominium in West Harlem
464 West 130th Street, New York, NY 10027
Condominium in West Harlem
Popular Buildings
Windsor Tower
1 TUDOR CITY PLACE
52 Convent Avenue
408 WEST 130 STREET
41 CONVENT AVENUE
Eleven Hancock
11 HANCOCK PLACE
418 WEST 130 STREET
History of Neighborhood
West Harlem, also known as Hamilton Heights, Sugar Hill, and Manhattanville, has a rich and multifaceted history that spans centuries. Initially home to Native American communities, the area underwent transformations with the arrival of Dutch settlers in the 17th century. Over the years, West Harlem evolved from farmland to a prosperous residential enclave in the late 19th century, attracting affluent residents who built grand brownstones and townhouses.During the Harlem Renaissance in the early 20th century, West Harlem became a focal point for African American culture and creativity. The neighborhood fostered the emergence of iconic figures like Langston Hughes and Duke Ellington, contributing significantly to the artistic and intellectual landscape of the time.
The mid-20th century saw demographic shifts, with Puerto Rican and African American communities shaping the neighborhood's identity. Economic challenges followed, but West Harlem has demonstrated resilience and community strength in overcoming adversity.
In recent decades, West Harlem has experienced gentrification, marked by the restoration of historic structures, the influx of new businesses, and an increasingly diverse population. Today, the neighborhood stands as a testament to its enduring history, blending cultural heritage with a contemporary urban fabric.
Architectural Style
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.
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.
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.
Gothic Revival
Gothic Revival architecture, popular in the 19th century, mimics medieval Gothic designs with pointed arches, intricate tracery, and decorative gargoyles. Buildings in this style evoke a sense of medieval grandeur, often featuring dramatic vaulted ceilings and ornate stained glass windows.
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.
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.
Romanesque Revival
Romanesque Revival architecture harks back to medieval Roman designs, emphasizing sturdy stone construction, round arches, and robust facades. This style often incorporates intricate carvings and detailing, showcasing a sense of architectural strength and endurance.
Landmarks and Cultural Institutions
Apollo Theater
Hamilton Grange National Memorial
City College of New York (CCNY)
Riverside Church
Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , AllanMarcus2468, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , PortableNYCTours, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Entertainment
Live Performances
Apollo Theater: Known for its historic significance, the Apollo Theater hosts live music, comedy, and other performances.
Cultural Institutions and Museums
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture: A research institution and cultural center with exhibits, lectures, and events related to African American, African, and African diasporic cultures.
Historical Landmarks
One of the renowned historic landmarks in West Harlem is Grant's Tomb (General Grant National Memorial). Honoring Ulysses S. Grant, this landmark is an iconic part of Riverside Park.
Entertainment Image Credits Nile6462, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , King of Hearts, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Popular Restaurants
Lido Harlem
A chic Italian eatery with a warm ambiance, Lido Harlem is known for its delectable pasta dishes and a charming outdoor seating area.
Red Rooster
Helmed by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, Red Rooster is a soulful restaurant that offers a fusion of comfort food and contemporary flair. The vibrant atmosphere and live music add to the overall experience.
Sylvia's Restaurant
A Harlem institution, Sylvia's has been serving up soul food classics for decades. The welcoming atmosphere and mouth watering dishes create a comforting dining experience.
Restaurants Image Credits Autopilot, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Studio Sarah Lou, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Famous people connected to West Harlem
People Image Credits Carl Van Vechten; cropped by Beyond My Ken (talk) 07:07, 5 August 2010 (UTC), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , eBay, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , John Trumbull, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , The supreme court, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Movies
New Jack City
Shaft
The French Connection
Movies Image Credits Schreibwerkzeug, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Warner Bros., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , 20th Century Fox (now part of Walt Disney Pictures), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Statistics for West Harlem
Recent Sales Activity
| Date | Unit | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 11/14/2025 | 656 West 125th Street ICONIC | Listed for sale at $20,000,000 |
| 10/31/2025 | 430 Lenox Avenue 1 | Listed for sale at $275,000 |
| 10/20/2025 | 17 64th Street 1D | Listed for sale at $405,000 |
| 10/17/2025 | 11 Hancock Place PH206 | Listed for sale at $1,995,000 |
| 10/17/2025 | 2255 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard 3A | Listed for sale at $950,000 |
| 10/14/2025 | 52 Convent Avenue 1C | Listed for sale at $1,495,000 |
| 09/25/2025 | 518 West 135th Street 2B | Sold for $355,101 |
| 09/19/2025 | 11 Hancock Place 304 | Listed for sale at $1,560,000 |
| 09/12/2025 | 145 Morningside Avenue 2C | Listed for sale at $395,000 |
| 09/06/2025 | 2560 Frederick Douglass Boulevard D | Listed for sale at $699,000 |
| 09/02/2025 | 11 Hancock Place PH102 | Listed for sale at $1,849,000 |
| 08/28/2025 | 371 West 123rd Street 4A | Listed for sale at $1,449,000 |
| 08/13/2025 | 541 West 133rd Street 1 | Listed for sale at $330,000 |
| 08/08/2025 | 541 West 133rd Street 1 | Sold for $330,000 |
| 08/05/2025 | 33 Convent Avenue 23 | Listed for sale at $568,000 |
| 08/04/2025 | 567 WEST 125 STREET | Sold for $7,275,000 |
| 07/24/2025 | 430 Lenox Avenue 2R | Listed for sale at $296,000 |
| 07/18/2025 | 525 134th Street 2A | Sold for $200,000 |
| 07/14/2025 | 418 West 129th Street 4 | Listed for sale at $450,000 |
| 07/11/2025 | 33 Convent Avenue 9 | Listed for sale at $365,000 |
| 07/08/2025 | 2351 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard 204 | Listed for sale at $1,099,000 |
| 06/17/2025 | 11 Hancock Place 708 | Listed for sale at $1,475,000 |
| 06/17/2025 | 11 Hancock Place 501 | Listed for sale at $1,195,000 |
| 06/10/2025 | 575 Riverside Drive 43 | Listed for sale at $350,000 |
| 06/05/2025 | 137-139 142nd Street 2D | Listed for sale at $360,000 |
| 05/27/2025 | 371 West 123rd Street 8A | Listed for sale at $1,695,000 |
| 05/22/2025 | 362 West 127th Street 6B | Listed for sale at $620,000 |
| 05/11/2025 | 2460 Adam Clayton 37 | Listed for sale at $398,000 |
| 05/07/2025 | 518 West 135th Street 2B | Listed for sale at $350,000 |
| 03/26/2025 | 36 Convent Avenue 19 | Sold for $251,000 |
| 03/18/2025 | 375 West 123rd Street 7B | Sold for $1,995,000 |
| 03/17/2025 | 11 Hancock Place 709 | Sold for $892,000 |
| 03/11/2025 | 362 West 127th Street 5A | Listed for sale at $640,000 |
| 02/18/2025 | 41 Convent Avenue 5J | Sold for $525,000 |
| 02/15/2025 | 371 West 126th Street 6A | Sold for $770,916 |
| 02/15/2025 | 371 West 126th Street 4A | Sold for $770,916 |
| 02/15/2025 | 371 West 126th Street 3B | Sold for $770,916 |
| 02/13/2025 | 525 134TH Street 2E | Sold for $250,000 |
| 01/24/2025 | 2004 Madison Avenue | Sold for $1,850,000 |
| 11/21/2024 | 362 127th Street 1A | Listed for sale at $725,000 |
| 09/24/2024 | 5 Tudor City Place 1136 | Sold for $266,025 |
| 09/18/2024 | 362 West 127th Street 2B | Sold for $310,000 |
| 09/09/2024 | 11 Hancock Place 802 | Sold for $1,365,000 |
| 09/05/2024 | 41 Convent Avenue 4L | Sold for $415,000 |
| 07/25/2024 | 5 Tudor City Place 907 | Sold for $254,990 |
| 05/03/2024 | 270 West 132nd Street | Sold for $1,247,500 |
| 05/02/2024 | 2351 Adam Clayton Powell Junior Boulevard 209 | Sold for $4,734,848 |
| 04/05/2024 | 41 Convent Avenue 5E | Sold for $510,000 |
| 04/04/2024 | 41 Convent Avenue 3J | Sold for $475,000 |
| 03/25/2024 | 11 Hancock Place 809 | Sold for $1,259,000 |
| 03/18/2024 | 11 Hancock Place PH101 | Sold for $87,500 |
| 03/11/2024 | 52 Convent Avenue 1C | Sold for $1,405,185 |
| 03/05/2024 | 11 Hancock Place 909 | Sold for $1,280,000 |
| 02/29/2024 | 29 Convent Avenue 12A | Sold for $550,000 |
| 01/18/2024 | 105 West 131st Street | Sold for $1,275,000 |
| 12/07/2023 | 145 Morningside Avenue 2C | Sold for $200,000 |
| 11/27/2023 | 2351 Adam Clayton Powell Junior Boulevard 612 | Sold for $627,500 |
| 04/09/2021 | 11 Hancock Place PH201 | Listed for sale at $2,075,000 |
| 11/17/2020 | 375 West 123rd Street 8C | Listed for sale at $734,000 |
| 04/04/2020 | 11 Hancock Place 602 | Listed for sale at $985,000 |
| 02/10/2020 | 11 Hancock Place 1003 | Listed for sale at $710,000 |
| 02/10/2020 | 11 Hancock Place 903 | Listed for sale at $980,000 |
| 10/23/2019 | 11 Hancock Place 401 | Listed for sale at $875,000 |
| 10/09/2019 | 11 Hancock Place 504 | Listed for sale at $858,000 |
| 09/27/2019 | 371 West 126th Street 1B | Listed for sale at $795,000 |
| 06/20/2019 | 11 Hancock Place 705 | Listed for sale at $680,000 |
| 07/09/2018 | 575 Riverside Drive 44 | Listed for sale at $802,500 |
| 03/16/2018 | 17 Convent Avenue 3D | Listed for sale at $855,000 |
| 05/20/2016 | 362 West 127th Street PHA | Listed for sale at $655,000 |
| 05/17/2016 | 362 West 127th Street 3A | Listed for sale at $460,000 |