When people refer to
New York as the “city that never sleeps,” they're usually referring to the Lower East Side. This vibrant neighborhood boasts the diverse, eclectic, and absolutely exciting side of the metropolis, packed with different identities, loud personalities, local businesses, and more. Chic in its creative pursuits and hip in its famous nightlife scene, this is the kind of place where you can and will want to have fun 24/7. It's no wonder so many people love it here, and even more so, love living here. To experience the Big Apple at its most electric, this is where you'll want to be!
Where is the Lower East Side in New York City?
True to its name, the Lower East Side is on the southeastern edge of Manhattan. With the East River to its east, it's one of the many coastal
neighborhoods in New York City. Houston Street is also to its north (but it's still a separate district from SoHo), the Bowery is to its west, and Canal Street is to its south. Since these popular thoroughfares surround the area, it's no surprise that the Lower East Side is a popular district. Even more so since the likes of Chinatown, SoHo, and the East Village are also nearby.
Is it Safe in New York City's Lower East Side?
It may not seem like it, but Manhattan's Lower East Side is still a largely safe neighborhood. Even when
New York City's crime rates tend to be high, this famously lively district remains safe overall. Naturally, it still pays to be careful when you go out here, especially at night. The Lower East Side may not be that riddled with crime, but there are still pickpockets and the like lurking about. You'd do well to take the necessary safety precautions when you're in the area. And if you want to enjoy its famous nightlife scene, make sure there's someone to accompany you if you ever become inebriated.
What's The Vibe in New York City's Lower East Side?
The Lower East Side is the underground of New York City without too much crime. Many parts haven't been gentrified yet, retaining their origins as the immigrant gateway to the Big Apple and, in turn, the US. But what was once tenement buildings that housed all sorts of international communities, the Lower East Side now features several clubs, bars, cafes, and more. It's even become one of the most famous nightlife scenes in the city, luring in both locals and tourists alike with its hottest spots. Hence, many of the youth who
moved to New York City typically live here, too.
Is it Expensive in New York City's Lower East Side?
Yes, unfortunately, it is. The reason why it's unfortunate is that the Lower East Side used to be among the most affordable neighborhoods in Manhattan. But after years of gentrification, the costs here have gone up tenfold.
New York City's living costs are already generally high, and the Lower East Side contributes to that. The rent here, for instance, is typically about $5,000.00 per month. And though the area has countless cheap options, the average price for a meal in the Lower East Side already ranges from $30.00 to $50.00 per person.
What to See in New York City's Lower East Side
The Lower East Side's scarcity of iconic landmarks benefits the residents and tourists staying in the area. Fewer sightseers gallivant about since there are virtually no famous spots nearby. But make no mistake! This doesn't mean there's no notable sight to see here. The Tenement Museum on Orchard Street serves as a prime example. This gallery of well-preserved immigrant apartments is a step back in time, giving a peek at how various New Yorkers lived decades ago. Katz's Delicatessen on E Houston Street is another must-see as it's an iconic sandwich spot in the city.
What to Do in New York City's Lower East Side
The Lower East Side is perfect for seeing and experiencing New York City at its most authentic. A stroll through its bustling streets is enough to let you
live like a true New Yorker, complete with rushing pedestrians, youths skateboarding about, and locals shouting at each other. Eat at the famous Katz's Delicatessen and get one of their many classic sandwiches. Browse through the various street art and murals that show off a different side to New York's iconic art scene. And at night, it's time to party at the Lower East Side's many clubs, be it at Outer Heaven, The Delancey Rooftop, the Gugu Room, or Clandestino.
The Best Restaurants in New York City's Lower East Side
The Lower East Side's electric culinary scene is part of why it's become New York City's nightlife capital. Before you let loose in the underground clubs and crowded bars in the area, you need to fill your belly and pre-game during Happy Hour, right? Fortunately, the neighborhood has more than enough hotspots to feed you right! They range from humble diners with affordable meals to a few
Michelin-starred restaurants that offer higher-quality dishes. Russ & Daughters Cafe on Orchard Street, Sixty-Three Clinton on Clinton Street, and Wildair on Orchard Street are just some you need to check out!
These are some of the coolest places to eat in the Lower East Side:
- Wildair on Orchard Street
- Taverna Di Bacco on Ludlow Street
- Sixty-Three Clinton on Clinton Street
- Russ & Daughters Cafe on Orchard Street
- Jiang Nan NYC on Bowery
- Freemans on Freeman Alley
- Fossetta on Allen Street
- Le Jardin Bistro NYC on Delancey Street
- Les Enfants de Bohème on Henry Street
- Dudleys on Orchard Street
What to Know About Renting in New York City's Lower East Side
Now, let's focus back on the rent in the Lower East Side. No matter where you
rent a luxury apartment in New York City, it's bound to cost you an arm and a leg. The same goes for getting a place in the Lower East Side, as most of the area has been gentrified and now features newer and higher-quality properties. Hence, the average rent here is about $5,865.00, which is comparatively higher than other entire boroughs. And to think, the Lower East Side isn't even the most expensive part of Manhattan!
If there’s one neighborhood that truly embodies how New York is the “city that never sleeps,” it’s the bombastic Lower East Side. Famous for its nightlife scene, this electric district is a New Yorker’s go-to place for having fun!
