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One of the most affluent neighborhoods in Brooklyn, Manhattan Beach is home to Kingsborough Community College and a huge beach park. The housing in Manhattan Beach mostly consists of huge detached single-family homes with green lawns and private garages. Many have beautiful views of the water, and some even have their own swimming pools. This is a fairly isolated town, as it's mainly surrounded by water. The properties that are referred to as "ocean-block" are the most expensive. This town has a strong, unified community; many of the families here have been around for generations. However, in recent years, there has been an influx of Russian developers who buy homes to "flip" them. One of the biggest problems with living here is that it is very isolated and it's a highly residential area... which means that there are very few restaurants and even fewer stores. There are some staples on Oriental Boulevard and West End Avenue, but it's a pretty sad variety. So, while it's not for everyone, the people who do live here usually like that it's so quiet. Another thing to note is that during the summer, the beach gets very crowded, making parking impossible. However, most private homes have their own garages, so it isn't too much of a problem - unless you want to go to the beach.

Red Hook is a quiet and affordable community that was once very isolated. It is still pretty isolated, but the past few years have brought changes that have upset some longtime residents and inspired new residents to move here. For starters, this was a very small town with small, family businesses and where everyone knew each other. This became a place for artists, where there were unique shops and restaurants. Now, there's an IKEA and a Fairway. This beautiful neighborhood was a popular choice for retailers, developers, and newcomers, because it had beautiful views of the city skyline, and cheap property prices. Yet, it has still largely remained isolated, probably because it's hard to get to. The G train is a nightmare and the F train, which is often described as "within walking distance" is actually a rather scary trek around highways and under bridges away. There is bus service, but it's rarely on time and it takes forever. While it is pleasant and definitely has its perks, Red Hook isn't for everyone. A lot of people think that they will like the solitude, but they end up missing the bustling atmosphere of other parts of the city and leave.

Located south of Park Slope, Sunset Park is a great neighborhood where you will find that almost everything is cheaper than it is in Park Slope and Manhattan. The brownstones, apartments, condos, and co-ops here are more affordable and roomier than they are in other places in the city. Sunset Park also has a huge number of dollar stores, where you can buy just about anything for 99 cents. There are also plenty of discount clothing stores. Sunset Park is also an ethnic working class neighborhood that has large Chinese, Hispanic, and Indian communities. This diversity is also reflected in the town's stores and restaurants. As many people here have written, Sunset Park has its own Chinatown with countless Chinese restaurants and shops with traditional Chinese goods. On Eighth Ave, you can find just about anything that is Asian. On Fifth Ave, you can find almost anything you need or want to eat from Latin America. Sunset Park (the park, not the neighborhood) is also a great place for residents to relax. Lots of neighborhood kids swim there during the warmer months. There are plenty of schools in Sunset Park, including one public elementary school that has a magnet school.

Located south of Park Slope, Windsor Terrace is a quiet and pleasant town that borders Prospect Park and the Greenwood Cemetery. This tiny neighborhood is gaining popularity with young families and retirees as it is just as family-friendly as Park Slope for far cheaper housing prices. However, as more people are showing interest in the neighborhood, prices are rising. While most of the housing here is in the form of symmetrical row houses (many of which have porches and backyards), there are also some condos and apartments, which were developed during the last housing boom. The town also has plenty of small businesses, where residents can find just about anything they need, but there aren't too many upscale shops, chains, or big-box stores. Windsor Terrace residents usually head to Prospect Park for recreation. They also go shopping or watch a movie at the Pavillion Cinema. With two subway stations and a few buses that run through the town, Windsor Terrace has fairly convenient public transportation options. The commute to Manhattan takes about forty minutes, so it is a slightly longer trip than the one from Park Slope. The school district in Windsor Terrace is pretty good; P.S. 130 in particular does consistently well.

Gowanus is a primarily industrial neighborhood full of warehouses and manufacturing plants. During the past decade or so, the government and private developers have invested money, converting old warehouses and factories into trendy condos, lofts, and townhouses. The Gowanus canal is known to be polluted with toxic chemicals, but the federal government has pledged funding dedicated to cleaning up the canal. To date, housing prices are relatively cheap in Gowanus, which is why so many young people, artists, and young families have flocked here. There are a lot of artists' studios and performance spaces, and during the Artists Walk that is held here every year, the public is allowed to visit hundreds of local artists' studios. While this area doesn't have the best reputation, it is slowing being revitalized as more trendy stores, restaurants, and bars open here. Once the land is cleaned up, a Whole Foods is going to open here as well. There is also a nice park here, and the public transportation is convenient. There are four subway lines, and the commute to Manhattan takes about half an hour, making it an attractive option for young professionals who have to go to Manhattan every day.

Located between Canarsie and Marine Park, Brooklyn's Flatlands neighborhood boasts a well-maintained community with multicultural residents and businesses. This community also has a very interesting history. It was once an important stop on the Underground Railroad and was later a favorite hangout for the Mafia. Today, it is a very peaceful and safe community with eclectic stores and restaurants that demonstrate its diversity. The Flatlands is known as a "double ticket" town, where residents have to take the bus in order to get to the subway. The commute to Manhattan takes about an hour, which does deter some daily commuters from choosing to live here. There are private express buses that make daily trips to the city, but they are much more expensive than public transportation (and in effect, they take longer - especially when there is traffic). Most residents get around by driving or taking the bus. Although this isn't the best choice for commuters, this town has a lot to offer. There is a lot of shopping nearby, particularly at Kings Plaza Mall, but the area around the mall isn't the greatest or safest. There is a very wide range of pricing for homes in the Flatlands, but overall, it's very affordable.

Greenpoint is a somewhat isolated town in Brooklyn, mainly because of its poor transportation links. As a result, developers have largely stayed out of Greenpoint, allowing residents to preserve the qualities that have made it such a charming place to live. As other reviewers have already stated, this is a unique town with a strong sense of unity and community pride. There are families who have been around for generations. There are diverse immigrant communities, but the majority has always been the Polish. In recent years, a lot of young people have moved here in search of the next up and coming neighborhood and affordable housing costs. During the past few years, a lot of hip restaurants, quirky bars, and trendy shops have formed here in response to the growing hipster population. At the same time, as most of the other reviewers have said, there is an incomparable selection of Polish restaurants here. This town definitely has the hip and mellow vibe that Williamsburg has, but it's cheaper, cleaner, and more family-friendly with great schools. Still, you should note that I said "cheaper," NOT "cheap." Prices here have dropped during the past few years and it's certainly cheaper than the city, but prices are still steep. If you're looking to save money, try looking on the eastern end.

Midwood is a fairly affluent Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn, where the religion and culture can be seen in nearly every aspect of life. There are dozens of synagogues and yeshivas in this neighborhood, and most stores are closed on Saturdays, in observance of the Jewish Sabbath. Although there are quite a few stores, particularly on Avenue M, Coney Island Ave., and Avenue J, the area is mostly residential. The vast majority of the stores that do exist here are Jewish. There are lots of kosher restaurants and stores; there are even kosher pizzerias. While there are some rental properties, co-ops, and multi-family homes here, the vast majority of the housing options in Midwood are single-family detached houses. Smaller homes, apartments, and condos tend to be unpopular here since most families are very large (in keeping with Orthodox tradition). While most of the kids in this town attend local yeshivas, Midwood does boast an excellent public school system. P.S. 193 and Midwood High School are particularly well regarded. This is a very quiet town. Traffic can get pretty bad on the busy commercial streets, but it gets very quiet on the weekends as stores close on Saturdays and the Orthodox Jewish residents don't drive on the Sabbath.

Located in northwestern Brooklyn, Prospect Heights offers an interesting and unique mix of old and new. The neighborhood has a convenient location, close to some of the best and most popular Brooklyn attractions, including Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Public Library, and the Underhill Playground. Prospect Heights will become even more well known once the Barclays Center opens next year and the Nets begin to play there. This town has become somewhat of a hotspot in Brooklyn, as developers invest more money and more retailers move here. Another point of pride for residents here is the fact that the crime rate has dropped amazingly, giving more people confidence to move here. Housing options are plentiful, and range from well preserved brownstones to town houses, co-ops, and apartment complexes. The pricing here varies; there are affordable low end homes and homes with prices that are comparable to Manhattan prices. The busiest streets in Prospect Heights are on Washington and Vanderbilt. There are lots of shops and restaurants. Access to public transportation is amazing. There are nine subway lines, the Long Island Rail Road, and a number of buses. The commute to Manhattan takes about 30-40 minutes. In my opinion, the major problem with living in Prospect Heights is the school district. The schools here are mediocre; one is doing so badly that the city is thinking of getting rid of it altogether.

Historically known as a Russian community, Sheepshead Bay now has a far more diverse population. While the vast majority of the residents are still white, they come from a multitude of different countries and there is now a large Asian minority. The town's shops and restaurants, particularly those on Emmons Avenue, are reflective of the town's growing diversity. The housing options are also pretty diverse here: there are both attached and detached one- and two-family homes, as well as condos and co-ops. This is a waterfront community where you'll regularly see scenic cruise boats and fishing boats at the docks. It is also close to Manhattan Beach, Coney Island, and Brighton Beach. Public transportation options aren't as varied, but they are convenient, with two subway lines and express buses that run to the city. For drivers, Sheepshead Bay has easy access to the Belt Parkway. The school district is pretty good. P.S. 254 and P.S. 206 consistently report excellent scores, but the high school is just okay. A big draw for residents here is the town's affordable real estate prices, which dropped even more after the real estate boom ended. This isn't a cheap town, but homes here are relatively cheaper than comparable properties in other towns.

Almost everyone associates Park Slope with stroller traffic. There are A LOT of young families with little kids. However, Park Slope is much more than just a town of new families. It's an eclectic mix of the old and new. You will see gorgeous brownstones and other examples of beautiful architecture. There are also funky bars, trendy shops, and nice restaurants. The housing choices are wonderful, albeit on the expensive side. There are the aforementioned brownstones, townhouses, and luxury apartments, including some with great views of the city. However, if you look carefully, you may be able to find some deals if you look farther from Flatbush Ave. The population is diverse, the town is pretty safe, and the residents are very friendly. This is also a very eco- and health-conscious neighborhood. There are a lot of restaurants that serve dishes prepared with organic or locally sourced ingredients. There is also the Park Slope food cooperative. Park Slope also boasts a pretty convenient location; the subway ride to Manhattan takes about a half hour. A lot of residents relax at Prospect Park (which is right next to Park Slope) or they take their kids to the Botanical Gardens or the Brooklyn Museum.

Located close to Bed-Stuy, Greenpoint, and Bushwick, Williamsburg is Brooklyn's answer to Manhattan's East Village. In fact, a growing number of people are finding it better than the East Village as it is cheaper and more spacious. It has a very diverse hipster population as well as Hasidic Jewish and Hispanic enclaves in South Williamsburg. Williamsburg boasts an incredibly convenient location; Manhattan is just over the Williamsburg Bridge, an incredibly short drive or a ten minute subway ride away. In fact, many young commuters even elect to ride bikes or walk over the bridge. Rents here are not cheap, but they are cheaper than they are in the city, and they drop as you move away from all the action on Bedford. Try south of Metropolitan or way up north. I have to agree with the previous reviewers: if you live too close to Bedford, it's noisy, crowded, expensive, and dirty. The best parts of living in Williamsburg include the hip art and music scenes, the incredibly variety of restaurants, a plethora of hip stores, and the funky bar scene. There is definitely no shortage of things to do in Williamsburg. That said, I wouldn't say that it's the best place to raise a family, but it certainly is a fun place for young people.

Fort Greene is an incredibly hip, up and coming area in Brooklyn that attracts hipsters, artists, and foodies. At the same time, Fort Green maintains its sense of history with well maintained brownstones and the oldest park in Brooklyn. The population is a pretty good mix of Caucasian and African American, with a smaller percentage of Asian residents. While this area offers relative affordability, it certainly isn't cheap, with some of the higher end properties starting in the millions. In fact, as the area gains popularity, prices are continuing to rise. Still, many feel that it's worth it because of the area's incredible array of restaurants (especially along DeKalb Avenue and Fulton Street). There is also the BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music) theater and Fort Greene Park, where many of the locals take their kids when the weather is nice. The school district in Fort Greene is pretty good; many parents speak highly of the Ronald Edmonds Learning Center. However, the area is best known as the home of Brooklyn Technical High School, one of the few schools in New York City that bases admissions decisions on the results of the Specialized High School Admissions Test. Public transportation is very convenient; residents have access to the Long Island Rail Road, 9 subway lines, and a couple of buses.

Located between Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst, Dyker Heights is a quaint suburban town with a primarily Italian population, numerous Catholic churches, an abundance of mom-and-pop shops, and a reputation for its Christmas light extravaganza. Most of the action in Dyker Heights takes place on 13th Ave, but don't expect anything too trendy or big-box. The businesses here are small family-owned places where the owners know your name. While most of the residents here are Italian, there are small clusters of Asian and Hispanic residents as well. The majority of the homes here are simple single and two-family homes, but Dyker Heights is also known for the strip of elaborate mansions on 11th Avenue. Bound together by their pride in their community, the residents work hard to maintain their homes. They also take pride in the Dyker Lights, the countless extravagant and ornate Christmas lights and decorations that Dyker Heights residents put up each year. These lights and festivities attract thousands of tourists each holiday season. In other seasons, residents relax and have fun at Dyker Beach Park or they hit the neighborhood's public golf course. There is also the junior golf center, where kids can learn to play for free. The major problem with living in Dyker Heights is that there is no subway service here. There are express buses to Manhattan, but they cost more and are subject to traffic conditions.

In the past, downtown Brooklyn was mainly known for being Brooklyn's civil, retail, and business center. However, private investors have spent billions of dollars on developing new apartment complexes and encouraging new businesses to build here as well. More than half of the homes created by the development boom are rentals, which have been in high demand after the foreclosure crisis hit many parts of Brooklyn. The apartments here range from affordable to upscale. The area's increasing popularity isn't surprising considering the area's numerous attractions. Residents have easy access to some of Brooklyn's finest neighborhoods, including Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights. It is also a commuter's dream: a dozen subway lines run through downtown Brooklyn. There is no shortage of places to shop or eat; downtown Brooklyn includes the Fulton Street Mall, the farmer's market in front of Borough Hall, and the Metro Tech center, where a lot of bankers and financiers now work. Starting next year, residents will also be able to watch the Nets play at the new Barclays Center. You can take your kids to the BAM Cultural District for music lessons or to the YMCA on Atlantic Avenue for swimming classes. There are no public schools at the primary level in this area, but there are private schools and there is a pretty good school nearby in Brooklyn Heights.

Located on the Queens-Brooklyn border, Cypress Hills is a vibrant immigrant community where residents have worked to reform the town's negative image. When I was younger (about 15 years ago), my father worked near Cypress Hills. Whenever I went to visit him at work, he would tell me to take a cab there because it wasn't safe to walk around alone - even during the day. Even today, Cypress Hills is part of a larger area of Brooklyn that has a terrible reputation for public safety and consistently sees increases in robberies. This may be caused by the fact that Cypress Hills is generally a lower class neighborhood with many public housing projects and affordable housing developments. Rentals are hard to come by; most of the housing here is in private homes. Many of the homeowners were able to purchase their homes because the prices are very cheap and because they have received subsidies from the government. You'll see that the majority of people here use food stamps. The schools in Cypress Hills are mediocre at best, so I am not convinced that this is the best place to raise your kids. However, there are plenty of recreational activities, such as visiting Highland Park, which is huge and filled with great amenities.

Once one of New York City's most upscale then one of its most dangerous neighborhoods, Crown Heights is now one of the city's most diverse and affordable suburbs. This unique neighborhood covers an area of about two square miles and includes a historic district that is protected from development. While there used to be dangerous levels of tension between the neighborhood's Jewish and Caribbean communities, resident coalitions have worked together to improve relations between these two groups. An influx of young white professionals has also added to the town's diversity. Another factor that attracts new residents is the town's lush greenery: there are plenty of parks and trees are everywhere in this family-friendly town. Public transportation options are convenient and diverse. There are also lots of shops on busy streets like Franklin Avenue and the neighborhood has a multitude of interesting museums and cultural sites. The Brooklyn Children's Museum is especially popular. The crime rate has dropped as the town has improved. Real estate prices in Crown Heights are very low; an increase in condo development and a wave of foreclosures has pushed prices down and created more affordable housing options. The public school district that serves Crown Heights is excellent. The elementary and middle schools are almost all wonderful. As for the high schools, Medgar Evers High School is great, and Clara Barton is pretty good too.

Sea Gate is an isolated private community on the edge of Coney Island in Brooklyn. Boasting a private beach club, it is separated from the rest of the island by a big fence that is manned by private guards. Coney Island is best known for its beach and a boardwalk lined with pleasant, although shabby, food stands, games and rides. In recent years, developers, with support from the city, have worked to revitalize this once deteriorating area with renovations, restorations, and new constructions. There is a new amusement park and the aquarium, which was really worn down when I was there last, is finally being renovated. People still go to KeySpan Park to root for the Cyclones. Families hang out at Kaiser Park. In Sea Gate, most of the housing is in the form of detached Tudor houses with two or three storeys. The population in Sea Gate is mostly Russian and Orthodox Jew, while the rest of the island is predominantly African American. In the rest of Coney Island, there are public housing projects, low cost housing developments, small private homes, and large co-op and condo buildings. In Coney Island, the housing, for the most part, is incredibly cheap. Prices have gone up over the past few years, particularly with the revitalization efforts, but they are still far more affordable than most comparable New York City towns. As far as the school district, P.S. 100 and Mark Twain middle school are supposed to be great, but the rest of the schools aren't too good.

Located along the industrial piers just north of Red Hook, the Columbia Street Waterfront District is a narrow strip of multi-family homes and community gardens. The population here is predominantly white and Hispanic. A far more diverse collection of hipsters, artists,and families have moved in during the past decade. This neighborhood is known to be slightly more upscale than Red Hook, but it's not really my style (that's just me though). Although this is a waterfront area, it has a very industrial feel and the views are mostly of the cranes. Still, an increasing number of people seem to find its semi-industrial vibe appealing. There are stores and restaurants here, but nothing that would really draw attention from tourists or outsiders. There are a few trendy businesses and there are a few bars in town too. One thing that it has in its favor is the diversity and convenience of the public transportation options. There are about ten subway lines that run from the Columbia Street Waterfront District to Manhattan. There are also buses that residents can take to downtown Brooklyn or Park Slope. The community gardens here are also a big draw; they are lovely and open to the public. This is also a very safe neighborhood.

Located in Central Brooklyn, Clinton Hill has been experiencing tremendous growth and change during the past few years. While the town was once known for being poor and run down, the residents of this lovely town have worked with the city to bring culture and businesses here to spark growth and attract more residents. Home to the Pratt Institute, Clinton Hill has a wide variety of housing options. There are buildings in almost every imaginable style and there are gorgeous mansions that add to the neighborhood's elegance. As a result of all of the improvements in the neighborhood, developers have been investing in Clinton Hill as well. New housing developments offer modern affordable housing. Residents have a lot of reasons for choosing to live in Clinton Hill. There are plenty of shops and restaurants on Myrtle Avenue, the town's main artery. There are numerous and diverse choices on other streets as well. A food co-op for residents has been planned and many residents work together on a community garden. There is a community organization that gives legal assistance to residents. That isn't to say that this is a perfect neighborhood; it still has quite a way to go. The town's public schools are barely mediocre and there are still a lot of robberies. The transportation options are inconvenient, making it a poor choice for people who have to commute to Manhattan every day.

Carroll Gardens is a pleasant and unique neighborhood in Brooklyn. Predominantly Italian, the neighbors are united and unusually friendly, primarily because many of the families here have been around for generations. Most of the residents are involved in community organizations or the neighborhood association. There are a lot of elderly residents, but there are still plenty of young families and children too. Caroll Park is lovely, and the area also has plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants. You can find anything Italian on Court Street and there are plenty of trendy options on Smith Street. The housing here is cheaper than in Manhattan, Cobble Hill, or Brooklyn Heights, but it is far from cheap. This area is known for its lovely brownstones with gardens. Public transportation is pretty convenient, and the trip to midtown Manhattan takes about half an hour. The Carroll Gardens school district is excellent. P. S. 58 is particularly good. Overall, Carroll Gardens is an excellent choice for young professionals who are seeking a long term home for their families. It is also a great option for retirees who want to live in a place with a small town vibe, lovely parks, and neighbors who know their names.

Canarsie is a peaceful and pleasant town that's had a rough time of it lately. This was one of the towns that was hit the hardest during the recent foreclosure crisis and recession, resulting in a lot of displaced workers and landlords with tenants who can't afford to pay the rent. The lower housing prices have also resulted in a lot of development in the area, which has angered many longtime residents. Even though prices have dropped, sales are still very slow and there are a lot of properties that are lingering on the market. Residents can enjoy activities such as playing or fishing at Canarsie Pier and its playground. There is also Canarsie Park, which is huge and very well maintained, where residents can play basketball, tennis, baseball, or soccer. You can find lots of shopping on Rockaway Parkway, near the L train. The school district is excellent. All of the elementary schools are very well regarded. The high school is terrible, so it will soon be replaced by a series of smaller schools. One subway line does go near Canarsie, but it isn't easily accessible from a lot of places in the town.

For years, Bushwick has been trying to shake its bad reputation for crime and poverty. Even today, more than half of the town's residents receive public assistance. There are still lots of neglected lots and decaying buildings, and the crime rate isn't good although it has improved a lot. However, the residents and the city have worked (and are still working) hard to transform Bushwick into a trendy hotspot like its neighbor, Williamsburg. A lot of artsy hipsters have come here, drawn by the cheaper rents and the potential they see in the neighborhood. Bushwick now has a hip art scene, and graffiti art is on display throughout the city's streets. There are also lots of diverse restaurants, a reflection of the town's increasing diversity. A lot of residents take their kids to Maria Hernandez Park to play or browse the farmer's market. Most of the housing here is in multi-family private homes. Single-family homes are hard to come by, but rentals are pretty easy to find, particularly in the multi-family homes. Homes that are located closer to WIlliamsburg are pretty expensive, but they are still much cheaper than properties in Williamsburg. There are a lot of public schools in Bushwick, but for the most part, they are pretty mediocre.

Located in east Brooklyn, Brownsville is a tiny area of about one square mile. Interesting fact: Brownsville had the first birth control clinic in the nation. Today, Brownsville is well known for pretty negative reasons. With eighteen public housing projects that house about a quarter of the town's population, Brownsville has the largest concentration of public housing developments in the United States. The rest of the town's population mainly lives in low cost housing developments. Since this is such a low income area, Brownsville has one of the highest crime rates in New York City. While the city is working to improve the town's safety rating, progress has been slow. The city is also promoting change by allowing developers to bring more businesses to the area. However, it will take much more time before Brownsville is up to par with the rest of the city. The main reason why people choose to live in Brownsville is that it is cheap. While $1,500 can usually get you a one-bedroom apartment in most of the outer boroughs, it can get you a three-bedroom in Brownsville. Two subway lines run through Brownsville, and it only takes about a half hour to get to midtown Manhattan.

Brooklyn Navy Yard refers to an industrial waterfront park on the East River. It has a small cluster of historical homes that are known as Admiral's Row because they were once naval officers' homes. Once used as a supply depot for the Union army during the Civil War, this area has become the focus of a major real estate controversy because developers feel that the area should be developed while preservationists want to restore the homes, which have been horribly neglected. Things started to get a little better after Mayor Bloomberg announced that the city would spend millions to expand and improve the yard. The city is also expected to spend millions of dollars in order to bring a large supermarket and some other needed businesses to the area while also preserving important buildings. The vast majority of the area's residents live in three public housing developments that border the yards. The main reasons why people choose to live here are that they like living in a historically important area, and that the rent is somewhat affordable by New York City standards. However, it is pretty under-served commercially and inconvenient as the nearest subway station is a twenty minute walk away. In my opinion, there are far better and more convenient places to live that are in the same price range.

Brooklyn Heights is a beautiful neighborhood that boasts unparalleled views of New York Harbor and Lower Manhattan. This town isn't cheap by most standards, but it offers an affordable option to Manhattanites who are used to paying exorbitant prices for real estate. This neighborhood is protected as a historic district, and it boasts a wide variety of early architectural styles. The park in Brooklyn Heights is absolutely gorgeous; it has well maintained green grass, a playground, views of the city's skyline, and up close views of the Brooklyn Bridge. At the entrance to the park, there is the renowned Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, right across the street from New York's best pizzeria. There are also some great restaurants in Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens. Head over to Montague Street, the town's main commercial area for shopping, banks, and some cheaper dining options. Public transportation is super easy; there are a number of subway lines that run in/around Brooklyn Heights, and lower Manhattan is just one stop away. This makes Brooklyn Heights a very popular choice for people working on Wall Street. There isn't much of a school district here. There are a bunch of private schools; the town's only public elementary school is excellent. There are no middle schools, so most parents elect to send their kids to school in Fort Greene or Manhattan.

Located near Coney Island in south Brooklyn, Brighton Beach is a popular oceanfront community with a lovely boardwalk. Just over one square mile, this is one of the only affordable waterfront communities in New York. Its quirky charm also helped maintain property prices during the recent foreclosure crisis and recession. While prices dropped in most places, they actually went up in Brighton Beach. The population in this town is primarily Russian, but there are good numbers of Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean residents too. Most businesses here feature Russian signs, and there are a lot of small Russian stores and restaurants. One of the problems with this neighborhood is that there isn't enough parking. This becomes even more of an issue during the peak summer months when outsiders flock to the beach. There are a lot of doctor's offices in this town, so you don't have to worry about health care. There are co-ops that start below $200,000 and private homes that run into the millions. Brighton Beach has excellent schools: P.S. 225 and I.S. 303 have great reputations. The high school isn't as good though. There are diverse stores, great restaurants, and a nice nightlife. Public transportation options include two subway lines and a number of buses. The commute to Manhattan takes under an hour.

Located in southwest Brooklyn, Borough Park houses one of the biggest Orthodox and Hasidic Jewish communities in America. There are also significant numbers of Irish and Italian residents who live here, but it is primarily known as a Jewish community. The town has hundreds of houses of worship, most of which are Jewish. Jewish tradition permeates through every aspect of life in Borough Park. Here, you can find the Living Torah Museum, countless Jewish shops and kosher restaurants, and homes decorated with Jewish ornaments during Jewish holidays. Even the big chain stores in this neighborhood close on Saturdays because of the Sabbath. In keeping with the Jewish tradition of raising large families, this is a safe and very family-friendly neighborhood. Borough Park has an unusually strong sense of unity; there are a lot of volunteer organizations that serve the community. There is a volunteer security team and a free service to help residents with car trouble. One major problem here is overcrowding due to the prevalence of large families. These families need all the space they can get, so houses are getting bigger. Another problem is the lack of affordable housing in the neighborhood. However, residents and town officials are working on plans to introduce some low cost housing developments.

Formerly known for drugs, prostitution, and other crimes, Boerum Hill has transformed into a trendy and family-friendly community. The town is located close to downtown Brooklyn, Park Slope, and Cobble Hill. The neighbors are extremely friendly in this tightly knit community and together, they work to keep the neighborhood clean, safe, and happy. While the neighborhood is known for its brownstone, brick, and Tudor private homes, there are also some upscale town houses, condos, co-ops, and apartment complexes. The homes cover a wide range of prices, with some of the nicest homes going for millions. Homeowners work hard to maintain their properties. Most of the action in this small town takes place on Atlantic Avenue, where there is a lot of heavy traffic, but the rest of Boerum Hill is quiet and residential. The town is also dotted with cute and chic boutiques and trendy restaurants. There are lots of ethnic businesses as well. Boerum Hill is also home of the annual Atlantic Antic, a huge street fair with food, rides, and music. The schools in Boerum Hill are pretty good; the Math and Science Exploratory School has spectacular rankings. Boerum Hill also boasts an amazing array of transportation options, with ten subway lines stopping at different stations in the town.

Located on the southern coast of Brooklyn, Bergen Beach is a quiet and upscale residential area. This town has very friendly people and a small town vibe. The public schools here are good, and there are a lot of private schools. Almost one thousand children participate in athletic programs run by the Bergen Beach Youth Organization. One of the best things about Bergen Beach is its multitude of parks. McGuire Park is incredibly huge and has a wide variety of activities. The town's playground has close to one acre of basketball and handball courts. There are lots of shops and restaurants that range from small bagel shops and delis to nice Italian and trendy sushi restaurants. There's great shopping on Ralph Avenue. King's Plaza is nearby as well, but the neighborhood around there isn't that good. The commute to Manhattan takes about an hour by car, depending on traffic. Express buses to the city run daily. There are some subway stations nearby, but residents have to take buses to get to the stations. Most of the homes here are two-story single family or two-family houses. Availability of rentals is limited. The biggest problem around here is that parts of Bergen Beach were created by a landfill, some of the streets are prone to flooding.

Traditionally known as Brooklyn's Little Italy, Bensonhurst is a quiet residential neighborhood that is still predominately Italian, but that now has a more diverse population with large numbers of Asian, Middle Eastern, and Russian immigrants. During the last real estate boom, countless condos and housing developments were constructed, prompting homeowners to band together to stop overdevelopment of the neighborhood. As the foreclosure crisis tempered new developments, it also stabilized prices that had been skyrocketing. There are lots of small businesses, particularly on Bay Parkway, 18th Ave, and 86th Street, with a large number of ethnic shops and restaurants. There are still lots of Italian places in Bensonhurst; I love Villa Paradiso. There are also Italian cultural festivals and celebrations held in this town. The school district here is okay and it's improving a little each year. One reason for Bensonhurst's popularity is the reasonably short commute to Manhattan. There are three trains and lots of buses that run here. While most of the neighborhood has easy access to the Belt Parkway, it can be a traffic nightmare for driving commuters. Also, parking can be problematic, particularly in the town's busier areas. Overall, it's a pretty good and safe suburban neighborhood, but I'm not convinced that it's worth the money.

Famous as the hometown of rap legend Notorious BIG (Jay-Z's grandmother also lived here), Bedford Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy) is a large, predominantly African American community in central Brooklyn. However, during the past decade or so, the neighborhood has become increasingly diverse as the crime rate declined and the subway conditions improved. In particular, the number of white residents has multiplied exponentially. New condos and upscale housing developments have been constructed, and this is a strong area for renters. This community is filled with brownstone homes that are very competitively priced; prices here were always relatively low, but they dropped even more during the foreclosure crisis. However, this is such a large neighborhood with so many different kinds of homes that it's hard to say what the average price is. The neighborhood is becoming a popular choice with young professionals and students studying at Pratt, which is nearby. However, crime remains a concern for some prospective buyers as the neighborhood is having a tough time shaking its bad image. Still, this is a town with a lot of charm; there are diverse Zagat-rated restaurants and quaint stores, particularly on Lewis Avenue. There is great shopping at Fulton and Nostrand.

Bay Ridge is an interesting town with quiet residential areas, a bustling nightlife, and plenty of recreational activities, shops, and restaurants. The homes in Bay Ridge cover a wide spectrum of styles and prices. The housing here is mostly made up of single family homes on tree-lined streets, but there are also a lot of co-ops and some apartments. It's very safe; the neighbors in Bay Ridge are friendly and look out for each other. The population is mainly Italian, Greek, and Irish, but there is a good number of Arabic speaking residents as well. It also has a huge elderly population because this is a town where people stay their whole lives. There is no shortage of things to do with lots of restaurants that serve ethnic foods, nice parks, and a lovely pier where people fish. Most of the action takes place on 86th street, and there are more than one hundred bars in this town. While there are subway stations and an express bus in Bay Ridge, the commute to Manhattan is lengthy. Drivers have easy access to major highways, but parking can be challenging. People often compare Bay Ridge with Park Slope; while Park Slope may be trendier, it is also far more expensive. Overall, this is a nice, affordable community with a lot to offer.

Located in southwestern Brooklyn, Bath Beach was once a Hamptons-like summer resort community for New York's powerful and elite. There isn't an actual beach there anymore; it was paved over to make a highway, but the residents still enjoy access to great recreational areas like Bath Beach Playground and the waterfront promenade located next to the Belt Parkway. Decorated with an ocean motif, the playground has lovely gardens, playground equipment for children, basketball courts, and roller hockey courts. The town's businesses are mostly small family shops and some chain stores. However, there are big-box stores like Best Buy and Toys R Us nearby at Caesar's Bay. The population in Bath Beach has also changed a lot over the years. Although it was once a predominantly German and Italian town, Bath Beach now has a far more diverse immigrant population of Hispanic, Chinese, Arab, and Russian immigrants. The main problems with living in Bath Beach include the noise from the elevated subway trains that pass through the town and the long commute to Manhattan. While public transportation options are numerous and diverse, the commute is still pretty time consuming. Overall, this is a fairly typical suburban community that boasts affordable housing and a peaceful environment.

Woodhaven is a small working-class community of about one square mile. The town's population is mostly Hispanic, but it also has a good mix of white, Asian, and African American blue-collar working families. The town's diverse stores and restaurants, particularly on Jamaica Avenue, are proof of its rich ethnic diversity. The residents have worked hard to keep their town well maintained; they work to fight graffiti and push for repairs and renovations of public spaces and on the elevated subway rails that pass through the town. The homes in the northern section of Woodhaven tend to be larger and more expensive. A lot of the homes there have nice driveways, garages, and porches. There are also low co-op buildings, but rentals are fairly hard to come by. There are some rentals in private homes. Each year, there is a great street fair on Jamaica Avenue. Woodhaven's residents can also enjoy easy access to Forest Park, where they can enjoy a variety of fun recreational activities such as swimming, tennis, golf, and outdoor concerts. Housing here has always been fairly affordable, but prices have dropped even more during the recent foreclosure crisis. There are plenty of transportation options, with two subway lines and several bus routes passing through the town.

Located in eastern Queens, Utopia is a lovely and quiet suburban community. Housing prices here skyrocketed during the last real estate boom and stabilized slightly during the recent foreclosure crisis, but they are still pretty high. This neighborhood boasts some excellent schools, access to two of the borough's nicest parks, and proximity to a public golf course. At the same time, it is a little known area, which is often considered to be part of Fresh Meadows. Even its library is called the Hillcrest library. During the housing boom, many of the homes in the area were renovated or rebuilt, which adds to the town's pleasant appearance. The population is also changing; while it was once a predominantly Irish and Italian town, there are more Russian and Asian families living there now. There are excellent public and private schools nearby; many families choose to send their kids to the Holy Family School and PS 173 and PS 178 are both excellent. The town has a long tradition of community softball games that are played on Sundays during the spring, summer, and fall at the Utopia Playground. Utopia is also very close to St. John's University.

Located in southeastern Queens, St. Albans is a fairly typical suburban community but it has a fascinating cultural history. About three square miles, it is the hometown of Ella Fitzgerald and Roy Campanella. The population has some diversity but is still overwhelmingly African American. There is a very wide range of housing options, but most of the homes are pretty cheap (at least by New York City standards). Prices dropped even more as this area was hit hard by the recent foreclosure crisis. This town has had a bad reputation for crime and drug use, but it has improved in recent years. Still, as the crime rate improved and more developers worked on the area, the town became overcrowded, causing new problems. For example, noise and parking became issues for residents. While there are shops and restaurants on both Linden Boulevard and Farmers Boulevard, there certainly aren't too many trendy or upscale stores. Residents do enjoy access to Roy Wilkins Park and the Black Spectrum Theater. The town's school district is nothing to brag about; its schools usually perform below average. Transportation is also pretty inconvenient. There are buses, but there is no subway stop and the Long Island Rail Road lines that run nearby require transferring at Jamaica in order to get to Manhattan.

Located close to JFK International Airport, Springfield Gardens North is a lower class community. It is generally considered to be shoddier than Springfield Gardens South, but then again, none of the neighborhoods that are close to the airport are all that great. The population is very diverse with a pretty good mix of African American, Caucasian, Haitian, Hispanic, and Guyanese residents. There is a very wide range of housing options, but most of the homes are pretty cheap (at least by New York City standards). Most of the action in Springfield Gardens North takes place on Merrick Boulevard or Farmers Boulevard, but there isn't great diversity in the shops and restaurants, and there certainly aren't too many trendy or upscale stores. There aren't too many recreational options either. The town doesn't have a very good reputation for safety either and the school district is nothing to brag about. The town's proximity to JFK International Airport can be good or bad. While people seem to like the restaurants at JFK, they also complain because of the heavy air traffic noise. Overall, this is probable one of the worst towns in Queens, and the biggest thing it has going for it is its cheap prices.

Located close to JFK International Airport, Springfield Gardens South is a middle class community. It is generally considered to be better than Springfield Gardens North, but in all honesty, none of the neighborhoods that are close to the airport are very good. The population is very diverse with a pretty good mix of African American, Caucasian, Haitian, Hispanic, and Guyanese residents. There is a very wide range of housing options in very different price ranges, which accounts for the community's economic diversity, but most of the homes are pretty cheap (at least by New York City standards). Most of the action in Springfield Gardens South takes place on Merrick Boulevard or Farmers Boulevard, but there isn't great diversity in the shops and restaurants, and there certainly aren't too many trendy or upscale stores. The town is reasonably safe but doesn't have a very good reputation because of Springfield Gardens North's reputation. The school district is okay. The town's proximity to JFK International Airport can be good or bad. While people seem to like the restaurants at JFK, they also complain because of the heavy air traffic noise. Overall, it's a fairly typical suburban community, but it isn't one of the better towns in Queens.

While I'm not crazy about any of the towns in this area, Woodside definitely has a lot going in its favor. Rent is unbelievably cheap (for New York City), and there are plenty of inexpensive restaurants and public transportation connections in Woodside. By subway, the commute to/from the city should only take about 20 minutes. If you opt to spend more on the Long Island Rail Road, it should take about 10 minutes. Transportation options abound here. All of these factors make Woodside a very popular choice for young professionals who are looking for a short commute and cheap rent. Woodside also boasts one of the city's most diverse populations, which translates into diverse food and shopping nearby as well. While it is historically an Irish neighborhood, today it houses a huge mix of ethnic populations. Woodside is also very safe and there has been a lot of development in the neighborhood. However there are few parks or recreational activities. Another problem is that there is a lot of noise from the trains that pass through Woodside. In short, I think that it's a great place for young professionals to get started before having families or settling down.

Located close to JFK Airport and Brooklyn, South Ozone Park is a lower-middle class community. The population is very diverse with a pretty good mix of Bangladeshi, African American, Caucasian, Asian, Hispanic, and Guyanese residents. There is a very wide range of housing options in very different price ranges, which accounts for the community's economic diversity. Most of the action in South Ozone Park takes place on Rockaway Boulevard, but there are also plenty of shops and restaurants nearby on Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill. Locals also frequent the Aqueduct Flea Market. The town is reasonably safe but doesn't have a very good reputation because of the Lufthansa Heist story; today, the biggest problems are with parking, graffiti, and theft. There are lots of schools in this area, but they are fairly mediocre. The town's proximity to JFK International Airport can be good or bad. While people seem to like the restaurants at JFK, they also complain because of the heavy air traffic noise. Overall, it's a fairly typical suburban community, but it isn't one of the better towns in Queens. Most people would tell you that you'll find better deals in better towns elsewhere.

South Jamaica is a historically underrated area in Jamaica, Queens. There are single and multi-family homes and apartment buildings on the neighborhood's tree-lined streets. While the population is pretty diverse with Latin American, Caribbean, Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi immigrants, the majority of the residents are African American. In fact, South Jamaica has the largest African American population in all of Queens. The town's ethnic stores and restaurants are proof of its incredible diversity. Decades ago, this neighborhood had a terrible reputation for violence and drugs. While the town worked to improve safety and developers swooped in during the last housing boom, it has had a hard time shaking its bad image. Prices are reasonable for New York City, but this is primarily a result of its poor reputation. Transportation options are pretty good, with access to three subway lines on Archer Avenue and the Long Island Rail Road station on Sutphin Boulevard. Residents can take buses to either station. There is also an AirTrain Station on Sutphin Boulevard that provides service to JFK Airport. Baisley Pond Park is great for recreational activities; it has tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, and biking / jogging paths.

Located in southeast Queens, close to the Nassau border, Rosedale is a quiet suburban community that is predominately African American with some Caucasian, Hispanic, and Asian residents. A lot of outsiders mistakenly believe that this is a Long Island town. The neighborhood is also very close to John F Kennedy International Airport, so air traffic noise tends to be a major issue for Rosedale's residents. While there are buses and the Long Island Rail Road is nearby, there is no subway service to Rosedale, so most of its residents have cars. As a result, a lot of the people who live here are people who work in Long Island, rather than Manhattan. As for recreation, there is a pretty nice and well maintained park as well as a nice public library. There are plenty of stores and restaurants, and residents also have easy access to the options in neighboring towns. Most of what you need is in walking distance. Rosedale also has a pretty good public school system. In short, this is a fairly typical suburban town, but I'd never live here just because I'm pretty sensitive when it comes to noise.

While I'm not much of a fan of any of the towns on the Rockaway Peninsula, I have to admit that these waterfront towns are lovely. Seaside is no exception, with its waterfront high-rise apartment complexes. This town has an important cultural history, as it has been featured in books, TV shows, and movies. This is an incredibly safe and tight-knit community. During the peak summer season, the town tends to get very crowded with visitors, but the locals can enjoy peace and privacy during the rest of the year. This is a very peaceful town that offers a good escape from city life but its isolation results in problems such as a difficult commute to schools and a ninety minute commute to Manhattan. This is a fairly expensive place to live: housing prices are steep, particularly near the beach. Still, this town is lovely and well maintained. It is known for its colorful bus shelters. The town also has restaurants and shops, but there isn't a lot of diversity. This town, like other towns on the Rockaway Peninsula, is also prone to damage from storms.

Located close to Brooklyn, Ridgewood is a small and lovely neighborhood that boasts a very convenient location and easy transportation. It is less than twenty minutes from Manhattan by subway and is extremely clean and well maintained. This tightly knit community has numerous civic organizations that are committed to maintaining the town's pleasant aesthetics. Evidence of this can be seen throughout Ridgewood on its clean, wide, tree-lined streets. A majority of the homes here are multi-family homes so there are lots of rentals available. With so many renters, Ridgewood does have a problem with parking; most parking spaces cost an extra $100-$200 a month. Ridgewood's population is a healthy mix of German, Romanian, Austrian, Polish, and Slovenian blue-collar and white-collar working families. The town is fairly safe and has lots of ethnic stores and restaurants. The town also has a small-town vibe, with plenty of small town activities for residents. Its convenient location also allows residents to enjoy the activities and amenities of numerous other towns. Another great thing about Ridgewood is its multitude of private and public schools, most of which are pretty well reviewed. The neighbors are friendly, and many of the town's residents live here their whole lives.

Located in south-central Queens, Richmond Hill is a quiet suburban community with a diverse population of Caribbean and South Asian immigrants, as well as the largest Sikh population in New York City. The town's restaurants reflect this diversity as there are plenty of ethnic food choices. There are also many ethnic festivals that take place throughout the year. The area features numerous traditional wood-frame houses in Victorian, Tudor, and Craftsman styles, most of which are single family homes. The homes are mainly located on quiet tree-lined streets. There are however some multi-family homes, and overall, housing in Richmond Hill covers a pretty wide range of prices. Residents enjoy easy access to Forest Park, where they can enjoy a myriad of recreational activities such as swimming, tennis, golf, outdoor concerts, and a myriad of other fun activities. While the area is serviced by three major subway lines, the commute to Manhattan takes about 45 minutes. Still, Richmond Hill is a popular choice for working professionals with families because it offers a quiet and affordable option. The neighborhood is also close to JFK Airport, which has historically been an issue because of the air traffic noise, but FAA regulations have mainly resolved this problem.

Located in central Queens next to Forest Hills, Middle Village, and Elmhurst, Rego Park is a small suburban community of about one square mile. While the population is predominantly Russian, many of its residents are Asian, Latin American, and native-born Americans. This is a pleasant and safe community with good schools, lots of stores, and convenient transportation options. While the town offers fairly affordable housing when compared with Manhattan, it still has some of the highest prices in Queens - particularly in the Crescents area. Residents enjoy shopping at the small family-owned businesses that have been around for ages, as well as the variety of stores offered at the Rego Park Center mall. Century 21 and Kohl's opened here just a couple of years ago. While rentals are hard to come by, there are plenty of single-family homes and both low and high-rise co-op buildings. The neighborhood also has gorgeous single-family Tudor and colonial homes in the Crescents area. Rego Park residents can also enjoy its proximity to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, one of the city's largest parks, which houses Citi Field (formerly Shea Stadium) where the Mets play, the tennis center where the U. S. Open is held, the Hall of Science, an art museum, bike paths, a huge steel globe, gorgeous sculptures, an ice skating rink, and a wildlife center with a children's farm.

Located in north central Queens, Queensboro Hill is a diverse suburban community that is close to Flushing. Main Street, the area's major road, has become increasingly commercial and less residential during the past few years. Main Street is also where the New York Hospital Medical Center of Queens and the Flushing branch of the Queens library are located. The library can get overcrowded, but it is spectacular; it offers collections of periodicals, books, and DVD's in several different languages. Free classes on various useful subjects are offered frequently. This area also boasts a huge variety of different ethnic cuisines. In particular, there are loads of Asian restaurants because of the area's growing Asian population. At the same time, Queensboro Hill also houses quiet residential areas that are filled with single-family private homes. Residents also have access to Kissena Park and the Botanical Gardens. You can take one of the local buses to the subway or Long Island Rail Road station, both of which are found on Main Street in Flushing. While the commute to Manhattan takes about an hour, this neighborhood is still a popular choice with commuting professionals who have families.

Located close to Long Island, this Queens community evolved from a primarily Caucasian population of German, Irish, and Italian residents to a more diverse neighborhood with African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents. This is a very stable neighborhood with a good school district and several churches that are more than one hundred years old. While it has some apartment buildings and garden apartments, most of the housing is in the form of single-family private homes. There are lots of businesses on Harry Van Arsdale Jr. Avenue, as well as elder care and child care facilities. While Pomonok is still a good distance from Manhattan, there are diverse public transportation options. You can take the bus to the subway on Main Street in Flushing, or you can take one of the town's express buses. While shops and restaurants in Pomonok are not very diverse, there are many more options just a few minutes away in Flushing. This is a pretty safe town, with few major crimes. There are some cases of auto theft, but that's fairly hard to avoid when you are living in New York City. Still, there isn't much a nightlife in or near Pomonok, so it isn't a very good choice for young singles who are looking for a party town.

Located south of Flushing, this Queens community of housing developments offers easy access to major roads such as the Long Island Expressway, Parsons Boulevard and Kissena Boulevard. There are thousands of apartments in the brick complexes, which are unique because they also have ample parking lots. One of the factors that draws people to this community is its proximity to several major universities including the Rabbinical Seminary of America, Queens College and the CUNY law school. Pomonok also has a number of religious institutions, including a Lutheran church and a Chinese Baptist church. There are lots of businesses on Harry Van Arsdale Jr. Avenue, as well as elder care and child care facilities. While Pomonok is still a good distance from Manhattan, there are diverse public transportation options. You can take the bus to the subway on Main Street in Flushing, or you can take one of the town's express buses. While shops and restaurants in Pomonok are not very diverse, there are many more options just a few minutes away in Flushing. Still, there isn't much a nightlife in or near Pomonok, so it isn't a very good choice for young singles who are looking for a party town.

Located close to JFK Airport and Brooklyn, Ozone Park is a blue collar community where residents tend to stay their whole lives, so everyone knows each other and there are families with several generations all living here. The population is very diverse with a pretty good mix of Irish, German, Italian, African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents. There is a very wide range of housing options in very different price ranges, which accounts for the community's economic diversity. Homes are primarily pre-war single or multi-family homes. One part of Ozone Park is a village of Tudor-style homes. While there are few new constructions in Ozone Park, a lot of homes were renovated during the last housing boom. While the town has mostly small family businesses, there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby on Cross Bay Boulevard and locals also frequent the Aqueduct Flea Market. The town is fairly safe; the biggest problems are with parking, graffiti, and people who illegally rent out their basements (adding to the parking problems). There are lots of schools in this area, but there are still problems with overcrowding, again because people keep illegally renting out rooms and basements.

Howard Beach is divided into two main parts by Cross Bay Boulevard: there is Old Howard Beach on the east side and New Howard Beach on the west side. Old Howard Beach is a predominantly Italian community which is fairly isolated and more affordable than New Howard Beach. Located close to JFK Airport, this community has many bungalows and single family private homes that date back to the days when the area was a beach resort community. In this waterfront community, residents tend to stay here their whole lives, so everyone knows each other and there are families with several generations of people who live here. Old Howard Beach has lots of fantastic seafood and Italian restaurants on Cross Bay Boulevard. There are also numerous water activities, such as boating or fishing. One of the problems of living here is the noise from JFK, which has improved over the years, but is still noticeable. The other main problem is public transportation. There is an AirTrain stop and the A train stops here as well, but it still takes over an hour to get to Manhattan, making it pretty inconvenient for daily commuters. However, there is plenty of parking, so most of the residents own cars.

North Corona is a lower middle-class neighborhood that is located in Central Queens, near Elmhurst and Jackson Heights. It is extremely diverse; it has a predominately Hispanic population with small percentages of African Americans, Italians, and Asians. While the neighborhood has improved dramatically over the past few decade, it still has a reputation of being unsafe. Still, it definitely has gotten better and more young professionals are turning to North Corona and its neighboring towns because of its low housing prices and convenient access to the subway. The 7 train runs right through the heart of North Corona, which isn't always a good thing as the noise from the overhead subway can often be annoying.

The Langston Hughes Library and the Black Heritage Reference Center are two great places to visit for some educational entertainment. North Corona is also close to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, one of the biggest parks in New York City. This gigantic park includes Citi Field (formerly Shea Stadium), the tennis center where the U. S. Open is held, the Hall of Science, a museum, an ice skating rink, and a wildlife center. North Corona is also a culturally important neighborhood because famous musicians such as Louis Armstrong and the Beatnuts used to live here.

While I'm not much of a fan of any of the towns on the Rockaway Peninsula, I have to admit that Neponsit Belle Harbor is lovely. This is a tiny eight by four block area filled with beachfront mansions and lovely private homes. This is an incredibly safe and tight-knit community. During the peak summer season, street parking is prohibited so people let their neighbors use their driveways. People often even leave their keys in their cars so that others can move their cars for access to the driveway or street. One thing to note is that if you're not into participating in neighborly rituals like these, you probably shouldn't live here. While the beach is open to the public, the restrictions on street parking largely serve to keep outsiders from using it. An overwhelming majority of the people here are Caucasian. There are a few Asian and Hispanic residents though. This is an expensive place to live: housing prices are steep and the homeowners' association collects voluntary dues to pay for maintenance of public areas. There isn't much to do here other than enjoy the beach and relax. Another important thing to note is that only the A train runs to the Rockaways, making it difficult and time consuming to commute to the city. There used to be a Long Island Rail Road stop, but that was shut down years ago.

Located halfway between Jamaica and Brooklyn, Middle Village is a small and quiet residential area of about 2 square miles. Most of the housing in Maspeth is in the form of small single family homes, and the residents work to limit the number of multi-family private homes in town. Having long been known as a predominantly Italian town, Middle Village has also seen and influx of Polish, Irish, and German residents. This is a really consistent town: most people stay here their whole lives, so there are families with several generations of people living here and the census reports show that the population barely changes. This is a town where the people not only know each other by name; they also know their parents' and grandparents' names. The town's strong sense of unity extends to banding together to oppose excessive development or construction; they want the town to stay the same. Most of the action in Maspeth takes place on Metropolitan Avenue. There are a lot of small family businesses but there has been an increase in the number of upscale spas, trendy restaurants, and chic bars. The school district is pretty good. There is a very good public library and a lot of parks.