Five reasons to buy or rent a garden apartment in NYC + 21 availabilities on the market now

By Cait Etherington | From Future New York Thursday, October 24, 2024

While legal basement apartments are rare in New York City, garden-level apartments are much more common and often come with appealing built-in features at competitive prices. In this article, we define what garden-level units are, examine their key advantages and potential drawbacks, and spotlight some of the most desirable garden-level units currently available in the New York City market.

Basement Versus Garden-Level Apartment

In New York City, a basement apartment is defined as a unit below curb level, but where at least half of its height is located above the curb. In contrast, a cellar is a space where more than half of its height is below curb level. Basement units may have windows large enough to serve as exits, while cellar windows, if present, are usually too small for that purpose. This distinction explains why, according to NYC Housing Preservation and Development Guidelines, basement apartments can sometimes be legally rented if they meet strict city regulations, whereas cellar apartments can never be legally rented.

Garden-level apartments, by contrast, are legal in New York City. However, defining what constitutes a garden-level apartment can be somewhat tricky, as there is no official designation. Further complicating the term, "garden apartment" historically refers to two distinct types of residences depending on the borough. In Queens, the term originated in 1917 when the Queensboro Corporation used it to describe apartment complexes in Jackson Heights, built around a shared green space. Similar developments in Queens have since been known as garden apartments. In Brooklyn and Manhattan, however, garden apartments typically refer to street-level units that offer direct access to a backyard or garden.

⬇ Example of a unit in a garden apartment complex in Jackson Heights, Queens

Greystone Coops, #41
$560,000

Jackson Heights | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

Greystone Coops, #41 (Compass)

From the Listing: Move right into this gorgeous two-bedroom, one-bathroom co-op featuring spectacular designer updates and grand prewar proportions at Jackson Heights’ coveted The Greystones garden apartments. See floor plan and full details here.

The Appeal of Garden-Level Apartments in New York City

• Gardeners
Unless you're fortunate enough to own an entire Brownstone, you're unlikely to have access to a garden in most New York City living situations, unless you live in a garden-level unit. While some brownstones negotiate garden access between tenants living on all three floors, in most cases, if you're living on the ground floor, you have a de facto right to the backyard as a renter or owner. For city gardeners, this can be an amazing bonus, offering the chance to create your own oasis in the city.

• Families
Raising small children in a New York City apartment can be challenging. Even if you're near one of the city's great parks or playgrounds, constantly making small talk with other parents while your child plays can feel exhausting. A garden-level unit offers a unique solution: it lets your kids enjoy outdoor time without leaving home. While suburban families might take this for granted, in New York City, it's a rare luxury.

71 Washington Place, #GardenDuplex

• Pet Owners
Whether you have a restless cat, a dog that loves to roam off-leash, or even a sunbathing tortoise, a garden-level apartment offers an obvious advantage. Having private outdoor space is a huge benefit for pet owners looking to give their animals more freedom.

• Tenants in Need of Accessibility
While not all garden-level units are fully accessible unless updated to modern standards, they do offer a practical option if you’re looking to avoid stairs. Although you may need to navigate a few steps to enter or exit, one big perk is never having to carry heavy grocery bags up multiple flights of stairs again.

The Potential Downsides of Garden-Level Living

Overall, garden-level apartments provide great value, increased space, and access to a rare feature in New York City—a backyard. Still, being on the ground floor can be challenging. One obvious risk is increased vulnerability to flooding, though this depends on one's location. Garden-level apartments, due to their proximity to the ground, can also be more prone to pest problems. Garden-level apartments also tend to pose more security risks, though in most cases these risks can be mitigated by installing window grills and security systems. Finally, while not an issue for everyone, ground-level apartments also tend to be darker, though as a consequence, they are also much cooler in the summer, which can result in significantly lower electrical bills.

NYC Flood Hazard Mapper (https://www.nyc.gov/site/planning/data-maps/flood-hazard-mapper.page)

Garden-level apartments for sale in NYC

The A Building, #GARDENB
$849,000 (-5.6%)

East Village | Condominium | Studio, 1 Bath | 608 ft²

The A Building, #GARDENB (Coleman Real Estate Group)

From the Listing: This stunning loft-style apartment showcases intelligent design, maximizing space and light with a 32-foot living/dining area, serene northern views through oversized windows, and a private patio. The open-concept kitchen features sleek white lacquer cabinetry, a glass backsplash, stone countertops, and a premium appliance suite by Bosch and Liebherr. The seamless flow into the living space creates an ideal setting for entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

122 Palmetto Street, #1R
$899,995

Bushwick | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 1,152 ft²

122 Palmetto Street, #1R (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome to 122 Palmetto Street in the exciting neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn! Residence #1R features floor-to-ceiling windows and a floor-through layout beautifully illuminated by northern and southern exposures. This spacious one-bedroom duplex offers a verdant backyard and generous downstairs recreation space - complete with a half bath. The garden boasts more than enough room for multiple configurations for both entertaining and relaxing. See floor plan and full details here.

305 East 4th Street, #GARDEN
$925,000

East Village | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 800 ft²

305 East 4th Street, #GARDEN (Compass)

From the Listing: This stylish loft-style 1-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom residence is situated on the garden level of a charming boutique condo. Boasting an inviting open kitchen, elegant French doors opening to the front yard, a decorative fireplace, high ceilings, and exposed painted brick, this home is an ideal setting for hosting gatherings. The spacious bathroom features ample natural light and a deep tub, leading to the garden-facing bedroom. The apartment offers a large private storage unit in the basement. See floor plan and full details here.

406 Midwood Street, #GARDEN
$999,999 (-7%)

Prospect Lefferts Gardens | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths | 1,282 ft²

406 Midwood Street, #GARDEN (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Introducing an exceptional 3-bedroom garden duplex with an amazing sunken courtyard. Enter through the foyer into a bright and airy whitewashed space with high ceilings and wide-plank oak floors. The fully outfitted kitchen features stunning black cabinetry and matte black appliances. Downstairs awaits the playground of your dreams, a massive 25' deep lower level with sliding glass doors leading out to your private sunken courtyard. For a limited time, get $30,826 credit at closing which includes two years' worth of common charges and coverage of city and state transfer taxes. See floor plan and full details here.

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136 West 13th Street, #C
$1,000,000 (-31%)

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath

136 West 13th Street, #C (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Garden Apartment C at 136 West 13th Street has been lovingly renovated and is move-in ready. The sunny living room features hardwood floors, exposed brick, and an original wood-burning (now ventless ethanol) fireplace with a custom-tiled mantel. The kitchen has high-end appliances and cabinetry, tile work, and lighting. The private planted garden, accessed just off the living room, has irrigation and electricity, and offers approximately 600 +/- SF of open space for entertaining or relaxing - a country escape without leaving home. See floor plan and full details here.

358 Tompkins Avenue, #2
$1,075,000

Bedford-Stuyvesant | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath | 710 ft²

358 Tompkins Avenue, #2 (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Residence Two, located on the parlor level, is a spectacularly sculptural two-bedroom/one-bath of 710 square feet offset by a dramatic diagonal volume that creates an ideal nook for an intimate dining area or children's play space. The living room and kitchen revolve around this hearth-like architectural effect, with the bedrooms facing the garden view. A sumptuous full bath serves the apartment and an elegant metal balcony and staircase descend to the 335-square-foot private rear garden. See floor plan and full details here.

1251 Pacific Street, #1
$1,175,000 (-4.1%)

Crown Heights | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths | 1,354 ft²

1251 Pacific Street, #1 (Compass)

From the Listing: Welcome to Unit 1 at 1251 Pacific—a stunning convertible 2-bedroom duplex unit that epitomizes modern luxury living. This meticulously crafted space offers a finished cellar level and a meticulously landscaped patio and backyard, creating an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Brooklyn. The open floor plan seamlessly merges the living room, dining room, and kitchen, creating an inviting space for relaxation and entertainment. Sponsor to cover transfer taxes for any contracts signed before the end of 2024. See floor plan and full details here.

West Village Houses, #GARDEN
$1,595,000 (-5.9%)

West Village | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths

West Village Houses, #GARDEN (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: A unique opportunity to design a 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath apartment with a private garden located in the coveted West Village. Whether you enter the residence from the garden or the front door, you will be welcomed by the open and airy great room. Upstairs, there are three oversized bedrooms with the bathroom centrally located. The private garden offers the opportunity to create your own private oasis. See floor plan and full details here.

205 Freeman Street, #GARDEN
$1,725,000

Greenpoint | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,020 ft²

205 Freeman Street, #GARDEN (Serhant LLC)

From the Listing: This expansive 2-bedroom, 2-bath home boasts an impressive 968-square-foot, two-level, meticulously designed backyard, perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Step inside to a separate chef's kitchen, outfitted with a harmonious blend of warm grey tones, custom wood cabinetry, honed Caesarstone countertops, and a chic glass tile backsplash. The expansive living and dining areas are perfect for entertaining, offering an open yet defined space that feels distinct due to the sheer size of the room. See floor plan and full details here.

134 Quincy Street, #A
$1,799,000

Clinton Hill | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,719 ft²

134 Quincy Street, #A (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome to a duplex condominium located on one of the most sought-after blocks in prime Bed-Stuy. This generous layout features amazing natural light, loft-like ceilings, and modern architectural touches throughout. The entrance is set back from the street and is beautifully lit by the unit's oversized windows. An open kitchen / living concept makes entertaining a breeze. The practically equipped yet impeccably designed kitchen features floor to ceiling cabinetry that maximizes storage and versatility to any home chef. See floor plan and full details here.

The Dovecote, #GARDENDPLX
$1,800,000

Harlem | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,920 ft²

The Dovecote, #GARDENDPLX (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: Experience sustainable luxury in this abundant and oversized 2-bed, 2.5-bath duplex residence with a cavernous and flexible recreation room and glorious private outdoor spaces at The Dovecote, where design, functionality, and Passive House sustainability converge seamlessly. This home features two levels of pin-drop quiet living with premium interior finishes, sound-attenuating windows for natural light, timeless white oak flooring, and an efficient VRF HVAC system. The heart of the home includes kitchens with Caesarstone countertops, Porcelanosa backsplash, custom lacquered cabinetry, and a prominent Bosch stainless steel appliance suite. See floor plan and full details here.

325 West 82nd Street, #1
$1,995,000 (-20%)

Riverside Dr./West End Ave. | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

325 West 82nd Street, #1 (Compass)

From the Listing: Step into a spacious living area that showcases architectural design, complete with a solarium, hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer serene views of trees and your private garden. The living space also features exposed brick and a wood-burning fireplace, adding to the character and charm that already exists. From the main floor you can access the enormous, luscious garden equipped with running water and electricity —a must-see oasis in the city! See floor plan and full details here.

The Conover, #GARDENA
$1,999,000

Red Hook | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,606 ft²

The Conover, #GARDENA (Compass)

From the Listing: Garden #A is a corner residence with a private entrance and a truly unique garden on two sides. At a generous 1,600 square feet of sun-soaked interior space, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is bright, comfortable and feels more like a house than an apartment. The kitchen features blonde custom millwork, Fisher Paykel appliances, and a striking quartz-topped island that’s both stain and heat-resistant. Each bedroom provides a private retreat with stunning views and generous closet space. See floor plan and full details here.

346 11th Street, #GARDEN
$1,999,000

Park Slope | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 2 Baths | 1,997 ft²

346 11th Street, #GARDEN (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Originally constructed as open loft space in 2001, this enormous, 2,000-square-foot duplex is currently configured as a three-bedroom, two-bath home. With its two distinct outdoor entertaining areas, this bright and spacious condominium is a unique find in charming Park Slope. Upon entry you are greeted by soaring 10-foot ceilings, a main floor framed by oversized windows, truly grand room proportions, a chic designer kitchen and ample storage. Downstairs the recreation space, with its recently renovated rooms, opens to a bright and airy, turfed patio connecting the space to plentiful light. See floor plan and full details here.

265 20th Street, #GARDENR
$2,295,000

South Slope - Greenwood Heights | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,901 ft²

265 20th Street, #GARDENR (Compass)

From the Listing: Garden R is a sun-drenched duplex with two bedrooms plus a large lower level with high ceilings and great light. This home feels like a mini-townhouse with a grand and gracious tiered landscaped garden with access to both the upper and lower levels. The upper level features 10’8” ceilings, a spacious great room, large open kitchen and two bedrooms. The lower level is a big bright open space featuring a beautiful patio with stairs leading directly to your own private garden. See floor plan and full details here.

177 Greenpoint Avenue, #GARDEN
$2,595,000

Greenpoint | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,784 ft²

177 Greenpoint Avenue, #GARDEN (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: The Garden Duplex is a grand two-floor, 1,784-square-foot unit that is convertible to 3 or 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, with a Great Room, Home Office that can easily accommodate growing needs. The 1,573 square feet of outdoor space is spread across landscaped front and rear gardens set back from the neighboring building's facade to maximize the residence's quiet enjoyment, comfort and serene privacy in addition to capturing the evolving sunlight throughout the day. The thoughtfully chosen triple panes, triple glazed, self-vented, Reynaers windows and floor-to-ceiling glass walls insulate each residence from the bustle of city life from the moment one enters the airy, sunlit lobby. See floor plan and full details here.

103 Grand Street, #1GARDEN
$2,995,000 (-7.8%)

Williamsburg | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,508 ft²

103 Grand Street, #1GARDEN (Compass)

From the Listing: Experience the epitome of Williamsburg living at 103 Grand Street, where the timeless charm of loft-style architecture harmoniously blends with the allure of lush outdoor spaces. #1GARDEN is a one-bedroom duplex featuring an oversized sleeping area tucked away in the windowed lower level bonus room, allowing for a comfortable and versatile 2-bedroom configuration. It features over 2,500 square feet of interior space as well as a 508-square-foot private rear yard and garden. See floor plan and full details here.

71 Washington Place, #GardenDuplex
$2,999,000 (-7.7%)

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

71 Washington Place, #GardenDuplex (Compass)

From the Listing: Discover a rare duplex residence at 71 West Washington Place, ideally situated in the vibrant Greenwich Village. The main level greets you with soaring ceilings and an open-concept design that effortlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. A wall of glass invites the outdoors in, framing views of your private garden sanctuary, while three skylights illuminate the living area - verdant retreat in the middle of this highly desirable Village block. See floor plan and full details here.

853 Carroll Street Condominium Residences, #GARDEN
$3,150,000

Park Slope | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,952 ft²

853 Carroll Street Condominium Residences, #GARDEN (Compass)

From the Listing: Step into timeless elegance in this expansive parlor duplex home -- located in a massive Romanesque Revival mansion on one of the most desirable blocks in Park Slope. The Parlor Duplex has soaring ceilings with a plethora of ornate period details. Grand oak molding frames the large bay windows overlooking the peaceful tree-lined street. From the eat-in chef's kitchen, you can step out into the private garden. Descend the deck to a stone patio surrounded by mature trees—a serene green space perfect for relaxation and entertaining. See floor plan and full details here.

50 Clinton Street, #GARDENA
$3,190,000 (-8.9%)

Lower East Side | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 2,027 ft²

50 Clinton Street, #GARDENA (Compass)

From the Listing: Discover the epitome of urban oasis living in Unit Garden A at 50 Clinton, where sophistication meets tranquility in the heart of the city. This Paris Forino-designed two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence boasts an open, versatile floor plan spanning 2 floors, expansive casement windows, and one of the most exceptional private outdoor spaces in the city. Meticulously crafted with solid white oak herringbone wood flooring and crown moldings throughout, this garden duplex offers two distinct backyards spanning over 1,300 square feet of secluded outdoor living. See floor plan and full details here.

No. 68 Greenpoint, #GARDEN
$3,295,000

Greenpoint | Condominium | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 1,946 ft²

No. 68 Greenpoint, #GARDEN (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Garden Duplex spans the first and second floors, boasting a sun-filled, oversized great room and featuring a dramatic dining area with a 20-foot ceiling. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to a luxurious, 835-square-foot stunningly landscaped outdoor garden that features custom hardscaped patio and built-in kitchen, perfect for entertaining. The chef's kitchen features custom white lacquer cabinetry and top-of-the-line Miele appliances. See floor plan and full details here.

168 Waverly Place, #GARDEN
$3,495,000

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

168 Waverly Place, #GARDEN (Compass)

From the Listing: Located on one of the Village’s most dynamic streets, this is a rare opportunity to live in a two-bedroom (convertible to three) duplex that encompasses the entire garden and parlor floors of a stately townhome on Waverly Place, featuring its own spectacular 22-foot by 48-foot garden. Enter the sunlit and dramatic formal parlor with wood-burning fireplace and beautifully oversized windows overlooking the Village streetscape - it is the perfect space for large-scale entertaining. Downstairs, the garden floor acts as the apartment’s informal entertaining floor, featuring an open-plan kitchen with informal living and dining areas. See floor plan and full details here.

92 Horatio Street, #1L2P1J
$4,490,000 (-4.3%)

West Village | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths

92 Horatio Street, #1L2P1J (Compass)

From the Listing: For the first time ever, 1L and 1J are both offered for sale at 92 Horatio to create an expansive West Village residence in the Greenwich Village Historic District. With incredible features including a wood-burning fireplace with a custom rooftop venting system which ensures a nearly smokeless burn adorns the dining room, while a beautiful decorative fireplace complements the living room. See floor plan and full details here.

Lux 74, #GARDEN
$12,900,000 (-13.1%)

Lenox Hill | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 5.5 Baths | 5,920 ft²

Lux 74, #GARDEN (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: This remarkable 4-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom townhouse-style home redefines luxury living with its spacious interior, 1,500 square feet of outdoor paradise on the main floor, plus an enticing 350-square-foot terrace on the second floor. Step into a world of opulence as you discover an array of indulgent amenities that make this residence truly exceptional. Adjacent to the indoor lap pool, an indoor hot tub awaits, offering a rejuvenating escape from the bustling city. For the wine enthusiasts, a well-appointed wine cellar is at your disposal, where you can proudly display and preserve your collection of fine wines. The recreation room sets the stage for entertainment and leisure, perfect for hosting memorable gatherings with friends. See floor plan and full details here.

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Contributing Writer Cait Etherington Cait Etherington has over twenty years of experience working as a journalist and communications consultant. Her articles and reviews have been published in newspapers and magazines across the United States and internationally. An experienced financial writer, Cait is committed to exposing the human side of stories about contemporary business, banking and workplace relations. She also enjoys writing about trends, lifestyles and real estate in New York City where she lives with her family in a cozy apartment on the twentieth floor of a Manhattan high rise.

Read Full Bio | Contact Cait Etherington

This is your member's center

In this article:

Basement Versus Garden-Level Apartment

⬇ Example of a unit in a garden apartment complex in Jackson Heights, Queens

Greystone Coops, #41
$560,000

The Appeal of Garden-Level Apartments in New York City

• Gardeners

• Families

• Pet Owners

• Tenants in Need of Accessibility

The Potential Downsides of Garden-Level Living

Garden-level apartments for sale in NYC

The A Building, #GARDENB
$849,000 (-5.6%)

122 Palmetto Street, #1R
$899,995

305 East 4th Street, #GARDEN
$925,000

406 Midwood Street, #GARDEN
$999,999 (-7%)

Select which properties are of interest to you:

136 West 13th Street, #C
$1,000,000 (-31%)

358 Tompkins Avenue, #2
$1,075,000

1251 Pacific Street, #1
$1,175,000 (-4.1%)

West Village Houses, #GARDEN
$1,595,000 (-5.9%)

205 Freeman Street, #GARDEN
$1,725,000

134 Quincy Street, #A
$1,799,000

The Dovecote, #GARDENDPLX
$1,800,000

325 West 82nd Street, #1
$1,995,000 (-20%)

The Conover, #GARDENA
$1,999,000

346 11th Street, #GARDEN
$1,999,000

265 20th Street, #GARDENR
$2,295,000

177 Greenpoint Avenue, #GARDEN
$2,595,000

103 Grand Street, #1GARDEN
$2,995,000 (-7.8%)

71 Washington Place, #GardenDuplex
$2,999,000 (-7.7%)

853 Carroll Street Condominium Residences, #GARDEN
$3,150,000

50 Clinton Street, #GARDENA
$3,190,000 (-8.9%)

No. 68 Greenpoint, #GARDEN
$3,295,000

168 Waverly Place, #GARDEN
$3,495,000

92 Horatio Street, #1L2P1J
$4,490,000 (-4.3%)

Lux 74, #GARDEN
$12,900,000 (-13.1%)

This is your member's center

In this article:

Basement Versus Garden-Level Apartment

⬇ Example of a unit in a garden apartment complex in Jackson Heights, Queens

The Appeal of Garden-Level Apartments in New York City

• Gardeners

• Families

• Pet Owners

• Tenants in Need of Accessibility

The Potential Downsides of Garden-Level Living

Garden-level apartments for sale in NYC

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Listings in this article

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