With its trendy boutiques and restaurants, modern residences, and prime location, Long Island City has a reputation for being one of the best areas to live in Queens and the fastest-growing neighborhood in NYC. Between 2010 and 2020, the LIC population increased by 40%, which is five times greater than the citywide growth rate.
Once a formal industrial center, Long Island City, Queens—or LIC as the locals call it—has transformed into one of New York's hottest neighborhoods thanks to its stunning views of Manhattan and commitment to sustainability. Whether you're looking to explore the neighborhood or considering moving there, here is a closer look at what living in Long Island City is really like.
Where Is Long Island City?
Long Island City is in southeast Queens, just north of Brooklyn and across the East River from Midtown East and the Upper East Side. It's bordered by Astoria to the north, Sunnyside to the West, the East River to the East, and Newtown Creek to the south, which separates the LIC neighborhood from Greenpoint, Brooklyn. It also contains a few smaller sub-neighborhoods such as Hunters Point, Dutch Kills, and Blissville.
How to Get to Long Island City
Long Island City's location directly across from Manhattan makes it a popular area for commuters with plenty of transportation options. If you want to hop on the subway, you can access the N, W, R, and 7 lines at Queens Plaza and Queensboro Plaza, or the E, M, G, and 7 trains at Court Square.
If you want to take a more scenic route, Long Island City offers a ferry service along the East River so you can get into Midtown or Downtown Manhattan while enjoying the view. For those who prefer driving, you can easily access the Queens-Midtown Tunnel and the Long Island Expressway. So wherever you need to be in the city, you have a way to get there.
History of Long Island City, Queens, New York
Long Island City has a fascinating history and it’s gone through several transformations throughout the years. In 1870, it was incorporated as its own independent city, where it was home to around 15,000 residents. It wasn't until 1898 when Queens and Long Island City were annexed by New York that it officially became a part of the five boroughs.
Throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s, Long Island City was mostly an industrial center with factories that produced goods such as glass, oil, pottery, and furniture. However, by the 1970s, manufacturing in the area started to decline, and the former industrial buildings were converted into lofts and art galleries.
LIC experienced a revitalization in the 1990s as big companies like CitiBank and MetLife opened office spaces in the neighborhood. Since then, there has been a major increase in new development in Long Island City as a sudden influx of new residents flocked to the community seeking affordable, eco-friendly homes and a thriving arts scene.
Long Island City Waterfront and Parks
Development in Long Island City is mainly centered around two areas: the waterfront and the interior. The waterfront offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and beautiful riverside parks.
Stretching along the East River, Gantry Plaza State Park is one of the best things to do in Long Island City, Queens. Its unique seating, green lawns, and bustling boardwalk make it the ideal destination for a weekend outing or an evening stroll. The iconic Pepsi sign is also a must-see and a historic landmark that represents the neighborhood's industrial past.
The newly developed Hunter's Point South Park is also just down the way and offers a modern vibe with additional city views.
What To Do in Long Island City New York
The interior of Long Island City, Queens, NYC, is where all the action happens. With its world-famous museums, delicious restaurants, and trendy boutiques, LIC is a hub for art lovers.
The world-renowned MoMa PS1 is one of the best things to do in Long Island City, New York if you're a fan of contemporary art. It showcases works from acclaimed international artists and some of the most talked about exhibits in the world.
The neighborhood's industrial past has left plenty of open walls for local artists to turn into murals. So, fans of street art who want to know what to see in Long Island City should explore the interior and look at all the stunning examples of creativity the neighborhood has to offer.
If you're looking for Long Island City bars, restaurants, and shopping options, the Jackson Avenue and Court Square areas are your best bet. They're full of delicious farm-to-table restaurants, trendy cafes, and local boutiques you won't find anywhere else. Many of these places also prioritize sustainability, so you're supporting businesses that care about the community and planet.
Overall, Long Island City is a nice place to live, with a strong sense of community where you'll feel both comfortable and connected.
Long Island City Real Estate
You'll find everything from waterfront condos to luxury rentals in Long Island City, offering modern amenities and eco-friendly designs. If you're looking for a new home, here are a few standout buildings:
- Skyline Tower: A modern condo building right in the heart of LIC with amazing skyline views.
- The View at 46-30 Center Blvd: A popular building full of waterfront condos that features some of the best views in New York.
- The Jackson at 13-33 Jackson Avenue: A sophisticated residence that perfectly balances luxury and industrial style with loft-inspired spaces.
These buildings provide the best of urban living with a special twist - amazing views, modern designs, and a focus on eco-friendly features.
Should You Move to Long Island City, NYC?
Now that you know exactly what living in Long Island City is like, you're ready to decide if it's the right place for you. This neighborhood really has it all—from waterfront parks to a thriving arts scene to incredible dining options. So, if you're looking for the perfect balance of excitement and sustainable living, Long Island City is a great place to call home.
Ready to settle down in this fantastic neighborhood? Reach out to our sales team today to discuss your needs. As an authority on new builds, we can show you the best new construction listings on the market. We’ll show you every unit in the building, access floor plans, help you compare prices, and more. Finding your dream home has never been easier. Contact us today at hello@undividedre.com to get started.
