Upper East Side

The Upper East Side (UES), spanning from 59th Street to 96th Street, east of Central Park to the East River, is one of Manhattan’s most affluent and prestigious neighborhoods. Known for its Gilded Age mansions, luxury high-rises, world-class museums, and upscale shopping, the UES exudes old-money elegance while maintaining a vibrant residential feel.

Housing & Real Estate

The UES is dominated by:

  • Pre-war co-ops (often with strict board requirements)

  • Luxury condos (newer developments like 520 Park Avenue)

  • Historic townhouses (especially in Carnegie Hill)

  • High-end rentals (along the East River)

Prices are among the highest in NYC, but Yorkville offers relatively more affordable options.

Transportation

  • Subway: Q (2nd Ave), 4/5/6 (Lexington Ave), F (63rd St)

  • Buses: M1/M2/M3/M4 (Madison/5th Aves), M15 (1st/2nd Aves)

  • East River Ferry (at 90th St)

  • Citi Bike stations throughout

 

Who Lives Here?

  • Old-money families in historic townhouses

  • Finance/executive professionals in luxury condos

  • Surgeons & doctors (near hospital district)

  • Young professionals in Yorkville rentals

Atmosphere & Vibe

The Upper East Side is refined, polished, and residential, with a mix of wealthy families, established professionals, and young professionals drawn to its safety and convenience. While it lacks the nightlife of downtown, it offers a quiet, sophisticated lifestyle with tree-lined streets, doorman buildings, and proximity to Central Park. The neighborhood is divided into distinct pockets:

  • Carnegie Hill (north of 86th St) – More residential, with historic townhouses.

  • Lenox Hill (60s–70s) – Upscale apartments and medical centers (near NYU Langone, Hospital for Special Surgery).

  • Yorkville (east of Lexington Ave) – Slightly more affordable, with remnants of its German and Hungarian immigrant roots.

Key Landmarks & Attractions

  • Museum Mile (5th Avenue) – Home to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum.

  • Central Park – The neighborhood’s western border, offering the Reservoir, Conservatory Garden, and playgrounds.

  • Carl Schurz Park – A scenic waterfront park along the East River, home to Gracie Mansion (the mayor’s residence).

  • Madison Avenue – Luxury shopping (Prada, Hermès, Valentino) and designer boutiques.

  • 92nd Street Y – A cultural hub for lectures, concerts, and classes.

Dining & Shopping

The UES is a haven for fine dining, classic bistros, and gourmet markets:

  • Daniel (Michelin-starred French cuisine)

  • Café Boulud (Upscale French-American)

  • Sant Ambroeus (Iconic Italian café)

  • Eli’s Essentials & Orwashers (Gourmet bakeries)

  • Schaller & Weber (Old-school German butcher & deli in Yorkville)

For shopping:

  • Madison Avenue (Luxury fashion & jewelry)

  • Bloomingdale’s (Flagship department store)

  • Secondhand designer boutiques (e.g., Michael’s Consignment)

For Sellers
At Wald Real Estate we recognize it is important to partner with a trusted advisor who has a deep understanding of the real estate market and who can expertly price a property to help the seller find the highest possible offer in a timely manner. Wald Real Estate is trusted by sellers to close deals efficiently at the most advantageous prices. READ MORE

For Renters
Delivering the goods in a timely fashion is Wald Real Estate’s number one priority when it comes to finding your next home. Wald Real Estate’s focus remains the same whether you are buying a home or renting one: our priority is to exceed your expectations. Our agents work with you to understand your needs, screen properties, and match you to the perfect layout, location, and building. READ MORE

For Buyers
Looking out on your behalf, Wald Real Estate agents are experts on the ever-changing real estate market, from uncovering the best properties to knowing the intricacies of co-op and condo board requirements. We excel at understanding your desires and needs and matching you with exceptional properties READ MORE

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