Two top destinations are currently Williamsburg and Greenpoint. These neighborhoods seem to have it all: you’ve got bars and places to hang out, pizza joints to enjoy, and lots of stuff to do.
It wasn’t always this way. Michael Bloomberg proposed to rezone parts of these neighborhoods in 2005 to encourage growth. With gentrification came new opportunities. Not only are they places where integration occurs, but it also serves as a foundation for new socioeconomic mobility.
From 2007-2017, NYC’s population grew by 6%. The rezoned waterfront for Williamsburg grew by over 40%.
What Is the Purpose of Your Move?
Williamsburg and Greenpoint might have enough similarities that they’re often grouped together when considering homes in Brooklyn, but they also have crucial differences.
If you are moving to Brooklyn to put down roots and raise a family, Greenpoint is a place with options. Even with the gentrification in recent years, you can still see the significant Polish influences in the neighborhood. The people living here have always been blue-collar industrial workers, longshoremen, and dock workers.
When you stand along the shore in Greenpoint, you’ll get an incredible view of the Manhattan skyline.
Greenpoint also has one of the better safety records in Brooklyn and NYC, with the total crime numbers falling by over 70% since 1990.
When your preference is to live somewhere with a bustling nightlife, startup opportunities, and a modern vibe, Williamsburg is a fantastic option in NYC. The personality you’ll find here has led the neighborhood to earn the nickname of Little Berlin.
It is a neighborhood with the traditional multiculturalism you’ll find in NYC. You’ll find several ethnicities here living and working together to create a unique harmony.
Williamsburg is also a place where the arts are a significant part of the community. Cinema, theater, and music are prominent throughout the neighborhood. You can find live music playing in nightclubs, bars, and bowling alleys.
What to Expect for Rent in Williamsburg and Greenpoint
North Brooklyn is experiencing one of the fastest rental increases in all of NYC, even with the COVID-19 pandemic having influences on this cost. The rise is so fast that it would be fair to describe these neighborhoods as a sub-market.
One of the reasons why Williamsburg and Greenpoint are so desirable is the Canarsie Tunnel, which offers better access to the city with the L train and its return to normalcy. From 2018 to 2019, rental prices in Williamsburg and Greenpoint went up 19% because of this infrastructure improvement.
The average apartment rental price in both neighborhoods is now $3,200 for a one-bedroom apartment.
If you’re in the market to purchase a house, the real estate market has remained relatively stable. You can expect to pay a little north of $700,000 for the average home.
What Are the Benefits of Living in North Brooklyn?
If you’re trying to select between Williamsburg and Greenpoint, the neighborhoods are essentially equal in their location, access, and opportunities. It’s all about the personality and vibe that you want to experience each day.
When affordability is your primary concern, northern Greenpoint is your best option. Depending on the apartment you select, rental savings of up to 20% are possible in this area.
If your goal is to find some great schools in Brooklyn, you might want to look at Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, or Cobble Hill before settling in Williamsburg or Greenpoint.
Once you’ve checked all of the boxes for the neighborhood you select, all of the benefits of living in Brooklyn apply to your new home.
For starters, Brooklyn doesn’t fit into the stereotypes. It’s a place where diversity is the priority, with most streets offering a peaceful and vibrant attitude that provides energy throughout the day.
It’s a place where young professionals can establish roots, entrepreneurs can start businesses, or freelancers can find a place to co-work with ease.
In Williamsburg and Greenpoint, you’ll get to know your neighbors. Brooklyn is a tight-knit community where people look out for each other. That’s why it’s such a popular destination, especially if you still want the convenience of getting into Manhattan routinely.
If you are moving to Williamsburg or Greenpoint, our team can make this transition as stress-free as possible. We’ll handle the logistics of transporting your belongings to your new home to start this next chapter in your life. Give us a call to discuss your needs, and we’ll offer a competitive quote!
