Rich Black American history and comparable affordability next to Central Park
Situated just north of Central Park, Central Harlem is a vast neighborhood incorporating different subsections like the Mount Morris Historic District and the area between 110th and 125th streets, known as South Harlem. Having played host to the Great Migration, the neighborhood has long been an epicenter of Black American culture. The area was built up after the Civil War but truly came into its own during the Harlem Renaissance, a period of cultural development that saw poets like Langston Hughes, musicians such as Duke Ellington and businesspeople including Madam C.J. Walker leave a lasting impact on their respective fields. Though this period of intense creativity and entrepreneurship eventually gave way to postindustrial economic decline, urban flight and discriminatory housing practices in the second half of the 20th century, Central Harlem has re-emerged in recent decades. “The late 1990s was the golden age here because the city government needed to offload a lot of derelict, burned-out and tax-deficient buildings in its control and so, organized open lotteries, essentially giving away townhomes and empty lots to help revitalize the neighborhood,” says Caryl Berenato, a broker with Compass who has been selling here since the mid-1980s. “It was done with the intension of fostering a sense of community and pride." Today, pre-war Beaux Arts-style and postwar co-ops are joined by widely restored turn-of-the-century brownstones and a whole host of new development luxury condos, especially in South Harlem. Yet much of this housing stock remains affordable when compared to other parts of Manhattan, especially those that line other sides of the park. "There’s still good value for young professionals and middle-class families,” says Dianne Howard, another longtime local and broker with Compass. Today, generationally rooted Harlemites are joined by diverse newcomers, including West African and recent European immigrants. “Regardless of whether they’ve lived here their whole lives or just moved in, they quickly become part of our community,” Howard adds.
Central Park North borders Harlem.
In Central Harlem there are a lot of different housing options to choose from.
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Eclectic eateries and essentials
Owing to its rich and diverse history, Central Harlem is home to a thriving dining and night life scene. While neighborhood stalwart Sylvia’s Restaurant and more recent South Harlem staple Melba’s put their spin on southern classics, Abyssinia Ethiopian Restaurant and New American bistro Clay give downtown foodies a reason to come uptown. Harlem Shake is a retro-style diner harkening back to the iconic lunch counters that once dotted every street corner. British pub-inspired eatery Edge is a popular gathering place for residents living in the northern part of the neighborhood. Central Harlem is crisscrossed by several commercial arteries such as Frederick Douglass Boulevard and 125th Street, a main thoroughfare lined with essential chain stores like Marshalls and Whole Foods. The vast neighborhood encircles microneighborhoods like Little Senegal, a stretch of West 116th Street with West African restaurants and specialized stores.
Sylvia's Soul Food Restaurant has served the Central Harlem community for over 60 years.
Whole Foods on 125th Street is a major supermarket in Central Harlem.
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Legendary performance venues and amenity-rich parks
Central Harlem has numerous cultural offerings, including the world-famous Apollo Theater, the alternative Maysles Documentary Center and the cutting-edge Studio Museum, an art institution specialized in work by talents of African descent which is currently under renovation. The ever-popular Shrine Bar remains a go-to for locals and visitors seeking out live jazz. Incorporating the soon to reopen Lasker ice skating rink and pool, Central Park’s North Woods section is a vital resource; a more secluded and peaceful part of this expansive 843-acre green lung. There are a few other parks and playgrounds spread throughout the neighborhood, most of which bear the name of famous figures from Black History. Marcus Garvey Park in the Mount Morris Historic District includes a pool, rec center and temporary installations created by local artists. Morningside Park forms a buffer between greater Harlem and Morningside Heights. Central Harlem is also imbued with numerous churches, some of which open on Sundays for the public and tourists to experience live gospel.
Popular Central Harlem performance venue Apollo Theater opened its doors in 1914.
There are a number of basketball courts at St Nicholas Park.
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Ornate brownstones and modern mid-rises
Central Harlem covers a large portion of Upper Manhattan and incorporates historical districts like Mount Morris Park. Restored Queen Anne brownstones in this 16-block quarter come with ornate details and marble flooring. These stately homes range from $2.5 million to $7.5 million. The section of Central Harlem dubbed South Harlem is increasingly defined by new development towers where sizable 2-bedroom condos cost between $1.5 million to $3.5 million. Homes with direct views of Central Park and located along 110th Street fetch a premium but nowhere near those in other park-facing neighborhoods. Throughout Central Harlem, 2-bedroom units in mid-rise Beaux Arts-style co-op buildings sell for $250,000 to $750,000. Income-restriction HDFC co-ops are also common throughout the neighborhood and according to Berenato, ensure that people who were born and grew up here don’t get priced out. “Central Harlem is a good neighborhood for first-time buyers due, in part, to great tax abatement incentives,” Howard adds. While the area has vastly improved since the second half of the 20th century when crime was rife, the Cap Index predicts that crime, specifically robbery and assault by weapon, remains slightly higher than the national average.
New condos can be spotted alongside prewar co-op buildings and townhomes.
One of the new immaculate condo buildings on Central Park North in the Central Harlem community.
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Quality schools cater to a diverse community
According to the Department of Education, Central Harlem has some of the best public charter schools in New York State. With an overall B-minus Niche rating, P.S. 175 Henry H Garnet elementary school excels in arts programming. With a B-plus score, Harlem Children's Zone Promise Academy Charter School is another excellent option that promotes a socio-emotional learning model. Continuing to middle school at Thurgood Marshall Academy for Learning and Social Change, with a C-plus rating from Niche, students benefit from a state-of-the-art library. High school can be completed at Democracy Prep Charter School. With an A-plus Niche rating, the top-ranked school offers rigorous civic courses and college prep.
Central Harlem high school Percy E. Sutton Educational Campus has an A-minus Niche rating.
Thurgood Marshall Academy is a public middle and high school in New York City.
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Express trains to all parts Manhattan and beyond
“Central Harlem has great transportation links down the West and East sides of Manhattan,” Howard says. The A, B, C, D and 2 and 3 subway lines run up either side of the neighborhood. A trip to the Financial District takes just over 30 minutes. Connected through nearby East Harlem, the 4, 5 and 6 subway lines link directly with the Upper East Side. There are also plans to extend the 2nd Avenue Subway — the N, Q and R lines — up to 125th Steet and across to the Lexington Avenue stop currently served by the 4, 5 and 6 lines. Residents have easy access to Harlem River Drive, RFK Bridge and the George Washington Bridge; expressway connections that bypass much of Midtown’s rush hour and holiday traffic. The 125th Street Metro North regional train station offers frequent service to the northern suburbs, as well as a single stop ride to Grand Central.
The 125th Street, Lenox Ave stop in Central Harlem offers express service uptown and downtown.
From Central Harlem you can get to anywhere you need using public transportation.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Central Harlem neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Central Harlem
US
Homicide
7
4
Sexual Assault
8
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Central Harlem Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Central Harlem, Manhattan sell after 125 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Central Harlem, Manhattan over the last 12 months is $777,500, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY! ALL OPEN HOUSES AND SHOWINGS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. YOU MUST MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE SPONSOR'S SALES TEAM IN ADVANCE. Residence 608 is a 900 SF two-bedroom and two-bathroom, offering incredible value for the space and the quality. WHERE LIFE CLICKS INTO PLACE It's easy to slip into the groove at Smithsonian Place. With 125th Street Station,
Live or invest just one block from Central Park! This stylish, mint-condition 2BR/1BA pre-war condo checks all the boxes-bright, quiet, and full of charm. Enjoy a spacious living room, compact chef's kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a windowed bath, 9-ft ceilings, crown molding, and new hardwood floors throughout. A perfect blend of classic character and modern comfort. Located on
Elevator to your front door, a floor to yourself, a laundry room worthy of a closet organizer, plus a terrace for your morning coffee, a Bosch Appliance package, wide oak floors, and enough space for everything else you love. Each floor-through home is designed to deliver complete calm from the moment your elevator doors open-spacious, quiet, and impeccably finished. Live in luxury that leaves
The Victory Renaissance (118–122 W 123rd Street) is a pre-war HDFC cooperative, ideally located in the heart of Central Harlem and surrounded by everything that makes the neighborhood so special. Apartment 7-3, One of only four residences on the floor. The apartment has been recently refreshed, featuring refinished hardwood floors and a kitchen with existing cabinetry retained—providing a clean,
This two bedroom/one bathroom apartment is located in a prewar walk-up coop building, built in 1920, on a residential street in Central Harlem. It has southern exposure with street views. The block is bustling with trucks with building supplies, as well as those with signage that says "Construction, Home Renovations and Removal". It is convenient to the park, transportation (Express trains on
- Cash only, no bank lending- No mortgage- HDFC co-op with income restrictions Make your home just one block from Central Park in this spacious one-bedroom co-op in a South Harlem HDFC building. Income restrictions apply. Household income restrictions of 165% AMI apply:1 Person = $154,1102 People = $176,2203 People = $198,1654 People = $220,1105 People = $237,765
- Cash only, no bank lending - No mortgage - HDFC co-op with income restrictions Make your home just one block from Central Park in this spacious one-bedroom co-op in a South Harlem HDFC building. Income restrictions apply. Household income restrictions of 165% AMI apply: 1 Person = $154,110 2 People = $176,220 3 People = $198,165 4 People = $220,110 5 People = $237,765 Inside this prewar home,
Tax-abated until 2033 and bathed in southern light, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom home with complimentary private storage in a boutique condominium is a rare find. Offering extraordinarily low carrying costs, this home provides a unique opportunity to own for less than the cost of renting in one of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Enter through a keyed elevator directly into the great
Welcome to 49 Bradhurst Avenue! This spacious two-family, four-story duplex townhouse is located in desirable Central Harlem. The property offers approximately 3,053 sq ft of interior living space, featuring 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, high ceilings, a spiral staircase, and closets throughout, providing ample room for comfortable living, flexible layouts, or investment potential. This is an
Beautiful Hamilton Heights 1 BR, Upon entering the lobby of this Hamilton Heights building, you then go through the covered walkway of the beautiful courtyard to take an elevator to this, stunning 1 bedroom apt. Set alongside Jackie Robinson Park, Ellington on the Park brings affordable luxury to one of the citys most architecturally distinguished and culturally significant neighborhoods.
John Jenis Licensed as John DzienisBond New York Properties LLC
Price Reduction! Rarely available. Huge outdoor wrap around Terrace, almost 800 sq feet, views of downtown Manhattan and the gothic towers of CUNY ! Overlooking one of the largest, private, landscaped Courtyards in Hamilton Heights! NEW FLOORS throughout, NEW KITCHEN Appliances! MOVE RIGHT IN! Recessed lighting installed.2 BR 2 BA with 24 hour doorperson. W/D IN the apt. DONT Miss this
John Jenis Licensed as John DzienisBond New York Properties LLC
Welcome to Harlem’s beloved Kalahari Condominium; where your dreams meet your budget, and coming home always feels like a win. Apartment A307 offers a smart split-bedroom layout with two spacious bedrooms and two gleaming tile baths, separated for privacy and comfort. High ceilings, oversized windows, and ample closets enhance the sense of space throughout. The large open kitchen features granite
Discover this extraordinary two-bedroom, two-bathroom home offering more than 2,700 square feet of expansive indoor–outdoor living - an opportunity rarely found in Manhattan. This residence opens into a welcoming entry foyer before unfolding into an impressive approximately 1,630 sq. ft. interior centered around a dramatic great room. Contact the agents for a link to a 3D tour. What sets this
Photos are virtually staged. Welcome to Strivers Gardens Condominium, where modern living meets the vibrant energy of Harlem. This sun-filled one-bedroom home is perfectly positioned on a quiet, tree-lined street and offers a thoughtful layout, abundant natural light, and the conveniences of contemporary city living. Northern exposures bathe the residence in sunshine throughout the day,
Natural light floods the private balcony of Residence 11D, where inside you’ll find a ~1,400 sq. ft. home with 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ bathrooms, and a host of luxurious touches, all set in a full-service condominium building in prime southern Harlem with a tax abatement that doesn't expire until 2035. Enter the great room with a wall of windows and a flexible layout that includes ample room for
Elevate your lifestyle with this stunning one-bedroom residence perched high above Central Park at 301 West 110th Str 14F. No broker's fee. Imagine coming home each evening to breathtaking panoramic views of Central Park, framed by the glittering Manhattan skyline, perfectly showcased through expansive windows facing South East. Bathed in natural sunlight, this impeccably maintained apartment
Room for rent: Move in this February and save up to $300 on your stay! Use code: "HELLOFEB".PLEASE NOTE: This is a private room in a shared apartment. You will have your own bedroom and shared common areas (kitchen, bathroom, etc.) with other residents.Full bedroom in a 5 bedroom / 2 bathroom apartment!This Full room in Central Harlem offers
Oversized Studio in a Classic Harlem Townhouse 127 West 119th Street. Opportunities to live inside one of Harlem's iconic brownstone townhouses are increasingly rare - particularly on one of South Harlem's most admired tree-lined blocks. Welcome to Apartment 1 at 127 West 119th Street, a generously scaled studio located within a classic pre-war townhouse. Residences like this
Room for rent: The Lenox HouseThe Lenox House features cozy, airy, and bright accommodations in the vibrant center of Harlem, one of the city's most historic and rapidly evolving neighborhoods. Harlem is a community steeped in culture and art, with the Apollo Theater and the Studio Museum as two of its most iconic landmarks. LocationRegardless of where you work or
Welcome to your perfect Harlem rental at the Morningside Manor building. Beautifully constructed this light-filled 1 bedroom, 1 bath unit blends modern amenities and luxury in a contemporary style. Features like central air, wide plank Oak flooring, abundant natural light, and private outdoor space make this unit a dream to come home to. The open concept living area emcompasses your entry foyer,
Step into sophistication with this beautifully designed luxury apartment. Sunlight pours through large windows, illuminating an open, airy layout with elegant finishes and designer details throughout. The gourmet kitchen, complete with top-of-the-line appliances, is perfect for cooking and entertaining. With its spacious layout and refined design, this home offers a perfect mix of style, comfort,
2 Bed / 1 Bath Newly Renovated Be the first to live in this brand-new, fully gut-renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment located on the second floor of a beautifully updated Harlem townhouse. The apartment features hardwood floors throughout, a contemporary kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, microwave, and generous cabinet storage. Oversized
Room for rent: About Coliving Concept.We provide comprehensive coliving services tailored to a diverse clientele, encompassing creatives, tech startups, entrepreneurs, digital nomads, freelancers, remote workers, professionals, and students. Our coliving philosophy centers on shared housing, where individuals coexist in communal areas while enjoying private or shared
2 Bed / 1 Bath Top Floor, Bright & Spacious This top-floor 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offers the perfect blend of modern finishes and classic Harlem charm, all within a newly gut-renovated building. The apartment boasts hardwood floors, a stylish kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, microwave, and generous cabinet storage. The unit enjoys
prewar elevator building that will offer elegantly renovated one bedroom apartments. The thoughtfully renovated apartments feature high ceilings, solid oak flooring, caesarstone counter tops, open kitchens with under cabinet lighting and elegant stainless steel appliances. The bathroom offers floor to ceiling ivory d'oriente tile with Duravit deep soaking tubs. This condo conversion epitomizes
2 Bed / 2 Bath Duplex with Private Backyard + Rec Space Welcome home to this brand-new, fully gut-renovated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom garden duplex offering rare private outdoor space in the heart of Harlem. This expansive duplex features beautiful hardwood floors, quartz countertops, and a sleek modern eat- in kitchen outfitted with stainless steel appliances, dishwasher,
Move in this February and save up to $300 on your stay! Use code: "HELLOFEB".4 bedroom in South Harlem on flexible lease terms.This 4 bedrooms / 3 bath apartment on the South Harlem offers flexible lease lengths, including a standard 12-month term and options up to 18 months. You pick your custom start and end date. Monthly rent rate is determined by furnishing
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