If there’s one thing New York City does effortlessly, it’s mixing everyday urban life with a constant sprinkling of stardust. Walk down the right Manhattan block, and you might pass an Oscar winner grabbing a latte, a billionaire entering a discreet lobby, or a world-famous singer heading to a chauffeured SUV.
NYC has been home to the rich and famous for decades — but where do celebrities actually live in NYC? Which buildings, neighborhoods, and hidden corners do A-listers choose when they want luxury, privacy, and iconic New York living?
This guide breaks down the exact buildings and areas where celebrities live, why they choose them, how much these residences cost, and what makes them so irresistible.
Let’s dive into the star-studded streets of NYC.
Quick Answer: Where Do Celebrities Live in NYC?
Celebrities in NYC typically live in:
- Tribeca – NYC’s top celebrity hotspot
- Upper West Side – historic luxury buildings on Central Park West
- West Village – stylish, low-key, artistic
- SoHo – spacious lofts for fashion icons & creatives
- Chelsea – modern high-rise luxury
Top celebrity buildings include:
- 443 Greenwich Street
- The San Remo
- The Dakota
- The Eldorado
- The Beresford
- 195 Hudson Street
- Perry Street Towers
These areas and buildings offer privacy, prestige, space, and amenities that the celebrity lifestyle demands.
Now, let’s go deeper — neighborhood by neighborhood, building by building.
Top NYC Neighborhoods Where Celebrities Live
1. Tribeca – NYC’s Number One Celebrity Magnet
If Manhattan had a VIP zone, Tribeca would be it.
Forget flashy paparazzi-lined streets — Tribeca is quiet, private, and discreet. Its cobblestone blocks hide some of the most secure and luxurious residences in the city.
Why Celebrities Love Tribeca
- “Paparazzi-proof” buildings
- Underground garages for private entry
- Industrial warehouses converted into massive lofts
- Some apartments span 6,000–10,000 sq ft
- A peaceful vibe compared to midtown chaos
Famous Celebrities Who Live (or Lived) in Tribeca
- Taylor Swift
- Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively
- Jennifer Lawrence
- Justin Timberlake & Jessica Biel
- Harry Styles
- Meryl Streep (previously)
Must-know Buildings in Tribeca
- 443 Greenwich Street – celebrity fortress
- 155 Franklin Street – home to Taylor Swift
- 70 Vestry – luxury, waterfront, ultra-private
- 195 Hudson Street – former home of Beyoncé & Jay-Z
Tribeca remains the most star-stacked neighborhood in all of New York City.
2. Upper West Side – Historic Glamour on Central Park West
Manhattan’s Upper West Side has long been a magnet for celebrities who prefer sophistication over spotlight.
The area offers breathtaking views of Central Park, architectural icons, and old-world elegance that newer neighborhoods can’t replicate.
Why Celebrities Love the Upper West Side
- Legendary, historic buildings
- Prestigious co-ops with strict boards
- Large layouts, many pre-war
- Steps from Central Park
- Quiet yet upscale community
Famous Residents
- Jerry Seinfeld
- Steven Spielberg
- Meryl Streep
- Bono
- Tiger Woods
- Lauren Bacall
- John Lennon & Yoko Ono
Iconic Buildings of Central Park West
- The Dakota
- The San Remo
- The Eldorado
- The Beresford
- The Apthorp
3. West Village – Artistic, Trendy and Low-Key
The West Village is where actors, designers, models, and musicians go when they want privacy mixed with creativity.
Why Celebrities Love the West Village
- Artsy, relaxed atmosphere
- Low-rise buildings for privacy
- Many independent shops and cafés
- No skyscrapers towering overhead
- Homey, warm, upscale feel
Celebrities Connected to the West Village
- Sarah Jessica Parker
- Hugh Jackman
- Calvin Klein
- Nicole Kidman
- Amy Schumer
Famous Buildings
- 173 & 176 Perry Street
- 160 Leroy Street
- Various charming brownstones
4. SoHo – Loft Living for Fashion Icons & Creatives
SoHo is known for its cast-iron buildings, artistic culture, and spacious lofts.
Why Celebrities Choose SoHo
- Loft-style living with huge open layouts
- Artistic vibe
- High-end shopping
- Architectural beauty
- Privacy in boutique buildings
Famous Residents
- Gigi Hadid
- Bella Hadid
- Kanye West (past)
- Daniel Craig
- Dakota Johnson
5. Chelsea – Modern Towers and Artistic Luxury
Chelsea blends creativity with modern living, making it popular among stylish celebrities.
Why Celebrities Choose Chelsea
- Newer, modern luxury buildings
- Private gyms, pools, and lounges
- Proximity to art & design district
- Youthful, upscale vibe
Celebrity Hotspots
- Walker Tower
- The Fitzroy
Top Buildings Where Celebrities Live in NYC
1. 443 Greenwich Street – The Paparazzi-Proof Fortress
Regarded as the most private building in all of Manhattan.
Why Celebrities Love It
- Underground valet garage
- Soundproof windows
- Private courtyard
- 24/7 concierge and security
- Only 53 units
Celebrities Who Have Lived Here
- Ryan Reynolds
- Blake Lively
- Harry Styles
- Jennifer Lawrence
- Meg Ryan
- Justin Timberlake & Jessica Biel
2. The Dakota – New York’s Most Iconic Celebrity Address
Built in 1884, known for its prestige and strict co-op board.
Famous Residents
- John Lennon & Yoko Ono
- Lauren Bacall
- Judy Garland
- Rosemary Clooney
- Rex Reed
- Maury Povich
3. The San Remo – Dual Towers of Classic Wealth
This twin-tower building is a symbol of old-money New York.
Celebrities Who Have Lived Here
- Steve Jobs
- Steven Spielberg
- Dustin Hoffman
- Tiger Woods
- Rita Hayworth
- Demi Moore
4. The Eldorado – Art Deco Masterpiece
Known for tower floors with one apartment each and spectacular views.
Celebrity Residents
- Marilyn Monroe (past)
- Carrie Fisher
- Faye Dunaway
- Alec Baldwin
- Bono
- Moby
- Michael C. Hall
5. The Beresford – Grand and Elegant
A long-time favorite among established celebrities.
Celebrity Residents
- Jerry Seinfeld
- Meryl Streep (past)
- John McEnroe
6. The Apthorp – Italian Renaissance Luxury
Built around a grand courtyard, offering stately layouts.
Famous Residents
- Al Pacino
- Conan O’Brien
- Cyndi Lauper
- Rosie O’Donnell
7. 195 Hudson Street – Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s Loft Building
A converted industrial building offering huge layouts.
Why It’s Popular
- Warehouse-style units
- Very few units
- Strong security
- Penthouse terraces
8. Perry Street Towers – Minimalist Architecture and Hudson Views
Designed by Richard Meier with floor-to-ceiling glass.
Famous Residents
- Calvin Klein
- Hugh Jackman
- Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban
- Martha Stewart
Why These Buildings Attract Celebrities
1. Top-Tier Security
- Closed-off entrances
- Private driveways
- Keyed elevators
- Facial recognition ntry (newer buildings)
- 24/7 security teams
2. Privacy
Many buildings ensure residents are shielded from public view with underground parking, private lobbies, and limited-access floors.
3. Huge, Customizable Spaces
Celebrities prefer features like:
- Home theaters
- Private gyms
- Recording studios
- Terraces
- Wine rooms
- Double-height living rooms
4. Location Perks
- Tribeca: quiet privacy
- Upper West Side: history and Central Park
- West Village: charm and creativity
- SoHo: fashion hub
- Chelsea: modern amenities
How Much Does It Cost to Live Where Celebrities Live?
| Building | Average Price | Rental Range | Notes |
| 443 Greenwich | $7M – $50M | $25K–$75K/mo | Ultra-private |
| The Dakota | $4M – $20M | Rare rentals | Strict co-op |
| The San Remo | $6M – $40M+ | Limited | Prewar luxury |
| The Eldorado | $3M – $15M | $12K–$40K/mo | Art Deco |
| The Beresford | $4M – $25M | Rare | Classic UWS |
| 195 Hudson | $5M – $20M | $15K–$50K/mo | Loft living |
| Perry Street Towers | $6M – $35M | $18K–$60K/mo | Minimalist modern |
Can Normal People Live in These Buildings?
Yes — if you can afford it, and if you can pass approval in co-op buildings.
Co-ops evaluate:
- Financials
- Tax returns
- Lifestyle fit
- Personal references
Condos are easier to buy, but much more expensive.
Renting is possible but costly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where do most celebrities live in NYC?
Tribeca, Upper West Side, and the West Village.
- Why do so many celebrities choose Tribeca?
It is quiet, safe, and offers “paparazzi-proof” residences.
- Which building has the most celebrities?
443 Greenwich.
- Can anyone apply to live in The Dakota?
Yes, but approval is extremely rare.
Conclusion
New York City is a patchwork of neighborhoods filled with history, glamour, and quiet sophistication — and celebrities choose their homes carefully. Whether it’s Tribeca’s modern privacy, Central Park West’s historic icons, or the West Village’s charm, each area offers something unique.
While owning an apartment near a Hollywood star may sound like a dream, NYC offers many luxury co-ops and condos that bring you closer to this world of prestige and exclusivity.
NYC will always remain one of the ultimate celebrity playgrounds.
