NUMBER 5: UPPER FIFTH AVENUE

Our popular HB series that ranks the top 10 uptown neighborhoods is back for the end of the year count in 2014. Harlem is a large part of Manhattan that changes block by block so we have put together a list of the best micro-nabes based on location, architecture, transportation, local amenities along with record closing prices when applicable. This is our own opinion based on reporting on the neighborhood for a few years and a new post will be made each day until the number one spot has been revealed.


No. 5: Upper Fifth Avenue, Central and East Harlem, from 125th Street up to 130th Street. The blocks north of 125th Street by Fifth Avenue have the distinction of being on the cusp of East and Central Harlem along with making some record sales in the past couple of years.  This architecturally intact avenue and immediate side street blocks have attracted the attention of actor Neil Patrick Harris who set a record for highest Harlem house sale at $3.66 million back in 2013.  Within the same year, contemporary artist Ugo Rondinone also purchased a home nearby within a former church. This corridor holds its position this year mainly because the second costliest closing for 2014 was on none other than Fifth Avenue but the area still is mainly very residential.  This is only a minor detail since Lenox Avenue's commercial corridor along with all 125th Street has to offer and the express subway lines are just an avenue over.  Those who enjoy a little outdoor recreation will also find Marcus Garvey Park a short walk away which attracts local joggers such as Chef Marcus Samuellson on any given morning.