New York City is known for its iconic culture, lively streets, and iconic skyline, but did you know it has also long been a magnet for celebrities from all different fields? You’ll find stars from film, music, literature, and fashion. Living in New York offers them the blend of privacy and a dynamic social scene that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Here’s a look at some famous celebrities who call the Big Apple their home.
Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro is an iconic actor whose career spans over five decades, and has made him synonymous with New York City in more ways than one. Not only has he starred in films that capture the essence of the city, like “Taxi Driver,” but he’s also a significant figure in the New York film scene through the Tribeca Film Festival, which he co-founded. It’s no wonder his work has such a tie to NYC, considering he was born and raised there. In fact, you’ll find him in one of the city’s more expensive rentals at Central Park West.
Sarah Jessica Parker
Best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City,” Parker’s real-life attachment to New York is as strong as her character’s. She’s resided in the city for years with her husband, Matthew Broderick, and their children. It’s slated that she spent $12m on her New York home. And although she’s currently living in London for a play, we have no doubt she’ll return to the Big Apple.
Alec Baldwin
A familiar face on both the big and small screens, Baldwin has been a long-time resident of New York City. He often resides in the Hamptons but maintains a presence in the city, where he’s been spotted out and about many times.
Madonna
The Queen of Pop has had a long-standing relationship with New York, starting her music career in the city’s vibrant downtown scene. She claimed to have moved there with just $35 in her pocket – and look at her now!
Over the years, Madonna has lived in various luxury properties around the city, embodying the relentless spirit of NYC.
Jay-Z
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Jay-Z’s journey from the Marcy Projects to becoming a global hip-hop mogul is a quintessential New York success story. Along with his wife, Beyoncé, Jay-Z has had significant real estate investments in the city and is deeply involved in its cultural fabric. They now live in California, having bought their most expensive property to date.
Taylor Swift
While not a native New Yorker, Swift has embraced the city since moving there. She’s even penned a song titled “Welcome to New York,” capturing her love for the city’s endless possibilities and vibrant, all-consuming energy.
Meryl Streep
Renowned as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, Meryl Streep has long had a connection with New York City. Streep’s unparalleled talent has been showcased on both the big screen and the New York stage, reflecting her deep ties to the city’s vibrant theater scene. She lived in the city for many years, but she also has a home in Los Angeles.
Anderson Cooper
The acclaimed journalist and CNN anchor has deep roots in New York City. Cooper, born into the Vanderbilt dynasty, has chosen to stay close to his roots, living in a converted firehouse in Greenwich Village. His choice of residence reflects the unique character of New York – a place where even a historic firehouse can become a cozy home for one of journalism’s most recognizable faces.
Daniel Radcliffe
The English actor, best known for his role as Harry Potter, has also made New York City his home. Radcliffe has embraced the city, appreciating its anonymity and vibrant culture. He’s taken to the stage on Broadway several times, showcasing his versatility as an actor and his love for the theatrical world that thrives in New York.
Living in New York
It’s no secret that when compared with other cities, New York is not cheap to live. But although many of the celebrities on our list have paid millions of dollars for their homes, you can still find safe and affordable housing – if you know where to look!
Instead of renting an apartment, consider renting a room in NYC instead. This will save you so much more money than if you decide to rent an entire apartment to yourself. A lot of the time, bills are included, which saves additional money you can use on transportation and getting involved with the city’s community and culture.
Why Do So Many Celebrities Choose to Live in New York?
Celebrities choose to live in New York City for a variety of different reasons, each contributing to the city’s reputation as a global magnet for people across the spectrum of fame and success. Here’s a quick look at a few of the reasons why New York City might be a preferred home for so many celebrities.
Cultural Vibrancy and Diversity – New York City is home to many different cultures, offering an endless array of cultural experiences, from world-class museums and galleries to Broadway theaters and live music venues. This provides an inspiring environment for artists, actors, musicians, and creatives.
Anonymity and Normalcy – Despite its bustling streets and dense population, New York offers a level of anonymity that’s hard to find in smaller, more paparazzi-prone cities like Los Angeles. Celebrities can blend into the crowd, enjoying everyday activities without attracting attention.
Professional Opportunities – New York is home to numerous industries, including fashion, theater, publishing, advertising, film and music. These creative and business opportunities make it the perfect location for celebrities looking to advance their careers, network with peers or explore new ventures.
Social Scene and Networking – The city’s social scene is as diverse as its population, offering a wide range of dining, nightlife, and event options. For celebrities, this means access to exclusive clubs, high-end restaurants, and private events where they can socialize and make connections.
Luxury Real Estate – New York City boasts some of the most luxurious and exclusive real estate in the world, from sprawling penthouses in Manhattan to historic brownstones in Brooklyn. Celebrities can find private, secure residences that cater to their tastes and needs.
Conclusion
These celebrities, among many others, contribute to New York City’s cultural life. Their presence in the city highlights New York’s status as a global hub for creativity, entertainment, and innovation. Whether through their artistic contributions or simply by calling NYC home, the stars add to the allure and mystique of one of the world’s most famous cities.
