As New Yorkers continue to explore housing options beyond Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn emerge as the dominant boroughs to watch in 2025, according to StreetEasy’s annual ranking of NYC’s “10 Neighborhoods to Watch,” released Thursday.
The list is based on the highest year-over-year increases in search activity among buyers and renters. Three Queens neighborhoods—Ridgewood, Long Island City, and Sunnyside—secured spots, while Brooklyn claimed six, with one Manhattan neighborhood rounding out the list.
Ridgewood tops the list again
Ridgewood, retained its #1 position for the second consecutive year, solidifying its reputation as an attractive alternative to its southern neighbor, Bushwick, Brooklyn. Searches in Ridgewood rose by 13.2% in 2024, accompanied by an 8.3% increase in median asking rent ($3,250) and an 8.4% rise in home prices, now at $1.3 million. Known for its historic yellow brick rowhouses and vibrant commercial strips along Myrtle and Metropolitan Avenues, Ridgewood offers a mix of suburban charm and city convenience. Popular venues like Nowadays and strong transit access via the M and L trains add to the neighborhood’s allure.
Long Island City shines with urban luxury
Ranking #3, Long Island City is synonymous with luxury and convenience. While it boasts the highest median asking rent on the list at $4,148, its modern condos and proximity to Manhattan—just a 10-minute subway ride—continue to attract renters and buyers alike. Median home prices fell by 4.4% to $1.12 million in 2024, providing opportunities for prospective homeowners. Residents also enjoy waterfront recreation at Gantry Plaza State Park and abundant building amenities, from pools to gyms.
Sunnyside offers affordability and charm
At #4, Sunnyside stands out as the most affordable neighborhood on the list. Its median asking price of $429,000 is less than half of Ridgewood’s, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers. Median rents are also lower, at $2,500, appealing to budget-conscious renters. The neighborhood is celebrated for its tree-lined streets, art deco co-ops, and private green spaces like Sunnyside Gardens Park. A quick commute to Manhattan via the 7 train further enhances its appeal.
Brooklyn neighborhoods that dominate the list
Six Brooklyn neighborhoods earned spots on the list, reflecting their rising popularity:
Greenwood Heights (#2): Known for its historic Green-Wood Cemetery and serene charm, this neighborhood saw a 9% jump in searches. Its median asking rent of $3,250 decreased slightly, while home prices fell to $1.5 million.
Windsor Terrace (#5): Located near Prospect Park, this quiet enclave experienced a dramatic 15.9% rise in median rent ($3,592) and a 3.2% increase in home prices ($1.29 million), making it increasingly desirable for renters and buyers alike.
Fort Greene (#6): With a 7.2% uptick in searches, this culturally vibrant neighborhood offers historic brownstones and proximity to Fort Greene Park. Median rents rose to $3,950, while home prices fell to $1.62 million.
Prospect Heights (#7): A cultural hotspot near Prospect Park, this neighborhood offers a mix of pre-war charm and modern amenities. Median home prices rose slightly to $1.2 million, while rents held steady at $4,055.
Crown Heights (#8): This diverse neighborhood saw a 6.4% increase in searches, with median rents at $3,150 and home prices at $1.18 million, reflecting its appeal to budget-conscious renters.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens (#9): Known for its historic homes and proximity to Prospect Park, PLG saw a 5.9% rise in searches. Median rents remain affordable at $2,950, while home prices climbed to $1.2 million.
Morningside Heights represents Manhattan
The sole Manhattan entry, Morningside Heights (#10), attracted attention with a 5.8% rise in searches. Known for its proximity to Columbia University and abundant green spaces, the neighborhood offers a mix of academic charm and residential serenity. Median rents reached $4,000, while home prices climbed to $1.26 million.
Queens leads the charge in 2025
While Brooklyn dominated the list, Queens’ neighborhoods continue to draw attention for their balance of affordability, charm, and proximity to Manhattan. “Queens offers an unmatched combination of historic charm, modern amenities, and relative affordability,” said a local real estate expert. “These neighborhoods are redefining what it means to live in New York City.”
As the housing market evolves, Queens and Brooklyn remain top contenders for New Yorkers seeking vibrant communities with diverse options.
