Sunset Park

Sunset Park is located near the water’s edge in South Western Brooklyn that is also home to its namesake park. The neighborhood is known for its cultural diversity which stems from its rich immigrant history. Sunset Park was home to Irish immigrants, and later Poles, Norwegians, Finns, and Italians. These immigrant groups helped to build many of the neighborhood’s beautiful brownstones and brick homes, which have been around since the 1930’s. According to census reports, the current population in Sunset Park is about 50 percent Latino and about 40 percent Asian. 5th Avenue is home to buzzing Spanish-speaking Taquerias, and bakeries that famously sell “pastel de elote”, while 8th avenue is home to Brooklyn’s first official Chinatown. The Mayor and Borough President recently announced the installation of a first of its kind “friendship archway”, which will run across 8th Avenue between 60th and 61st Streets.  Sunset Park itself, is a hidden gem with its scenic views of the Manhattan Skyline, and in the summer months, this pet-friendly park offers recreational activities like swimming, weight training, basketball and soccer.

Although Sunset Park apartments are still arguably some of Brooklyn’s most affordable places to live, with new developments taking place, the housing costs have risen significantly in recent years. One such development is the neighborhood’s Industry City, which was converted from a century old industrial complex and now harbors creatives of all types. Industry City is located right on the Brooklyn waterfront and delivers breath-taking views of The Statue of Liberty. According to its website, “Industry City is 35 acres of an innovation ecosystem that serves to benefit its tenants and the wider community.” With the added buzz from Industry City, there are now many things to do in Sunset Park, including attending art exhibits, flea markets and lots of family-friendly community events. Often referred to as “the Soho of Brooklyn”, IC is said to be Brooklyn’s next big film production hub. The area attracts local and national designers, content creators and an assortment of food vendors serving up fresh buckets of crabs and oysters at the Brooklyn Crab, tacos at Taco Mix, and beer drafted right here in Brooklyn. The owners are also planning to bring in more retail and add two hotels to the complex. 

Transportation is also being restored throughout the neighborhood. Residents of Sunset Park enjoy access to the DN and R trains. The R train at 53rd St. and 4th Avenue was recently renovated. That station now has enhanced technology such as digital time boards that are located inside and outside the station. Since all the trains in the neighborhood operate on the 4th avenue route, commuters can easily access Brooklyn’s Atlantic Avenue Terminal where they can transfer to the BQ234 and 5 trains for a quick ride to Manhattan, or enjoy shopping and entertainment near The Barclays Center.