East Elmhurst, Queens, NY
About East Elmhurst, Queens
East Elmhurst is a residential neighborhood in Northwest, Queens. It’s northern and eastern boundaries are formed by Bowery Bay, however it’s southern and western border are a bit more ambiguous. Jackson Height and Corona are to its south, and Woodside and Ditmars Steinway are to its west. East Elmhurst and Corona are sometimes grouped together because of their proximity and similarity.
East Elmhurst is a quiet, secluded area that is known for its relaxed atmosphere and consistency. It’s an ethnically diverse neighborhood that has been isolated from the gentrification and demographic shifts many New York neighborhoods have experienced over the years. It’s a quiet, middle class neighborhood that features modest residential homes and large pre-war apartment buildings. It’s known for its serene atmosphere and proximity to La Guardia airport that is just north of the neighborhood.
History of East Elmhurst
The area that is now East Elmhurst was once a marsh that local settlers named Trains Meadow. The land was purchased by the Queensboro Corporation in 1909, which led to the development of nearby Jackson Heights. For many years, the area was vacant land. An amusement park called Gala Amusement Park - built by William Steinway - was once on the land that is now La Guardia airport. The area was then known affectionately as the “Coney Island of Queens'', until the amusement park was closed during Prohibition. Homes Airport was built in the area in 1929 but closed down in 1941. LaGuardia airport was built a year later in its place. In the 1970’s the area saw an influx of black and Hispanic residents looking for an affordable suburban enclave. Today it is a multicultural neighborhood in a largely overlooked part of New York CIty.
Demographics of East Elmhurst
There are approximately 65,000 people living in East Elmhurst. It’s primarily a Hispanic neighborhood, with 56% of residents identifying as such. However, there are also considerable black, white and Asian populations as well. Age ranges are fairly evenly divided across groups, as East Elmhurst is a family neighborhood. For instance, 15% of residents are between the ages of 25 and 34, 15% are between the ages of 45 and 54 and 15% are over the age of 65. Twenty one percent are under the age of 18. It’s a solidly middle-class neighborhood and the median household income is around $59,000 per year.
Transportation in East Elmhurst
There are no New York City subway stations near East Elmhurst. Queens is well known for its lack of subway access and East Elmhurst is especially remote. However, the Q19, Q23, Q33, Q47, Q48, Q49, Q66, Q69, Q72 and M60 SBS all make stops near East Elmhurst. Of course, LaGuardia Airport is nearby, giving residents national and international travel options. Plus, several major highways like Grand Central Parkway and I-278 pass by East Elmhurst.
Housing in East Elmhurst
Detached single family homes as well as brick rowhouses and large Art Deco apartment complexes are prevalent in East Elmhurst. It has a more suburban feel than even other residential parts of Queens like Sunnyside or Rego Park. Cape Cod style and brick stucco homes are common, and properties are spacious and affordable. New developments are scarce and the neighborhood has an atmosphere that feels lost in time. East Elmhurst looks closer to a New Jersey or Long Island neighborhood than New York City, with its quirky, single family residences. It’s a great place for working and middle class families because property values are low, and you get a lot of value for your dollar.
Neighborhood Life in East Elmhurst
Residents of East Elmhurst are those willing to exchange bustling commercial strips and hip nightlife for seclusion and serenity. It’s a neighborhood for those looking to live a quiet, middle class life away from the normal bustle of New York City. Astoria Boulevard is the main thoroughfare through the neighborhood and a few mom and pop restaurants, and bodegas can be found here and there. Life in East Elmhurst is similar to life in any sleepy, New York suburb. Residents flock to parks and local bars to celebrate family and community. Those looking for nightlife options can always head over to Astoria or Long Island City, but East Elmhurst is a neighborhood for those looking to live quietly and simply.
Similar Neighborhoods to East Elmhurst, Queens
Real Estate Trends in East Elmhurst, Queens
East Elmhurst is notable in that it’s been secluded from much of the development and gentrification many areas of Queens and Brooklyn have experienced in the past 2 to 3 decades. The median property value in the neighborhood is around $664,000. Prices have increased steadily over the past 5 years by 37%. Properties in East Elmhurst tend to be spacious. One million dollars in East Elmhurst would afford you about 2200 square feet, compared to the borough wide average of 1350 square feet.
The Truth About East Elmhurst, Queens
Is East Elmhurst Safe?
Yes, East Elmhurst is quite safe. In the 80’s and 90’s, the neighborhood was known as a major drug hub as shipments would be smuggled in through planes coming in and out of the airport. But that world has long since evaporated. Today East Elmhurst is a sedate, middle-class neighborhood with a low rate of overall crime. The area is patrolled by the 115th Precinct of the NYPD. Almost all residents report that crime is minimal and doesn’t detract from life in the neighborhood.
Are the Schools in East Elmhurst Good?
The schools in East Elmhurst are decent. For elementary school the neighborhood is zoned for PS 148 and PS 127 Aerospace Science Magnet. For middle school, students may attend IS 227 Louis Armstrong, a very highly rated middle school. There are no public high schools in East Elmhurst, but students may apply for any school in the NYC public school system. Plus, the Sister Clara Muhammad School and the Lexington School for the Deaf are private schools in East Elmhurst.
Popular Eateries in East Elmhurst
Things to Do in East Elmhurst
Check out the Lent-Riker-Smith House, a 350-year-old Dutch Colonial that is reported to be one of the oldest homes in NYC
Stop by the Louis Armstrong House in nearby Corona, where the iconic trumpet player lived in his later years
Stop by the World’s Fair marina a promenade with scenic views of the airport
Take a trip to Flushing-Meadows-Corona Park, the large green space houses Citi Field, the Queens Zoo and the New York Hall of Science
Is East Elmhurst Dog Friendly?
Yes, East Elmhurst is dog friendly. The spacious single-family homes found in the neighborhood are great for dogs to run around for exercise. Parks are fairly limited unless the owner wants to walk to Flushing-Meadows-Corona Park. But the streets are quiet and often tree lined so walking your canine companion around the block will be manageable.
Is East Elmhurst Good for Cycling?
It’s not the best but not the worst. It’s a fairly secluded neighborhood and therefore most residents either drive or walk to get around the area. Bike lanes are somewhat scarce, but the traffic isn’t insane. Those who enjoy cycling and are competent riding in traffic will be fine but it’s not a neighborhood particularly known for cyclists.
2 Things to Know Before Moving to East Elmhurst
The proximity to the airport means planes constantly flying overhead. If this bothers you, it may not be the best neighborhood
There is no subway that stops near East Elmhurst. Those who need to commute to Manhattan should probably look elsewhere.