Although the Upper East Side has rightly come by its ritzy reputation, it’s far more affordable than stereotypes imply.  Families such as the Rockefellers, Kennedys, and Carnegies are responsible for the affluent history of the neighborhood as well as the gorgeous mansions lining its streets.

Nowadays, though, the stretch of 5th Avenue along Central Park where the city’s aristocrats once made their homes can be enjoyed by everyone; known as “Museum Mile,” the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum are amongst the world-class highlights.  Affordable real estate is plentiful the closer one gets to the East River.

Delightful contradictions abound on the Upper East Side – some of the city’s most elite designer shops line Madison Avenue, while blocks away the dining and nightlife options of 2nd Avenue are judiciously unpretentious and casual.  The soon-to come 2nd Avenue Subway line is yet another incentive to make a home on the Upper East Side, which manages to be equal parts prestigious and attainable.