Kew Gardens, Queens, NY
About Kew Gardens, Queens
Kew Gardens is a quaint, residential neighborhood in Central Queens. It’s a small, yet posh neighborhood that is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the borough. Kew Gardens is a triangular district that is bounded by Union Turnpike and the Jackie Robinson Parkway, Van Wyck Expressway and 131st Street, Hillside Avenue and Park Lane South. Forrest Hills is to the West, Flushing-Meadows-Corona Park is to the north, Briarwood and Kew Garden Hills are to the west and Richmond Hill is to the South.
Kew Gardens is a middle to upper middle-class enclave in central queens. It’s a highly desirable neighborhood for its picturesque tree-lined blocks and plethora of shopping and transportation options. It’s a rare neighborhood in Queens that has a perfect balance of residential and commercial real estate and it’s something of a self-contained village within the city. Residents will find gorgeous detached single-family homes in English and neo-Tudor styles, as well as multi-family apartment complexes. It’s a relaxed family-oriented neighborhood with great local restaurants and entertainment options.
History of Kew Gardens, Queens
Kew Gardens was designed as a planned community during the early 20th Century. It was one of seven planned communities built in Queens during that period. Properties in the community first came on the market in 1910. In the 1930’s the Grand Central Parkway and Jackie Robinson Parkway were built, increasing the accessibility and popularity of the neighborhood. Around the same time, the Queens Boulevard subway was introduced, establishing Kew Gardens as a popular residential neighborhood for city commuters. This led to a steep increase in property values, transforming Kew Gardens into an upscale suburb. Today Kew Gardens is a quiet, upscale neighborhood that attracts residents from all walks of life.
Demographics in Kew Gardens, Queens
Approximately 18,000 people live in Kew Gardens. It’s primarily a white neighborhood, with 47% of residents identifying as such. However, there are considerable Asian and Hispanic communities as well. Twenty-four percent of residents identify as Hispanic and 19% of residents identify as Asian. It’s a neighborhood of young adults and families. Twenty percent of residents are under 18, 31% are between the ages of 25 and 44 and 28% are over 55, so ranges are fairly evenly distributed across groups. It’s a middle class and upper middle-class neighborhood. The median household income is around $71,000.
Transportation in Kew Gardens, Queens
There are many transportation options available to the residents of Kew Gardens. The E and F trains make stops at the Union Turnpike Station. The Q10, Q23, Q44, Q54, Q60 and Q88 buses all make stops in or around Kew Gardens. The LIRR makes a stop at Kew Gardens station in the neighborhood. I-678 (Van Wyck Expressway), Grand Central Parkway, Jackie Robinson Parkway, Queens Boulevard and Union Turnpike all intersect at Kew Gardens Exchange, making them available to drivers in Kew Gardens.
Housing in Kew Gardens, Queens
The housing in Kew Gardens is a diverse array of single-family homes and upscale apartment complexes. Both condos and co-ops are common in the neighborhood. Despite it’s gorgeous and historic architecture, none of the area has been designated a historic district. Therefore, older pre-war residents sit beside new luxury apartments. Many of the homes in the neighborhood have been persevered voluntarily by residents who love the iconic early 20th century architecture. But it’s a neighborhood that continues to develop and grow with time. Many neo-tudor style homes can be found at prices that are affordable for the ambiance and amenities the area offers.
Neighborhood Life in Kew Gardens, Queens
Kew Gardens is a low-key area that features great local bars, restaurants and shopping. Lefferts Boulevard between Austin Street and Metropolitan Avenue is the main commercial center. Forest Park, the third largest park in the borough of Queens borders Kew Gardens and residents can often be found enjoying the recreational facilities in the park. Life in Kew Gardens is similar to life in any suburban New York neighborhood. Residents often split their time between relaxing at home and venturing into other parts of the city with more entertainment options. Hip boutiques and trendy bars are not common in the neighborhood. But it features all the daily amenities and activities a resident needs, which is why it’s such a popular neighborhood.
Similar Neighborhoods to Kew Gardens, Queens
Real Estate Trends in Kew Gardens, Queens
Kew Gardens features some prime real estate. It’s quite affordable for the amount of value it offers, and the median home value is only $310,000. Prices have remained fairly consistent over the past 5 years, only decreasing by about 3.5%. It’s the perfect distance from Manhattan in that residents can get into the city fairly easily, but it’s not so close that property values have skyrocketed. Families and young professionals looking to purchase a home are wise to look in Kew Gardens. It’s still affordable but it may not remain that way forever, because of the value it offers residents.
The Truth About Kew Gardens, Queens
Is Kew Gardens Safe?
Yes, Kew Gardens is safe. Central Queens is one of the safest areas in the city and has a very low rate of overall crime. The area is patrolled by the 102nd Precinct of the NYPD and that precinct has reported a major decrease in all crimes since the 1990’s. It’s a secluded area that doesn’t attract much attention from visitors or tourists. Therefore, there isn’t much to attract criminals to the area.
Are the Schools in Kew Gardens Good?
There aren’t many schools in Kew Gardens. PS 99 Kew Gardens is a public elementary school in the neighborhood that has received high ratings for test scores and student-teacher ratio. There are several private Jewish middle and high schools in the neighborhood, like Yeshiva Shaar Hatorah, Yeshiva Ohr Haiim and the Bais Yaakov Academy for Girls. Plus, residents may apply for other highly rated public high schools in the city.
Popular Eateries in Kew Gardens, Queens?
Things to Do in Kew Gardens?
See a movie at the Kew Gardens Cinema, movie theatre is well known for featuring indie and foreign films
Visit Forest Park, the 538-acre greenspace features a pond, dog runs, sports field and an outdoor band hall.
Check out the Ralph Johnson Bunche House, a preserved neo-Tutor home that was the residence of Ralph Bunche, an American diplomat who helped create the United Nations
Stop by Maple Grove Cemetery, a historic cemetery on the National Register of Historic Places
Is Kew Gardens Good for Dogs?
Yes, Kew Gardens is a great neighborhood for dogs. There are several dog-runs in Forest Park and furry friends are often seen running around the area. The quiet tree lined blocks and spacious units are great for canines. Of course, some buildings are stricter on pets than others but overall, it’s a dog friendly neighborhood.
Is Kew Gardens Good for Cyclists?
Yes, Kew Gardens is a decent neighborhood for cyclists. Being a residential neighborhood deep in the borough, driving is more common than biking. However, the calm, tree-line blocks of Kew Gardens are great for cycling on a fall day. Those who prefer to bike over waking or taking the train will love the peaceful solitude of the neighborhood. Bike lanes are limited, however confident cyclists won’t have an issue riding on the quiet residential roads. It’s a hilly neighborhood, which may prove difficult to some, but those with experience will be fine.
2 Things to Know Before Moving to Kew Gardens, Queens
Kew Gardens feels more like a neighborhood in Westchester or Long Island than NYC. Those looking for the hustle and bustle should look elsewhere
The commute to Manhattan is manageable but still takes a while on the train. Those looking to commute should plan accordingly.