Hell’s Kitchen is a vibrant neighborhood in Manhattan with a long history. It went from being a dangerous stomping ground for gangs to a seedy hangout for artist types to a popular and coveted area suitable for anyone who can afford the high rents. The area still retains some of the soulful grittiness it once had, but it is fast disappearing. Hell’s Kitchen’s borders are difficult to define but they’re thought to stretch from 57th Street to the north down to 34th Street to the south and from the river in the west to 8th Avenue to the east.

Considering its location in Manhattan, you can still find a few bargains relative to the cost of other nearby neighborhoods (but still expensive by any standards). It is possible to find a studio in the area for under $2,000 but that is most likely to be in one of the older buildings, possibly complete with lopsided staircases, warped floors and maybe even bedbugs which the neighborhood is known for having. Most of the older buildings are walk-ups meaning they have no elevators. Newer, flashy, glass buildings are springing up all the time and, while they are very expensive, they are said to have amazing views.

Hell’s Kitchen is made up of all types of people but it still retains a neighborhood-y feel to it. It’s popular with recent graduates and students due to the relatively low rents for Manhattan. It also has a lot of rent-controlled buildings meaning that there are lots of long-time residents of all races and nationalities. The area is especially gay-friendly. Though Hell’s Kitchen has had a reputation in the past as being violent, today it is generally safe. It feels safe because there are usually people out and about until all hours of the morning.

Hell’s Kitchen has the city’s largest park on its doorstep. Central Park has anything an outdoor enthusiast could possibly want including kid’s playgrounds, basketballs, volleyball and handball courts, baseball diamonds, walking trails and plenty of open space to kick back and relax. If that all sounds too healthy then you are lucky because there are plenty of options in Hell’s Kitchen for indulging on great food or a variety of booze. Ninth Avenue is one of the best streets in New York for eating with places from all sorts of different cultures represented.

Hell’s Kitchen is right in the thick of the action of New York City. It’s close to the Theatre District, next door to Central Park and handy for just about everywhere else due to good transportation links. The cheaper rents make it a good place to live for new arrivals or students who have their heart set on staying in Manhattan.