Murray Hill
Murray Hill, a neighborhood in Manhattan, New York City, offers a diverse range of real estate options for those looking to rent, lease, sublease, or buy office, retail, or residential properties. This historic area combines residential charm with commercial convenience, making it an attractive location for various purposes.
Boundaries
Murray Hill's exact boundaries are subject to some debate, but generally, the neighborhood is considered to extend:
- East to West: From the East River to Fifth Avenue or Madison Avenue
- North to South: From East 42nd Street to East 34th Street or East 27th Street
Some sources include a wider area, stretching as far south as 23rd Street.
History
Murray Hill has a rich history dating back to the 18th century:
- The area was named after the Murray family, who were influential landowners in the region.
- Robert Murray, a Quaker merchant, purchased land in the late 18th century and established a country estate known as Inclenberg.
- During the American Revolutionary War, the Murray family played a role in helping the American army retreat through the area.
- In the 19th century, Murray Hill transformed from rural countryside to a desirable residential neighborhood.
- The neighborhood became an affluent enclave with elegant townhouses and mansions, attracting wealthy families and socialites.
- The construction of Grand Central Terminal in the early 20th century significantly impacted the area's development.
Types of Buildings
Murray Hill features a diverse mix of architectural styles and building types:
- Brownstones and townhouses: Many of these date back to the mid-19th century, built in Italianate and Second Empire styles.
- Pre-war apartment buildings: These offer spacious units with classic New York City charm.
- Modern high-rise apartments: Newer developments provide contemporary living options.
- Office buildings: A mix of older and newer structures house various businesses.
- Mixed-use buildings: Many structures combine residential units with ground-floor retail spaces.
Notable architectural styles in the area include Beaux-Arts, Renaissance/Baroque Revival, Italianate, Art Deco, and Gothic Revival.
Neighborhood Characteristics
Murray Hill is known for its:
- Tree-lined streets with a mix of residential and commercial properties.
- Proximity to Midtown Manhattan, making it convenient for professionals.
- Vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene, particularly popular among young professionals.
- Cultural institutions like the Morgan Library & Museum.
- Diverse population, including a significant Indian community in the area known as "Curry Hill".
Subways and Transportation
Murray Hill benefits from excellent public transportation options:
- Nearby subway stations include:
- 33rd Street (4, 6, and 6 Express trains)
- Grand Central-42nd Street (4, 5, 6, 6 Express, 7, and S trains)
- 28th Street (6 train)
- The neighborhood is also close to Grand Central Terminal, offering access to Metro-North Railroad services.
- Several bus routes serve the area, including the M15-SBS, M42, and QM32.
Retail Stores
Murray Hill offers a diverse shopping experience:
- Lexington Avenue and Third Avenue are home to numerous small businesses, boutiques, and specialty stores.
- The area around "Curry Hill" (Lexington Avenue in the East 20s) features many Indian specialty shops and groceries.
- Major retailers like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods Market have locations in or near Murray Hill.
- CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens provide convenient access to everyday essentials.
Company Offices
While not as business-centric as some other Manhattan neighborhoods, Murray Hill does host various company offices:
- The proximity to Midtown Manhattan makes it an attractive location for smaller firms and startups.
- Several consulates and diplomatic missions are located in the area due to its proximity to the United Nations headquarters.
- Professional services firms, tech companies, and creative agencies can be found in the neighborhood's office buildings.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Murray Hill is home to or near several educational institutions:
- The neighborhood is close to New York University's medical campus, including NYU Langone Medical Center.
- Stern College for Women, part of Yeshiva University, is located in the area.
- The School of Visual Arts has facilities nearby.
- Baruch College, part of the City University of New York system, is just south of Murray Hill.
For those interested in renting, leasing, subleasing, or buying property in Murray Hill, the neighborhood offers a range of options:
- Residential: From classic brownstones to modern high-rise apartments, Murray Hill provides diverse housing choices. The area is particularly popular among young professionals and students.
- Office Space: While not a primary business district, Murray Hill offers more affordable office options compared to Midtown, making it attractive for smaller companies and startups.
- Retail: The neighborhood's mix of residential and commercial areas creates opportunities for retail businesses, particularly along major avenues.
When considering property in Murray Hill, it's important to note:
- Prices can vary significantly based on the specific location within the neighborhood and the type of property.
- The area's popularity among young professionals can lead to a competitive rental market, especially for apartments.
- Historic buildings may have restrictions on renovations or alterations due to landmark status.
- The mix of residential and commercial properties can provide opportunities for mixed-use investments.
Overall, Murray Hill offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern convenience, making it an attractive option for various real estate needs in New York City. Its central location, diverse building stock, and vibrant community atmosphere continue to draw residents, businesses, and investors to this dynamic Manhattan neighborhood.