Neighborhood Overview

Harlem is a historically significant neighborhood in upper Manhattan, spanning roughly 110th to 155th Streets. Known as the cultural capital of Black America, Harlem encompasses Central Harlem, East Harlem (El Barrio/Spanish Harlem), and West Harlem. The neighborhood is experiencing significant development and investment while working to preserve its cultural heritage.

Common Property Types

Brownstones and rowhouses (many historically significant), prewar walk-up apartments, public housing developments (NYCHA), newer condos and mixed-use developments along 125th Street, and institutional properties.

Typical Building Ages

Brownstones and rowhouses from the 1880s-1910s. NYCHA towers from the 1950s-1960s. New construction from the 2000s-2020s along 125th Street and on previously vacant lots.

Common Violations

HPD housing code violations (particularly heat/hot water, lead paint, and pest infestation in older buildings), facade maintenance on brownstones, violations in NYCHA developments, construction violations from new development, and illegal conversion violations.

Property Tax Information

Generally lower assessed values than downtown Manhattan, though rising rapidly in brownstone blocks. Many properties have STAR, Senior Citizen, and Disabled exemptions. NYCHA properties are tax-exempt.

Zoning Information

Mix of R7-2, R7A, R8 on residential blocks, C4 and C6 along 125th Street, and special districts including the 125th Street Special District (2008). East Harlem rezoning (2017) allows increased density with mandatory affordable housing.

Notable Developments

One45 and other 125th Street developments are bringing new commercial and residential space. The East Harlem rezoning continues to shape development patterns.