When people try to envision their life in Manhattan, they think about taking long autumn walks in Central Park and living in the apartment in the classical brownstone building (the ones we all have seen as the backdrop of many movie scenes). Those are just some of the highlights of relocating to the Upper West Side.
However, this neighborhood can offer you a lot more than spacious green areas and luxury apartments. Read on to get a glimpse of what living on the Upper West Side is really about.
Advantages Of Relocating To The Upper East Side
The Upper West Side has been one of the most desirable places to live in New York City since the 60s. Perhaps that’s because compared to the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side is more relaxed, laid-back, and family-oriented. However, that doesn’t mean this part of Manhattan is boring. On contrary, UWS is a very dynamic neighborhood with a lot of fun happenings to offer.
Many people choose relocating to the Upper West Side because of the quality of life you can have here. There are plenty of parks and open spaces which allow you and your family to run away from the busy city life for a short time. Also, Manhattan has the lowest crime rate, which is why so many people decide to move there.
Easily accessible
Upper West Side transportation options are various; you can commute via bus, train, or subway. Most people who decide to move into this neighborhood work or apply for a job in Lower Manhattan or Midtown. You can reach these parts of Manhattan in about half an hour, which is considered quickly for NYC standards. One of the most beneficial things about living on the Upper West Side is that you can establish an excellent work-life balance.
You’ll get to live in a location with a vibrant history
The Upper West Side is well known for its historical background. Considering this neighborhood is located on the river, it was the central point for shipping, manufacturing, and transportation. Also, a railroad ran up the bank of the Hudson River. The fun fact is that most of the scenes from the movie “West Side Story” is filmed right here, in the Lincoln Square neighborhood.
The Upper West Side is the only part of Manhattan that still has a strong sense of community and retained residential atmosphere.
Upper West Side is a cultural and artsy neighborhood
If you are a big fan of arts, entertainment, and museums, then you’ll have a lot of things to do on the Upper West Side. What more do you need than the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts? This world-famous cultural institution hosts Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, and New York City Ballet.
There is so much to do at the museum, and luckily for you, you will live near five great museums that attract many tourists throughout the year. The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most visited institutions in the world. This museum is the home to a massive blue whale and dinosaur skeleton. You don’t want to miss out on that.
Two of the most important art museums are located in Manhattan- the Guggenheim Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Here you can explore the creative works of many famous artists and get the inspiration you might need.
Last but not least, Upper West Side is a place where you can visit the Hayden Planetarium Space Theater. All their exhibits rotate, so you can always discover something new and interesting here.
World cuisine is almost at your doorstep
Upper West Side can offer you a fantastic variety of restaurants and cuisines that are first-class rated but provide a relaxed atmosphere. You can find everything here, from Italian cuisine to Chinese cuisine, and in all price ranges. This neighborhood is not so famous for its nightlife, therefore, you will be able to find plenty of intimate wine bars, cocktail bars, and casual taverns.
It seems like Upper West Side is home to desserts and pastries. Here you can find and enjoy delightful treats from places like Magnolia Bakery and Levain’s. If you are relocating to the Upper West Side with a family, you can be sure your kids will adore these places.
Proximity to Central Park and Riverside Park
Upper West Side is a fantastic neighborhood for people who prefer vast green spaces where they can run in the morning before the big city wakes up. Central Park and Riverside Park are very popular tourist destinations, with plenty of space to go cycling, jogging, walking, or sitting in some of the cafes and enjoying the sun. Living on the Upper West Side is all about having fun with your family.
Real estate market
Upper West Side is famous for its residential charm and family orientation, however, living here can be expensive. Currently, the cost of the standard one-bedroom apartment on the Upper West Side is around $3900. But keep in mind that some classical brownstones, have a single washing and drying machine in the basement for all residents (most of these buildings have 10 apartments).
For those who choose to buy a house or larger apartment on the Upper West Side, you’ll need to open up and spend at least humble $2M.
Relocating To The Upper West Side – Yes Or No?
Moving to New York can be exceptionally complicated if you aren’t familiar with rules and regulations, especially in the high-end areas such as Upper West Side. These rules usually cover everything. From where you can park your moving truck to when your movers can unload and load your belongings.
This is a quiet and family-oriented neighborhood, so these rules shouldn’t surprise you. Now that you know that, the best thing you can do is hire a local and well-experienced moving company that knows how to handle these challenges.
