The boroughs of New York City are the five major governmental districts that comprise New York City. They are the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
Each borough has the same boundaries as a county in New York State. The boroughs are the five major governmental districts of New York City. Each borough has its own unique culture, lifestyle, and charm.
Some people think New York City has seven boroughs because they include nearby cities in New Jersey, like Jersey City and Hoboken. However, these cities are not part of New York City.

What are the 5 boroughs of New York City?

Manhattan

Manhattan is a narrow island at the center of New York’s 5 boroughs. While geographically very small, there are dozens upon dozens of small Manhattan neighborhoods.

Noteworthy Manhattan Neighborhoods

Upper East Side: The Upper East Side boasts true New York treasures such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum, as well as Madison and 5th Avenues. UES is also home to the United Nations and has a large concentration of private schools, making it one of the best neighborhoods for families in NYC.

Greenwich Village: If you’re looking for a classic New York feel, Greenwich Village is an ideal area to explore. Home to New York University and Washington Square Park (where many a TV show and movie have been filmed), there are tons of great dining options to explore. The Greenwich Village area also offers a short commute to both midtown and the Financial District downtown.

Upper West Side: Bordering the west side of Central Park, the Upper West Side is home to some of the most beautiful real estate in the City. With views of Central Park to the east and Riverside Park to the west, UWS has old-school Manhattan charm with pre-war architecture and, if you’re lucky, stunning park views.

Brooklyn

Located west of Manhattan via the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn’s stereotype involves affluent families and hipsters too cool for mainstream Manhattan. Brooklyn carries much of the cultural influence and weight of Manhattan, with a more relaxed vibe.

Noteworthy Neighborhoods in Brooklyn

Williamsburg: Once a mecca for struggling artists and young creatives, Williamsburg has become a buzzy borough with grit having given way to “hip.” In Williamsburg, you’ll find a thriving arts and music scene and plenty of artisanal goods and foods. Grab a slice of pizza at L’industrie, sip on a cocktail at Fresh Kills Bar, and then catch the sunset over the East River at Domino Park.

Park Slope & Prospect Heights: Located west and north of the beautiful Prospect Park (designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the same people behind Central Park), these two neighborhoods are home to many young, more affluent families, as well as professionals.

The Bronx

The Bronx is home of the New York Yankees, is the cradle of hip hop, and boasts the biggest park in the city, Pelham Bay Park. Geographically, this borough is located north of Manhattan over the Harlem River.

Noteworthy Neighborhoods in the Bronx

Fordham: Surrounding Fordham University, this neighborhood offers attractions like the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage and New York Botanical Garden. Due to its proximity to Fordham University and lower cost of living, this is a popular neighborhood for students moving to NYC.

Riverdale: One of the more upscale neighborhoods in the Bronx, Riverdale is home to tree-lined streets and homes that feel more suburban in nature (read: not conjoined brownstones). Not to mention, tons of historical architecture, from Villa Charlotte Bronte to JFK’s childhood home.

South Bronx: Home to the wide-street shopping area The Grand Concourse, South Bronx is where you’ll find Yankee Stadium and the Bronx Documentary Center, and you can even catch a tour of key locations in the birth of hip hop.

Queens

Queens is the easternmost borough of New York City and geographically the largest of the 5. With a relaxed, suburban feel, Queens neighborhoods are unpretentious, less touristy than Manhattan, and filled with food from all parts of the world.

Noteworthy Neighborhoods in Queens

Astoria: Located just a short train ride from Midtown Manhattan, Astoria has become popular with young professionals looking to find lower rents without sacrificing quick access to Manhattan. Living in Astoria gives you all the perks of the best NYC suburbs without the commute! The burrough is home to unique attractions like the Museum of the Moving Image and Socrates Sculpture Park.

Sunnyside: This western Queens neighborhood is spitting distance from the Empire State Building, with great pubs and thrift shopping. You’ll find a larger variety of housing style options like apartments, houses, and condos, giving the area more of a suburban feel.

Staten Island

The southernmost borough in New York, Staten Island is connected to Manhattan via ferry! Sometimes referred to as the “forgotten borough,” Staten Island offers a suburban, family-oriented lifestyle preferred by its residents, featuring a great zoo, botanical gardens, and backyards with pools.

Noteworthy Neighborhoods in Staten Island

Great Kills: This neighborhood is home to plenty of families attracted to the area by great schools, park and beach access, and trails for running or biking. While this neighborhood isn’t the best option if you’re commuting to Manhattan, Great Kills has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle if you’re looking for a family-friendly spot. When summer rolls around, you’ll likely find yourself spending time at Great Kills Park, which comprises not one but four beaches.

St. George: Located on the northeastern tip of Staten Island, St. George has easy access to the ferry to Manhattan, making it a great option for those who need to commute. With a downtown strip and a variety of housing options (including charming Victorians), St. George is a lovely neighborhood to explore.