Neighborhood Guide
The Complete Guide to Living in Greenwood Heights, Brooklyn (2026)
1. Introduction to Greenwood Heights
Greenwood Heights is one of Brooklyn's best-kept secrets—a tranquil, tree-lined neighborhood that offers the rare combination of peaceful residential living with excellent transit access to Manhattan. Nestled between the bustling energy of Park Slope to the north and the cultural richness of Sunset Park to the south, Greenwood Heights has quietly become one of Brooklyn's most desirable addresses.
The neighborhood takes its name from the magnificent Green-Wood Cemetery, a 478-acre National Historic Landmark that serves as both the area's eastern boundary and its defining feature. This "Brooklyn's Central Park" predates its Manhattan counterpart and remains one of New York City's most beautiful green spaces.
What distinguishes Greenwood Heights from its neighbors is its intimate scale. Unlike the commercial corridors of Park Slope or the density of Sunset Park, Greenwood Heights maintains a village-like atmosphere. Low-rise brownstones, row houses, and carefully integrated new construction create a cohesive streetscape that feels authentically Brooklyn while embracing contemporary luxury.
2. History & Character
Greenwood Heights' identity has always been shaped by its proximity to Green-Wood Cemetery. When the cemetery opened in 1838, it became one of the most popular destinations in the country—at its peak, drawing 500,000 visitors annually, second only to Niagara Falls.
The Development Era (1880s-1920s)
The neighborhood developed primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as middle-class families sought homes near the prestigious cemetery grounds. The housing stock from this era—brownstones, limestone row houses, and wood-frame structures—still defines much of the neighborhood's character today.
The Modern Renaissance (2010s-Present)
The past decade has seen thoughtful development in Greenwood Heights. Unlike the rapid transformation of Williamsburg or Downtown Brooklyn, growth here has been measured and respectful of the existing character. New buildings like 875 Fourth Avenue are designed to complement rather than overwhelm the neighborhood fabric.
Architectural Character
The neighborhood features a distinctive mix of:
- Brownstones: Classic Brooklyn row houses from the 1880s-1900s
- Limestone facades: Elegant turn-of-century homes
- Wood-frame houses: Some predating the Civil War
- Modern luxury: Contemporary buildings with premium finishes
3. Green-Wood Cemetery: The Neighborhood Jewel
No discussion of Greenwood Heights is complete without Green-Wood Cemetery, which functions less as a cemetery and more as Brooklyn's most spectacular park.
By the Numbers
- Size: 478 acres (larger than Prospect Park's 585 acres with landscaped areas)
- Founded: 1838 (16 years before Central Park)
- Annual Visitors: Over 250,000
- Notable Interments: 570,000+ including Leonard Bernstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Boss Tweed
- Trees: Over 8,000 representing 700+ species
The Gothic Revival Entrance
The cemetery's main entrance at 25th Street and Fifth Avenue is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in America. Designed by Richard Upjohn (architect of Trinity Church on Wall Street), the brownstone arch features intricate spires and sculptural details that have been designated a New York City Landmark.
Year-Round Activities
Green-Wood offers extensive programming that makes it a genuine community amenity:
- Trolley tours: Guided historic tours covering art, architecture, and notable residents
- Concerts & performances: The annual Twilight performances and concerts in the catacombs
- Bird watching: Home to the famous Green-Wood parrots and seasonal migrations
- Walking & jogging: Miles of rolling paths through landscaped grounds
- Art installations: Regular exhibitions from contemporary artists
Proximity from 875 Fourth Avenue
Residents of 875 Fourth Avenue enjoy exceptional access to Green-Wood:
- Main entrance (25th St): 12-minute walk
- 4th Avenue entrance: 8-minute walk
- Sunset Park entrance: 15-minute walk through the grounds
4. Real Estate Market Overview
Greenwood Heights has seen steady appreciation as buyers and renters discover its unique combination of neighborhood character, green space access, and Manhattan convenience.
Current Rental Market (2026)
Average Rental Prices
- Studio: $2,300 - $2,900/month
- 1-Bedroom: $2,800 - $3,600/month
- 2-Bedroom: $3,500 - $4,500/month
- 3-Bedroom: $4,200 - $5,500/month
*Prices vary based on building type, condition, and specific location. New construction luxury buildings command premium pricing.
Why Greenwood Heights Offers Value
- 10-15% lower than equivalent Park Slope apartments
- Quieter, more residential feel than commercial corridors
- Equivalent or better transit access
- Direct access to Green-Wood Cemetery grounds
- Growing dining and retail options
5. Transportation & Commuting
Despite its quiet, residential character, Greenwood Heights offers exceptional transit connectivity—one of its most underappreciated advantages.
Subway Access
D/N/R Lines (4th Avenue)
- • 36th Street Station: 2-min walk from 875 Fourth
- • 25th Street Station: 10-min walk (near Green-Wood)
- • Express D/N service to Manhattan
- • Direct to Midtown in 25 minutes
F/G Lines (via 4th Ave-9th St)
- • F train to Manhattan via Bergen Street
- • G train crosstown to Williamsburg
- • Additional routing options
- • Access via R train transfer
Commute Times from 875 Fourth Avenue
| Destination | Time |
|---|---|
| Times Square (Midtown) | 25-30 minutes |
| World Trade Center (FiDi) | 20-25 minutes |
| Union Square | 20-25 minutes |
| Downtown Brooklyn | 10-12 minutes |
| Park Slope (5th Avenue) | 5-8 minutes |
6. Dining & Food Scene
While Greenwood Heights is primarily residential, it benefits from proximity to both Park Slope's established dining scene and Sunset Park's exceptional ethnic food offerings.
Local Favorites
- South: New American cuisine in a stylish setting
- Krupa Grocery: Polish deli and specialty foods
- Maria's Kitchen: Authentic Mexican tacos and plates
- Kai Feng Fu Dumpling House: Handmade dumplings
Nearby (5-10 Minute Walk)
The border neighborhoods offer incredible dining diversity:
- Park Slope (north): Farm-to-table restaurants, wine bars, upscale casual
- Sunset Park 5th Ave (south): Authentic Mexican, Salvadoran, Guatemalan
- Sunset Park 8th Ave (south): Brooklyn's Chinatown—dim sum, Sichuan, Vietnamese
- Industry City (west): Food halls, craft breweries, specialty shops
7. Parks & Recreation
Beyond Green-Wood Cemetery, Greenwood Heights residents have access to excellent parks and outdoor spaces.
Sunset Park
The 24-acre Sunset Park sits at one of Brooklyn's highest points, offering:
- Panoramic Manhattan skyline views
- Spectacular sunsets over the harbor
- Public outdoor pool (summer)
- Recreation center and playground
- Sports fields and basketball courts
Prospect Park
Brooklyn's flagship park is accessible via subway in under 15 minutes:
- 585 acres of meadows, forests, and lakes
- Running and cycling loops
- Zoo, botanic garden, and museums nearby
- Concert venue and event space
Bush Terminal Park
The newer waterfront park near Industry City offers:
- Waterfront promenade with harbor views
- Kayak launch for water sports
- Dog run and sports fields
- Direct waterfront access
8. Lifestyle & Community
Greenwood Heights attracts residents who value quality of life over scene. The typical resident might be described as "arrived"—established professionals, young families, and creatives who appreciate the neighborhood's balance of urban convenience and residential tranquility.
Who Lives Here
- Young professionals: Finance, tech, media, healthcare workers
- Young families: Parents valuing safe streets and park access
- Creative professionals: Writers, designers, artists working from home
- Empty nesters: Downsizing from larger Brooklyn homes
Community Character
The neighborhood has a distinctly neighborly feel uncommon in New York:
- Neighbors know each other by name
- Active community associations
- Block parties and seasonal events
- Walkable, stroller-friendly sidewalks
- Low-key nightlife (this is a feature, not a bug)
9. Greenwood Heights vs. Nearby Neighborhoods
vs. Park Slope
Park Slope is Brooklyn's most established upscale neighborhood. Greenwood Heights offers similar housing quality and transit access at 10-15% lower prices, with a quieter, more residential feel.
vs. Sunset Park
Sunset Park offers incredible cultural diversity and food scene at lower price points. Greenwood Heights provides a more uniform residential character with slightly higher rents but proximity to both Sunset Park's amenities and Park Slope's polish.
vs. Gowanus
Gowanus is rapidly developing with new luxury towers and creative businesses. Greenwood Heights offers a more established neighborhood feel with mature tree-lined streets and immediate Green-Wood Cemetery access.
The Bottom Line
Greenwood Heights is ideal for those who want Park Slope quality without Park Slope prices or crowds, and who value green space and tranquility without sacrificing urban convenience.
10. Why 875 Fourth Avenue
875 Fourth Avenue sits at the ideal intersection of Greenwood Heights and Sunset Park, offering residents the best of both neighborhoods:
- Prime border location: Access to both neighborhoods' amenities
- Green-Wood proximity: 8-12 minute walk to cemetery entrances
- Transit excellence: 2-minute walk to 36th Street D/N/R
- Modern luxury: New construction with rooftop terrace, fitness center, co-working
- Manhattan views: Stunning skyline views from select units
- Pet-friendly: Welcome dogs and cats
- In-unit laundry: Washer/dryer in every apartment
Experience Greenwood Heights Living
Schedule a tour of 875 Fourth Avenue and discover why this neighborhood is Brooklyn's best-kept secret for luxury living.
Schedule a Tour