Astoria has become the hottest, most popular neighborhood in Queens. It's very close to Manhattan via the N, W, R, and V subways (10 to 20 minutes to Midtown). It has a real neighborhood vibe with many great places to eat and shop and there's even nightlife. On any corner it's possible to see four restaurants, each representing a cuisine from a different continent.

Hipsters and yuppies have discovered Astoria, which has contributed to rising rental and housing prices. It is still possible to find a great apartment (with roof or backyard access) that's a true savings from life in Manhattan. Closer to Long Island City, the streets are more industrial, the housing is grittier, and rents drop. North of Astoria Boulevard, housing tends to be in more expensive row houses, with fewer rentals.