Long Island City
Waterfront development hub with creative studios and a growing restaurant scene. Former industrial area transforming into mixed-use destination.
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Walk Score
Walker's Paradise
Transit
Bike Score
Liquor Licenses
294
Sidewalk Cafes
179
About Long Island City
Long Island City has undergone the most dramatic transformation of any New York neighborhood in the past two decades, rising from industrial obscurity to a gleaming waterfront district of residential towers and cultural institutions. The neighborhood now claims the densest concentration of new residential development in the city.
The demographic profile reflects LIC's emergence as a destination for young professionals seeking Manhattan proximity without Manhattan prices. One-stop subway access to Midtown makes the commute practical; waterfront parks and views make the lifestyle attractive. The growing population has created substantial demand for dining, retail, and services.
For hospitality operators, LIC offers the rare opportunity to serve a rapidly growing residential population in a neighborhood still establishing its commercial identity. Unlike established Manhattan neighborhoods with entrenched dining scenes, LIC welcomes new concepts that can become neighborhood institutions. The waterfront creates destination appeal for special occasions.
The development pipeline will continue adding residential units for years, creating sustained growth in customer base. Operators who establish now position themselves as LIC matures.
Best For in Long Island City
Commercial Rent Guide for Long Island City
Current market rates for commercial space (annual rent per square foot)
| Space Type | Avg Rent/SF | Typical Size | Key Money |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant | $55-$100 | 1,500-3,500 SF | $25K-$75K |
| Retail | $60-$110 | 800-2,500 SF | Varies |
| Fitness | $40-$70 | 2,500-5,000 SF | Rare |
| Cafe | $50-$85 | 500-1,200 SF | $15K-$40K |
* Rates are estimates based on recent market activity. Actual rents vary by specific location, condition, and lease terms.
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Demographics (Census Data)
Population
42,000
Median Income
$85k
Median Rent
$2,500/mo
Notable Businesses in Long Island City
Restaurants
Court Square Diner
45-30 23rd St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Casa Enrique
5-48 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Focal Point Beer Co
43-50 12th St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
MOGMOG
5-35 51st Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Jora
47-46 11th St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Vert Frais
43-10 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Bars & Nightlife
Record Room
47-09 Center Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11109, USA
Casa Enrique
5-48 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Focal Point Beer Co
43-50 12th St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Jora
47-46 11th St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
00:00
21-38 44th Rd, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Dutch Kills
27-24 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Cafes
Partners Coffee - Long Island City
26-25 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Takumen
5-50 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Overflow Coffee
46-36 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Softbite | Soufflé Pancakes
42-60 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Lately Café/Bistro/Bar
23-08 44th Dr, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Cannelle Patisserie
5-11 47th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Fitness
Movement LIC
11-11 44th Dr, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Yoga Space LIC
21-25 44th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
barre3
44-16 23rd St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
EVEN Hotel Long Island City - New York by IHG
42-59 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Lady Life Pilates [LIC] x Merrithew® Host Training Center
27-19 Thomson Ave 1st FL, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Orangetheory Fitness
21-10 44th Dr, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Wellness & Spas
Peach Bling | Japanese Nail Atelier
44-02 23rd St studio 101, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
EVEN Hotel Long Island City - New York by IHG
42-59 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
The Dermatology Specialists - Long Island City
10-41 47th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
European Wax Center
45-45 Center Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11109, USA
Skin Philosophy
44-40 23rd St, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Glowbar Long Island City
2-33 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
Market Snapshot
Nearby Neighborhoods
Explore similar areas near Long Island City
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Island City
What you need to know about commercial real estate in this neighborhood.
What is the average rent in Long Island City?
Commercial space in LIC ranges from $55-$110 per square foot annually. New development ground-floor retail commands premiums. Court Square and Hunters Point are the primary dining areas. The neighborhood offers value relative to Manhattan with strong residential growth.
What types of concepts work in LIC?
LIC needs neighborhood restaurants, quality cafes, and everyday services for its growing residential population. Waterfront locations support destination dining. The neighborhood welcomes operators who can become community fixtures as the area matures.
How is LIC's residential growth affecting opportunities?
LIC's development pipeline continues adding thousands of residential units annually. This creates sustained growth in dining and retail demand. Early entrants can establish loyalty with residents who have few established options.
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