84 Famous Faces in the Big Apple: Celebrities Living in NYC
Are you ready to take a peek into the star-studded world of celebrities living in NYC? Pack your bags and tighten your laces, because we’re about to take you on an incredible journey through the streets of the Big Apple! From iconic actors and soulful musicians to sensational chefs and social media gurus, we’re lifting the curtain to reveal where these celebrities hang their hats.
Uncover their favorite neighborhoods, famous works, and even places you might catch a glimpse of them. So, buckle up and let your curiosity guide you. Immerse yourself in the dazzling charm of NYC, where stars aren’t just in the sky – they’re right next door!
Celebrities Living in NYC: Famous Artists and Directors
#1 Robert De Niro
A legendary actor and filmmaker, De Niro was born and raised in NYC’s Greenwich Village. Known for his roles in classics like “Taxi Driver,” “Raging Bull,” and “The Godfather Part II,” De Niro also co-founded the Tribeca Film Festival, further cementing his love for the city.
#2 Sarah Jessica Parker
Known for portraying Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City,” Parker resides in the West Village. Her character’s adventures around NYC, in fact, made several local spots iconic, adding to the city’s allure.
#3 Hugh Jackman
While not a native New Yorker, Jackman has become an integral part of NYC’s theater scene, with roles in Broadway shows like “The Boy from Oz.” He’s often seen in the West Village, where he resides with his family.
#4 Anne Hathaway
Brooklyn resident Anne Hathaway, known for her roles in “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Les Misérables,” among others, has been a staple of NYC’s film community, often spotted in the city’s chic coffee shops.
#5 Martin Scorsese
The legendary director and NYC native, known for classics like “Goodfellas” and “The Departed,” has been known to frequent the Upper East Side, particularly around the Museum Mile area where he owns a townhouse. Cinephiles might run into Scorsese at the Film Forum or Cinema Village, where he often attends screenings and talks. Always passionate about film preservation, you might also spot him at events organized by The Film Foundation.
#6 Ethan Hawke
Ethan Hawke, famous for his roles in “Training Day” and “Before Sunrise,” is a resident of Boerum Hill in Brooklyn. Hawke is an integral part of NYC’s theater community, often taking on roles in Broadway and off-Broadway plays.
#7 Daniel Day-Lewis
Although originally from London, Day-Lewis is a longtime NYC resident, currently living in Greenwich Village. Known for his chameleonic performances in films like “There Will Be Blood,” he’s a quiet but cherished member of the local community.
#8 Liev Schreiber
Born in San Francisco, Schreiber has been living in NYC for years, making a name for himself both on stage and screen. Known for his roles in “Ray Donovan” and “X-Men Origins: Wolverine,” he’s often spotted in the NoHo neighborhood.
#9 Lena Dunham
Creator and star of the HBO series “Girls,” Dunham has made Brooklyn her home. The show, which spotlighted NYC’s hipster culture, was primarily filmed and set in the Greenpoint neighborhood where Dunham still resides.
#10 Tom Hanks
A beloved figure in Hollywood, Hanks keeps a residence in NYC’s Upper East Side. Known for his roles in iconic films like “Forrest Gump” and “Cast Away,” Hanks has become synonymous with American cinema.
#11 Alec Baldwin
Known for his work on “30 Rock” and “Saturday Night Live”, Baldwin has made Manhattan’s Greenwich Village his home. He is also a stalwart of the NYC theater scene, frequently starring in Broadway productions.
#12 Uma Thurman
Star of “Kill Bill” and “Pulp Fiction”, Thurman was born and raised in NYC. She continues to live in Manhattan, in the upscale neighborhood of River House, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts scene.
#13 Whoopi Goldberg
The Oscar-winning actress and host of “The View” is a longtime resident of NYC, particularly in the SoHo neighborhood. Known for her performances in “The Color Purple” and “Ghost,” Goldberg is an iconic figure in the city’s entertainment industry.
#14 John Leguizamo
Born in Bogota, Colombia, Leguizamo grew up in Queens and has remained a loyal New Yorker. Known for his roles in “Moulin Rouge!” and “Romeo + Juliet,” he often showcases NYC’s vibrant Latino culture in his work.
#15 Scarlett Johansson
Although born in Manhattan, Johansson now lives in the Palisades, just outside of NYC. With memorable roles in movies like “Lost in Translation” and “The Avengers,” Johansson is undoubtedly one of the city’s brightest stars.
#16 Meryl Streep
One of the greatest actresses of our time, Streep resides in Tribeca. Known for her versatility and accents, she has starred in a plethora of films such as “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Sophie’s Choice.”
#17 Neil Patrick Harris
Known for his role in “How I Met Your Mother,” Harris is a resident of Harlem. A multitalented actor, singer, and magician, he embodies the diverse talents and energies of NYC.
#18 Tina Fey
Born in Pennsylvania, Fey has made NYC her home. Known for her work on “Saturday Night Live” and “30 Rock,” she’s helped shape the city’s comedy scene and currently lives on the Upper West Side.
#19 Steve Buscemi
A Brooklyn native, Buscemi began his career as a firefighter in NYC before becoming an actor. Known for roles in films like “Reservoir Dogs” and “Fargo,” he is a fixture in the city’s film community.
#20 Amy Adams
While she was born in Italy, Adams is a long-time resident of NYC’s trendy neighborhood, the Upper West Side. Known for her roles in “American Hustle” and “Enchanted,” Adams is often seen enjoying the city’s offerings.
#21 Daniel Radcliffe
Daniel Radcliffe, the famous British actor known for playing Harry Potter, has been spotted living in the West Village of NYC. The talented star often frequents local cafes and bookshops, keeping a low profile. Check out places like McNally Jackson Books or Caffe Reggio, a favorite hangout. You might just be lucky enough to run into our beloved wizard during your NYC adventure. Remember, a touch of magic can happen when you least expect it!
#22 Julianne Moore
Living in Greenwich Village, Julianne Moore is renowned for her roles in films such as “Boogie Nights” and “Still Alice.” She is often seen strolling around her neighborhood and enjoying the local lifestyle.
#23 Ben Stiller
This versatile actor, known for his comedic roles in films such as “Zoolander” and “Meet the Parents,” is a NYC native who often can be spotted in the West Village, where he resides. His work in NYC film productions makes him an integral part of the city’s cinematic identity. Whether grabbing a coffee at a local café or strolling with his family, this city dweller embraces the NYC lifestyle. Keep an eye out, and you might just catch a glimpse of him!
#24 Lucy Liu
An accomplished actress with credits including “Charlie’s Angels” and “Kill Bill”, Lucy Liu resides in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. You might encounter her appreciating art at a local gallery, as she’s also a talented visual artist!
#25 Al Pacino
Legendary actor known for “The Godfather” and “Scarface”, Al Pacino was born and bred in the South Bronx. An enthusiast of the arts, you could potentially bump into him at a theater performance around Broadway.
#26 Sarah Michelle Gellar
Known for her iconic role as Buffy in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”, Sarah is a longtime resident of NYC’s Upper East Side. She can often be found strolling through Central Park or dining at chic eateries in the neighborhood.
#27 Jane Fonda
This “Grace and Frankie” star and fitness guru, famous for films like “Barbarella”, has a home in the upscale area of Tribeca. She’s been spotted attending film events at the Tribeca Film Festival.
#28 Rosario Dawson
Known for her roles in films like “Rent” and “Sin City”, Rosario Dawson grew up in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. She can often be found supporting local community events in the area.
#29 Christopher Walken
Notorious for his unique speech pattern and roles in films like “Catch Me If You Can”, Walken is a Queens native. Your best chance of meeting him would probably be at the Astoria Kaufman Studios where he frequently works.
#30 Christian Slater
The “Mr. Robot” star, famous for his roles in “Heathers” and “True Romance”, lives on the Upper West Side. Look out for him enjoying a quiet day at Central Park.
#31 Amanda Peet
Known for “The Whole Nine Yards” and “Something’s Gotta Give”, Peet is a Manhattan resident. You might spot her shopping in one of the local boutiques around her neighborhood.
#32 Meg Ryan
Famous for her roles in beloved rom-coms like “When Harry Met Sally” and “Sleepless in Seattle”, Meg Ryan owns a home in SoHo. You might cross paths with her while shopping at one of the trendy boutiques in the area or dining in a chic SoHo cafe.
Famous Musicians Living in NYC
#33 Lady Gaga
Born and raised on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Lady Gaga has a strong connection to NYC. Her early days performing in small Manhattan clubs inspired hits like “Just Dance” and “Poker Face.” Today, she resides in a $22 million mansion in Malibu but often visits her old neighborhood.
#34 Jay-Z
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Jay-Z’s music is steeped in the NYC experience. From his breakout album “Reasonable Doubt” to later hits like “Empire State of Mind,” Jay-Z’s lyrics often reference his home city. He continues to maintain a residence in the upscale Tribeca neighborhood.
#35 Madonna
Though originally from Michigan, Madonna moved to NYC in the late ’70s to pursue a career in dance. She became a fixture of the Lower East Side’s vibrant art and music scene before shooting to fame with hits like “Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl.” Today, Madonna maintains a townhouse in the Upper East Side.
#36 Paul Simon
Living in New Canaan, Paul Simon, the singer-songwriter of the famous duo Simon & Garfunkel, is known for hits like “Mrs. Robinson” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Born in Newark, New Jersey, he moved to Queens, New York, at a young age, and his NYC roots can be felt in his deeply evocative lyrics.
#37 John Legend
Legend has a penthouse in Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood. While not a native New Yorker (he’s originally from Springfield, Ohio), his smooth vocals and soulful hits like “All of Me” and “Ordinary People” have earned him a place among NYC’s music elite.
#38 Tony Bennett
This Astoria, Queens native has been a staple of the NYC music scene for over six decades. Known for his smooth vocals and timeless hits like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” Bennett currently resides in the city that first sparked his love for music.
#39 Alicia Keys
This Hell’s Kitchen native famously sang about her home city in her hit “Empire State of Mind.” Keys, known for her soulful voice and meaningful lyrics, still calls NYC home and is a frequent presence in the music scene.
#40 Billy Joel
Billy Joel, a six-time Grammy winner, was born in The Bronx and raised in Hicksville, Long Island. His NYC upbringing inspired many of his hits, like “New York State of Mind.” He now lives in Oyster Bay, Long Island, but his heart remains in NYC.
#41 Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey, known for her five-octave vocal range and hits like “We Belong Together,” was born in Huntington, Long Island, and later moved to NYC to pursue her music career. She now resides in a luxurious Tribeca penthouse.
#42 Lana Del Rey
Known for her cinematic sound and hits like “Summertime Sadness,” Lana Del Rey lives in Manhattan but has said she finds inspiration in all parts of the city, from the Bronx to Coney Island.
#43 Barbara Streisand
Known for hits like “People” and “The Way We Were,” Streisand’s impressive career spans six decades. Today, she holds properties across the country, but her love for her hometown is evident in her music.
#44 Patti Smith
Known as the “punk poet laureate,” Patti Smith’s fusion of rock and poetry has had a significant impact on the NYC music scene. She got her start in the city’s punk rock movement, living in the Chelsea Hotel. Her hit “Because the Night” remains an enduring classic.
#45 LL Cool J
Born and raised in Queens, LL Cool J (short for Ladies Love Cool James) is a pivotal figure in hip-hop. From his early hits like “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” to his long-running acting career, LL Cool J’s influence stretches far beyond NYC.
#46 David Byrne
Originally from Scotland, David Byrne moved to NYC in the ’70s, where he formed the Talking Heads. The band became a fixture of the city’s new wave scene. Known for his eclectic musical style and hits like “Once in a Lifetime,” Byrne continues to call NYC home.
#47 Carly Simon
Born and raised in NYC, Carly Simon became a major force in the ’70s singer-songwriter boom. Her hits like “You’re So Vain” and “Nobody Does It Better” are timeless classics. Simon has a home in the posh Upper West Side neighborhood.
#48 Björk
Icelandic singer-songwriter Björk has been living in NYC since the ’90s. Known for her idiosyncratic style and eclectic musical influences, Björk’s hits like “Human Behaviour” and “Bachelorette” have left an indelible mark on the global music scene. She resides in Brooklyn Heights.
#49 Sting
The British singer-songwriter and former frontman of The Police, Sting has been an NYC resident for many years. Known for hits like “Roxanne” and “Every Breath You Take,” he has a home in the Central Park West area.
#50 Bruce Springsteen
While “The Boss” is famously associated with New Jersey, Springsteen has long maintained a residence in NYC as well. His deeply evocative lyrics and hits like “Born in the U.S.A” and “Dancing in the Dark” have made him a quintessential American artist.
Famous Artists Living in NYC
#51 Jeff Koons
The creator of the famous “Balloon Dog” sculptures, Koons lives in a townhouse on the Upper East Side. Known for his contemporary art and sculptures, he continues to be a prominent figure in the NYC art scene.
#52 Cindy Sherman
Sherman is a photographer and film director, best known for her conceptual portraits. She is a long-time resident of SoHo, where she’s immersed in the vibrant local art culture.
#53 Julian Schnabel
Renowned for his plate paintings, Schnabel resides in the West Village. His home and studio, known as Palazzo Chupi, is an iconic pink building that is a work of art in itself.
#54 Jenny Holzer
Known for her provocative public art, particularly her LED signs, Holzer lives and works in Hoosick Falls, just outside NYC. Her artworks are frequently displayed in Manhattan’s public spaces.
#55 Richard Serra
A leading sculptor known for his large-scale assemblies of sheet metal, Serra splits his time between Tribeca and Nova Scotia. His work “Tilted Arc” in the Federal Plaza stirred significant public debate.
#56 Kiki Smith
Known for her feminist-themed artworks, Smith resides in the East Village. Her multi-media practice spans sculpture, printmaking, and textiles, often exploring the human condition.
#57 Marina Abramović
The Serbian performance artist lives in Manhattan’s SoHo district. Famous for her durational works such as “The Artist is Present,” Abramović is a significant figure in the performance art movement.
#58 James Turrell
Although he has a primary residence in Arizona, Turrell, famous for his work with light and space, maintains a residence in NYC. His work “Meeting” is a permanent installation at MoMA PS1 in Queens.
#59 Chuck Close
Known for his large-scale photorealist portraits, Close is a long-time resident of SoHo. Despite facing severe health challenges, he continues to create art that is showcased in galleries and museums across NYC.
Famous Influencers Living in NYC
#60 Gary Vaynerchuk
A motivational speaker, author, and entrepreneur, Vaynerchuk lives in the Upper East Side. Known as GaryVee, his motivational talks on entrepreneurship are widely shared on LinkedIn and Instagram.
#61 Casey Neistat
Known for his high-energy daily vlogs, Neistat is a staple of NYC’s social media scene. Residing in the Lower East Side, he often features the cityscape in his YouTube videos, sharing his life as a filmmaker and entrepreneur.
#62 Emma Chamberlain
This popular YouTuber recently moved to NYC from Los Angeles. Known for her quirky and relatable vlogs, Chamberlain now shares her NYC life from the vibrant neighborhood of Tribeca.
#63 Jerome Jarre
A French entrepreneur and Vine star, Jarre lives in the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn. He’s known for his humorous and positive short videos on Vine and Snapchat.
#64 Brandon Stanton
The creator of “Humans of New York”, Stanton resides in Brooklyn. He’s famous for his poignant interviews and photographs of New York’s diverse inhabitants shared on Facebook and Instagram.
#65 Leandra Medine
Medine, founder of the fashion blog “Man Repeller,” lives in Lower Manhattan. Known for her bold, non-traditional sartorial choices, she’s a well-known figure in fashion blogging and on Instagram.
#66 Hannah Bronfman
A wellness and beauty influencer, Bronfman lives in the chic neighborhood of SoHo. She shares her fitness journey, beauty tips, and entrepreneur life on Instagram and her blog, HBFit.
#67 Aimee Song
A pioneer in fashion blogging, Song splits her time between Los Angeles and NYC. When in the city, she is often seen in stylish Manhattan, posting fashion and interior design inspirations on her blog, Song of Style.
#68 Noah Schnapp
Best known as Will Byers from “Stranger Things”, Schnapp was born and raised in Scarsdale, NY. He’s a rising star on TikTok, sharing light-hearted content and behind-the-scenes looks at his acting projects.
#69 Adam Gallagher
Based in East Village, Gallagher is known for his travel and menswear blog, “I AM GALLA.” His Instagram features NYC’s architectural gems, his sharp fashion sense, and travel diaries.
Celebrity Chefs Living in NYC
#70 Daniel Boulud
Known for his eponymous restaurant, Daniel, in the Upper East Side, Boulud is a leader in NYC’s fine dining scene. His innovative approach to French cuisine has earned him multiple James Beard Awards.
#71 Marcus Samuelsson
Harlem-based chef Samuelsson is known for his restaurant Red Rooster, where he brings his Ethiopian-Swedish heritage to Southern comfort food. He’s also a prominent TV personality, appearing on shows like “Chopped” and “Iron Chef.”
#72 April Bloomfield
Known for co-owning and being the executive chef at NYC’s famous Spotted Pig, Bloomfield has made a significant mark in Manhattan’s West Village with her gastropub cuisine.
#73 David Chang
Chang, founder of the Momofuku restaurant group, lives in the East Village. Known for his innovative fusion cuisine, his restaurants, and his Netflix series, “Ugly Delicious,” have a large following.
#74 Tom Colicchio
Colicchio, head judge on “Top Chef” and a former Gramercy resident, is the co-founder of Gramercy Tavern, a classic NYC eatery. He is known for his commitment to sustainability and local ingredients.
#75 Masaharu Morimoto
Residing in Chelsea, Morimoto is known for his unique fusion of traditional Japanese and Western cuisine. His eponymous restaurant in Chelsea Market showcases his innovative style and mastery of ingredients.
#76 Lidia Bastianich
Living in Queens, Bastianich owns Felidia, Becco, and several other restaurants. She’s known for her Italian cuisine, successful TV shows, and her work in food education.
#77 Christina Tosi
Tosi, known for her unique desserts and as the founder of Milk Bar, resides in Brooklyn. Her inventive approach to baking, seen in her famous compost cookies and cereal milk soft serve, has won the hearts of many New Yorkers.
Famous Athletes Who Live in NYC
#78 Derek Jeter
Another Yankees legend, Derek Jeter is often seen in the trendy neighborhood of Tribeca. His legendary career has made him an integral part of NYC’s sports culture.
#79 Patrick Ewing
The Jamaican-born basketball legend, who made a name as the New York Knicks’ star player, has been spotted around the Madison Square Garden area.
#80 Serena Williams
Much like her sister Venus, Serena is often in NYC for tennis events, and has been seen around SoHo. Her impressive record and power on the court have made her a tennis icon.
#81 Carmelo Anthony
Once a star player for the New York Knicks, Carmelo Anthony can be found in the Upper West Side. Known for his high-scoring games, he’s a true legend in the world of basketball.
#82 Saquon Barkley
Hailing from The Bronx, this NFL running back plays for the New York Giants. His incredible athleticism and dynamic playing style are always a thrill to watch on game days.
#83 Venus Williams
A renowned tennis player and entrepreneur, Venus often attends events in the Upper East Side. She’s famed for her powerful play and multiple Grand Slam titles.
#84 Alex Rodriguez
The former Yankees player has made New York his home, specifically the Upper West Side. A-Rod is well-loved for his contribution to the Yankees’ multiple World Series titles.
Do’s and Don’ts When Spotting A Celebrity in NYC
Do’s
- DO Respect Their Privacy: Celebrities are people too, and like everyone else, they appreciate their privacy. If you happen to spot one on the street, it’s perfectly fine to look and admire, but don’t intrude.
- DO Be Polite: If you decide to approach a celebrity, be courteous and respectful. Remember that they might be in the middle of a busy day or enjoying time with their family.
- DO Ask for Permission: If you want a photo or an autograph, it’s always best to ask. Most celebrities will be happy to oblige if they’re not in a rush.
- DO Enjoy Celebrity Spotting Tours: They can be a fun way to see parts of the city and learn more about the lives of your favorite stars.
Don’ts
- DON’T Harass Them: It’s one thing to say hello or ask for a photo, it’s another to follow them around or invade their personal space. Let’s keep interactions positive and respectful.
- DON’T Disrupt Their Meal: If a celebrity is dining at a restaurant, let them enjoy their meal. It’s not the best time to approach them for a picture or conversation.
- DON’T Camp Outside Their Home: It’s important to remember that a celebrity’s home is their sanctuary. Avoid camping outside their residences, hoping for a sighting.
- DON’T Spread Their Location on Social Media: If you’ve spotted a celebrity, avoid broadcasting their location on social media. This can lead to unwanted crowds and can be a privacy concern.
FAQ
Who are some celebrities living in NYC?
NYC is home to many celebrities, including Robert De Niro, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Jennifer Lopez. Actors, musicians, chefs, and social media influencers alike choose NYC as their base.
Where do celebrities hang out in NYC?
Celebrities frequent various hotspots around the city. These include posh restaurants, boutique cafes, and exclusive clubs, particularly in neighborhoods like Tribeca, SoHo, and the Upper East Side.
Can I see celebrities on the streets of NYC?
Yes, it’s quite possible! Celebrities often stroll around their neighborhoods, shop at local markets, or dine out, just like everyone else. Remember to respect their privacy, though.
What NYC neighborhoods are most popular with celebrities?
Tribeca, SoHo, Greenwich Village, and the Upper East Side are among the most popular neighborhoods where celebrities own homes and are often seen.
Are there tours in NYC that focus on celebrity spotting?
Absolutely! There are many tours available that take you around celebrity homes and favorite spots. One of the most popular ones is the Sex and the City Tour in NYC.
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