Buying your first home is a huge milestone everywhere, but especially in New York City, where housing prices are sky-high. However, there’s some good news: You can still find neighborhoods in the city where homeownership is within reach, and the Bronx is the place to start looking. The average home in the Bronx is priced around $452,000, according to Zillow, which means that many underrated gems perfect for first-time buyers can be found here. Additionally, self storage can help you make the most of your living space, especially if you’re OK with living in a smaller place. Opting for less square footage at home could lead to significant cost savings, and a little extra storage can make it easier. For example, a 5’x10’ storage unit in the Bronx rents for an average of $167 per month, far less than comparable options in Manhattan.
To help you find the perfect home for your needs, we looked at all the neighborhoods in the Bronx and selected the top 10 options based not just on cost but also on safety, local amenities (restaurants, parks, shops), walkability and access to downtown Manhattan.
1. Kingsbridge
- Average home price: $306K
Kingsbridge is one of those neighborhoods that surprises you. It’s very well connected and you’re in Midtown in under 40 minutes by train. The area is filled with small businesses, local eateries and plenty of shopping. Plus, you’ve got Van Cortlandt Park practically in your backyard for weekend runs, hangouts or just decompressing. For first-time homebuyers, Kingsbridge truly checks all the boxes: affordable, connected and full of local charm.
2. Norwood
- Average home price: $330K
If you like leafy streets, peace and quiet and a sense of community, Norwood might be your spot. It has that low-key vibe while still giving you access to the D train, with the average trip to Manhattan via public transportation lasting around 40 minutes. Think tranquil mornings, safe streets and a strong potential for long-term increase of housing prices, which means your first home will also be an excellent investment. You’re also close to Mosholu Parkway and Bronx Park, which is great for outdoor lovers.
3. Riverdale
- Average home price: $387K
Riverdale brings an upscale feel without the Manhattan price tag. It’s known for gorgeous views of the Hudson River, large co-op buildings and a quieter pace of life. For young professionals wanting to unplug at home but plug back into the city easily, Riverdale is definitely a win. Weekends are truly relaxing here, as the local scene includes farmer’s markets, numerous brunch spots and loads of green space like Wave Hill and Seton Park.
4. Bedford Park
- Average home price: $243K
Bedford Park is one of the Bronx’s most affordable and student-friendly neighborhoods, thanks to its proximity to Lehman College and Fordham University. This gives it youthful energy and diverse, convenient and inexpensive dining out options. The neighborhood feels residential without being remote, as it’s well-connected to the rest of the city through the B and D trains. You’ll also find quick access to Bronx Park and the New York Botanical Garden. First-timers can get serious value here with space to grow.
5. Parkchester
- Average home price: $218K
Parkchester is a planned community, which comes with a host of advantages. The layout is walkable, with wide boulevards and its own retail hub featuring national chains and mom-and-pop shops. It’s well-serviced by the subway and several bus routes, making it super accessible. Young professionals who are planning to accede to homeownership status will definitely love the ease of daily life here, from grabbing coffee on the go to easily hopping to Manhattan. Low home prices and a secure, organized community make this a solid starting point.
6. Eastchester
- Average home price: $581K
Eastchester is on the higher end pricewise, but for those with a bit more budget, you get a veritable suburban feel with full NYC benefits. Homes in this neighborhood are generally spacious, the streets are clean and the local vibe is calm and relaxed. It’s the ideal place if you work in busier areas of the city but want to come home to peace, safety and driveway parking. Not to mention, there’s quick access to the Hutchinson River Parkway and the Thomas Pell Wildlife Sanctuary. The neighborhood is also bursting with various stores, supermarkets and dining spots that make life easy and enjoyable.
7. Pelham Bay
- Average home price: $592K
This is another pricier pick, but to be fair, Pelham Bay is truly gorgeous. It borders the massive Pelham Bay Park, and there’s the Aileen B. Ryan Recreational Complex, so nature and sports lovers, this is your jam. With easy access to the subway and a strong local food scene (Italian delis, anyone?), you won’t feel like you’re missing out on city life. The area is super walkable and one of the safest in the Bronx, making it attractive to first-time buyers ready to settle into a long-term spot.
8. Wakefield
- Average home price: $595K
Wakefield sits at the very north edge of the Bronx, bordering Westchester. It’s calm, residential and diverse. If you’re OK with a longer commute to Manhattan, you’ll get more space and more house for your money and broad, tree-lined streets. Young homebuyers who want room to grow their families, work from home and start renovating a property to increase its value will find Wakefield a compelling option. Plus, the area has a strong Caribbean community, giving it amazing food options.
9. Belmont
- Average home price: $492K
Historically known as the Little Italy of the Bronx, Belmont is a small neighborhood but one that is full of character, cannoli and culture. Arthur Avenue is a well-known foodie destination, but beyond that, the neighborhood offers affordable homes in a walkable, lively environment. It’s close to the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden and has good transit with the B and D trains. Belmont is perfect for young buyers who want to be part of a tight-knit, active community with historic vibes.
10. Woodlawn
- Average home price: $531K
Woodlawn feels like a small town at the edge of the big city. With a deep-rooted Irish-American presence and well-kept homes, it’s a peaceful, welcoming place, nestled within ample green spaces. There are Irish pubs, delis and community events that bring neighbors together. You’ll find Metro-North access, tree-lined streets and a quiet after-hours atmosphere. For young professionals ready to invest in long-term comfort, Woodlawn has both charm and practicality.
Making room to breathe: Why self storage can be a lifesaver for new homeowners
If you’re buying your first place in the Bronx, chances are you’ll want to renovate, and your living space is going to be a little chaotic at first. Fortunately, you can rent a self storage unit in the Bronx to keep furniture and other belongings while you are in the process of moving and remodeling your new home. It’s a smart move while you paint, redo floors or just figure out where your stuff should go.
But the uses of self storage go way beyond moving day. Many Bronx residents use storage units to manage seasonal overflow, such as holiday decorations, winter gear or summer sports equipment that doesn’t need to clutter up your closet year-round. Self storage can also be a lifesaver during major life transitions such as welcoming a new baby or merging households. For small-business owners and those working out of home offices, storage units also provide affordable space for inventory, tools or archived documents.
Buying in the Bronx means you get the best of both worlds: a connection to Manhattan while also living in a neighborhood that provides peace, greenery, good eats and walkability. And with plenty of self storage options nearby, it’s easier to make the most of your space, whether you’re settling in, upgrading or simply staying organized.
Note: Home prices in this article are from Zillow.
