The Most Relaxed Neighborhood in New York🗽: Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is known as one of Manhattan’s most family-oriented areas, with a reputation for high educational standards. Many private elementary, middle, and high schools are located here, often attended by the children of celebrities or some of New York’s wealthiest families. Geographically, it sits on the west side of Central Park, facing New Jersey across the Hudson River, and is also famous for its beautiful river views.

🎤 by Jenny Lee @98jenjen

“I interviewed a friend who lives on the Upper West Side, and the first thing they said was, ‘Other than families or newlyweds, there’s not much to capture here…? A few parks, some museums, but overall, it’s just a very family-oriented neighborhood.’ And honestly, every time I visit, it always strikes me as the quietest and calmest neighborhood in Manhattan.

Summer in the Upper West Side has its own rhythm. While kids are on vacation, many parents are working professionals, so during the day you often see children out with nannies or babysitters. In the evenings, parents return from work and spend time with their kids.

I also noticed children heading to after-school programs in the afternoons, which reminded me of Korea. Back home, after-school activities are mostly academic, but in the U.S., extracurriculars like clubs, sports, and team-based activities are more common. It was only in New York—especially in places like the Upper West Side—that I saw something resembling Korea’s academy culture again.

In the end, even within uptown Manhattan, the vibe differs depending on which side of Central Park you’re on. If the Upper East Side is where the ‘economically successful’ tend to live, then the Upper West Side could be described as where people settle into a stable, family-centered lifestyle.”