Let the numbers do the talking.
Brooklyn, NY vs Upper West Side, NY
Brooklyn, NY vs Upper West Side, NY: What the data shows
Brooklyn, NY is in Brooklyn, NY while Upper West Side, NY is in Upper West Side, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Brooklyn, NY is the more affordable option at $1,100,100 median — $643,600 less than Upper West Side, NY's $1,743,700. WYLT rates Brooklyn, NY as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Upper West Side, NY as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Brooklyn, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upper West Side, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brooklyn, NY has Low flood risk and Upper West Side, NY has Low flood risk.
Upper West Side, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Brooklyn, NY scores 72/100 (very walkable) versus Upper West Side, NY's 98/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Brooklyn, NY has the higher school rating — Brooklyn, NY rates 7.4/10 and Upper West Side, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Brooklyn, NY | Upper West Side, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $1.1M ✓ Lower price | $1.74M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $54K | $167K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 72/100 | 98/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 61/100 | 79/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 70/100 |
| Commute | 24 min | 10 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| 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 | young professionalsstudentsremote workers | Young professionals who can afford the high costCultural enthusiasts looking for restaurants, theaters, and galleriesFamilies seeking quality schools and green space |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional, family, or cultural enthusiast willing to pay the high cost, the Upper West Side's unbeatable lifestyle might make it worth it. However, for those on a budget, Clinton Hill in Brooklyn offers a walkable, bike-friendly spot with decent schools at a lesser price tag, making it a better fit for those who value affordability and a more balanced lifestyle. Overall, Clinton Hill's lower price and livability issues make it a more accessible choice for budget-conscious homebuyers.
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