Manhattan, one of New York City's five boroughs, is a bustling hub of culture, business, and history. Stretching from the tip of Lower Manhattan to the quiet residential areas of Inwood, the island is home to millions of people, iconic landmarks, and unique neighborhoods. Each of these areas is defined by distinct zip codes that help locals and visitors alike navigate the city.
Whether you're looking for information about where to live, work, or just want to understand how the zip codes in Manhattan are structured, I've got you covered. Let's dive into the zip codes of Manhattan, breaking it down neighborhood by neighborhood.
Overview of Manhattan Zip Codes
Manhattan's zip codes are as diverse as its neighborhoods. From the tip of Battery Park to the upper reaches of Inwood, these codes not only designate specific regions but also reflect the borough's historical growth.
- Manhattan zip codes range primarily between 10001 to 10286, though a few variations exist.
- The lower the number, the further south you are. For example, 10001 covers parts of Chelsea in Midtown, while 10282 is assigned to Battery Park at the southern tip of the island.
Most zip codes in Manhattan are five digits, but if you're receiving mail or sending packages, you may notice an extra four digits tacked onto the end. This is known as the ZIP+4 code, which designates a more specific location within that zip code.
Lower Manhattan Zip Codes
Lower Manhattan is where it all began. This area includes the Financial District, the trendy streets of SoHo, and the historic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy. The zip codes here tend to reflect the oldest parts of the city.
| Neighborhood | Zip Code |
|---|---|
| Financial District | 10004, 10005, 10006 |
| Battery Park City | 10280, 10282 |
| Tribeca | 10007, 10013 |
| Chinatown | 10013, 10002 |
| Little Italy | 10013 |
| SoHo | 10012, 10013 |
| Nolita | 10012 |
| Lower East Side | 10002 |
Financial District and Battery Park
The Financial District (FiDi), with zip codes like 10004 and 10005, is Manhattan's central business hub. You’ll find Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and countless financial firms here. Battery Park City (10280, 10282) offers a peaceful respite with its green spaces and views of the Statue of Liberty.
SoHo, Tribeca, and Chinatown
SoHo (10012, 10013), famous for its shopping, art galleries, and cobblestone streets, contrasts with the quieter, family-friendly vibe of Tribeca (10007, 10013). Chinatown (10002, 10013) is one of the largest Chinese communities in the U.S., full of bustling markets and authentic eats.
Midtown Manhattan Zip Codes
Midtown is the heart of Manhattan, bustling with tourists, office workers, and skyscrapers. It’s where you'll find the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Grand Central Terminal.
| Neighborhood | Zip Code |
|---|---|
| Chelsea | 10001, 10011 |
| Hell’s Kitchen | 10018, 10019 |
| Garment District | 10018 |
| Midtown East | 10022 |
| Murray Hill | 10016 |
| Times Square | 10036 |
| Kips Bay | 10016 |
| NoMad | 10001 |
| Hudson Yards | 10001 |
Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and Hudson Yards
Chelsea (10001, 10011) is known for its high-rise apartments, the famous Chelsea Market, and the High Line park. Nearby, Hell’s Kitchen (10018, 10019) offers eclectic restaurants and bars, with zip codes that overlap the Theater District. The futuristic neighborhood of Hudson Yards (10001) is home to the Vessel and luxury shopping experiences.
Times Square and Midtown East
Times Square (10036), with its neon lights and Broadway shows, might be the most recognized spot in Manhattan. Midtown East (10022) includes landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the United Nations.
Upper Manhattan Zip Codes
Upper Manhattan includes famous residential neighborhoods like the Upper East Side and Harlem, as well as historic institutions like Columbia University.
| Neighborhood | Zip Code |
|---|---|
| Upper East Side | 10021, 10028, 10128 |
| Upper West Side | 10023, 10024, 10025 |
| Harlem | 10026, 10027, 10030, 10037 |
| East Harlem | 10029, 10035 |
| Washington Heights | 10032, 10033 |
| Inwood | 10034 |
| Morningside Heights | 10027 |
Upper East Side and Upper West Side
The Upper East Side (10021, 10028) is known for its luxury apartments and proximity to Central Park. This area is home to many museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Across the park, the Upper West Side (10023, 10024, 10025) boasts a more laid-back atmosphere, with charming brownstones and access to Riverside Park.
Harlem, East Harlem, and Washington Heights
Harlem (10026, 10027) is a historic neighborhood famous for its role in the Harlem Renaissance. With its jazz clubs, soul food restaurants, and cultural landmarks, it’s a must-visit. East Harlem (10029), or Spanish Harlem, has deep Latino roots and offers vibrant street life. Moving further north, Washington Heights (10032, 10033) and Inwood (10034) offer quieter, more residential environments with a strong sense of community.
Neighborhood Breakdown by Zip Code
Let's break it down even further by listing out the neighborhoods that fall under each specific zip code. This table will help you navigate Manhattan better.
| Zip Code | Neighborhoods |
|---|---|
| 10001 | Chelsea, NoMad, Hudson Yards |
| 10002 | Lower East Side, Chinatown |
| 10007 | Tribeca, Civic Center |
| 10011 | Chelsea, Meatpacking District |
| 10016 | Murray Hill, Kips Bay |
| 10019 | Hell’s Kitchen, Midtown West |
| 10021 | Upper East Side |
| 10022 | Midtown East, Sutton Place |
| 10023 | Upper West Side, Lincoln Square |
| 10024 | Upper West Side |
| 10025 | Upper West Side, Manhattan Valley |
| 10026 | Harlem |
| 10029 | East Harlem |
| 10032 | Washington Heights |
| 10280 | Battery Park City |
This table can act as a reference when you're looking for a specific area, making it easy to identify which zip codes belong to which neighborhoods.
FAQs About Manhattan Zip Codes
What is the most popular zip code in Manhattan?
10001 is one of the most well-known zip codes in Manhattan because it covers Chelsea, Hudson Yards, and parts of the Garment District. This area is not only a major commercial hub but also home to trendy neighborhoods.
How many zip codes are in Manhattan?
Manhattan has 43 zip codes, ranging from 10001 to 10286. Some of these zip codes are for specific locations, like 10286, which is used for the Federal Reserve Bank.
What zip code is Times Square?
Times Square is located in the 10036 zip code. This area includes the Theater District and stretches from 42nd Street to 53rd Street.
What zip code is Central Park in?
Central Park is bordered by several zip codes, depending on the side of the park. To the west, it's near 10023, 10024, and 10025, while on the east side, it touches 10021, 10028, and 10128.
Does Manhattan have any unique zip codes?
Yes, Manhattan has a few unique zip codes reserved for specific buildings or institutions. For example, 10118 is the zip code for the Empire State Building, and 10286 is used by the Federal Reserve.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you're sending mail, looking for an apartment, or simply exploring the city, understanding Manhattan's zip codes gives you valuable insight into its diverse neighborhoods. Each zip code tells a story, reflecting the history, culture, and community that make up the heart of New York City.
Next time you're wandering through Manhattan, take a second to look at the zip code and think about what it represents. You might find yourself in the Financial District surrounded by towering skyscrapers or in a quaint Upper East Side cafe. Either way, Manhattan's zip codes are your key to unlocking the city’s vast, exciting world.
