Let the numbers do the talking.
Mount Vernon, NY vs Upper West Side, NY
Mount Vernon, NY vs Upper West Side, NY: What the data shows
Mount Vernon, NY is in Mount Vernon, NY while Upper West Side, NY is in Upper West Side, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Mount Vernon, NY is the more affordable option at $453,000 median — $1,290,700 less than Upper West Side, NY's $1,743,700. WYLT rates Mount Vernon, 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. Mount Vernon, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upper West Side, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Mount Vernon, NY has Low flood risk and Upper West Side, NY has Low flood risk.
Upper West Side, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Mount Vernon, NY scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Upper West Side, NY's 98/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Upper West Side, NY has the higher school rating — Mount Vernon, NY rates 7.1/10 and Upper West Side, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Mount Vernon, NY | Upper West Side, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $453K ✓ Lower price | $1.74M |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $54K | $167K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 | 98/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 17/100 | 79/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 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 | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | First‑time homebuyers with a high savings cushionFamilies looking for strong public schoolsRenters who want a moderate cost of living | Young professionals who can afford the high costCultural enthusiasts looking for restaurants, theaters, and galleriesFamilies seeking quality schools and green space |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing affordability and strong public schools, Mount Vernon might be a better option despite its moderate-to-high crime rates and poor walkability. However, for individuals seeking an unbeatable urban lifestyle, excellent transit, and no-compromise access to Midtown, but don't mind a premium price and limited affordability, the Upper West Side might be worth considering if you can afford the high cost. Ultimately, both neighborhoods come with significant trade-offs.
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