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 $1,037,900 median — $534,900 less than Upper East Side, NY's $1,572,800. WYLT rates Brooklyn, NY as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — 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.
Upper East Side, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Brooklyn, NY scores 48/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Upper East Side, NY's 95/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Upper East Side, NY has the higher school rating — Brooklyn, NY rates 7.1/10 and Upper East Side, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Brooklyn, NY | Upper East Side, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.04M ✓ Lower price | $1.57M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $61K | $149K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 48/100 | 95/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 52/100 | 86/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 3/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 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 | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with kidsCommuners to Midtown ManhattanThose who value diversity | affluent familiesyoung professionalsstudents near colleges |
Bottom line
If you prioritize affordability and have a moderate budget, Brooklyn may be worth considering for its diverse community and decent schools, but be prepared for long commutes and limited green spaces. For families and professionals seeking upscale living, the Upper East Side delivers unparalleled walkability, top-notch schools, and luxury amenities, but at a much higher cost. Ultimately, opt for the Upper East Side if you can afford its premium prices and high taxes.
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