SoHo (South of Houston) transformed from industrial wasteland to artist haven to global shopping destination, but the neighborhood has held onto its distinctive character. The cast-iron architecture, cobblestone streets, and gallery culture create an atmosphere you won't find anywhere else in the city. Yes, it's expensive and crowded on weekends, but living here puts you at the center of Manhattan's creative energy.
What It's Like Living Here
Living in SoHo means adjusting to the weekend tourist crowds while enjoying quieter weekday evenings. The neighborhood empties out after the stores close, and suddenly those cobblestone streets feel almost European. Your morning coffee might be at La Colombe or Blue Bottle, and dinner options range from Balthazar (worth the wait) to hidden gems on side streets.
Transit is solid with the N/Q/R/W and 6 trains, though you'll often find yourself walking since everything is close. The Whole Foods on Houston handles groceries, but locals know the smaller markets on side streets. Laundromats are scarce, so look for buildings with in-unit or basement laundry.
Best For
- •Creative professionals and designers
- •Those who want walkability above all else
- •Art and gallery enthusiasts
- •People who work from home and can enjoy weekday SoHo
Things to Know
- •Weekend crowds can be intense on Broadway
- •Limited grocery options for a neighborhood this expensive
- •Noise from bars and restaurants on weekends
- •Parking is essentially nonexistent
Commute Times from SoHo
Local Tips
Prince Street Station is often less crowded than Broadway-Lafayette
The best galleries are west of Broadway, not on it
Fanelli Cafe is one of the oldest bars in NYC and still great
Weekday mornings before 10am are the best time to enjoy the streets
The Essentials
Grocery
- Whole Foods
- Trader Joe's
Coffee
- Blue Bottle Coffee
- La Colombe
- Stumptown
Dining
- Balthazar
- The Mercer Kitchen
- Raoul's
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