Neighborhood Snapshot:
- Vibe: A peaceful, suburban oasis within Queens, known for its tranquility and strong community feel.
- Housing: Primarily residential, famous for stately Tudor-style homes, alongside single-family, two-family houses, and some co-ops.
- Community: Active civic associations and a strong sense of neighborly spirit.
- Diversity: A predominantly Black and West Indian community with a unique economic profile.
- Transit: Served by the LIRR (Laurelton Station) and MTA buses; no subway access.
Laurelton offers a distinct slice of New York City life, feeling more like a peaceful suburb than a bustling urban neighborhood. Located in southeastern Queens, it provides a serene escape cherished by residents seeking well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community. If you’re curious about this unique Queens neighborhood, this profile explores what makes Laurelton special.
What Makes Laurelton Feel Suburban?
Laurelton is often called a “suburban oasis” within the city limits. Unlike many parts of NYC, it lacks high-rise buildings, contributing to a small-town atmosphere. The streets are often lined with trees, and some blocks even feature planted center malls, enhancing the green, residential feel. Residents value the tranquility and respite from the fast pace typically associated with New York City. It’s the kind of place where you might forget you’re still technically in the city.
What Kind of Homes Will I Find?
The neighborhood is primarily residential, known for its attractive and well-kept housing stock.
- Architectural Style: Laurelton is particularly famous for its stately Tudor-style homes, both attached rowhouses and detached houses. These homes often feature charming details like prominent rooflines, brick facades, carved woodwork, hardwood floors, and fireplaces, reminiscent of old English estates.
- Housing Mix: Beyond Tudors, you’ll find a variety of housing types. Areas near Rosedale and Cambria Heights feature mostly single-family homes, while the section bordering Springfield Gardens has many two-family homes. South of Merrick Boulevard, there are large, individually designed houses. There are also some co-ops located in converted garden apartment complexes.
- Market Snapshot: The housing market reflects the desirability of the area. As of early 2025, the median home sale price was around $670,000, marking a 7.2% increase from the previous year. Single-family homes generally range from $650,000 to $750,000. Significant renovation activity is also common.
Is There a Strong Community Vibe?
Absolutely. Laurelton is known for its strong sense of community and neighborly spirit.
Key Finding: Active resident involvement is a hallmark of Laurelton, fostered by numerous local groups.
Several organizations work to maintain and improve the neighborhood:
- Laurelton Neighborhood Association: Formed in 2016, this group focuses on enhancing communication and organizing community events and projects.
- Federated Blocks of Laurelton: Part of the Eastern Queens Alliance, this group holds regular meetings to address local matters.
- Concerned Citizens of Laurelton: This organization actively works on neighborhood improvement and beautification initiatives.
- Block Associations: Groups like the 224th/225th Street Block Association also contribute to the tight-knit community feel.
Recent community efforts include initiatives like “Operation Clean,” a volunteer-driven clean-up project, and the establishment of a community garden.
Who Lives in Laurelton? (Diversity)
Laurelton is a notably diverse neighborhood. While historically home to a large Jewish population, today the community is predominantly African American (90.1%), with significant populations of West Indian immigrants. Other groups include Hispanic (5.5%), White (1.5%), Asian (0.7%), and Native American (0.3%) residents.
This diversity is reflected in local businesses, particularly restaurants offering West Indian, Jamaican, and Guyanese cuisine.
Economically, Laurelton presents a unique profile within NYC:
- It’s noted as the only census area in the city where the Black population has a significantly higher median income than the White population.
- The overall median household income is approximately $86,324, which is notably higher than both the NYC median ($67,046) and the US median ($70,784).
What’s Around the Neighborhood? (Walkability & Amenities)
Laurelton is considered a walkable neighborhood.
- Shopping & Dining: Merrick Boulevard serves as the main commercial street, offering various shops and restaurants. While some residents feel local shopping options are limited, larger malls and shopping centers are relatively close by.
- Parks & Recreation: The neighborhood has parks where residents can relax and enjoy events like live music during the summer.
- Community Hubs: A local library serves as an important community resource.
- Accessibility: Laurelton offers convenient access to expressways like the Belt Parkway.
How Do I Get Around? (Transportation)
While some find transit links limited due to the lack of a subway station, Laurelton does offer public transportation options.
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): The Laurelton LIRR station (at 225th St and 141st Rd) is a key asset, providing service on the Far Rockaway and Long Beach branches to major hubs like Jamaica and Penn Station in Manhattan. Trains run frequently, with service operating nearly 24 hours.
- Bus Service: MTA bus routes Q77 and Q85 serve the neighborhood, connecting residents to other parts of Queens and subway hubs like Jamaica.
- Transit Score: Laurelton has a respectable transit score of 63 out of 100.
- Accessibility Note: While the LIRR station isn’t fully accessible currently, the MTA plans to install elevators to improve access for riders with mobility disabilities.
Is Laurelton a Good Place to Live? (Quality of Life)
Laurelton is widely regarded as a desirable place to live, particularly known for being safe and family-friendly. It’s often recommended for families with children and retirees seeking a peaceful environment. The neighborhood offers good childcare options and boasts low crime rates. The strong community ties and suburban atmosphere contribute to a high quality of life, making it feel distinct from the more intense urban environments elsewhere in NYC.
Conclusion
Laurelton stands out in the Queens landscape as a neighborhood defined by its suburban serenity, attractive Tudor-style homes, and deeply rooted community spirit. Its diverse population, walkable streets, LIRR access, and family-friendly environment make it a unique and appealing choice for those seeking a peaceful residential life within New York City. It offers a distinct blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience.