If you can imagine an Ivy League University with the largest city in the world as its campus, then you can imagine what the Columbia University Area is like. Occupied by students, graduate students, and those who could not separate themselves from University life, this area characterized by intellectual gathering spots such as: bookstores, coffee shops, restaurants & local bars.

Despite its proximity to Harlem, this area is safe. Columbia’s $4 billion endowment sees to this. However, as you travel north past 125th street or venture West towards Central Park, you leave the University’s protected nest. While the rents in this area are high, this area is a financial "gem in the rough" compared to the rental robbery of more sought after downtown areas.