31 Cheapest Places to Live in Manhattan (You Might Not Know)

Written by Jeff Campbell in Cost of Living Last Updated March 15, 2022

Cheapest places Manhattan lg

People often find it challenging to attribute the term “cheap” to New York City. But certainly, not everyone who lives there is wealthy. So what is the cheapest place to live in Manhattan?

Instead of one, this article aims to highlight 31 of the cheapest areas you might not know in Manhattan.

Let us dive in!

31. Murray Hills

Murray Hills is situated on the east side of Manhattan.

It is home to the Morgan Library and Museum, Scandinavia House, and the historic architectural landmarks within the Murray Hill district. Murray Hills has a low percentage of violent crimes but higher property crimes.

Murray Hills is served by trains, buses, and ferries. This is one of the best places to rent a house in New York City if you are looking for some quietness. Residents have access to many coffee shops, bars, parks, and restaurants.

Housing Costs – Renting a room costs about $2,575 while purchasing, $850,000. This is fairly cheaper than other bigger towns in Manhattan.

30. Kips Bay

Kips Bay can be found on the east side of Manhattan.

The neighborhood is safe and quiet. The percentage of violent crime is lower than in the city. It radiates a calm that probably reflects the East River on its borders. There are several options for dining, shopping, banks, grocery stores, bars, and clubs.

Kips Bay has a hub with hospitals to attend to the medical needs of the people.

Housing Costs – The median cost of buying a studio apartment is $778,000 while renting goes for $2,495. Kips Bay is great for retirees and families. Compared to flashy cities like New Jersey, it is an affordable place to stay.

29. Hell’s Kitchen

The infamous Hell’s Kitchen is situated on the West Side of Midtown Manhattan. It is bordered on the west by the Hudson River. Hell’s Kitchen is an LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood.

Fun places include the DeWitt Clinton Park, Hudson Park, and Boulevard. Hell’s Kitchen’s rate of violent crimes is less than that of the city. However, the rate of property crime is high.

Hell’s Kitchen is home to many famous people like Alicia Keys, Timothee Chalamet, Trevor Noah, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, and many others.

Housing Costs – You can rent a studio apartment for $2,500, while the purchase cost is about $988,000. If you love to party at night, Hell’s Kitchen is the place for you.

28. Stuyvesant Town

Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village is a post-war residential neighborhood in East Manhattan.

Towards the west of Stuyvesant town, you can find the Beth Israel Medical Center, Saint George’s Church, and the Stuyvesant Square. There are not many violent crimes in this neighborhood. Instead, they experience a high rate of property crime.

Stuyvesant town has its own newspaper, “Towns and Village”, an independent business started by Charles Hagedorn.

Housing Costs – It is one of the most expensive cities, with the median home rent at $3,317 for a one-bedroom apartment. Stuyvesant town is home to at least 8 banks, 67 restaurants, ten grocery stores, and 18 fitness centers. This is an excellent option for families as pharmacies, playgrounds, and dry cleaners are available.

27. Sutton Place

Sutton Place is a cozy neighborhood free from the hustle and bustle associated with the city. It is situated between the Upper East Side, Turtle Bay, and Midtown East. The population is less than 8,000, with a median age of 58, making it an excellent place for retirees.

In addition, the houses are fully equipped with amenities such that you won’t miss the comforts attributed to the bigger cities.

Housing Costs – The median value of houses is $676,000. The older population initially dominated Sutton place but not anymore. One drawback of living here is the lack of subway stops. However, bus transits are easily accessible.

26. Carnegie Hill

Carnegie Hill is located within the Upper East Side of Manhattan. It is home to elite private schools, museums, and historic places of worship.

This affluent neighborhood is quiet and beautiful. It is home to pre-war European architecture and beautiful apartments. Fun places include museums, parks, Haunted Manhattan, historical Church buildings, and many others.

Housing Costs – The median rent for a studio apartment is $2,650 and $3,900 for one bedroom. A couple of options are available for grabbing a bite or coffee. Fitness centers are also available here. One significant benefit of choosing this neighborhood is safety.

25. Marble Hill

Marble Hill is located in the northernmost parts of Manhattan.

A distinguishing feature is that it is the only Manhattan area located in the Bronx and carries its area codes. In addition, Marble Hill is one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City.

Nearby exciting places include The Metropolitan Museum of Arts, Central Park, Time Square, and others.

Housing Costs – The average cost of renting a one-bedroom is $1,515 per month, while directly purchasing it is $640,000. Marble Hill is one of the most affordable neighborhoods in Manhattan.

24. Battery Park City

Battery Park City boasts of high-rise buildings overlooking the Hudson River in downtown Manhattan.

Battery Park City is not lacking in restaurants, fitness options, shops, and nightlife options. In addition, the neighborhood is safe, with violent crime rates lower than the national average.

Cool places within Battery Park City include the Museum of Jewish Heritage, Irish Hunger Memorial, and Brookfield Place.

Housing Costs – The median price for renting and buying a one-bedroom is $3,900 and $675,000, respectively. This neighborhood is quite pricey but makes up for it with amenities.

23. Riverside Drive

Riverside Drive is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. This is an elegant neighborhood with gentle curves. The neighborhood is quiet and affordable, probably because it does not attract many tourists.

On the west side of the drive is Riverside Park. Notable sights in Riverside drive are the Nicholas Roerich Museum, Eleanor Roosevelt Monument at 72nd street, and the Joan of Arc Statue at 93rd street. Riverside Drive is a safe neighborhood.

The incidence of violent crimes is 2% less than the United States average. In addition, property crimes are very low.

Housing Costs – Apartments can be purchased for as little as $615,000 (low for NYC) or rent from as little as $1,875.

22. Turtle Bay

Turtle Bay is on the east side of Midtown Manhattan. It is home to the headquarters of the United Nations and the Chrysler Building. In addition, the Tudor City apartment complex is situated to the south of this neighborhood.

Turtle Bay’s rate of violent crime is less than that of New York City. However, the number of property crimes is average.

Although Turtle Bay is not a highly vibrant neighborhood, it has bars, restaurants, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Therefore, it is a fantastic place for retirees.

Housing Costs – The median rent for a one-bedroom is $2,190, but home prices are about $772,000.

21. Koreatown

Koreatown, commonly called K-town, is situated in Midtown Manhattan.

The center of Koreatown is often called Korea Way. A distinguishing feature is the stores, bars, karaoke bars, spas, and restaurants that remind you of Seoul City. It has become a significant nighttime attraction for tourists visiting Manhattan.

Koreatown has an above-average violent crime rate and a high property crime rate compared to NYC. It is also home to the historic Empire State Building, the tallest skyscraper in the world until 1970.

Housing Costs – The cost of renting a studio apartment is $2,475 per month. Koreatown is a vibrant neighborhood that makes Koreans feel at home.

20. Manhattan Valley

Manhattan Valley is situated in the northern part of the Upper West Side in Manhattan. It is one of the most affordable places on the Upper West Side.

This neighborhood is close to Central Park and Riverside Park.

Retirees will find a sociable and friendly environment to their liking. Fun places include the Lotus Garden, Manhattan Tours, Lion’s Head Tavern, the Art Studio, Bob’s Your Uncle, Lilac Spa Center, and the ‘dam.

Housing Costs – The average cost of buying a house is $770,000. In addition, you can rent a studio apartment for $1,695. This is one of the cheapest places in Manhattan.

19. Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue extends from the Greenwich Village to Harlem River. It is primarily a commercial area.

Many luxurious brands like Gucci, Chanel, Prada, Versace, Big Apple Store, Microsoft Store, etc., are situated on Fifth Avenue. Therefore, it is dubbed one of the most expensive shopping streets globally.

Fifth Avenue has an area dedicated to history. The Museum Mile consists of nine museums- the Africa Center, El Museo del Barrio, the Museum of the City of New York, the Jewish Museum, and others.

Fifth Avenue is a safe area, but the housing costs can be quite pricey.

However, if you go a little north from the designers up around the low 100s, or south down around 15th, you’ll find some well-priced places to rent. And you’ll also have plenty of places like Target you can walk to.

Housing Costs – Rents can be as low as $3,600/month while buying can be as low as $599,000.

18. Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island is a small region located within the East River.

It has been called several names, but it was eventually renamed after Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1973.  An attraction in this area is the ample park space. If you love the water, you can get lots of fantastic water views.

Historical places include the Renwick Ruin, the Octagon Tower, and the 19th Century Lighthouse.

Housing Costs – The median rent in this neighborhood is about $3,000. However, the cost of purchasing a home is relatively high. Therefore, it may not be the best idea to buy a home here. Residents have access to the subway and a ferry terminal for transportation.

17. East Village

East Village is an LGBT-friendly neighborhood. It is located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

East Village is renowned as the birthplace of punk, with an abundance of tattoo parlors and artists. Then, as of 2012, East Village got its brewery to serve the populace.

Residents have access to several restaurants, grocery stores, banks, fitness centers, and schools. However, East Village has an average crime rate lower than New York City.

Housing Costs – The monthly rent for a room is about $2,675, while the median price for purchasing a studio apartment is $785,000. Therefore, it is not on the top of the list for students.

16. Upper West Side

The Upper West Side neighborhood is probably the greenest area of Manhattan. It is situated South of Hell’s Kitchen. Interestingly, this neighborhood has low crime rates. The median sales price is $1,076,400.

However, the cost of housing is lesser in the Northern part.

Residents have access to good transportation and grocery. Residents have access to Mount Sinai Urgent Care for immediate medical attention. Only about 5% of the population is uninsured, which is less than we see in other parts of NYC.

It is home to the headquarters of the American Broadcasting Company.

Other cool places in the Upper West Side include the Jewish Guild for the Build, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Nicholas Roerich Museum.

Housing Costs – While many units sell for over $1,000,000, some units are currently as low as $295,000. For rents, I’m seeing some as low as $2,900/month.

15. Little Italy

Little Italy is a romantic and charming neighborhood that is filled with culture.

Whether you are of Italian descent or not, you should try the pasta here-they are wonderful. Another exciting spot is the Caffé Palermo. This neighborhood promises lots of fun, like the feast of San Gennaro.

Most people are enticed by the rich foods in this environment, from the Cannoli, pizza, Cheese, and wines.

Little Italy used to be home to mob bosses in the past decade, but not anymore. In fact, a lot of it is actually owned by Asians. But they keep the mystique alive of the Italian feel basically for the tourists. But don’t be surprised if that guy outside the Italian restaurant trying to coax you inside isn’t actually of Italian ancestry.

The streets are safe and friendly. Therefore, if you are looking for food, culture, and fun, then Little Italy is for you.

Housing Costs – To get a studio apartment here, the rent will cost about $1,948. To buy, while many units are over $1,000,000, some can be had as low as $599,000.

14. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is situated on the west side of Manhattan. It is a safe neighborhood that rarely sleeps. This village is an excellent option for retirees as various housing options usually come with a Doorman.

Greenwich Village is home to various restaurants like Frisco’s Italian Specialties, Murray’s Cheese, and others. Exciting places are Christopher Park, IFC center, The Whitney Museum, and Tea and Sympathy.

Many people love to visit Julius’ Bar, the oldest gay bar in New York City. You could also opt for the jazz or comedy club to unwind at night.

Housing Costs – To purchase an apartment, many units are over $1,000,000, some can be had as low as $550,000. To rent, expect to pay as little as $2,700/month although $4-5k is more common.

13. Manhattanville

Manhattanville is a part of Manhattan Community District 9. Therefore, if you are looking for some quiet, this may not be the best place for you.

To the west of Manhattanville is the Hudson River. There are many green spaces to jog, ride bikes, and take a stroll to enjoy nature.

In addition, Manhattanville is home to about four historic houses of worship. They include St. Mary’s Protestant Episcopal Church, Church of the Annunciation, Church of St. Joseph of the Holy Family, and Old Broadway Synagogue.

Other cool places include IRT Broadway Line, Riverside Drive Viaducts, and the Fairway Supermarket. Manhattanville is safe compared to other big parts of NYC.

Housing Costs – The average rent is $2,150 for a single room. Buying can range from $279,000 to the mid 400s.

12. Morningside Heights

Another great place with affordable housing is Morningside Heights. Morningside Heights is located on the West Side of Manhattan. The population is about 46,942.

This is one of the safest neighborhoods in the city, with low crime rates.

It is home to Columbia University, Manhattan School of Music, Barnard College, and many others. Significant landmarks include the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the fifth-largest Cathedral globally.

The General Grant National Memorial is home to Grant’s Tomb. Other fascinating places to visit are the low memorial library, Morningside Park (with a 20-foot waterfall), and Sakura Park.

Housing Costs – Renting a studio apartment costs about $3,127 and $3,462 for a one-bedroom apartment. Buying can range between $325,000 and $500,000 or more.

11. Fort George

Fort George is bordered by Inwood, Washington Heights, and Hudson Heights. It is easily the hilliest area of northern Manhattan. Some curved streets make you believe you are in Paris. Residents can also enjoy a refreshing view of the Hudson River and its surroundings.

Fort George is very close to Fort Tryon Park, which gives people easy access to the Cloisters Museum.

Although the crime rate was initially high, it has become a safe town for those who want tranquility without breaking their banks on real estate. The rate of violence and property crime is below New York City.

Housing Costs – The average cost of rent in this neighborhood is $1,750. Buying a unit can be as low as $255,000 and there is a lot of inventory in the $300,000 to $400,000 range (great for NYC).

10. Lenox Hill

Lenox Hill is situated in the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

It is home to nice historical apartments and designer stores. In addition, residents have access to the Lenox Hill Hospital and Hunter College. This area has a low crime rate, excellent transportation, and great cafes.

A notable feature of this area is The Frick Collection, filled with historical European paintings and art inside over 100-year old buildings.

In addition, there is the Park Avenue Armory for hosting unique exhibitions. Finally, great restaurants offer Italian, Mexican, and Asian food to satisfy your particular cravings.

Housing Costs – The average rent of a walk-in apartment is about $2000. If you want to buy, while there are many places over $1,000,000, you can find some units as low as $430,000.

9. Gramercy Park

This area has a quiet and peaceful vibe. Hence, it is a good place for retirees to consider.

If you are looking for an affordable and friendly neighborhood for your family, you should consider Gramercy. Likewise, single individuals can also enjoy the homely vibe in the area.

Housing Costs – Gramercy is a posh region where the median monthly rent is about $2,800 for a one-bedroom apartment. To purchase an apartment, many units are over $1,000,000, some can be had as low as $395,000.

9. Midtown East

Midtown East is the area between 42nd and 59th Street. It has a population of about 30,043.

If you have an exquisite taste in food, Midtown East is the best stop for you. There are plenty of restaurants where you can get something different each day.

Midtown East is a safe city to live in with your family. It is well known for its skyscrapers, such as the Art Deco Chrysler Building.

Places of interest include the United Nations, International Consulates, and Morgan Library and Museum. In addition, it is home to NYU hospital and Bellevue Hospital.

Housing Costs – To buy a unit, some can be had as low as $395,000 although the average will be over $500,000. Rentals currently average $4,425. So while still reasonably priced for Manhattan, it is on the higher end.

7. Washington Heights

Washington Heights is a historic city named after George Washington. It is situated in the northern region of Manhattan. Additionally, it offers affordable apartments.

The streets of Washington Heights are always busy.

In Washington Heights, there is always something nice to eat from. Le Cheile, Malecon, and bodega are some of the best places for good food in the area.

Wine lovers can always order from the Columbia Wine Company. In addition, there is the Word Up Community Bookstore for individuals who love their hard copy books. The bookstore holds physical and virtual events annually.

Housing Costs – It offers various prewar apartments with average rent prices of about $2,195. But you can buy a unit for as little as $175,000!

6. Chinatown

The small but famous Chinatown is a densely populated neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. It is situated North of Little Italy.

There are a few subway stations where you can get a train. The neighborhood is safe to walk at night as the streets are always buzzing.

Although there are not many new houses being constructed, there are decent apartments.

Chinatown is known for its mouth-watering Chinese cuisine. The Nom Wah Tea Parlor has been in existence for 100 years in Chinatown. Another interesting place is the Deluxe Meat Market to buy fresh meat or already made food.

It is also home to The Museum of Chinese in America, which describes the history and present of Asian Americans. It is a must-see for anyone living in the town.

Housing Costs – The average rent in Chinatown is $2,500, which is less than other downtown areas of Manhattan. But buying here is on the higher end and you’re unlikely to find units below $700,000.

5. Inwood

Inwood may just be the cheapest neighborhood in Manhattan.

Inwood is a very busy city with lots of business, taverns, restaurants, and exciting nightlife. One fascinating part of Inwood is The Met Cloisters, an art museum filled with items from medieval Europe.

In addition, individuals who love nature can visit Inwood Hill Park with miles of waterfront.

It is also home to the Dyckman Farmhouse, a relic of the Dutch-era New York. It is famous for the Inwood Arch, which was once the entrance to the hilltop Seaman-Drake estate.

Additionally, it is home to Inwood Greenmarket, one of the best farmer’s markets in NYC.

Housing Costs – Rents here average just $1,836!! And if you prefer to buy a unit, there is a lot of inventory in the $300,000 range.

4. Central Harlem

Central Harlem has a population of over 100, 000 people. It runs between East Harlem and West Harlem.

This historic town is filled with prewar buildings. It offers old school and classic apartments that are affordable, especially for individuals with a fixed income.

Good food is another great point for choosing to live in Central Harlem.

The Lido, Slyvia, and Harlem Tavern do not disappoint with their dishes. In addition, you can get local West African food from Pikine and Baobab Gouye Gui in the Le Petit Senegal neighborhood.

Housing Costs – The average cost of purchasing a house here is $915,000. However, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for $2,300.

3. East Harlem

East Harlem is also known as Spanish Harlem because it is home to a greater portion of the Hispanic population in NYC. There are several options for housing as public housing complexes dominate this neighborhood.

People who are on a budget can benefit from living in this region because it is home to big stores like River Plaza.

In addition, Residents of East Harlem have quicker access to Target, Costco, and Old Navy. Also, more housing options are available in this part of the city.

Other notable places are the Graffiti Hall of fame, Demolition depot, and Centre park conservatory garden.

Housing Costs – The average cost of purchasing a house here is $300,000 to $500,000. However, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment for $2,300.

2. Hamilton Heights

Hamilton Heights is located in the northern part of West Harlem.

The name of this city was coined by Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers. You can conveniently get to Midtown within 22 minutes from either express A or D trains.

This affordable region of Manhattan is home to The City College of New York and The Dance Theater of Harlem.

One crucial attraction in Hamilton Heights is the National Historic District of Sugar Hill with its original architecture. In addition, residents have access to various restaurants to satisfy their various tastes. There are multiple parks along the Hudson River, which gives it a natural view.

Housing Costs – The median rent is about $2,350. Buying can be as low as $279,000 although the average will be closer to $600,000.

1. Yorkville

Yorkville is an area in the upper east side with a population of about 2,535.

It is 15 minutes from Times Square. Residents of Yorkville can enjoy lots of green space at Carl Schurz Park. The official residence of the NYC mayor is in Yorkville.

Yorkville is home to Asphalt Green, a big fitness facility. It is equipped with an enormous swimming pool and a 90,000-square foot turf for soccer.

Yorkville is a relatively safe neighborhood, but the southwest part is considered the safest.

Housing Costs – The average median rent is about $2,700. Buying can range from as little as $315,000 up into the millions with an average of $695,000.

Living Cheap - Tiny NYC Apartment Tour ($600/month)!

Conclusion

Living in New York is expensive, no doubt.

That’s why you need to be strategic in managing your income. Check out a recent article on my site on keys to financial freedom. Manhattan is easily the most sought-after borough of NYC. Therefore, getting quality and affordable housing is competitive.

I hope this article helps determine which parts of Manhattan you want to settle in.

Image by Dimitry Anikin from Pixabay and Image by Bruce Emmerling from Pixabay and Image by marekr from Pixabay and Image by Okaynow from Pixabay Image by Greg Reese from Pixabay and Image by Creative Hatti from Pixabay and Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay

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