Manhattan may be the smallest borough in New York City, but that's not how it presents itself. The city's oversized attitude springs from its wealth of excitement and opportunity. Manhattan is probably what you picture when you think of New York-the Empire State Building, the jagged skyline, the wide expanse of Central Park. While it may be full of hustle and bustle, it's also a place many call home. Whether you're new to town or just looking for a new neighborhood, you can likely find a Manhattan apartment rental to suit your lifestyle.
Four hundred years ago, Dutch traders purchased the island of Manhattan from its Native American owners for 60 guilders. That's equal to about $1,000 in today's dollars and definitely the best real estate deal in town. Since then, Manhattan has exploded to become the most densely populated area of the country. It claims bragging rights as financial capital of the world, and it serves as one of America's cultural and commercial centers.
In under 23-square miles, Manhattan contains 1.5 million people through an astounding array of neighborhoods. Take a trip from Harlem's storied jazz clubs through the celebrity stomping grounds of the Upper East Side. Let the city-framed wilderness of Central Park lead you down to the lights of the Theater District and shops of SoHo. If you keep walking you could find yourself in Battery Park City, looking out towards Liberty Island. And that's just walking one route! Don't forget Turtle Bay or the East Village or Chelsea or any of the other unique neighborhoods that make up Manhattan.
One thing Manhattan does not lack is opportunity. Some of America's most prestigious colleges and universities are located in the borough. Columbia, Julliard, and NYU are only a few of the higher educational facilities found here. Regardless of subject or specialty, you can study it in Manhattan. In terms of work, your options are similarly open. While the area is known for its financial industry, it is also home to vast publishing, advertising, media, and high tech sectors. Midtown Manhattan is the largest central business district in America.
Manhattan is undeniably expensive, specifically in terms of rent. The miniscule New York apartment is no myth; Manhattan is full of them. Even so, people flock to the city. They trade the expense and the crowded conditions for the thrill of living in one of the centers of the world. A studio apartment in a non-doorman building in Manhattan ranges from an average of $1,400/month in Harlem to $4,000/month in Tribeca.
Pretty much the only thing you can't do in Manhattan is ski. Museums? Manhattan has some of the world's best-The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History to name two. Perhaps you've heard of Broadway? Go ahead and take in a show. Concerts, too, are plentiful from Opera at the Met to Bon Jovi in Central Park. If you like sports, the Knicks and the Rangers both play at Madison Square Garden. Manhattan has restaurants and bars and clubs of all stripes. If you want to save your money, take in the architectural marvels that line the streets of the city or just people watch.
Manhattan packs in the events and there's something for every taste. Celebrate Chinese New Year or St. Patrick's Day at a parade. The TriBeCa Film Festival, the Lincoln Center Festival, and the New York Chocolate Show will spark your senses. If you want less of a fuss, enjoy a slice of the city's famous pizza while watching one of the world's best shows: everyday life in Manhattan.
If you're looking for an apartment or rental in Manhattan, Rent.com® is happy to lend a hand. With an average hotel rate of $276, the sooner you're settled in the better!