New York City is not only known for being one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the world, but it also holds the distinction of being the most expensive place to live in the entire country. Even after concerns surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, the city’s real estate remains at a premium, with the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment standing at $2,810. San Francisco trails closely behind at $2,800.
Alongside its high living costs, the city is famous for its luxury stores, extravagant residential buildings, historical landmarks, and bustling entertainment studios. These attractions have made it a favored location for many celebrities. It’s not uncommon to find stars investing millions in opulent apartments that, while smaller than sprawling mansions, offer breathtaking architectural and interior details. Below, explore some of the most stunning celebrity homes that grace the streets of New York City.
Taylor Swift’s Tribeca Home
Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift purchased a Tribeca penthouse at 153 Franklin Street for $18 million, despite its controversial past ownership. Designed by esteemed Italian architect Leopoldo Rosati, the four-bedroom penthouse is rich in chic elements like skylights, a stylish galley kitchen, and a glass-encased staircase. Even though it’s filled with modern elements, it still retains traditional charm with its brick façade and welcoming exterior, being more than a century old.
Alec Baldwin’s Greenwich Village Apartment
Alec Baldwin invested in multiple properties within the historical and restored Devonshire House building in Greenwich Village. His first purchase was a 4,137-square-foot pad for $11.7 million in 2011, followed by two more adjacent apartments. Baldwin’s main home has four bedrooms and includes two outdoor, celebrity-worthy spaces. Though the three units could be merged into one mega-unit, he has yet to do so.
Meryl Streep’s Tribeca Penthouse
Renowned actress Meryl Streep once resided in a 4,000 square foot penthouse overlooking the Hudson River, Statue of Liberty, and Empire State Building. Sold in early 2020 for $15.8 million, after initially being listed for $24.6 million, this luxurious penthouse contained four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a 10-foot wraparound terrace. Decorated simply, it allowed the views to take center stage, with minimalist furniture, color accents, and even a classic clawfoot tub. The highlight for many would be the expansive walk-in closet, complete with its own seating.
Sting’s Central Park South Penthouse
Located on Billionaire’s Row, Sting’s 5,800-square-foot penthouse at 220 Central Park South was purchased for $65.7 million in 2019. Although not the priciest in the building, it boasts park-facing views, an extended swimming pool, and a private gym with a yoga studio. Photos of this exclusive building are rare, adding to its mystique, and it even houses a residents-only restaurant operated by renowned French chef Jean Georges.
Trevor Noah’s Hell’s Kitchen Penthouse
“The Daily Show” host Trevor Noah calls a two-story Hell’s Kitchen penthouse his home since 2017, after purchasing it for $10 million. This three-bedroom apartment includes a private terrace with impressive city views, a 29-foot living space, designer kitchens, connected bathrooms, and large, light-filled spaces. Located in Stella Tower, a nearly century-old historic Art Deco building, Noah previously rented another unit in the building for $15,000 per month. Its proximity to the “The Daily Show” set and architectural charm seemed to be strong selling points.
Bette Midler’s Upper East Side Pad
Bette Midler’s former Upper East Side palace at 1125 Fifth Avenue stood out with its enormous 7,000-square-foot area and 3,000 square feet of outdoor living space. Sold for $45 million during the Covid-19 pandemic, this six-bedroom triplex was located in a building designed by Emery Roth and included unique features like a vast library, an outdoor terrace overlooking Central Park, and timeless design elements.
