Jamaica Hills, Queens: A Suburban Gem in the City

Situated on a high ridge in central Queens, Jamaica Hills is a serene and well-established neighborhood that offers a picturesque suburban retreat within the urban landscape. Known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, a variety of classic housing styles, and a strong sense of community, Jamaica Hills provides a high quality of life that appeals to both families and professionals. With its lush landscape and convenient location, it offers a tranquil escape without sacrificing urban convenience.

A Legacy of Land and Thoughtful Development

From Rural Farmland to a Residential Haven

The history of Jamaica Hills is a story of planned development and a clever name. The "hills" portion of the name is a nod to the neighborhood's topography, as it sits on one of the higher points in Queens, offering a distinct sense of elevation and natural beauty. The area's modern identity was forged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was developed as a residential community. Its character was shaped by a focus on spacious, single-family homes and a deliberate effort to maintain a park-like feel. This legacy of thoughtful planning has resulted in the quiet, residential feel that makes Jamaica Hills so unique today.

A Community that Cultivates and Connects

Jamaica Hills is a neighborhood with a strong, close-knit community feel. It is known for being a safe, quiet, and welcoming place to live, with a mix of multi-generational families and newer residents who are drawn to its peaceful environment. The community is remarkably diverse, with a notable Asian and Hispanic presence, adding a rich multicultural layer to its fabric. Residents here take great pride in their homes and are actively involved in civic life through organizations like the Jamaica Hills Civic Association, contributing to a sense of shared purpose and pride.

Architectural Consistency and Urban Greenery

The visual appeal of Jamaica Hills is defined by its harmonious and well-maintained streetscape. The neighborhood features a variety of well-kept, single-family homes, with classic styles like Tudor and Colonial particularly prominent. These houses are often set on generous, well-landscaped lots, providing a sense of space and privacy. The neighborhood is also home to Captain Tilly Park, a quiet oasis of woodlands and walkways surrounding Goose Pond, a natural kettle pond.

Real Estate in Jamaica Hills: A Diverse and Desirable Market

The real estate market in Jamaica Hills is primarily composed of single-family homes, with a significant presence of co-op apartments. The market is competitive, reflecting the neighborhood's desirability and its low turnover rate.

Character-Filled and Accessible Properties

Jamaica Hills' housing stock offers a range of choices for both buyers and renters. As of mid-2025, the median sale price for homes in the neighborhood is approximately $246,000, which is a broad average that reflects the diverse range of properties. Single-family homes, particularly the classic Tudor and Colonial styles, can sell for over $1 million, while co-ops offer a much more accessible entry point into the neighborhood. The market is active, with properties selling in an average of 50 days.

Properties for Families and Urban Dwellers

The residences in Jamaica Hills cater to those seeking a secure, quiet, and family-oriented environment with excellent schools. The emphasis is on quality living in a peaceful setting while still having convenient access to the city's amenities.

Amenities and Connectivity

Experience City Life with Central Access

Jamaica Hills' strategic location provides convenient access to a variety of local commercial hubs and a solid transportation network, placing residents within easy reach of all they need.

A Thriving Local Scene and Nearby Hotspots

The neighborhood’s commercial life is centered on its main thoroughfares, including Hillside Avenue and Union Turnpike, which offer a high concentration of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The area is a culinary destination, offering a wide variety of authentic international restaurants. The presence of St. John's University also adds to the neighborhood's vibrancy, providing opportunities for cultural and educational events.

Proximity to Green Spaces and Community Hubs

The centerpiece of the neighborhood is Captain Tilly Park, a local gem that offers a quiet oasis of woodlands and a pond. Jamaica Hills is also located near the massive Flushing Meadows Corona Park and Cunningham Park, which provide residents with a massive urban oasis for recreation and relaxation.

Exceptional Accessibility

Jamaica Hills is incredibly well-connected by public transportation. The neighborhood is served by the F subway line at the 179th Street station, which provides a direct and efficient commute to Manhattan. Numerous MTA bus routes also crisscross the area, and its convenient location near the Grand Central Parkway and the Long Island Expressway makes driving to other parts of the city and Long Island straightforward.

Jamaica Hills, Queens, offers a truly special opportunity to experience a classic, stable, and welcoming urban lifestyle. It's a place where a rich sense of community, a variety of housing options, and convenient access to both local amenities and the wider city converge, creating an exceptionally desirable and engaging environment to call home.

HOA: No (There is no neighborhood-wide HOA. However, a civic association exists to represent the community's interests, and specific private residential developments may have their own separate associations.)

55+ Community: No