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 $978,800 median — $594,000 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.
Brooklyn, NY has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brooklyn, NY has Low violent crime and Low 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 100/100 (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 | $979K ✓ Lower price | $1.57M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $63K | $149K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 95/100 |
| Transit Score | 73/100 | 86/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Commute | 25 min | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsStudents | affluent familiesyoung professionalsstudents near colleges |
Bottom line
For families who prioritize good schools and a quiet living environment, Brooklyn Heights is a slightly better choice due to its family-friendly atmosphere and relatively quieter streets. However, for young professionals and affluent families seeking luxury and proximity to Manhattan, the Upper East Side's shorter commute to Midtown and world-class amenities make it a better fit. Both neighborhoods are excellent options for their respective target audiences.
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