Greenpoint, Brooklyn, NY
About Greenpoint, Brooklyn
The northernmost neighborhood in the borough of Brooklyn, Greenpoint is one of New York City’s hidden gems. The neighborhood is home to an eclectic mix of residents including multi-generational- families, working professionals, artists, actors, and musicians.
The neighborhood is well known for its industrial heritage and old New York-feel and it's unique shops and restaurants. It’s become a refuge for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan but still want an easy commute into the city.
History of Greenpoint
Originally, Greenpoint was inhabited by the Lenape Keskachauge tribe, until Dutch settlers arrived to colonize the area. For many years, the area was made up of farmland. Then in the mid 19th Century, several factories were built alongside the East River. These factories, as well as the abundance of longshoreman and dock work, lead to the neighborhood’s development as a community of working-class immigrants. It remained a working-class Polish and Irish neighborhood up until the early 2000’s when a development boom created by the popularity of neighboring Williamsburg led to a wave of gentrification. Since then, it’s become a popular location for Brooklynites who appreciate its unique charm and working-class roots.
Greenpoint Demographics
Greenpoint has a population of approximately 35,000 people. It’s a young neighborhood, with 37% of residents being between the ages of 25 and 34. However, there is a significant population of children and families. Most residents are white, however, there is also a significant Asian and Latino population as well. Greenpoint is well known for its Polish, North African and South Asian communities, and its mixture of cultural influences.
Transportation in Greenpoint
Transportation in Greenpoint is fairly accessible. Residents can access the G train to take them deeper into Brooklyn or Queens. From the G, residents can transfer to the L, E, or M to head into Manhattan or elsewhere. The B24, B32, B43, and B62 all have routes that run through Greenpoint for additional public transportation. As do the Port Jefferson and Washington Trains, that travel in and out of the city. The East River Ferry also makes a stop in Greenpoint.
Housing in Greenpoint
The housing in Greenpoint is a mixture of new developments and eclectic old-world buildings. The city's industrious heritage is evident in its architecture – which is a large part of the neighborhood’s charm. In 1982 a section of Greenpoint between Java Street and Meserole Ave was deemed a historic district, to preserve the areas authentic ambiance Despite its popularity, Greenpoint is still more affordable than other popular neighborhoods in north Brooklyn like Park Slope or Williamsburg. The residents in Greenpoint tend to be renters because it’s a younger demographic. However, there is a considerable population of homeowners. In 2018, around 17% of residents in the Greenpoint/Williamsburg area owned their homes.
Neighborhood Life in Greenpoint
Greenpoint is a quiet neighborhood that boasts amazing local coffee shops and bars. Residents can enjoy amazing Polish cuisine and other world-renown restaurants. The local artist community has transformed former warehouses in the neighborhood into art galleries or restaurants, giving the area a chic atmosphere that honors the borough’s working-class roots. Residents can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting the Polish Bookstore on Java Street and Manhattan Avenue. The scenic views of Manhattan along Greenpoint’s waterfront are another popular attraction for local residents who want to exercise or just get some fresh air.
Similar Neighborhoods to Greenpoint
Greenpoint Real Estate Trends
Since the Brooklyn development boom of the early 2000s Greenpoint real estate has been on the rise. In 2005 the city approved a rezoning of the neighborhood that allowed for the development of thousands of units of housing and retail spaces. The effects of that rezoning are now becoming evident, with the construction of dozens of new housing developments in the neighborhood. Much of the new construction is centered around the scenic Waterfront area, along West and Franklin Street.
Greenpoint Median Sale Price (USD):
1bd 760,000
Greenpoint Median Rent Price (USD):
1bd 2,700
2bd 3,200
The Truth You Should Know About Greenpoint
How Safe is Greenpoint, Brookyn?
Greenpoint is a very safe neighborhood. It’s a sleepy, artist neighborhood that has a violent crime rate lower than the city as a whole. The area is under the jurisdiction of the 94th Precinct of the NYPD, who patrols the neighborhood regularly. Between 1990 and 2018, the 94th Precinct reported that crime across all categories dropped by 72.9%. The neighborhood has gotten considerably less dangerous since the ’80s and ’90s and is now an unassuming community of creatives and families.
Are Schools in Greenpoint, Brooklyn Good?
Yes, Greenpoint has several highly rated public schools. PS 31 Samuel F Dupont and PS 34 Oliver H Perry are two elementary schools that have an excellent reputation and rating. For middle school and High School, John Ericsson Middle School and the Automotive High School are also located in Greenpoint. If a student is interested in exploring opportunities at another public school in New York, several top-rated high schools in the city are also available to residents of Greenpoint.
The public schools in Greenpoint aren’t always enough spots for students that need them. If you have children looking to enroll in school, it’s best to plan ahead so that they have a better chance of acceptance.
Popular Eateries in Greenpoint, Brooklyn?
What to Do in Greenpoint, Brooklyn?
Visit the waterfront, the view of Manhattan is spectacular and there are many popular restaurants within walking distance.
Go shopping at Dusty Rose Vintage, an old warehouse that has been transformed into a clothing store, photo studio and event space.
Celebrate the neighborhoods Polish heritage by patronizing the Polish bookstore or eateries like Pyza on Nassau Ave or Karczm on Greenpoint Ave.
Spend the day in McCarren Park, a large green space that sits on the border between Greenpoint and Williamsburg.
Go see a show at Brooklyn Bazaar, a live concert venue in a former banquet hall on Greenpoint Ave.
Is Greenpoint, Brooklyn Dog Friendly?
Absolutely! With ample access to parks and water, Greenpoint is a prime location for canine companions. Dogs are often seen jogging alongside owners by the Waterfront or playing fetch in McCarren Park. The Greenpoint community is very accepting of animals and many apartments allow pets. Plus, Greenpoint is a walker’s paradise so taking the dog for a walk on a brisk Sunday morning is something local residents are known to enjoy.
Is Greenpoint, Brooklyn Good for Cycling
Greenpoint is not only good for cycling, it’s a vital mode of transportation for many residents. With fairly limited access to the subway, Greenpoint residents often rely on cycling as their primary mode of transportation when traveling within the neighborhood or borough. There are several highly rated bicycle stores in Greenpoint, like Silk Road Cycles on Franklin Street. Plus, Greenpoint has a community of artists who are committed to eco-friendly living, and cycling is an important aspect of that lifestyle.
5 Things to Know Before Moving to Greenpoint, Brooklyn
The G train - the only line that stops in Greenpoint - gets crowded during rush hour, so plan your day accordingly.
Residential towers are rising along Greenpoint’s waterfront (which may make the area feel more like neighboring Williamsburg).
The East River Ferry is a popular alternative to taking the subway into Manhattan. It has a terminal on India Street and will take your right to 34th Street and is often quicker than taking the G and transferring.
The Sunshine Laundromat on Manhattan Ave is not just a laundromat. There is also a bar and arcade behind the rows of laundry machines. So, if you need something to do while you clean your clothes, it’s the perfect spot.
A series of connected parks, promenades, and paths is transforming Greenpoint’s once-barren waterfront into a recreational oasis