Welcome to the Upper East Side
Manhattan’s most glamorous, high-profile enclave
The Upper East Side, or UES for short, has long been the reigning king when it comes to New York City luxury. There is no other neighborhood on the island of Manhattan that holds as much prestige as this one.
The Upper East Side stretches from 59th Street up to 97th Street, with the East River and Central Park’s Fifth Avenue border as its boundaries. Within this expansive neighborhood are three smaller enclaves: Lenox Hill, Yorkville, and Carnegie Hill. And while you may think the Upper East Side is solely posh and luxurious, each neighborhood in this zip code has its own down-to-earth bodegas, special touches, and historic relics.
Before the Park Avenue Tunnel was covered around 1910, fashionable New Yorkers decided to build stylish mansions and townhouses on the large lots along Fifth Avenue, facing Central Park, and on the adjacent side streets. The latest arrivals were affluent Pittsburghers Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick, whose names still remain well-known throughout the city. Throughout the years, members of New York's upper-class families have made residences on the Upper East Side, including the Rockefellers, the Roosevelts, the Kennedys, the Whitneys, and the Dukes.
Stepping onto the manicured streets just east of Central Park will make you feel this area’s vibrant history and storied luxury. This zipcode is highly sought-after and owning here is an unparalleled investment.
What to Love
- World-class culinary catalog, retailers, and nightlife
- A chic, stylish atmosphere of sophisticated residents
- An uptempo lifestyle with amenities at your fingertips
Local Lifestyle
Upper East Siders are known worldwide for their distinguished reputation. Well-read, art-forward, and cultured, residents in this Manhattan neighborhood can often be found strolling through Central Park, browsing the shops on Fifth Avenue, and perusing the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
History & Architecture
The
Upper East Side (UES) of New York City is a neighborhood rich in history and architectural significance. The area's development began in earnest in the late 19th century, driven by the construction of elevated railroads on Second and Third Avenues, which made the area more accessible. By the 1880s, the UES had become a prime location for residential development, attracting both middle-class families and the wealthy elite. The neighborhood saw the construction of elegant Neo-Grec, Queen Anne, and Romanesque Revival style row houses. Wealthier residents built grand mansions along Fifth Avenue, facing Central Park. As the neighborhood grew, it also became home to prominent institutions, including museums, schools, and social clubs, further solidifying its reputation as a prestigious residential area.
Architecturally, the Upper East Side is characterized by a blend of styles reflecting its long history. The neighborhood's historic districts, such as the Upper East Side Historic District and the Metropolitan Museum Historic District, feature a mix of Beaux-Arts, Italianate, and Neo-Federal styles. Significant buildings include luxury apartment buildings that emerged in the early 20th century, replacing many of the original row houses. Key landmarks include the Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City, and several prominent museums along Museum Mile, like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. These diverse architectural styles and historic buildings contribute to the UES's unique charm and status as one of New York City's most desirable neighborhoods.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
For some of the best high-end retailers and gourmet eateries in all of Manhattan, you’ve come to the right place. Avra Madison Estiatorio’s Mediterranean menu is the pinnacle of fine dining on the Upper East Side while Sandro’s is an intimate neighborhood spot serving up robust Roman-style cuisine — you’ll want to try their unbelievable cacio e pepe or bucatini amatriciana! Book a table at Daniel for a world-class fine dining experience: headed by Daniel Boulud, this two Michelin star establishment is known for its refined European cuisine and impeccable hospitality. The Penrose brings the energy of downtown to the Upper East Side and offers craft beers, creative cocktails, great light bites, and a buzzy weekend brunch.
From Madison to 3rd Avenue, there is no shortage of dazzling retailers. Here you’ll find designer names like Tom Ford, Chanel, Celine, and Alexander McQueen, as well as Bloomingdale’s department store, athletic brands, and home decor hot spots.
Things to Do
Although the neighborhood is appreciated for being a peaceful slice of life, there are still plenty of things to do on the Upper East Side. With Central Park as your backyard, there’s no better place to be on a sunny day. Jog around the reservoir, bike through the many paths, or relax and enjoy a picnic on the grass. Every summer, Summer Stage on Rumsey Playfield in Central Park features a fantastic lineup of emerging and established singers, bands, and solo acts to get your live music fix. If you’re living further east, John Jay Park, Carl Schurz Park, and East River Promenade serve as great alternatives.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of this neighborhood and explore Museum Mile, home to several of the city’s prominent museums. See some of the world’s best art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art with extensive collections spanning all time periods and the home of the MET Gala every spring. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is an architectural marvel and has both modern and contemporary art on display. For a smaller museum, check out the Frick Collection with artwork by Henry Frick, the Neue Galerie with German and Austrian artwork, and the Cooper Hewitt Museum, which focuses on historical and contemporary design. And of course, for a taste of luxury and to experience a true New York icon, there is no other spot like The Plaza for a martini, a special dinner out, or a stay-cation.
Real Estate Market
The Upper East Side's real estate market is known for its diverse range of property types, including historic townhouses, luxury condos, and co-ops. The neighborhood is highly sought after for its prestigious location and elegant living options. In March 2024, the median listing home price was $1.1 million, reflecting a 20.5% decrease from the previous year. Townhouses and luxury condos dominate the market, with notable buildings such as the iconic 740 Park Avenue and the lavish condos at 432 Park Avenue. Co-ops are also popular, providing a range of options for different budgets and lifestyles.
Current market trends indicate that the Upper East Side is currently a buyer's market, with homes selling for an average of 2.34% below the asking price. Properties tend to stay on the market for about 63 days, making it a relatively balanced environment for both buyers and sellers. For potential buyers and renters, it is crucial to consider the high property prices and the competitive nature of the market. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can provide insights into the best deals and upcoming listings. Additionally, considering factors like proximity to amenities, schools, and public transportation can significantly influence the decision-making process.
Transportation & Accessibility
The Upper East Side in New York City boasts a well-structured and comprehensive public transportation network, enhancing its accessibility and walkability. Residents and visitors have numerous options through the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), including several subway lines and bus routes. Key subway lines serving the area include the 4, 5, and 6 trains on the Lexington Avenue Line, which provide convenient access along the eastern side of Manhattan. Additionally, the Q train on the Second Avenue Line also serves the neighborhood, further enhancing connectivity.
Bus services are equally robust with a variety of local and express routes. Notable bus routes include the M15, which runs along First and Second Avenues, the M31 which travels through York Avenue and the M79 and M86 crosstown buses, facilitating east-west travel across Central Park. This area's strategic location near major thoroughfares like the FDR Drive and proximity to essential transport hubs like LaGuardia Airport also contribute to its high accessibility, making it one of the most well-connected neighborhoods in New York City.
