Let the numbers do the talking.
Brooklyn, NY vs Upper East Side, NY
Brooklyn, NY vs Upper East Side, NY: What the data shows
Brooklyn, NY is in Brooklyn, NY while Upper East Side, NY is in Upper East Side, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Brooklyn, NY is the more affordable option at $1,123,700 median — $449,100 less than Upper East Side, NY's $1,572,800. WYLT rates Brooklyn, NY as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Upper East Side, NY as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upper East Side, NY has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brooklyn, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upper East Side, NY has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brooklyn, NY has Low flood risk and Upper East Side, NY has Low flood risk.
Brooklyn, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Brooklyn, NY scores 98/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Upper East Side, NY's 95/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Brooklyn, NY has the higher school rating — Brooklyn, NY rates 7.4/10 and Upper East Side, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Brooklyn, NY | Upper East Side, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.12M ✓ Lower price | $1.57M |
| Median Rent | $3K | $3K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $163K ✓ Higher income | $149K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 98/100 ✓ More walkable | 95/100 |
| Transit Score | 98/100 ✓ Better transit | 86/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Commute | 17 min | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | StudentsProfessionalsFamilies | affluent familiesyoung professionalsstudents near colleges |
Bottom line
For professionals who prioritize close proximity to Midtown Manhattan, the Brooklyn neighborhood is a better choice, given its shorter commute and equally desirable amenities. On the other hand, the Upper East Side is a more suitable option for affluent families who value top schools and a quieter, more luxurious lifestyle. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific priorities and budget.
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