Upper East Side

Welcome to the Upper East Side

A true model of metropolitan class for aspiring sophisticates

What to Love

• Central Park, which is home to over eight lakes and ponds, 20,000 trees, and popular concert series
• Some of the most internationally renowned museums and cultural facilities
• Luxury shopping and dining throughout Madison Avenue and beyond

About UES

The Upper East Side (UES) is one of Manhattan’s most prestigious neighborhoods, stretching from 59th Street to 96th Street, between Central Park and the East River. Its prime location offers easy access to Midtown Manhattan, making it a favorite among professionals, families, and long-time New Yorkers.

The neighborhood is well-connected by the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines along Lexington Avenue and the Q train along Second Avenue, providing seamless travel throughout the city. Several bus routes, including the M15, M101, and M103, run along Third and Lexington Avenues, ensuring convenient public transportation options. For those commuting by car, the FDR Drive offers a quick route for traveling up and down Manhattan’s east side.

Proximity to LaGuardia Airport (about a 20-minute drive) is an added convenience for frequent travelers. The neighborhood is also known for its walkability, with many daily essentials, from boutique stores to gourmet grocery shops, within close reach.

Local Culture

The Upper East Side is more than historic brownstones and designer boutiques—it’s a neighborhood pulsing with cultural sophistication and local charm. Long considered one of Manhattan’s most refined enclaves, the UES offers a uniquely elegant but approachable lifestyle shaped by art, philanthropy, and generations of residents who value community.

Cultural Institutions & Events

Anchoring the neighborhood is Museum Mile, a stretch along Fifth Avenue that’s home to icons like The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim, and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. But the cultural story extends far beyond these global names. The 92nd Street Y is a cornerstone of community life, offering everything from lectures and film screenings to concerts and wellness programs. Annual events like the Museum Mile Festival (June) and Gracie Square Art Show (September) bring the streets to life with local talent and vibrant energy.

Local Artists & Nonprofits

While the Upper East Side might not be the first stop for emerging art scenes, it’s home to an undercurrent of creativity. Local galleries like Acquavella Galleries and Mnuchin Gallery showcase both historical and contemporary works, often featuring NYC-based artists. Meanwhile, nonprofits like Citymeals on Wheels, headquartered here, blend civic pride with compassionate outreach, exemplifying the neighborhood's tradition of giving back.

Personality & Lifestyle

The UES lifestyle blends classic New York elegance with understated warmth. Think: weekend walks through Central Park, mornings spent at charming cafés like Sant Ambroeus, and evenings at small, well-curated wine bars. It’s a neighborhood that values quality, from artisanal markets to timeless fashion, but does so with a relaxed, familial grace.

Real Estate in UES

The Upper East Side (UES) is synonymous with luxury real estate, offering a mix of pre-war co-ops, historic brownstones, and modern high-rise condominiums. The neighborhood has long been a favored address for New York’s elite, including business moguls, celebrities, and affluent families.

Types of Housing

• Pre-War Co-Ops – Many of the UES’s most coveted properties are elegant pre-war cooperative buildings, particularly along Fifth Avenue, Park Avenue, and Madison Avenue. These buildings are known for spacious layouts, high ceilings, and intricate architectural details.
• Luxury Condominiums – The rise of sleek new developments, particularly along Second Avenue and East End Avenue, has introduced a wave of modern condos offering full-service amenities, including concierge services, fitness centers, and rooftop terraces.
• Historic Brownstones & Townhouses – While rarer than in other Manhattan neighborhoods, townhouses in the UES offer charming tree-lined streets, private outdoor space, and multi-level living.
• Rentals – The UES has a wide range of rental options, from affordable walk-up apartments to high-end rental buildings with doormen and luxury finishes.

Real Estate Prices & Trends

• Co-ops & Condos – The median sale price for co-ops typically ranges from $1 million to $3 million, while luxury condos can easily exceed $10 million, particularly along Central Park.
• Townhouses – These can range from $5 million to $50 million, depending on size and location.
• Rental Market – Prices vary, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $3,500 - $5,000 per month, while high-end luxury rentals can surpass $10,000 per month.

The Upper East Side attracts a range of buyers—from young professionals seeking value east of Lexington to international investors and established families eyeing Central Park-facing addresses. Its strong school options (like the Dalton School and Chapin), safety, and proximity to green spaces make it a long-term investment favorite.

Explore available listings on our Upper East Side MLS page or browse by style and price point to find a home that fits your lifestyle.

Dining

The Upper East Side is home to some of New York City's most refined and diverse dining options, offering Michelin-starred restaurants, cozy cafes, classic New York delis, and global cuisine.

Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants

• Daniel – A two-Michelin-starred French restaurant offering an elegant dining experience.
• The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges – Located in The Mark Hotel, this spot is known for its upscale menu featuring seasonal and organic ingredients.
• JoJo by Jean-Georges – A stylish townhouse restaurant serving organic French-American cuisine.
• Sistina – A classic Italian fine-dining experience with a celebrity clientele.

Classic New York Eats

• Pastrami Queen – Famous for its hearty pastrami sandwiches, this is a must-visit for deli lovers.
• J.G. Melon – One of NYC’s most famous burger joints, known for its old-school tavern atmosphere.
• Two Little Red Hens – A local favorite bakery renowned for its cheesecakes and cupcakes.
• Lexington Candy Shop – A historic luncheonette offering classic milkshakes, egg creams, and diner-style dishes since 1925.

Casual & International Cuisine

• Toloache 82 – A fantastic spot for Mexican cuisine with upscale twists on tacos and guacamole.
• Candle 79 – A high-end vegan restaurant with delicious plant-based dishes.
• Flex Mussels – A seafood-lover’s paradise specializing in mussels prepared in various international styles.
• Uva – A cozy and romantic Italian wine bar with homemade pasta and an intimate ambiance.

From classic New York bites to world-class fine dining, the Upper East Side offers a rich culinary scene for every taste and occasion.

Shopping

The Upper East Side is a premier shopping destination, particularly along Madison Avenue, which boasts some of the world’s most luxurious designer boutiques.

Luxury Shopping on Madison Avenue

Madison Avenue is home to flagship stores and high-end boutiques, including:

• Chanel
• Gucci
• Hermès
• Prada
• Louis Vuitton
• Ralph Lauren (in a historic mansion)
• Giorgio Armani

Department Stores & Multi-Brand Boutiques

• Bloomingdale’s (59th Street & Lexington Avenue) – One of NYC’s most iconic department stores.
• Bergdorf Goodman (5th Avenue) – Known for luxury fashion and high-end beauty products.
• The RealReal – A high-end consignment store offering pre-owned designer pieces.

Specialty & Local Shops

• Dylan’s Candy Bar – A fun and colorful candy store founded by Dylan Lauren (daughter of Ralph Lauren).
• Argosy Bookstore – A historic bookstore specializing in rare and antique books.
• John Derian Company – A boutique offering home décor, handmade goods, and vintage-inspired designs.

With a mix of global luxury brands, unique boutiques, and local gems, the UES remains a top shopping district in New York City.

Parks & Green Spaces

Despite its reputation for urban sophistication, the Upper East Side offers beautiful parks and green spaces, providing residents with serene escapes from city life.

Central Park

The UES borders Central Park’s eastern edge, offering easy access to its world-famous attractions:

• The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir – A scenic running track surrounded by cherry blossoms.
• Conservatory Garden – A European-style formal garden with seasonal flowers and fountains.
• The Loeb Boathouse – Offers rowing, dining, and lakeside views.
• Great Lawn – A popular spot for picnics, sunbathing, and summer concerts.

Carl Schurz Park

Located along the East River at 86th Street, this hidden gem features:

• Waterfront views & promenades
• Dog-friendly areas
• The historic Gracie Mansion, home of NYC’s mayor

John Jay Park

A smaller neighborhood park near 77th Street & York Avenue, featuring:

• Swimming pools
• Basketball courts
• Children’s playgrounds

East River Promenade

Running parallel to FDR Drive, this pathway is perfect for biking, jogging, and waterfront walks while enjoying stunning views of Roosevelt Island and the Queensboro Bridge.

With a combination of historic parks, scenic promenades, and waterfront retreats, the Upper East Side offers ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and nature.

Schools & Education

The Upper East Side is home to some of the best educational institutions in New York City, offering top-ranked public schools, prestigious private schools, and renowned higher education institutions. Families in the neighborhood have access to an exceptional academic environment, making the UES a preferred choice for those prioritizing education.

Among the top public schools in the area, P.S. 6 – Lillie Devereaux Blake School stands out with its strong academic performance and high parent satisfaction ratings. Other well-regarded public schools include P.S. 290 – The Manhattan New School and P.S. 527 – East Side School for Social Action, both of which emphasize progressive education and community involvement. For secondary education, Eleanor Roosevelt High School is one of the city's top-ranked public high schools, known for its rigorous academic curriculum and college preparatory focus.

The Upper East Side is also famous for its elite private schools, which have long been associated with academic excellence and notable alumni. Schools such as The Brearley School (all-girls, K-12), The Dalton School (co-ed, K-12), The Spence School (all-girls, K-12), and The Lycee Français de New York (French bilingual education) are highly selective and consistently ranked among the best private institutions in the country. The Nightingale-Bamford School and The Chapin School, both all-girls institutions, also offer a strong emphasis on academics and leadership development.

For higher education, the Upper East Side is home to Hunter College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Additionally, Rockefeller University and Weill Cornell Medical College contribute to the neighborhood's status as a center for medical and scientific research.

With a combination of top-tier public schools, prestigious private institutions, and renowned universities, the Upper East Side provides an exceptional educational environment that attracts families and students from all over New York City.

Commute and Accessibility

The Upper East Side is known for its excellent public transportation options, making it one of the most well-connected neighborhoods in Manhattan. Residents benefit from multiple subway lines, efficient bus routes, and easy access to major highways, ensuring a smooth commute to other parts of the city and beyond.

The neighborhood is primarily served by the 4, 5, and 6 subway lines, which run along Lexington Avenue and connect commuters to Midtown, Downtown Manhattan, and the Bronx. These trains provide express and local service, allowing for quick travel to key areas like Grand Central Terminal, Union Square, and Wall Street. The Second Avenue Subway (Q train), completed in 2017, has greatly improved transit options for residents living farther east, offering direct service to Times Square and the West Side.

In addition to the subway, the Upper East Side has a comprehensive bus network, with major routes such as the M15, M101, M102, and M103, which run north-south along Second and Third Avenues. Crosstown buses (M66, M72, M79, M86, and M96) provide convenient East-to-West connections, allowing easy access to Central Park, the Upper West Side, and Riverside Drive.

For those who drive, the Upper East Side offers convenient access to the FDR Drive, which runs along the East River and provides a direct route to Lower Manhattan and the Bronx. However, like much of Manhattan, street parking is limited, and many residents rely on garage parking and private car services.

Cycling has also become a popular mode of transportation, with designated bike lanes along Second Avenue and First Avenue as well as Citi Bike stations available throughout the neighborhood. For those who prefer walking, the Upper East Side is one of the most pedestrian-friendly areas in New York, with wide sidewalks, tree-lined streets, and a highly walkable layout.

Overall, with its multiple subway lines, extensive bus service, major road access, and pedestrian-friendly streets, commuting from the Upper East Side is efficient, reliable, and well-suited to both residents and professionals traveling throughout the city.

Architectural Styles in the Upper East Side

The architectural landscape of the Upper East Side is a masterclass in classic design and urban elegance. From opulent Beaux-Arts townhouses to sleek modernist towers, this neighborhood encapsulates over a century of New York’s most iconic architecture.

Key Styles & Design Features:

• Beaux-Arts & Neo-Georgian: Grand facades, limestone finishes, and intricate cornices define this early 20th-century style, seen prominently along Fifth Avenue. Architects like Carrère and Hastings and Warren & Wetmore left a lasting legacy with buildings like the Frick Collection and James B. Duke House.
• Pre-War Co-Ops: Dominating Park and Madison Avenues, these buildings (often from the 1920s-30s) feature high ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces, crown moldings, and gracious layouts. Firms like Rosario Candela and Emery Roth designed many of the most coveted addresses.
• Art Deco: Less prevalent but beautifully executed, particularly in buildings along Lexington Avenue and East 70s. Look for geometric detailing, brass fixtures, and stepped facades.
• Mid-Century Modern & Brutalism: Rising east of Third Avenue during the post-war era, these structures prioritize function over form. Architect Paul Rudolph’s work is notable here, including the Halston House.
• Contemporary Luxury Towers: Recent decades have welcomed minimalist glass skyscrapers with amenities-driven living. Architects like Robert A.M. Stern (520 Park Avenue) and Norman Foster (The Park Loggia) marry classical proportions with contemporary sensibility.

Streets to Explore:

• Fifth Avenue Historic District – Limestone mansions and museum-quality façades.
• Carnegie Hill – Charming brownstones with wrought-iron detail.
• Yorkville – Post-war practicality and modern infill, ideal for those seeking value.

Whether you're drawn to the ornate craftsmanship of pre-war buildings or the clean lines of contemporary living, the Upper East Side offers a distinctive architectural backdrop for every lifestyle.

Notable Residents & Prestige

The Upper East Side has long been synonymous with wealth, discretion, and influence—home to a who's who of New York power players, cultural icons, and international elites. Its elegant buildings and private tree-lined blocks have drawn celebrated figures for generations, offering both privacy and prestige in one of the world’s most sophisticated urban settings.

Historic & Contemporary Celebrities:

• Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, once a resident of 1040 Fifth Avenue, continues to symbolize the neighborhood’s grace and status.
• Fashion designer Ralph Lauren not only lives in the neighborhood but also opened his flagship store—a restored 1890s mansion—at Madison and 72nd.
• Woody Allen and Spike Lee have called the UES home, reflecting the area's deep ties to New York’s creative elite.
• Other notable residents include billionaire investors like Ron Perelman, media icons like Barbara Walters, and tech executives such as Eric Schmidt (former Google CEO).

Legacy Institutions & Social Clubs

Prestige here extends beyond the resident list. Membership at clubs like the Knickerbocker Club, The Metropolitan Club, or The Explorers Club reflect the area’s enduring ties to high society. Many residents also support legacy cultural institutions like the Met Museum, The Frick, and Carnegie Hill Neighbors.

Subtle Luxury

What sets the Upper East Side apart is its quiet luxury—less flashy than downtown Manhattan, but no less impressive. The prestige here is generational, embedded in co-op boards, private schools (think Spence, Chapin, Brearley), and Park Avenue lineage.

Most Coveted Streets & Estates

In the Upper East Side, prestige isn’t just about the zip code—it’s about the block. Certain streets and micro-neighborhoods are legendary for their architectural pedigree, social cachet, and real estate desirability. Here are the most coveted corners of the UES.

Fifth Avenue – “Museum Mile”

Lined with historic co-ops and cultural landmarks, Fifth Avenue facing Central Park is the crown jewel of Upper East Side real estate. Buildings like 998 Fifth and 1040 Fifth Avenue are synonymous with old New York wealth, often home to blue-chip art collectors, financiers, and legacy families.

Park Avenue – Classic Manhattan Grandeur

Park Avenue between 60th and 96th Streets offers refined pre-war co-ops with uniform façades and impeccable service. Known for its quiet prestige and strict co-op boards, this stretch is a longtime favorite among Upper East Side “old guard” families.

Carnegie Hill – The “Village of the UES”

Bounded roughly by 86th to 96th Streets between Fifth and Lexington, Carnegie Hill feels like a village within the city. Brownstones and boutique co-ops share the streets with elite schools and cultural institutions like the Jewish Museum and Neue Galerie. Madison Avenue here is dotted with independent bookshops and galleries—charm without pretense.

East End Avenue – River Views & Privacy

Running along the East River, this quiet, tree-lined stretch offers a peaceful escape from the buzz of the city. With Gracie Mansion anchoring the northern end and Carl Schurz Park offering green space, East End is beloved by diplomats, privacy-seeking families, and those who favor a low-key luxury lifestyle.

"The Gold Coast" – East 70s Between Park & Fifth

This pocket is considered one of the most elegant residential zones in the city. Historic mansions and impeccably maintained co-ops dominate these blocks, often trading quietly off-market among a well-heeled set.

Who is the Upper East Side For?

The Upper East Side is often seen as the epitome of Manhattan refinement—but its appeal is broader and more dynamic than its reputation suggests. Whether you're a young professional seeking balance, a growing family prioritizing education and space, or an international buyer looking for a legacy investment, there’s a version of the UES tailored to you.

Established Families & Legacy Buyers

With elite private schools like The Brearley School, Chapin, and Lycee Français, plus access to Central Park and multiple playgrounds, the UES is ideal for families looking to plant deep roots. Multi-generational wealth often passes down pre-war co-ops, and the neighborhood supports long-term community life.

Young Professionals & First-Time Buyers

East of Lexington—particularly Yorkville—offers relatively more affordable price points. Proximity to the Q and 6 subway lines makes commutes manageable, and new condos provide modern finishes without compromising on location. You’ll find a growing demographic of doctors, creatives, and tech workers here.

Luxury Seekers & Investors

The UES is a safe haven for capital. High-end condos and historic co-ops hold value due to limited inventory and consistent demand. Discerning international investors often gravitate toward Fifth and Park Avenues for trophy properties, privacy, and blue-chip prestige.

Art & Culture Enthusiasts

With Museum Mile as your backyard, and institutions like The 92nd Street Y, Frick Collection, and countless galleries and salons, the UES is perfect for those who crave intellectual stimulation and cultural immersion.

Those Who Crave Quiet Luxury

Unlike flashier downtown neighborhoods, the Upper East Side radiates a timeless, understated elegance. If your idea of luxury is quiet streets, morning strolls in Central Park, and dinner at Cafe Boulud or Daniel, this neighborhood will feel like home.