Welcome to East New York
Once imagined as a competitor to Manhattan, it’s now a residential neighborhood on the rise.
John Pitkin dreamed of transforming farmland into a bustling port city when he purchased and founded East New York in 1825. His plans were complicated by an economic downturn, and he was forced to sell much of the land. Over time, manufacturing jobs did draw workers, but their fortunes fell when industry began to leave the city. Since the 1980s, the area has been on the rise thanks to both legislative changes and the commitment of its dedicated residents.
The easternmost neighborhood in Brooklyn has an urban feel that belies its waterfront locale. It has yet to see the much talked about gentrification that’s transforming other parts of the borough.
What to Expect
An urban mix of business and residence on the verge of gentrification.
The Gateway Center mall, busy commercial streets and small businesses all serve the area, with short residential blocks between. Physically it’s close to parts of Bushwick and Crown Heights, but with respect to gentrification, it’s miles behind, leaving room for unpretentious family-owned restaurants, barbershops and more.
The Lifestyle
There’s always something bringing people together, from ballgames to greenmarkets.
Concerts, soccer and baseball games, street markets; it’s easy to fill your calendar with events in this bustling community.
Unexpected Appeal
Plentiful outdoor space, including a waterfront nature preserve.
A number of playgrounds, parks and ballfields mean there’s always somewhere outside to go. The Fresh Creek Nature Preserve has paths through the tidal marsh where you can spot sparrows, egrets, and more.
The Market
Apartments, condos and single- and multi-family homes, all below the borough’s average prices.
East New York is a big area, with plenty of inventory at a great value for Brooklyn. Developers have their eye on the neighborhood and there’s talk of the market getting hot within the next few years.
You'll Fall in Love With
People who are deeply committed to the neighborhood.
Passionate individuals are continually working to revitalizing East New York. Local cafes host open mic nights, gospel brunches and group meetings. And the neighborhood has more community gardens than any other thanks to East New York Farms, which promotes local sustainable produce and economic development.
