Chelsea is home to a vast cultural demographic as well as hundreds of art galleries. It is a crowded neighborhood with almost twice the population density of other parts of Manhattan. The elevated park on a former railroad bridge that is The Highline is one of the greatest points of interest in this neighborhood. You can also find great music venues like the Highline Ballroom and The Red Door. The neighborhood boundaries are 6th Avenue and the Hudson River from East to West and, 34th Street to 14th Street from North to South.
Accessibility: Chelsea is most served by the 1,2,3 and A,C,E subway lines, North to South. You can also take the L, along the southern edge of Chelsea. When traveling west of 8th Avenue you will find easier access with the M11 and M12 bus lines. If you’re looking to travel outside of the city you will also find access to the Path trains as well as LIRR, NJ Transit, and Amtrak at Penn Station.
Lifestyle: It’s never a dull moment in Chelsea. With active nightlife and myriad of restaurants, residents will find plenty to do here. Many celebrity chefs have opened restaurants in the area. Scott Conant’s Scarpetta and Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s namesake restaurant are just a couple of the amazing places to dine in Chelsea. If you’re looking for a fun place to have drinks in the warmer weather, The Frying Pan is your spot. This bar is located on several boats which have been docked and connected by platforms to provide you with that gone fishing feeling on the West Side Highway without ever leaving the shore.
Cost of living: Chelsea is not the cheapest place to live in this city. On average rent is about 28% higher in Chelsea when compared to the rest of Manhattan. The median sale price for Chelsea homes in 2014 was 36% higher than the median sale price in Manhattan as a whole. Average rent in the area for a one bedroom is $3,700/month. If you want to live in the area and spend a little less, then go with the walk up, pre-war buildings which are priced around $3,200/month for a one bedroom.