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Queens is the largest of the five boroughs of New York. Located on the western part of Long Island, it is home to over 2 million people and one of the most culturally diverse areas in the world.
The borough is a melting point of cultures with a variety of ethnic neighborhoods where residents and tourists experience the city’s rich diversity. Queens is known for its iconic landmarks, such as Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, and the JFK International Airport.
Moving to Queens is a great choice for those looking for a diverse, vibrant, and affordable community in New York City.
Here are the frequently asked questions about living in Queens.
- Is Queens a Nice Place To Live?
- Who Lives In Queens?
- What Is the Nicest Neighborhood in Queens?
- Do I Need a Car To Live in Queens?
- What Is Queens NYC Known For With Food?
- Is Queens New York Expensive?
- Is Queens Safe At Night?
- Average Rent In Queens
- Is Living in Queens Worth It?
- Find Apartments for Rent in Queens
Is Queens a Nice Place To Live?
Yes, Queens is one of the best places to live in New York.
As the largest and most sprawling borough, it is culturally diverse with an amazing food scene, including delicious street food, with unique flavors from the different cultures residing here.
Queens also has affordable housing compared to Manhattan and Brooklyn. Additionally, it is the best place to live in New York for young professionals and families thanks to its family-friendly neighborhoods, high-quality public schools, and diverse population.
And if you want to balance work and play, Queens offers a lifestyle balance of urban entertainment and peaceful suburban living. You also have access to two major airports in New York, museums with unique exhibits, and plenty of parks and green spaces.
Who Lives In Queens?
Queens is home to more than 2.3 million people from all over the world. The population consists of people from different ethnicities, including large communities of Hispanic, African-American, and Asian descent. There are also large immigrant populations from China, India, and the Dominican Republic.
In terms of socioeconomic status, there is a mix of working-class, middle-class, and wealthy residents in different neighborhoods throughout the borough. The more affluent residents tend to live in neighborhoods such as Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Bayside, Douglaston, and Little Neck, while the middle-class live in neighborhoods such as Flushing, Bayside, Jackson Heights, Fresh Meadows, and Middle Village because of more affordable housing options, good schools, and access to transportation.
What Is the Nicest Neighborhood in Queens?
The nicest neighborhood in Queens depends on individual preferences and needs. However, some of the best neighborhoods in Queens include:
- Forest Hills: Known for its upscale homes, well-manicured lawns, and access to Forest Hills Gardens, a historic planned community.
- Flushing: A bustling neighborhood with a large Asian community offering a variety of cultural dishes and shopping options.
- Bayside: A quiet, suburban-feeling neighborhood with access to waterfront parks and a strong sense of community.
- Jackson Heights: A diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas, offering a vibrant street life and cultural diversity.
- Fresh Meadows: A suburban-style neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, good schools, and access to shopping and recreational options.
The best neighborhood in Queens depends on your person’s budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences regarding safety, housing, and amenities.
Do I Need a Car To Live in Queens?
No, you don’t need a car to live in Queens, as almost every neighborhood is accessible through subway lines and buses. Many residents use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around.
The New York City subway system serves many parts of Queens, providing access to the rest of the city and other boroughs. Also, multiple bus lines, the Long Island Rail Road, and the JFK and LaGuardia airports make it possible to get around without a car.
But if you own a car or live in a neighborhood that’s not well-served by public transportation, you may find it helpful. Parking can be a challenge in some areas, so consider the cost and availability of parking when deciding whether to bring a car.
What Is Queens NYC Known For With Food?
Queens, NYC, is known for its diverse and delicious food scene that reflects the borough’s ethnic and cultural diversity. It is a foodie’s paradise, from traditional street food to fusion dishes, regional cuisines, and trendy restaurants.
Some of the most popular foods in Queens include:
- Greek food in Astoria, including traditional dishes like moussaka and gyros. Best Greek restaurants include Stamatis, Taverna Kyclades, and Bahari Estiatorio.
- Latin American cuisine in Jackson Heights, such as Colombian, Ecuadorian, and Mexican food. Try Cabana and Matiz Latin Cuisine in Forest Hills for delicious Latin American dishes.
- Asian food, particularly Chinese, Korean, and Thai dishes, in Flushing. Check out Asian Jewels for dim sum and Shanghai You Garden for delicious Chinese dishes.
- Halal food in Jackson Heights, including gyros and kebabs from Middle Eastern and North African cuisines.
- Indian food in Jackson Heights and Richmond Hill, with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Best Indian restaurants include Angel and Saffron Indian Cuisine in Jackson Heights and Paratha Wala in Richmond Hill for Bangladeshi dishes.
In addition to its restaurant scene, Queens is known for its street food and food markets, such as the Jackson Heights Greenmarket and the food stalls at the New World Mall in Flushing.
Is Queens New York Expensive?
Living in Queens is relatively affordable compared to other boroughs like Manhattan and Brooklyn. The cost of living in Queens is 3% lower than the state average.
The rent cost in Queens is lower, and food and utility costs are lower than in the other boroughs. However, even though Queens is relatively affordable, it’s still 50% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Queens varies greatly depending on the neighborhood. Some areas, such as Astoria and Long Island City, have become increasingly expensive in recent years due to their proximity to Manhattan and growing popularity.
In contrast, other areas, such as Jackson Heights and Flushing, remain more affordable for housing and other expenses.
Is Queens Safe At Night?
Queens is generally safe at night if you avoid dangerous neighborhoods like South Jamaica, Rosedale, Ozone Park, The Rockaways, Corona, and Willets Point.
That being said, it is always advisable to take precautions when walking around at night, such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods, and being aware of your surroundings.
With its well-patrolled streets, low crime rates, and active community watch groups, Queens is considered a safe place to live and visit at night.
Average Rent In Queens
The average rent cost in Queens is $2,798 for an apartment with an average size of 707 sq. ft. However, the cost varies depending on factors such as size, location, and the quality of the house you’re considering.
The average rent also varies depending on the neighborhood. The median rent for a studio apartment is $2,600, with prices ranging from around $1,500 in more affordable areas such as Jamaica and Richmond Hill to over $3,000 in more expensive areas such as Astoria and Long Island City.
For larger apartments, the average monthly rent can be higher, with two-bedroom units typically costing around $2,500 to $3,500 and three-bedroom units costing around $3,500 to $5,000 or more. Also, apartments in newer or luxury buildings usually cost more than older or more basic ones.
Is Living in Queens Worth It?
Yes, living in Queens is worth it. The cost of living here is lower. Queens’s population is diverse, with a mix of cultures and communities. Plus, there are plenty of outdoor spaces and parks, such as Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Astoria Park, and Rockaway Beach.
Find Apartments for Rent in Queens With June
Queens is one of the best places to live in New York City, thanks to its diverse population and low cost of living. However, finding an apartment to rent can be challenging because of the many neighborhoods.
If you’re planning on moving to Queens, June Homes can help you navigate Queens housing by finding a suitable house. Whether you’re looking for apartments or rooms for rent in Queens, we’ll make the process easy and seamless.
Contact us today, and let us find you a place to call home in Queens without a hassle.
