Queens' Neighborhoods: Close to Manhattan

Three of the most popular neighborhoods in western Queens for those commuting to Manhattan are Astoria, Long Island City (LIC), and Jackson Heights. They are all a short subway ride to Midtown. Astoria and LIC are just across the East River from Midtown and the Upper East Side.

As people are priced out of Manhattan, western Queens has gained in popularity, especially for folks in their 20s and 30s. To find an apartment, a real estate broker is usually the easiest route to go, but expect to pay one month's rent in fees. Or check the local newspapers for no-fee listings. Also, small landlords often post for-rent signs in windows and in laundromats and cafes.

Astoria

• Neighborhood Profile: Astoria, Queens
• Rental prices: One bedrooms start at $1,000; two bedrooms go quickly up from $1,300. (Summer 2004)
• More on Astoria
  • Ditmars in Astoria
  • Photos of Astoria
  • Renting an Apartment in Astoria

Long Island City

• Neighborhoods: Long Island City In-Depth
• Neighborhood Profile: Hunters Point in Long Island City
• More:
  • Hunters Point Photos
  • Rental prices: One bedrooms start at $900 or lower, but be sure to visit the neighborhood at night. In prime areas or renovated buildings, prices are often above $1,200 for a one bedroom.
  • Luxury buildings on the waterfront command Manhattan views and Manhattan prices.

Jackson Heights

• Neighborhood Profile: Jackson Heights Neighborhood Profile
• Rental prices: $1,000 and up for one bedroom; two bedrooms start at $1,200.
• More: Tour of Little India in Jackson Heights

• Find the cheaper, lesser known places to live in western Queens on the following page: Sunnyside, Woodside, Middle Village, Maspeth, and Ridgewood.

Sunnyside and Woodside

• Sunnyside - Neighborhood profile
• Woodside - photo tour

Maspeth, Middle Village, and Ridgewood

• Ridgewood Neighborhood Profile
• Ridgewood Photos
• Middle Village Neighborhood Profile
• Real Estate Report for Maspeth and Middle Village
• Maspeth Photos