Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights is a historic, tree-lined neighborhood perched along the East River, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Known for its brownstone architecture, peaceful streets, and the iconic Brooklyn Heights Promenade, it’s a charming blend of old-world elegance and modern city living just minutes from downtown Manhattan.

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Often called the “first suburb of America,” Brooklyn Heights combines small-town charm with big-city convenience. Its cobblestone streets and 19th-century townhouses create a timeless atmosphere, while its vibrant dining scene, cultural spots, and waterfront parks keep it firmly connected to the pulse of New York City.

A Glimpse Into Brooklyn Heights’ History

Steeped in centuries of history, Brooklyn Heights has played a key role in the development of both Brooklyn and greater New York. Its story is one of preservation, community pride, and architectural beauty.

Origins and Development

The neighborhood’s roots stretch back to the early 1800s, when steamboat travel made commuting to Manhattan feasible for the first time. Wealthy merchants and professionals built elegant row houses here, making Brooklyn Heights one of the city’s earliest commuter neighborhoods.

Historic Preservation

In 1965, Brooklyn Heights became New York City’s first designated historic district, protecting its brownstones, carriage houses, and leafy streets from large-scale redevelopment. This landmark decision preserved its architectural integrity and set the stage for similar preservation efforts across the city.

What to Do and See in Brooklyn Heights

Despite its peaceful vibe, Brooklyn Heights offers plenty to explore, from scenic waterfronts to cultural institutions. Whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or calling it home, these spots define the neighborhood.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

This elevated walkway along the East River offers some of the best views in New York City—sweeping panoramas of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Benches, flower beds, and playgrounds make it perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet reflection.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Stretching for 1.3 miles along the waterfront, this park features sports fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, and piers with breathtaking city views. It’s a hub for outdoor activities, from kayaking to summer movie nights.

Montague Street

The neighborhood’s main commercial strip, Montague Street is lined with cafes, bakeries, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s where locals grab their morning coffee, run errands, or enjoy a weekend brunch.

Plymouth Church

Known as the “Grand Central Depot” of the Underground Railroad, Plymouth Church played a pivotal role in the abolitionist movement. Today, it remains an active congregation and historic landmark.

New York Transit Museum

Housed in a decommissioned 1936 subway station, this museum is a treasure trove of transit history, complete with vintage subway cars and exhibits on the city’s transportation system.

Lifestyle and Vibe

Brooklyn Heights feels like a calm oasis just steps from the hustle of downtown Brooklyn and Manhattan. Its quiet, shaded streets are ideal for leisurely walks, yet the neighborhood remains lively thanks to its restaurants, cafes, and community events.

Who Lives Here?

A mix of long-time residents, young professionals, and families call Brooklyn Heights home. Its excellent schools, safe streets, and quick commute to Manhattan make it especially popular with those seeking a high quality of life without leaving the city.

Local Hotspots: Eat, Drink, and Relax

Brooklyn Heights’ culinary scene is cozy and refined, with a mix of neighborhood favorites and destination dining.

Restaurants and Cafes

  • Colonie – A stylish spot serving seasonal New American fare in a warm, rustic setting.

  • Noodle Pudding – A beloved Italian restaurant known for hearty pastas and old-school charm.

  • Heights Cafe – A casual, family-friendly cafe perfect for breakfast or lunch.

  • Vineapple Cafe – A cozy spot with great coffee, fresh pastries, and a relaxed vibe.

Bakeries and Markets

  • Perelandra Natural Food Center – A go-to for organic groceries and healthy prepared foods.

  • Lassen & Hennigs – A classic deli and bakery offering sandwiches, cakes, and catering since 1949.

  • One Girl Cookies – A charming bakery known for artisanal cookies, cupcakes, and whoopie pies.

Parks and Green Spaces

  • Brooklyn Heights Promenade – Scenic walks and unbeatable skyline views.

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park – Expansive waterfront park with something for everyone.

Real Estate Snapshot

Brooklyn Heights offers some of the most coveted real estate in New York, with a mix of historic charm and modern luxury.

Types of Housing

The neighborhood is best known for its 19th-century brownstones and row houses, many of which have been meticulously restored. You’ll also find prewar apartment buildings, modern condos, and a few co-op towers with river views.

Who Buys and Rents Here?

Buyers are often professionals and families seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle. Renters range from young creatives to executives who value the easy commute to Manhattan. Prices here are among the highest in Brooklyn due to the neighborhood’s prestige and limited inventory.

Annual Events and Festivals

Brooklyn Heights may be quiet compared to some NYC neighborhoods, but its community calendar still offers plenty to enjoy.

Atlantic Antic

While technically in nearby Boerum Hill, this massive street fair stretches close enough to attract Brooklyn Heights locals for food, music, and shopping.

Movies With a View

Held in Brooklyn Bridge Park, this summer film series pairs classic movies with stunning skyline backdrops.

Montague Street Summer Space

Select weekends transform Montague Street into a pedestrian-only zone with outdoor dining, live music, and activities.

What Makes These Events Special?

These gatherings foster a small-town sense of community in the heart of New York City. Whether it’s watching a sunset movie by the water or strolling a car-free Montague Street, residents and visitors alike connect over shared experiences.

Ready to Explore Brooklyn Heights?

From its iconic promenade to its charming side streets, Brooklyn Heights offers a serene yet vibrant take on city living. Whether you’re here for the skyline views, the history, or the neighborhood cafes, you’ll find that Brooklyn Heights is as captivating in person as it is on paper.

 

Overview for Brooklyn Heights, NY

24,098 people live in Brooklyn Heights, where the median age is 42 and the average individual income is $148,973. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

24,098

Total Population

42 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$148,973

Average individual Income

Around Brooklyn Heights, NY

There's plenty to do around Brooklyn Heights, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

93
Walker's Paradise
Walking Score
77
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
100
Rider's Paradise
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Fur Source of NY, Hands On Health, and My Gym Cobble Hill.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Shopping 4.77 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.59 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.84 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.48 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.01 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.62 miles 19 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Brooklyn Heights, NY

Brooklyn Heights has 11,735 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Brooklyn Heights do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 24,098 people call Brooklyn Heights home. The population density is 83,208.578 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

24,098

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

42

Median Age

45.92 / 54.08%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
11,735

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$148,973

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Brooklyn Heights, NY

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Brooklyn Heights. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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