East Harlem, also known as Spanish Harlem or El Barrio, is a culturally rich and historically significant neighborhood in Manhattan. Located just north of Central Park and stretching from 96th to 125th Streets and from the East River to Fifth Avenue, East Harlem is known for its vibrant Latinx heritage, which continues to influence its community, culture, and local businesses. The area boasts a diverse population and a blend of residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. East Harlem is home to a number of parks, including the popular East River Plaza, and offers a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an attractive option for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle with deep-rooted community values.

East Harlem's real estate market offers a mix of affordable housing, pre-war buildings, and new developments. While traditionally an affordable neighborhood, East Harlem has experienced significant development in recent years, with new luxury condos and modern apartment buildings being built along key corridors. Despite this, the neighborhood has retained a large number of rent-stabilized apartments and affordable housing options, making it attractive for a broad range of residents. Property values have been rising steadily as demand for homes in East Harlem increases, driven in part by its proximity to Central Park, public transportation, and the growing appeal of Upper Manhattan. The neighborhood's real estate market continues to evolve, offering both investment opportunities and potential for further gentrification in the coming years.

East Harlem has a long and varied history, with its roots going back to the 17th century, when it was initially inhabited by the indigenous Lenape people and later settled by Dutch farmers. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the neighborhood became home to a large Italian-American population, who contributed to the area's unique cultural identity. However, it is the Latinx community that has had the most profound impact on the neighborhood, with Puerto Rican immigrants arriving in the 1940s and 1950s, shaping East Harlem’s character and establishing it as a vibrant hub for Puerto Rican culture in New York City. Over the decades, East Harlem has undergone numerous transformations, with waves of immigration, urban development, and community-driven activism shaping its present-day identity. Today, East Harlem celebrates its diverse cultural heritage while continuing to evolve as a dynamic urban neighborhood.