Roosevelt Island is a small, unique residential community located in the East River between Manhattan and Queens. Known for its peaceful, suburban atmosphere and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Roosevelt Island offers a distinctive living experience compared to other parts of New York City. The island is only accessible by the Roosevelt Island Tramway, subway, or ferry, providing an element of exclusivity while maintaining a strong connection to the city's pulse. Despite its size, Roosevelt Island features a range of amenities including parks, recreational areas, and educational institutions. Its main residential area is a mix of high-rise apartment buildings and modern developments, attracting a variety of residents from professionals to families seeking a quiet retreat with easy access to Manhattan. Roosevelt Island’s waterfront location and historical significance make it an appealing place to live for those looking for a balance of tranquility and proximity to city life.

The real estate market on Roosevelt Island is characterized by a variety of housing options, including high-rise condominiums, co-op buildings, and rental apartments. Many of the residential properties offer spectacular views of the East River, the Manhattan skyline, and the Queensboro Bridge, making the island a highly desirable location for those seeking scenic, waterfront living. The neighborhood's real estate market has seen steady growth in recent years, with newer developments adding to the range of available properties. While it has traditionally been more affordable compared to other Manhattan neighborhoods, the demand for Roosevelt Island’s unique location and amenities has caused prices to rise in recent years. With convenient access to Midtown Manhattan, Roosevelt Island attracts a mix of young professionals, couples, and families who enjoy the quieter, community-focused atmosphere while still being close to the vibrant city life. The area's growing development, including the addition of luxury apartment complexes, has further solidified Roosevelt Island’s status as a desirable place to live.

Roosevelt Island, once known as Blackwell Island, has a rich and multifaceted history dating back to the early 19th century. The island was originally used for various institutional purposes, including as a site for a hospital, a penitentiary, and an insane asylum. In the early 20th century, the island was transformed, and in 1973, it was renamed Roosevelt Island in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The island was intended to be a model urban community, and its transformation into a residential area began in earnest in the 1960s. One of the most notable historical features of Roosevelt Island is the Roosevelt Island Tramway, which opened in 1976, providing a scenic and convenient link to Manhattan. The island has continued to evolve, and today it is home to several landmarks, including the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a memorial dedicated to the late president. Roosevelt Island’s development from an industrial and institutional site to a vibrant, residential neighborhood mirrors the ongoing transformation of New York City itself, blending the past with modern urban living.