Let the numbers do the talking.
Brooklyn, NY vs Mount Vernon, NY
Brooklyn, NY vs Mount Vernon, NY: What the data shows
Brooklyn, NY is in Brooklyn, NY while Mount Vernon, NY is in Mount Vernon, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Mount Vernon, NY is the more affordable option at $453,000 median — $584,900 less than Brooklyn, NY's $1,037,900. WYLT rates Brooklyn, NY as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Mount Vernon, NY as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Brooklyn, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mount Vernon, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brooklyn, NY has Low flood risk and Mount Vernon, NY has Low flood risk.
Brooklyn, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Brooklyn, NY scores 48/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Mount Vernon, NY's 44/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Brooklyn, NY rates 7.1/10 and Mount Vernon, NY rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Brooklyn, NY | Mount Vernon, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.04M | $453K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $61K ✓ Higher income | $54K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 48/100 ✓ More walkable | 44/100 |
| Transit Score | 52/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | Families with kidsCommuners to Midtown ManhattanThose who value diversity | First‑time homebuyers with a high savings cushionFamilies looking for strong public schoolsRenters who want a moderate cost of living |
Bottom line
If you prioritize diversity, proximity to Midtown Manhattan, and a family-friendly environment with decent schools, Brooklyn is a better fit despite its drawbacks. However, if being cost-effective is your top priority, with a lower mortgage to afford and fewer walkability limitations, Mount Vernon might be the way to go. Ultimately, both neighborhoods require careful consideration before making a decision.
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