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
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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 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Central Harlem, Manhattan over the last 12 months is $772,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This renovated two-bedroom South Harlem condominium presents a compelling opportunity for both homeowners and investors alike. Delivered vacant, the residence offers the flexibility to move right in or immediately generate income, depending on your strategy. For investors, projected performance reflects an estimated 4.5% cap rate with strong first-year cash-on-cash potential based on current
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
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,
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
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
A newly gut-renovated boutique condominium offering townhouse-scale living and rare private outdoor space, just moments from Central Park. Ideally positioned between Central Park West and Frederick Douglass Boulevard, 236 West 112th Street places you near Columbia University, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and the newly revitalized Davis Center at the Harlem Meer offering the perfect blend
A newly gut-renovated boutique condominium offering townhouse-scale living and rare private outdoor space, just moments from Central Park. Ideally positioned between Central Park West and Frederick Douglass Boulevard, 236 West 112th Street places you near Columbia University, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, and the newly revitalized Davis Center at the Harlem Meer offering the perfect blend
OPEN HOUSES ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. ADVANCE SCHEDULING IS REQUIRED. Townhouse scale living in Prime Harlem within the Mount Morris Park Historic District A rare opportunity to own a true townhouse style duplex condo in the heart of South Harlem. Spanning approximately 2,569 square feet across two full floors, this is the largest two bedroom, three bathroom residence in the
111 West 132nd StreetIn Contract! This lovely Queen Anne townhouse has a storied history. In the early part of the 20th Century it was the clubhouse for The Frogs, one of the first professional organizations for Black theater professionals. Subsequently, (and per the current Certificate of Occupancy) it has been used as a Church (plus Two Class A Apartments). The new Owner will have a
Very high income limit! $267,300 for a family of four or fewer.130 Bradhurst Ave #702 is the renovated two-bedroom youve been waiting for!Commuting to midtown is shockingly easy with the A, C, B, D and 3 trains all within five minutes. Columbus Circle is just 20 minutes away!The apartment overlooks Jackie Robinson Park and features large windows that bring in great natural
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
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
BRAND NEW! Fabulous studio apt on brownstone block overlooking historical block and trees. High ceilings! Very quiet. Central HVAC. Come and find your oasis after the City grind (or school). Makes perfect Pied-a-Terre for anyone who is in and out of the City. Convenient to most buses and subways - and parks. 3 blocks to Whole Foods and Trader Joe's and all major shopping. $40 credit and
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
BRAND NEW! Fabulous studio apt on brownstone block overlooking rear gardens. High ceilings! Very quiet. Central HVAC. Come and find your oasis after the City grind (or school). Makes perfect Pied-a-Terre for anyone who is in and out of the City. Convenient to most buses and subways - and parks. 3 blocks to Whole Foods and Trader Joe's and all major shopping. $40 credit and background check + $60
BRAND NEW! Fabulous studio apt on brownstone block overlooking rear gardens. High ceilings! Very quiet. Central HVAC. Come and find your oasis after the City grind (or school). Makes perfect Pied-a-Terre for anyone who is in and out of the City. Convenient to most buses and subways - and parks. 3 blocks to Whole Foods and Trader Joe's and all major shopping. $40 credit and background check + $60
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,
Step into a world of unparalleled elegance at 300 West, a premier condominium residence in the heart of Harlem. This meticulously designed studio apartment embodies the perfect blend of classic charm and modern sophistication, offering a lifestyle that caters to the most discerning tastes. As you enter this exquisitely furnished studio, you are greeted by an expansive open floor plan that
The advertised rate of $9,230/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of May 15, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Renovated 2-Bedroom with In-Unit Washer/Dryer & Dishwasher in Prime West HarlemWelcome to this beautifully updated 2-bedroom apartment in the heart of West Harlem. Featuring two queen-size bedrooms, this home offers a comfortable and functional layout perfect for both relaxing and entertaining.Apartment Features:Two queen-size bedroomsHardwood floors
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
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.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
