Elmhurst

Though it may seem far from the action, the dense and bustling neighborhood of Elmhurst, Queens, is a major hub for commerce and transportation. The E, F, M, R, and 7 trains; the Long Island Rail Road; the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway; and the Long Island Expressway all run through Elmhurst, making Manhattan accessible in 20 minutes. This surfeit of commuting options also contributes to a decidedly frenetic feel, with the constant buzz amplified by Elmhurst’s busy commercial scene. There are two malls here, along with countless big-box stores, groceries, medical offices, and restaurants. In fact, the wealth of eateries makes this one of the city’s best neighborhoods for culinary exploration. In addition to transportation and commerce, the central Queens enclave has plenty of housing stock: a mixture of two-family houses, apartment buildings, and condos, all priced well below Manhattan standards.

The Mood

If you're looking for a peaceful oasis, Elmhurst is not it. In exchange for the hustle and bustle, however, residents have access to great eats, shopping, and transportation.

Heart of the Neighborhood

Elmhurst Park was once the site of two towering, iconic gas tanks. Now the place is a popular meeting spot that hosts morning tai chi and sunset games of dominoes.

Neighborhood Quirk

Elmhurst keeps changing names. First it was Middleburgh, then it was Newton, and most recently it was rechristened Elmhurst, as a nod to the area's once-large elm tree population.

Best Perk

A $32 million renovation to the Elmhurst Public Library has made it one of the top libraries in the city.

Biggest Downside

Elmhurst is noisy. Elevated trains, traffic from the BQE and LIE, street vendors, and building construction add to the constant clatter and bustle.