Carnegie Hill side streets and Lexington Avenue

Where it is

The cross streets between Madison Avenue and Lexington Avenue, from East 86th to about East 98th Street. Lexington Avenue between 86th and 96th Streets is the neighborhood's everyday shopping street. Some definitions extend Carnegie Hill east to Third Avenue.

The buildings

• Townhouses in a variety of styles, some single-family and some converted to apartments.
• Smaller pre-war apartment buildings on the cross streets.
• Historic district protection reaches many of these blocks, since the Carnegie Hill Historic District extends east to Madison, Park and Lexington at points.

Who it suits

Families, townhouse buyers and anyone who wants walkable daily errands on a calm block.

Less suited to: Buyers who want a doorman building with full amenities or a park view.

The walk to the train

Lexington Avenue is the subway street: the 4, 5 and 6 stop at 86th Street, and the 6 at 96th Street. The Q on Second Avenue at 86th and 96th Streets is a longer walk from the western side streets. The M101, M102 and M103 serve Lexington and Third.

For the whole neighborhood, see Getting around Carnegie Hill.

Trade-offs

• Landmarks Preservation Commission approval is required for many exterior changes.
• Townhouses carry the upkeep of the whole building. Have the structure inspected and check the certificate of occupancy for the legal number of units.
• Lexington Avenue brings more foot traffic than the quieter cross streets.

More on the buildings: Carnegie Hill housing and buildings. Before you offer, read Co-op or Condo on the Upper East Side: How to Choose.

Descriptions are general and approximate. Boundaries vary by source. Verify building rules, taxes and fees for any property before you rely on them.