Getting acquainted with NYC is a lot like the first day of school. You find where you fit-in and you tend to stick to it. If terrible frat parties didn’t teach you, cliques never work out. Branching out beyond what is familiar and comfortable is what New York’s about. So, here’s a list of underrated neighborhoods in NYC that deserve your attention. I know you’ve lived in your spot for longest but I’m willing to bet you’ll want to give a few of these places a chance. Take a look and you might bump into best neighborhoods in NYC!

Yorkville: One of the most underrated neighborhoods in NYC

I know, the upper east side gets a stuffy rap. This neighborhood doesn’t score particularly high on the “cool radar” but Yorkville has virtually no violent crime and overall an extremely low crime index. If you have little ones to keep in mind, then this best neighborhood in New York, should be on your radar. Thus, if you’re will to pay more for your sense of safety, Yorkville is number one.

Flushing

In contrast, Flushing is definitely cooler at the same time an underrated neighborhood in NYC. Besides being more affordable than the UES, Flushing has a great nightlife, bar scene, and food. You can do it all and not be broke come Monday. The entire neighborhood has a sort of hole in the wall feel adding to its mysterious personality.

Related: The Perks Of Co-living in NYC

St.George: Best neighborhood in NYC

This neighborhood comes with aesthetics and is definitely one of the most underrated neighborhoods in NYC! Located in Staten Island, this beach front neighborhood keeps you close to a free ferry ride to the city. If you need to be near water St.George offer beach vibes with food stands along  with biking and jogging trails that line the waterfront.

Artists’ Colony (West 67th Street)

So Artist’s Colony isn’t really a neighborhood, more like a district but its housing and living attributes are worth mentioning. As named, this area is well suited for artists especially those in need of some inspiration. This underrated neighborhood in NYC has an historic feel as the architecture is pre-war. It’s perfectly adjacent to Central Park and their are plenty of studios and spaces for an artist to refine their craft.

Hamilton Heights: Undoubtedly the best neighborhood in NYC

I have a few friends who live on Hamilton Heights and I can’t stopped them from bragging about their humble neighborhood. The housing structure is historical and elegant without the nail biting upper east side rent. Nightlife is poppin especially the bar scene.

The area isn’t overwhelming and it’s easy to get comfortable while living in Hamilton Heights. The neighborhood is safe (parent approved) and has a ton of access to the trains and buses. Hamilton Heights is gaining attention so get in while the prices are good!

Related: Best Value Neighborhood Review: Ridgewood

Manhattan Valley

While Manhattan Valley isn’t the actual name, that’s what people call this diverse underrated neighborhood in NYC. The area borders Central Park and is peaceful. Moreover, it’s a hotspot for foodies. On one street you’ll find food from Vietnam, Italy, and Ethiopia. If you’re looking for a calm area that still offers the variety of a tourist hotspot, Manhattan Valley will tempt you.

Now, gear up and look between the cracks. You’ll find places that will make you wonder how you’ve never heard of them. For these six underrated NYC neighborhoods you now have no excuse. Continue your hunt for your slice of the city.

D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers find underrated neighborhoods in NYC? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match! Download the app here and hop on the easiest ride home, ever!