Let the numbers do the talking.
Hempstead, NY vs Upper East Side, NY
Hempstead, NY vs Upper East Side, NY: What the data shows
Hempstead, NY is in Hempstead, NY while Upper East Side, NY is in Upper East Side, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Hempstead, NY is the more affordable option at $425,300 median — $1,147,500 less than Upper East Side, NY's $1,572,800. WYLT rates Hempstead, 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. Hempstead, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upper East Side, NY has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hempstead, NY has Low flood risk and Upper East Side, NY has Low flood risk.
Upper East Side, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Hempstead, NY scores 74/100 (very walkable) versus Upper East Side, NY's 95/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Hempstead, NY rates 7.3/10 and Upper East Side, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Hempstead, NY | Upper East Side, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $425K ✓ Lower price | $1.57M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $83K | $149K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 74/100 | 95/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 42/100 | 86/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 60 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 | 7.3/10 | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesDog ownersSuburban commuters | affluent familiesyoung professionalsstudents near colleges |
Bottom line
For a family seeking a suburban feel near the city with good schools and more affordable options, Hempstead is worth considering. However, if you prioritize a highly desirable, walkable location with excellent access to transit and top schools, but can afford the extremely high costs, the Upper East Side is the better choice. Or, if you'd like it to be even more direct: Hempstead is better for large families with a modest budget; the Upper East Side is better for affluent individuals or couples seeking luxury and convenience.
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