Morningside, Harlem?

Question

I see some luxury apartments for rent in Harlem (Morningside) for a decent price. How is the neighborhood? The schools? I am assuming this is gentrification, but would anyone (with a family) rent in this area?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

While Morningside Heights is very close, and is sometimes closely associated with Harlem, technically it's southwest of Harlem.

The area is known for the large amount of very respected academic institutions. Not the least of which of these is Columbia University.

The area has been gentrified, like so many other NYC neighborhoods, including those in Upper Manhattan. But the area has always kind of stood apart from neighboring neighborhoods becuase of the large concentration of students there.

Because of the large population of young people, there are many restaurants and grocery stores in the area. In fact some of Manhattan's best values as far as dining can be found here, as well as a great diversity of ethnic cuisines.

You will find families living here as well. As far as safety, it does not rank at the bottom of Manhattan neighborhoods for safety, that's for sure. Of course with all areas anywhere, common sense prevails when it comes to walking alone or at night.

Public transportation is decent, with the 1 train, a local, making stops at 110 St-Cathedral Parkway, and 116th-Columbia University.