Most New Yorkers won’t consider moving to a neighborhood without easy access to at least one subway line. However, for residents of Red Hook, it’s part of the appeal and gives the neighborhoods its unique feel and character. While more people are visiting Red Hook thanks to IKEA, it’s still one of the most underrated neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
Moving to Red Hook doesn’t mean you’re cut off from the rest of NYC. In fact, the neighborhood is vibrant and offers plenty of perks you won’t get anywhere else. So if you’re planning on moving to Brooklyn, why not take a look at Red Hook? If you do decide to take the plunge, Great Movers has experienced Brooklyn movers who can help you move everything to your new residence at an affordable price.
Red Hook History
Settled by the Dutch in the 1600s, Red Hook was named for its red clay soil and the way the land extends out from the rest of the borough. Surrounded by water on three sides: the Buttermilk Channel, Upper New York Bay, and the Gowanus Canal, the area feels more like an island than a peninsula, as the expressway also cuts off Red Hook from the rest of Brooklyn. This heightens the cozy feeling of the neighborhood as the residents who live in the area tend to know each other.
Due to the area’s unique geological formation, Red Hook was the center for the maritime industry. By the 1920s, it became the busiest port in New York City and attracted people of all backgrounds. The neighborhood was featured in many movies, books, and plays, and was also where Al Capone got his start.
By the latter half of the 20th century, the maritime industry started dying down, which led to a general decline in the area. However, since 2008, the neighborhood has seen rapid development due to the controversial opening of IKEA. Ever since then, more people have discovered this amazing neighborhood to live in, and it has attracted unique food destinations, tech companies, and more.
Getting There
Unlike other areas of Brooklyn and Manhattan, public transportation is fairly inaccessible. You only have the F/G lines and the B57 and B61 bus lines. Still, that doesn’t mean it’s completely cut off. It’s relatively easy to access by car since the Gowanus Expressway runs through it and is connected to Manhattan via the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel.
Transportation Access and Commute Times from Red Hook (2025)
| Transit Option | Destination | Avg Commute Time (mins) | Cost (One Way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B61 Bus | Downtown Brooklyn | 25 | $2.90 (MetroCard) | Frequent service; connects to multiple subway lines |
| B57 Bus | Carroll Gardens / Downtown Brooklyn | 30 | $2.90 | Connects to F/G subway lines |
| F/G Subway (via Smith–Ninth St.) | Midtown Manhattan | 40–45 | $2.90 | Requires short bus or bike ride to station |
| NYC Ferry (IKEA Ferry Line) | Pier 11, Downtown Manhattan | 20 | Free (Weekends) / $4.00 (Weekdays) | Scenic route; limited schedule during winter months |
| IKEA Shuttle Bus | Court Street–Borough Hall | 15–20 | Free | Runs hourly; weekends 11AM–9PM |
| Bike (Dedicated Lanes) | Brooklyn Bridge Park / Manhattan | 20–25 | Free | Red Hook offers well-maintained bike lanes and scenic waterfront routes |
| Car (via Brooklyn–Battery Tunnel) | Lower Manhattan | 15–20 | $7.00 toll | Fastest route during off-peak hours |
You can also get to Downtown Manhattan via the New York Water Taxi, which runs daily from Pier 11 to IKEA. The ferry runs for free on the weekends! If you don’t live near Ikea, you can access their free shuttle service, though it only runs from 3-9 PM during the week and 11 am-9 pm on the weekends. The shuttle makes 3 stops:
- Smith-Ninth Street
- Fourth Avenue/Ninth Street
- Court Street-Borough Hall
Perhaps the best way to get around is by bike. Red Hook offers plenty of well-maintained bike lanes that you can use to easily get around Brooklyn and Manhattan. So if you’ve been wanting to brush up on your cycling skills, Red Hook is one of the best neighborhoods for biking.
Living in Red Hook
Red Hook was one of the last waterfront neighborhoods to be developed, due in part to its bustling maritime industry. Giant warehouses still occupy entire blocks along the water. However, beyond these streets, you’ll find a welcoming neighborhood full of charm. Most of the apartment buildings are your typical brick row house, though more warehouses are being converted into lofts. You’ll also find newer townhouses scattered around the area, though these tend to be on the more expensive side.
Besides the relative seclusion of the area, one of the biggest draws of Red Hook is its fully frontal view of the Statue of Liberty. It’s actually the only part of NYC where you can get this view, making it prime real estate for a lot of people. Speaking of real estate, rents tend to be a bit below average for New York City in general, with one bedroom apartments going for around $2,400.
Cost of Living Comparison: Red Hook vs. NYC Average (2025)
| Expense Category | Red Hook Avg | NYC Avg | Difference (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $2,400 | $3,200 | -25% |
| Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water) | $145 | $170 | -15% |
| Internet (Monthly) | $60 | $75 | -20% |
| Groceries (Monthly for 1 person) | $480 | $520 | -8% |
| Transportation (Metro, Gas, etc.) | $130 | $150 | -13% |
| Dining Out (Average Meal for 2) | $70 | $85 | -18% |
| Fitness Club Membership | $55 | $65 | -15% |
| Childcare (Monthly) | $1,650 | $2,000 | -18% |
| Overall Cost of Living Index | 92 | 100 | -8% |
Despite its small size, Red Hook has a lot to choose from when it comes to bars and restaurants. While Red Hook continues to expand its culinary offering, there are a few long lasting establishments that continue to be fan favorites, including Defonte’s Sandwich Shop, which has been open since 1922, and Red Hook Lobster Pound, which serves excellent lobster rolls and other seafood fare. When it comes to nightlife, there are an assortment of bars, such as Brooklyn Ice House and the Jalopy Tavern/Theater, where you can watch some live musical acts.
Red Hook Attractions
Of course, there’s more to Red Hook than bars and restaurants. The neighborhood offers plenty of attractions that will keep you busy almost every day of the week. Interested in art, there are several galleries to check out, such as:
- Inuit Art Gallery – features authentic works of art from the Inuit community.
- Pioneer Works – a collaborative urban artistic space that focuses on the arts and sciences. You can explore various exhibits or participate in a class.
- Kentler International Drawing Space – Since 1990, the Kentler International Drawing Space has featured contemporary drawings and words by emerging and under-recognized talent. The gallery features almost 300 US-based artists as well as many international artists.
- Auguste Garufi – If you want to see how and where a master creates his work, there’s no better place than Auguste Garufi’s studio. You can visit daily and browse his current works.
- Amorphic Robot Works – One of the coolest art installations in the city, this gallery features over 50 pneumatic robot sculptures of varying sizes.
- Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Gallery – The largest artist-run organization in Brooklyn, the BWAC is a fine art gallery that features amazing artwork from Brooklyn-based artists. If you’re an artist yourself, you can potentially be part of an exhibit!
Top Attractions and Cultural Spots in Red Hook, Brooklyn (2025)
| Attraction / Venue | Category | Highlights | Founded / Established | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inuit Art Gallery | Art Gallery | Authentic artwork from Inuit artists and indigenous communities | 2005 | Free |
| Pioneer Works | Art & Science Center | Large multidisciplinary space featuring exhibits, workshops, and events | 2012 | Free / Donation |
| Kentler International Drawing Space | Contemporary Art | Home to 300+ artists; focus on drawings and emerging talent | 1990 | Free |
| Auguste Garufi Studio | Artist Studio | Open studio visits showcasing Garufi’s painting and sculpture work | Active Studio | Free |
| Amorphic Robot Works | Kinetic Art Installation | Features 50+ pneumatic robot sculptures; unique mechanical art | 1997 | Free / Donation |
| Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition (BWAC) | Art Gallery & Community Space | Largest artist-run gallery in Brooklyn, showcasing local art | 1978 | Free |
| Waterfront Barge Museum | Maritime History Museum | Located on a historic barge, exhibits on NYC harbor and shipping heritage | 1986 | Free |
| Louis Valentino Jr. Park & Pier | Waterfront Park | Offers panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty and sunset vistas | 1999 | Free |
| Red Hook Farms | Urban Farm & Youth Program | Community-supported agriculture and youth apprenticeship program | 2001 | Free / Volunteer-Based |
For history buffs, there’s also the Waterfront Barge Museum. Located on a historic vessel, you can learn about the heritage of the New York Harbor and waterfront, from the history of the commuter passageways to its important role in the local economy. Plus, the museum is completely free!
If you’re more of an outdoorsy person, Red Hook does have a few parks, though don’t expect something like Central Park. Instead, you’ll find some excellent areas on the waterfront that give you excellent views of the Statue of Liberty, Staten Island, and Governor’s Island. With that said, the area does have its own farm, Red Hook Farms. This youth-centered urban farming program not only provides fresh vegetables to the neighborhood, but it also offers a paid apprenticeship for youths aged 14-19 to help run the farm. Apprentices don’t just learn about running a farm; they also help with marketing, outreach, and more.
Conclusion
While more people are visiting Red Hook thanks to IKEA, it still remains an underrated neighborhood to live in due to its relative inaccessibility. For many people, that’s part of the charm. Since fewer tourists are wandering Red Hook proper (most just go to IKEA and back), the neighborhood feels more tightly knit, and you’ll get to know your fellow residents.
If a move is in your future, reach out to some local Brooklyn movers (like Great Movers!) to help you in this new chapter in your life. The best movers know Red Hook like the back of their hand so they can easily get you into your new place with zero issues.
FAQ
Is Red Hook good for raising a family?
Red Hook is a great place to raise a family. It’s quiet and offers plenty of family-friendly activities, attractions, and more.
Are there local schools in the area?
Red Hook has several public elementary schools as well as a middle school and high school. There are also private schools as well. Many of the schools offer small class sizes and excellent teachers.
How safe is Red Hook?
When you live in a densely populated area there will always be crime. Luckily, Red Hook is generally safe though there are some areas, particularly around in the Northeast area of the neighborhood that tends to have a higher crime rate. With that said, most people feel safe walking around the neighborhood at night and by themselves.
