You may be wondering if living in Harlem is for you. From the time Dutch farmers christened this stretch of land in upper Manhattan “Nieuw Haarlem” in the mid-1600s all the way through to the culturally brilliant Harlem Renaissance era of the 1920s and beyond, Harlem has held a mystical and magical allure for generations of people, an allure that has survived even the most difficult of times. Trying to figure out whether Harlem is the place to look for your next apartment? Here are some reasons to consider this vibrant neighborhood.

It’s an Incredible Value

The days when you could buy a Harlem brownstone for pennies are long gone, but you can still find deals here. The average rental price for a doorman one-bedroom apartment in Harlem in July 2014 was around $2400, while a similar unit in Chelsea would go for at least a thousand dollars more. As the area continues to experience phenomenal growth and an ever-increasing number of amenities, to say it’d be a great investment for the right person is an understatement. Neil Patrick Harris apparently thinks so.

Housing Is Beautiful and Diverse

One of the best things about Harlem is its stunning architecture and real estate. Looking for a turn-of-the-century brownstone with details up the wazoo? Harlem’s got that. You’re more interested in funky industrial lofts? Harlem’s got those as well. There are gorgeous doorman buildings loaded with amenities perfect for both families and singletons. Every section of Harlem has its own unique identity. Harlem’s west side neighborhoods, including Hamilton Heights, contain some of the most architecturally stunning buildings in all of New York City, while the east side is chock-full of modern, brand-new buildings.

Easy Access to Transportation

Harlem is located near several subway, bus, and train lines, making it easy for residents to get where they need to go. The A, B, C, D, 2, and 3 lines run through Harlem, while the 4 and 5 trains run express through East Harlem. There are tons of buses running through the area, bringing you from east to west, uptown and downtown.

Plenty of Conveniences

From amazing restaurants to great bars, everything you’d need to live comfortably in Harlem is right at your front door. From Fairway to Best Market, you’ve got amazing grocery options. And you won’t have to walk far to find laundromats, hardware stores, coffee shops, and anything else you need.

Love Community? You’ll Love Harlem

You should consider living in Harlem if you’re a person for whom history and community are important. The people who live in and move to Harlem are there because they want to be there. New transplants to the area often remark upon a welcoming and close-knit neighborhood vibe that greeted them as soon as they moved in. Harlem’s Second Renaissance has been underway for years, and it welcomes people who want to see Harlem grow and prosper. This is a neighborhood that celebrates its rich heritage while simultaneously welcoming and embracing the new.

Image Source: Flickr

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