Little Italy has a deep historical connection to the wave of Italian immigration that took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Immigrants, primarily from Southern Italy, settled in this part of Lower Manhattan, transforming it into a bustling ethnic enclave. By the early 1900s, Little Italy was the heart of Italian-American life in New York City, with its streets filled with Italian-owned businesses, restaurants, and social clubs. The neighborhood also played a key role in the development of the American-Italian identity, with Italian immigrants forming tight-knit communities that preserved their traditions, language, and customs. As the years passed, many Italian families moved out of the area, seeking more suburban living, while newer waves of immigrants filled the space. The area gradually transformed with the influx of new businesses and residents. Today, Little Italy’s cultural legacy is still preserved in its restaurants, annual festivals, and historic landmarks, even as the neighborhood continues to evolve.
Explore Little Italy Neighborhood in New York City
General Information
Little Italy is a vibrant and historic neighborhood located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. Known for its Italian-American heritage, Little Italy has long been a cultural hub for immigrants from Italy and their descendants. The neighborhood is famous for its narrow streets lined with Italian cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and boutiques. It is also home to several Italian festivals throughout the year, most notably the Feast of San Gennaro, which draws crowds to celebrate Italian culture, food, and religion. While the area has seen demographic changes over the years and the influx of new residents and businesses, Little Italy remains an important cultural landmark, representing the rich history of Italian immigrants in the city. Visitors and locals alike flock to the neighborhood to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, explore historic sites, and experience the lively, welcoming atmosphere that defines Little Italy.
Real Estate Information
Real estate in Little Italy is highly sought after due to its prime location in the heart of Manhattan, close to other popular neighborhoods such as SoHo, Chinatown, and the Financial District. The housing market in Little Italy is characterized by a mix of historic brownstones, pre-war buildings, and newer condominiums. Property prices in Little Italy tend to be on the higher end, especially for those seeking to live in this iconic area with proximity to major cultural, dining, and entertainment destinations. Due to the neighborhood's popularity with tourists and its historical significance, rental prices in Little Italy can also be quite expensive. However, the area continues to be a desirable location for both residential and commercial real estate, with many investors and developers seeing the value in maintaining and restoring the neighborhood's classic architecture. Despite the pressures of gentrification, Little Italy maintains a unique blend of old-world charm and modern living.
Historical/Interesting Facts
Properties Statistics
Total Properties
73
Median Asking
$1,610,886.84
Sale Price/ft²
$1,220.37
Average Days on Market
104 days
Average Home Size
651 ft²
Average Home Age
88 years
Based on results from 73 properties