SoHo (South of Houston) is arguably Manhattan’s trendiest neighborhood, and one of its most expensive. Before Brooklyn became the darling of artists and designers, SoHo was a haven for creatives. As skyrocketing real estate prices drove them to more affordable areas, SoHo has become a resolutely luxury neighborhood, filled with designer fashion boutiques like Prada and Louis Vuitton and renowned restaurants. Large retail chains are the order of the day on Broadway, but independently owned businesses—from vintage shops and art galleries to hole-in-the-wall neighborhood eateries— can still be seen on smaller streets.

Quaint cobbled streets, iconic cast-iron building facades, and unparalleled people-watching make strolling SoHo a delight. Even on weekends, when it becomes congested with day-trippers, street performers, and sidewalk vendors, SoHo’s high-octane buzz is hard to resist. For those who are looking to live in an area full of creative energy and world-class shopping and dining, SoHo’s elegant condos and spacious lofts are worth the price.