A Contract-Based Analysis of Buyer Demand
In 2025, Manhattan’s residential real estate market was shaped by transactional activity rather than speculation. While pricing, inventory, and interest rates influenced decision-making, the most reliable indicator of buyer demand was signed contracts. Signed contracts reflect where buyers made definitive commitments.
Using signed contract data across the borough, the following analysis ranks the most popular Manhattan neighborhoods in 2025 based on total signed contracts, supported by broader market context.
Downtown Manhattan: The Most Active Market in 2025
Total signed contracts: 4,068
Downtown Manhattan was the most popular region in the borough by a wide margin, accounting for the highest concentration of signed contracts in 2025. Its continued dominance reflects sustained demand for neighborhoods offering walkability, architectural variety, and strong resale liquidity.
The most active Downtown neighborhoods were:
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Chelsea – 622 contracts
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Greenwich Village – 532 contracts
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Financial District – 451 contracts
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West Village – 358 contracts
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Tribeca – 349 contracts
Downtown also recorded notable townhouse activity, particularly in the West Village and Chelsea, reinforcing buyer preference for low-density living in prime locations.
Why Downtown led in 2025:
A combination of lifestyle appeal, diversified housing stock, and long-term value stability positioned Downtown Manhattan as the borough’s most consistently sought-after area.
Upper East Side: High Volume and Renewed Buyer Confidence
Total signed contracts: 2,553
The Upper East Side ranked among Manhattan’s most popular regions in 2025, driven by broad inventory, relative value, and renewed momentum in both resale and new development transactions.
Leading neighborhoods included:
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Lenox Hill – 1,351 contracts
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Yorkville – 644 contracts
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Carnegie Hill – 315 contracts
Lenox Hill alone generated more signed contracts than many entire Manhattan submarkets, reflecting its central location and consistent buyer demand.
Why the Upper East Side remained popular:
Price stabilization, a strong co-op and condominium mix, and long-term neighborhood confidence continued to attract end users and repeat buyers.
Midtown Manhattan: Scale, Accessibility, and Consistent Demand
Total signed contracts: 2,218
Midtown remained a key driver of Manhattan transaction volume in 2025, supported by proximity to employment centers, transportation hubs, and a large concentration of full-service residential buildings.
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Midtown East recorded 1,393 signed contracts, driven by established co-ops and luxury condominiums.
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Midtown West followed with 825 contracts, supported by newer developments and proximity to Hudson Yards.
Why Midtown stayed competitive:
Buyers prioritized convenience, building amenities, and predictable resale performance, making Midtown a consistently popular choice.
Upper West Side: Stable, Lifestyle-Oriented Demand
Total signed contracts: 2,092
The Upper West Side continued to perform as one of Manhattan’s most reliable residential markets, appealing to buyers seeking livability, green space, and long-term stability.
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Upper West Side – 1,267 contracts
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Lincoln Square – 751 contracts
Townhouse activity remained limited but meaningful, particularly near Central Park West and Riverside Drive.
Why demand remained strong:
The neighborhood’s balance of classic housing stock, schools, and access to Central Park sustained steady buyer interest throughout the year.
Upper Manhattan: Focused Activity and Townhouse Demand
Total signed contracts: 860
Upper Manhattan recorded lower overall volume than core Manhattan regions but demonstrated targeted strength, particularly in townhouse transactions.
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Central Harlem – 292 contracts
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Washington Heights – 207 contracts
Why Upper Manhattan stood out:
Relative affordability, larger home sizes, and long-term appreciation potential continued to attract buyers priced out of more central neighborhoods.
Roosevelt Island: A Small but Steady Market
Total signed contracts: 62
Roosevelt Island remained a niche market in 2025, with consistent apartment activity supported by limited inventory and a stable buyer base.
Key Takeaways: Manhattan’s Most Popular Neighborhoods in 2025
Manhattan’s Most Popular Neighborhoods in 2025
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Downtown Manhattan ranked as the most active region by signed contracts
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The Upper East Side followed with strong, broad-based demand
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Midtown and the Upper West Side remained consistent, high-volume markets
The 2025 data reflects a market shaped by buyer selectivity, pricing clarity, and sustained confidence in established neighborhoods. As Manhattan moves into 2026, these contract trends provide a clear view of where demand has proven strongest and most durable.
Seller Advisory
For Manhattan sellers, the 2025 contract data offers a clear framework for decision-making. Buyer demand has remained strongest in neighborhoods with proven liquidity, pricing transparency, and consistent long-term appeal. In these markets, well-positioned properties continue to transact when pricing and presentation align with buyer expectations.
For owners considering a sale in 2026, understanding where contracts are actually being signed is essential. Strategy, timing, and pricing matter more than ever in a selective market. Sellers who approach the market with clarity and data are best positioned to capture demand while conditions remain favorable.
Our team advises sellers using real transaction trends, not headlines. If you are evaluating a sale, repositioning, or timing strategy, we are happy to provide a confidential, data-driven assessment tailored to your property and neighborhood.
Buyer Advisory
For Manhattan buyers, the 2025 contract data highlights where demand has been most competitive and where opportunities may still exist. Popular neighborhoods continue to attract deep buyer interest, particularly when pricing is aligned and inventory quality is high. At the same time, selective conditions have created moments of leverage for prepared buyers who understand market nuances.
Entering 2026, successful buyers are prioritizing clarity over urgency. Evaluating contract trends, building quality, and neighborhood liquidity allows buyers to act decisively when the right property emerges. Strategy, preparation, and timing remain critical in securing value in a competitive landscape.
Our team works closely with buyers to interpret real-time contract activity and identify opportunities that align with both lifestyle and long-term objectives. For a confidential discussion on market conditions, pricing strategy, or upcoming inventory, we are available to advise.
