The cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing

Moving to New York City can be both exciting and intimidating. It’s a bustling hub of culture, fashion, and opportunities. But let’s be real—NYC is also known for sky-high housing prices. In fact, Manhattan’s median home value hovers around $1.157 million. So, before you even book top movers NYC has to provide to help you relocate, finding an affordable place to call home is crucial. Luckily, this article will guide you through the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing.

The soaring cost of housing in NYC

In the past five years, the average cost of a home in NYC has risen by nearly 25%. And it’s not just luxury condos in high-demand areas. Even more modest neighborhoods are seeing sharp increases in home values. The reasons are many, from increased demand to low supply and growing construction costs. This surge in pricing has put homeownership out of reach for many, which makes finding affordable options even more important. Even though chances of finding affordable housing seem nonexistent, there is hope if you do your research right!

The cheapest neighborhoods for homebuyers

If you’re feeling a little discouraged, don’t worry! Affordable options do exist. Below are some of the neighborhoods where you can find lower home prices without sacrificing quality of life:

• Riverdale
• Rosedale
• Woodlawn
• Forest Hills
• Marine Park
• Kew Gardens
• Bay Ridge
• Dyker Heights
• Spuyten Duyvil
• Inwood
• Sunnyside
• Bath Beach
• Annadale

Riverdale

Nestled in the Bronx, this community is both lively and serene. Around 14,000 people live here, and the neighborhood has a mix of young families and retirees. The median home value in Riverdale is approximately $370,000, much less than Manhattan’s average. That’s why many consider it one of the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing. And speaking of housing, Riverdale is home to a wide array of architectural styles—from Tudor homes to sleek modern apartments. So you’re not just saving money; you’re getting a bit of character and choice, too!

If you decide to move here, there are reliable moving companies in Riverdale NY, ready to make your transition simple. With its cozy atmosphere and more affordable housing options, Riverdale provides a breath of fresh air for those looking to buy a home without breaking the bank.

Rosedale

Rosedale is a peaceful area in Queens that has a lot to offer. Around 22,000 people call this neighborhood home. It’s mainly a residential area known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere. The median home value here is about $662,000. That’s quite a deal compared to the city’s more expensive spots. Rosedale also enjoys a strategic location near JFK Airport. This opens up unique possibilities for those interested in investment properties. And if you’re ready to make the move, you’ll find movers in Rosedale NY, who specialize in the area.

Woodlawn

Moving on, Woodlawn is a Bronx neighborhood that brings a small-town feel to the big city. Often referred to as “Little Ireland,” it has a population of approximately 9,000 people. The community is close-knit, and local organizations actively promote affordable housing, which averages $486,000. However, in Woodlawn, you won’t just find a house; you’ll find a community that welcomes you with open arms. When it’s time to make your move, Woodlawn movers can assist with everything, from packing to transportation.

Forest Hills

Forest Hills is situated in Queens and is home to some of the best Forest Hills moving companies that can assist in your transition to this neighborhood. This area is home to about 75,000 people, who find a blend of traditional and the contemporary ideal. Those looking to make a purchase can expect to pay approximately $491,000 for a property. This part of the city stands out with its Tudor-style architecture, thus offering a different look and feel compared to some other areas in NYC. Now, despite the more classic home designs, the neighborhood provides all the modern amenities you could wish for. So, Forest Hills may be the perfect fit for those interested in something a little different without compromising comfort.

Marine Park

Marine Park in Brooklyn is known for its casual atmosphere. With a population of around 22,000, this neighborhood boasts plenty of green spaces and laid-back living. This might be the place for you if you’re into a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. Our partners, Marine Park movers, always recommend this neighborhood as the perfect choice for families. The median home value here stands at about $766,000, making it one of the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing when considering Brooklyn’s overall real estate market. What’s more, Marine Park is mostly made up of single-family homes, giving it a distinct feel.

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a Queens neighborhood that lives up to its name with a green, leafy environment. This area is home to approximately 16,000 residents. If you value green space but want to stay in the city, this neighborhood could be for you. Around $372,000 can get you a home in the area, which is a relief compared to many other parts of the city. Once you’re set on moving here, Kew Gardens movers can help you into an affordable home for a reasonable price!

Bay Ridge

Next, we have Bay Ridge, a neighborhood in Brooklyn with beautiful waterfront views. About 54,000 people live here, and the community has a median home value of $724,000. Although on the higher side, considering it’s Brooklyn, it’s still more affordable compared to areas like Park Slope. The neighborhood is famous for its 4th of July fireworks and is also home to many public schools, making it family-friendly.

Spuyten Duyvil

Let’s look at Spuyten Duyvil. Situated in the Bronx, this neighborhood has historical roots dating back to the Revolutionary War. Approximately 9,000 people reside here, enjoying a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The median property price is around $361,000, which, again, makes it one of the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing. This area is known for its hilly terrain, which offers some homes beautiful views of the Hudson River.

Inwood

Inwood – it’s surprising to find affordability in the borough known for its sky-high real estate. Home to about 57,000 residents, this area mixes nature with city life. Parks and waterways are abundant, making it an oasis in Manhattan. Local properties are priced at $672,000 on average, which is a steal considering Manhattan’s reputation.

Sunnyside

This charming community has around 40,000 residents and offers both good public transport and several parks. Ideal for families and professionals, the median home value of areal houses is about $529,000. The neighborhood was among the first to embrace community gardens, which remain a critical local feature to this day.

Bath Beach

Now, let’s turn our attention to Bath Beach in Brooklyn. With a population of around 36,000, this neighborhood offers a different pace of life compared to the usual pace of NYC. Known for its scenic waterfront and family-friendly atmosphere, Bath Beach provides a peaceful backdrop for city living. The median home value in the area is around $745,000, making it an affordable option by New York standards. One interesting aspect of Bath Beach is its historical roots, featuring some of the oldest houses in the entire borough.

Annadale

This suburban gem has a population of about 63,000 and is famous for its laid-back atmosphere with a small-town feel. If you’re a fan of green spaces and waterfronts, you’re in luck: Annadale is abundant in both. The median home value hovers around $760,000. Although not the cheapest there is, this still falls under one of the more budget-friendly options within the city’s confines. This neighborhood is desirable to families, given its quality schools and low crime rate.

Understanding New York’s property taxes

New York City’s property tax system often confuses first-time homebuyers. The city applies different tax rates based on your property type—whether it’s a single-family home, a condo, or a co-op. On average, you should anticipate paying around 0.88% of your home’s assessed value in property taxes.

When purchasing housing, there are a few things to consider that concern taxes. That said, make sure you:

• Familiarize yourself with how NYC calculates property taxes.
• Take advantage of STAR exemptions to reduce your tax burden. If you qualify, that is.
• Note that property taxes can vary by borough—Manhattan generally has higher rates than Staten Island.
• Budget these recurring costs alongside your mortgage to avoid surprises.

The importance of location: Transit, schools, and amenities

When hunting for a home in the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing, location is about more than just the property’s address. It encompasses several key elements that can drastically affect your quality of life. Public transit availability is crucial. Being close to subway lines or bus stops can save you time and stress. Additionally, proximity to good schools is essential if you have or plan to have kids. Research the local schools’ ratings and extracurricular options.

Amenities like parks, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities also play a significant role. These conveniences not only make your life easier but can also positively impact the resale value of your home.

A couple of things to do before closing the deal:

• Check the neighborhood’s walk score to assess the ease of getting around without a car.
• Visit local schools or look up their ratings online to gauge their quality.
• Take note of the amenities closest to potential homes, such as parks, supermarkets, and healthcare providers.

Pros and cons of buying older vs. newer properties

The age of a property in NYC can significantly impact your living experience and budget. Older homes often cost less and are found in well-established neighborhoods. They can offer the historic charm that newer buildings lack. Conversely, they might require significant updates, particularly in their electrical and plumbing systems.

Newer homes, meanwhile, often boast modern amenities and may need fewer immediate repairs. However, they’re generally pricier and may be in up-and-coming areas, lacking the established community vibe.

What to look for during a home inspection

Getting a home inspection is an essential step in the home-buying process. An inspection can reveal hidden problems that might cost you a fortune later on. Pay special attention to structural issues, such as wall cracks, water damage, and roof condition. Don’t overlook the plumbing and electrical systems either. If possible, walk through the property with the inspector to ask questions and better understand any potential issues. After the inspection, review the report carefully to decide on your next steps.

Making a competitive offer: Strategies for success

In a city as competitive as New York, making your offer stand out can be the difference between securing your dream home and going back to the drawing board. Before you make an offer, get pre-approved for a mortgage; this shows sellers you’re a serious, qualified buyer. Also, research recent sales in the area to understand what homes are going for. This information can guide your offer and make it more appealing to sellers.

Flexibility can also be an asset. Being open to the seller’s terms, like a quick closing date, can give you the edge in a tight market. Remember, you’re not just buying a home but negotiating a deal. Make your offer as appealing as possible to the seller without compromising what you can afford.

Your dream home in one of the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing awaits!

As you can see, options for affordable living in New York City exist. From Riverdale to Annadale, the cheapest NYC neighborhoods to buy housing can make your home-owning dreams a reality. You can find your perfect community in this dynamic city with the right research and timing. We wish you luck and a successful house hunt!

References:

New York County NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/12530/manhattan-new-york-ny/

Riverdale New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/343219/riverdale-bronx-new-york-ny/

Rosedale New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/275247/rosedale-queens-new-york-ny/

Resident, Current. “Woodlawn – New York City, NY.” Niche, 11 Sept. 2023, www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/woodlawn-new-york-city-ny/

Forest Hills New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/273757/forest-hills-queens-new-york-ny/

Marine Park New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/270881/marine-park-brooklyn-new-york-ny/

Kew Gardens New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/274676/kew-gardens-queens-new-york-ny/

Bay Ridge New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/193189/bay-ridge-brooklyn-new-york-ny/

Resident, Current. “Spuyten Duyvil – New York City, NY.” Niche, 6 May 2021, www.niche.com/places-to-live/n/spuyten-duyvil-new-york-city-ny/

Bath Beach New York NY Home Prices & Home Values | Zillow, www.zillow.com/home-values/193182/bath-beach-brooklyn-new-york-ny/