Jackson Heights, NY is a vibrant neighborhood in the borough of Queens is a melting pot of cultures and offers a unique experience for visitors.
From its diverse population to its rich history and array of attractions, Jackson Heights has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the population, history, quality of life, health facilities, shopping and dining options, transportation, education, and points of interest in Jackson Heights.
Population
Jackson Heights is known for its diverse population, making it one of the most culturally rich neighborhoods in New York City. With approximately 77,000 residents, Jackson Heights is home to people from all walks of life. Here’s a breakdown of the population demographics:
- 64% of residents are foreign-born, higher than the Queens average of 48%.
- 50% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino.
- 32% of the population identifies as Asian.
- 15% of the population identifies as White.
- 1% of the population identifies as African American.
History
Jackson Heights has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. The neighborhood was originally a vast marsh known as Trains Meadow. In 1909, the Queensboro Corporation purchased the land and named it Jackson Heights after John C. Jackson, a respected Queens entrepreneur and descendant of one of the original Queens families.
The development of transit, including the Queensboro Bridge and the IRT Flushing Line, brought rapid growth to Jackson Heights.
The neighborhood was designed as a planned community for middle- to upper-middle-income workers, with garden apartments and homes becoming prevalent. Over the years, Jackson Heights has evolved into a diverse and vibrant neighborhood, attracting residents from around the world.
Quality of Life
Jackson Heights offers a high quality of life for its residents and visitors. The neighborhood boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous parks, green spaces, and recreational areas for everyone to enjoy.
The Jackson Heights Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adds to the neighborhood’s charm and character.
Residents also benefit from a wide range of amenities and services, including shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural institutions. The neighborhood’s commercial district along 37th Avenue is a bustling hub of activity, offering a diverse array of shops and dining options.
Health
When it comes to healthcare, Jackson Heights is well-served by several major hospitals in the area. Here are three notable hospitals in the neighborhood:
- Elmhurst Hospital: Located nearby in Elmhurst, Elmhurst Hospital is a renowned medical facility that provides comprehensive healthcare services to the community. With state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, Elmhurst Hospital offers a wide range of specialties and is committed to delivering high-quality care
- NewYork-Presbyterian Queens: Situated in nearby Flushing, NewYork-Presbyterian Queens is a leading hospital that offers advanced medical services and cutting-edge treatments. With a focus on patient-centered care, the hospital provides a wide range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and more
- Mount Sinai Queens: Located in Astoria, Mount Sinai Queens is a trusted healthcare institution that provides a comprehensive range of medical services. The hospital is known for its expertise in various specialties, including emergency medicine, orthopedics, gastroenterology, and more
These hospitals are dedicated to providing top-notch healthcare services to the residents of Jackson Heights and the surrounding communities.
Education
Education is highly valued in Jackson Heights, NY, and the neighborhood is home to a variety of educational institutions that provide quality learning opportunities for students of all ages. Here are some key aspects of education in Jackson Heights:
Public Schools: The New York City Department of Education oversees the public school system in Jackson Heights.
The neighborhood is served by several public schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools. These schools offer a diverse curriculum and strive to provide a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for students.
Private Schools: Jackson Heights is also home to private schools that offer alternative educational options.
These schools often have smaller class sizes and may provide specialized programs or approaches to education. Families in Jackson Heights have the option to choose from a range of private schools that align with their educational preferences.
Jackson Heights Learning Center Annex: The Jackson Heights Learning Center Annex is a notable educational institution in the neighborhood.
It provides a range of educational programs and services for students with disabilities. The center focuses on individualized instruction and support to help students reach their full potential.
Adult Education: Jackson Heights offers opportunities for adult education and lifelong learning. The Queens Library branches in the neighborhood provide resources and programs for adults looking to enhance their skills or pursue personal interests.
These programs may include language classes, computer literacy courses, and career development workshops.
Education plays a crucial role in the community of Jackson Heights, fostering intellectual growth and empowering individuals to achieve their goals.
Transportation
Jackson Heights is well-connected to the rest of New York City through various transportation options, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate the neighborhood and beyond. Here are some key transportation options in Jackson Heights:
Subway: The neighborhood is served by several subway lines, including the 7, E, F, M, and R trains.
These subway lines provide convenient access to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and other parts of Queens. The 74th Street-Broadway subway station is a major transportation hub in Jackson Heights, offering transfers between different subway lines
Bus Services: Jackson Heights is served by multiple bus routes operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
These bus routes connect the neighborhood to other parts of Queens and provide convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. The Q32, Q33, Q47, and Q49 are some of the bus routes that serve Jackson Heights.
Bike Lanes: For those who prefer cycling, Jackson Heights has bike lanes that make it easier and safer to navigate the neighborhood on two wheels.
These bike lanes provide a greener and healthier transportation option for residents and visitors
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Jackson Heights, providing an additional transportation option for those who prefer a more convenient and personalized travel experience.
With its well-connected transportation network, Jackson Heights offers easy access to the rest of the city, allowing residents and visitors to explore all that New York has to offer.
Points of Interest
Jackson Heights is a vibrant neighborhood with a variety of points of interest that showcase its cultural diversity and offer unique experiences. Here are some major points of interest in Jackson Heights:
Diversity Plaza: Located at the intersection of 37th Road, 73rd Street, and Broadway, Diversity Plaza is a vibrant public space that celebrates the multiculturalism of Jackson Heights.
The plaza hosts cultural events, performances, and community gatherings, making it a hub of activity and a great place to experience the neighborhood’s diversity
Travers Park: Travers Park is a popular community park in Jackson Heights that offers recreational facilities for people of all ages.
The park features playgrounds, sports fields, basketball courts, and a seasonal greenmarket. It’s a great place to relax, exercise, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Louis Armstrong House Museum: Just a short distance from Jackson Heights, the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona is a must-visit for music lovers.
This historic house was the home of jazz legend Louis Armstrong and is now a museum dedicated to preserving his legacy. Visitors can explore Armstrong’s former residence and learn about his life and career
Queens Museum: Located in nearby Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Queens Museum is a cultural institution that showcases art and exhibitions representing the diverse communities of Queens.
The museum features a wide range of contemporary and historical artworks, as well as interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park: Known as the “Central Park of Queens,” Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is a vast green space that offers a multitude of recreational activities.
The park is home to iconic landmarks such as the Unisphere and the New York Hall of Science. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, sports, boating, and exploring the park’s beautiful landscapes
Jackson Heights Historic District: Designated as a historic district, Jackson Heights is known for its beautiful architecture and unique character.
Beauty and Wellness Trends in Jackson Heights, NY
When it comes to beauty and wellness, there are several trends that are popular in the area. Here are some of the top beauty and wellness trends in Jackson Heights, NY:
Med Spa Services: Med spas have gained popularity in recent years, offering a range of non-invasive cosmetic treatments.
One notable med spa in Jackson Heights is Darren Smith MD, which offers a variety of services to enhance beauty and well-being. Darren Smith MD provides services such as Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, and more.
Holistic Wellness: Many people in Jackson Heights are embracing a holistic approach to wellness.
This includes incorporating practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Ayurveda into their beauty and wellness routines. These holistic practices aim to promote balance and harmony in the body and mind.
Natural and Organic Products: There is a growing demand for natural and organic beauty products in Jackson Heights.
People are becoming more conscious of the ingredients they put on their skin and are opting for products that are free from harmful chemicals. Local beauty stores and spas in Jackson Heights often carry a wide range of natural and organic skincare and beauty products.
Self-Care and Mindfulness: Self-care and mindfulness practices are on the rise in Jackson Heights.
People are prioritizing their mental and emotional well-being by incorporating activities such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness exercises into their daily routines. This focus on self-care helps individuals to relax, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
Jackson Heights NY FAQs
Where is Jackson Heights?
Jackson Heights is a neighborhood located in the northwestern part of the borough of Queens in New York City. It is known for its ethnically diverse community and has been described as one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in New York
What is the population of Jackson Heights, NY?
According to the 2021 data, Jackson Heights has a population of 153,743.
How did Jackson Heights get its name?
The land that is now Jackson Heights was named after John C. Jackson, a descendant of one of the original Queens families and a respected Queens entrepreneur. The Queensboro Corporation, which developed the area, named it Jackson Heights in his honor
Is Jackson Heights a historic district?
Yes, a part of Jackson Heights is designated as the Jackson Heights Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a national historic district that was established in 1999
What are the neighboring areas of Jackson Heights?
Jackson Heights is neighbored by North Corona to the east, Elmhurst to the south, Woodside to the west, northern Astoria (Ditmars-Steinway) to the northwest, and East Elmhurst to the north and northeast
What is the ZIP code for Jackson Heights, NY?
The ZIP code for Jackson Heights is 11372
What is the ethnic diversity of Jackson Heights?
Jackson Heights has an ethnically diverse community, with half the population having been foreign-born since the 2000s. It is known for its multiculturalism and has been described as the most culturally diverse neighborhood in New York
What is the historical significance of Jackson Heights?
Jackson Heights retains much of its residential character and has a rich history.
It was developed as a planned community for middle- to upper-middle-income workers looking to escape an overcrowded Manhattan. The neighborhood’s architecture and layout reflect the garden city movement and the concept of “garden apartments”
What is the political representation of Jackson Heights?
Jackson Heights is represented by the New York City Council’s 21st and 25th districts
What police precinct serves Jackson Heights?
Jackson Heights is patrolled by the New York City Police Department’s 115th Precinct.
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