Rich Black American history and comparable affordability next to Central Park
Situated just north of Central Park, Central Harlem is a vast neighborhood encompassing various sections, including 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 were 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 intention 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 compared to other parts of Manhattan, especially those on the 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 nightlife 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 specializing 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 spans a large portion of Upper Manhattan and includes historical districts such as 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 and $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-restricted 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 Second Avenue Subway — the N, Q, and R lines — up to 125th Street 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 123 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Central Harlem, Manhattan over the last 12 months is $782,500, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 105 West 117th Street, Unit B—a combination of classic charm and modern living in the heart of South Harlem. Apartment B is a fully renovated, south-facing two-bedroom, two-bathroom home with an in-unit washer and dryer, ample closets, and additional space for a home office area. The living room features beautiful bay windows that fill the space with natural light throughout the day.
Built in 1910 and situated within the Mount Morris Park Historic District Extension, this gorgeous Neo-Grec brownstone townhouse is fully 20 feet wide and 50 feet deep, giving a total of 4,126 square feet of space across its four floors plus a dry cellar with good head height for a further 1,032 square feet (total 5,158 square feet). This vacant SRO will be delivered with a Certificate
OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY (4/7) FROM 5-6PM. NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY. Perched high above Morningside Park and Central Park, this two bedroom, two bathroom home boasts a private 85sqft balcony with stunning open views of Morningside Park and The Cathedral of St. John The Divine. The open chef's kitchen features a breakfast bar, custom cabinetry, Luce Di Luna countertops, top of the line
This meticulously maintained residence offers a spacious three-bedroom, 2.5-bath triplex owner’s unit, thoughtfully designed across the upper floors. Soaring ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, and oversized windows fill the home with natural light and warmth. The gourmet kitchen features stainless steel appliances and a center island, creating the perfect setting for both everyday living and
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
Welcome to 29 West 138th Street, Beacon Towers, one of Central Harlem's most desirable cooperative communities. Residence 4H is a sun-filled, renovated two-bedroom, one-bath home offering modern finishes, flexibility, and everyday comfort. The refurbished kitchen features black quartz countertops, a stylish tile backsplash, and stainless-steel appliances, including an updated stove,
Exceptional combined lot with corner/frontage offering Flexibility (Block 1912, Lots 60, 61, and 62) totaling approximately 7,491 square feet located along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd in West Harlem. This vacant land assemblage offers strong visibility with Corner Exposure. Situated in the heart of established institutions and steady foot traffic. Zoned R7-2 with a C1-4 commercial overlay, the
Central Harlem Development OpportunityAn exceptional Opportunity to acquire three contiguous lots surrounded by institutional anchors, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks. (Block 1912, Lots 60, 61, and 62) totaling approximately 7,491 square feet located along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd in West Harlem. This vacant land assemblage offers strong visibility and corner exposure in a
Located on the fourth floor of a classic walk-up directly across from beautiful Morningside Park, this expansive three-bedroom apartment offers exceptional space, light, and long-term potential at an attractive $500,000 price point. Featuring approximately 10-foot ceilings, hardwood floors, and charming original details, the apartment offers wonderful bones and a highly flexible layout. Multiple
Residence 5C at 2072 Frederick Douglass Boulevard is a bright, beautifully renovated condominium home in South Harlem’s Gold Coast, offering open city views, multiple exposures, and unusually low monthly carrying costs for a fully free-market condominium. Tall windows flood the home with natural light from the west, east, and south, highlighting exposed brick, blonde strip hardwood floors, and
Welcome to this beautiful sun filled two bedroom, two bathroom home at one of Harlem’s most sought after condominiums, The Rosa Parks Condominium. This beautifully appointed home opens to a spacious southern facing living room and dining area, which is conveniently located off the L shaped kitchen. This open layout makes for the perfect space for entertaining. The renovated kitchen comes equipped
Bright, beautifully maintained, and quiet, this two-bedroom home is located in a well-run HDFC cooperative with strong financials. Ideally situated just two blocks from Central Park, the apartment also benefits from an exceptionally low monthly maintenance of $412. Freshly painted and filled with natural light, the home spans the full width of the building, featuring both eastern and southern
Perched at the corner of Central Park, Residence 9B at 285 West 110th Street presents a rare opportunity to experience elevated condominium living with breathtaking park views. This impeccably designed 4 Bedroom 3 Bathroom home is a seamless blend of contemporary sophistication and effortless functionality. A gracious, sun-drenched foyer—lined with expansive south-facing windows— leads into a
Welcome to this private oasis on West 122nd Street, where modern design meets urban living in the heart of Manhattan's Harlem Village. This 2,574 square foot triplex home with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and a bi-level landscaped garden backyard offers a seamless blend of style and comfort. Step into the home through the mud room/entry foyer where you ll be greeted by an expansive and light-filled
Wide open views insure sun-filled days from every room in this chic South-Harlem home. 9F is in excellent condition with a chef's kitchen, two inviting bedrooms and a charming private terrace with views of the mid-town skyline! THE KITCHEN Both functional and luxurious, the spacious kitchen features a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolfe range and Miele dishwasher. Ample prep areas, a
Elevate your lifestyle with this stunning one-bedroom residence perched high above Central Park at 301 West 110th Str 14F. 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 features brand-new
Welcome to 2032 Fifth Avenue #2A in Central Harlem. This Town House 2 Bedroom was completely renovated. The apartment has a charming decorative fireplace, high ceilings, a stainless steel kitchen with a dishwasher & microwave. Each bedroom can fit a Queen sized bed . Enjoy individual climate control with mounted AC/Heat units in each room. Building amenities include a laundry
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
**TENANT IS IN PLACE. 24 HR NOTICE IS REQUIRED** Welcome to 301 W 118th St, a captivating condo residence nestled in the central hub of the hip vibe that is South Harlem today. *No Pets, sorry* This elegantly designed unit offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort in a sought-after mid-rise building. Step inside to find a spacious layout featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, complemented by
Corner unit, In-unit Washer and Dryer, WHOLE FOODS in the corner.A must see unit! Gut renovated true 3 bedroom corner home with top of the line finishes!. The renovations include all stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, built-in microwave, and plenty of cabinet space. The bathroom is beautifully redone with a modern feel. Hardwood floors throughout the unit and excellent closet space, to top
Available move in date 6/1/2026 A modern reflection on timeless uptown elegance, this bespoke 2bedroom, 2bath residence in 300 West offers refined finishes and abundant natural light. Unit 7H features oversized windows across the living room, beautiful custom white oak herringbone floors, and an open custom kitchen with center island, white oak cabinetry, Carrara marble countertops and
Welcome to 222 West 132nd Street. A classic Harlem Brownstone that has been renovated in loft-style floor thru apartments. Apt 4 is a beautiful 800 sf 1 bed/1 bath with a private alcove. Located on 132nd Street between 7th and 8th Avenues, the apartment is newly renovated and features oak floors, new appliances, d/w, closet space, granite countertops, washer/dryer, and exposed brick. The
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,
As far as your eye can see as you enter this loft like high floor 1 bedroom 1 bath apartment with balcony featuring open North and East exposures. - The living room has sweeping views of Morningside Park, the George Washington Bridge and skyline. The open kitchen is complete with high end appliances and a breakfast bar . - The bedroom has a large east facing window with motorized blinds and the
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
Welcome to this generously proportioned and thoughtfully laid-out two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence at 2280 Frederick Douglass Boulevard. With hardwood floors throughout, excellent closet space, and a convenient in-unit washer and dryer, this home offers both comfort and functionality. The expansive living and dining area easily accommodates multiple seating and dining arrangements and
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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