Best Neighborhoods for Singles Living in NYC

Being single in New York sounds like it would be a dream come true. Whether you’re looking for a significant other or just a vibrant nightlife, this is a city that has it all. But not every New York neighborhood is created equal, and living in the city doesn’t guarantee a great date or a great night out. Pick the wrong area, and you might find yourself spending half your night in an Uber just trying to get to your friends. It also can mean having to contend with some truly horrible people.

With culture and terrific eateries, restaurants, and bars on every corner, New York City is a great place for singles and young couples to live. Filled with parks, museums, there’s no shortage of things to do and experience, day or night. Below you’ll find a list of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan where you can find like-minded singles.

Gramercy Park and Flatiron

According to the New York Daily News, the Gramercy Park/Flatiron district has a median age range in the mid-30s. More than 75% of the neighborhood’s inhabitants rent a studio, thanks to affordable prices in the area of $2,400 or their one-bedroom listings for $3,200. There are also plenty of things to do, with bookstores, home décor shops, and Union Square Green Market all local and within walking distance. There are also restaurants, bars, plenty of celebrity neighbors, and a famous private park, not to forget the impressive architecture like the famous hotels and buildings just a subway stop away, within a reasonable walk to the west side.

East Village

The East Village enjoys a wild past, but it still rocks as a popular area for singles. 86% of the inhabitants rent their place, thanks to prices that can be considerably lower than the rest of the city, especially the further east you get. Filled with hotels, restaurants, and cozy lounges, public gardens, and more, there are still some iffy empty spots, but along with the negatives of gentrification come some positives like some fun bars you won’t find anywhere else.

Wall Street

Wall Street may seem an unlikely spot for singles, but the old office skyscrapers have been converted into apartments, and now studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms are available for rent. Once the working crowd goes home, Wall Street is a quiet place that has recently gained some retail therapy with high-end brands moving in. Close by is Battery Park, a favorite place to go in the summer. Studios can be had for around $2,000, with luxury rentals priced at $3,000 and above.

Upper East Side

Suppose you’re a single guy living in New York; demographics, and population play to your favor, especially on the Upper East Side. Women outnumber men in New York City by a significant amount, 52.62% to 47.38%, to be exact. On the Upper East Side, the numbers are even starker. There are only 0.6 men for every one woman in this chic Manhattan neighborhood. Remember, guys, this doesn’t give you the right to act like some entitled, endangered species prized for your rarity. Women on the Upper East Side have discerning tastes; you better remember to hold open her door, or she’ll find someone who will.

Hell’s Kitchen

Although it is a little pricey for buyers, Hell’s Kitchen has retained its scary cool reputation over the years, making it a prime area for young singles. Near Broadway, the neighborhood is peppered with actors and musicians, as well as a late-night bar scene. Some apartments are exceedingly well priced with the promise of rent-controlled buildings, with even two-bedrooms going for under $3,000. The area is filled; with a multitude of ethnic restaurants from around the world, and there are plans for improving nearby parks.

Yorkville

Yorkville is excellent for singles on the Upper East Side because of its proximity to Central Park, not to mention a stretch of bars and restaurants to lure in the late-nighters. There are also supermarkets, small food shops, wine stores, movies, theatres, and excellent shopping opportunities. Rents are still low, and developers introduce condos that are more family-friendly with luxury features like gyms. There are also theater groups, thrift shops, and known spots for singles to meet up, thanks to a prevalent post-grad crowd.

Murray Hill

While Murray Hill may be becoming a bit more family-friendly during the day, this Midtown neighborhood still parties like a drunken frat boy at night. With countless places to party, Murray Hill is known for its co-eds and its cocktails. Twenty-four-hour eateries can keep your energy up, and you can nurse your morning-after hangover at an early morning restaurant or cafe. If you’re done with college but haven’t gotten the partying out of your system, Murray Hill is where you want to be.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg isn’t quite the bearded, hipster enclave it once was. The DIY aesthetic has given way to great shopping, food, and a love of fitness. Whether you’re enhancing your wardrobe at local boutiques or grabbing mimosas with friends, Williamsburg is a great place to be single.

Home to yoga studios, mixed martial arts, and plenty of gyms, it’s easy to stay in shape in Williamsburg. It’s safe, walkable, and active both day and night. Date options are nearly limitless, with great coffee shops, dive bars, and excellent restaurants. This one-stop Brooklyn neighborhood offers a great all-around experience.