Kingston Area History – The Brooklyn Invasion and Gentrification

Kingston, NY: A Look at the Changes Between 1995 and 2023

Kingston, New York is a city with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. It was once the capital of New York State, and it still retains much of its historic charm. However, the city has also undergone a number of changes in recent years.

One of the most noticeable changes is the rebirth of the Midtown Business District. The Midtown area had long been rundown and neglected. However, in recent years, there has been a concerted effort to revitalize the area. New businesses have opened, there has been a lot of investment in new infrastructure and it is the hub of many arts and cultural events. As a result, the midtown area is now a vibrant and exciting place to live, work, and visit.

The Arts

Another major change in Kingston is the growth of the arts scene. In the early 90’s, there were a few small art galleries and theaters in the city. However, in recent years, the arts scene has exploded. There are now dozens of galleries, theaters, and performance spaces in Kingston and surrounding area. The city is also home to a number of festivals and events that celebrate the arts.

In addition to the growth of the midtown area and the arts scene, Kingston has also seen a number of other changes in recent years. The city has become more diverse, and there has been a growing focus on sustainability. Kingston is now a LEED-Gold certified city, and it is committed to reducing its environmental impact.

Changes to the Real Estate Market

The real estate market in Kingston has also undergone a number of changes in recent years. In the past, the market was relatively quiet with homes selling for relatively low prices. However, in the past two decades, the market has become increasingly competitive, with home prices rising sharply, especially since COVID.

“From 2013 to 2019, the average sale price of a single-family home in Ulster County increased by 17% and the average sale price of a 2-3 family home increased by 24%. These increases were compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic with the median home sale price increasing 31% over the past three years, from $245,000 in 2019 to $320,000 in 2021” – Source: Office of Real Property Tax Services

This has been due in part to the city’s growing popularity as a destination for young professionals who can work remotely and retirees.

Kingston, NY: A Tale of Two Cities

Kingston, once a sleepy Hudson Valley town, has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. The city’s revitalization has been marked by a surge in economic activity, cultural events, and urban renewal projects.

The Midtown Revival

One of the most notable changes has been the revitalization of the city’s midtown area. Once a hub of retail and commercial activity, the midtown district had fallen into decline in the latter half of the 20th century. In recent years, however, the area has undergone a renaissance, with new businesses, restaurants, and cultural institutions opening their doors.

The Arts Scene

Kingston’s arts scene has also experienced a significant growth. The city is now home to a thriving community of artists, musicians, and performers. Numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues have opened their doors, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences.

The Impact of Gentrification

While these changes have undoubtedly made Kingston a more attractive place to live and visit, they have also had a negative impact on some residents. Gentrification, the process of wealthier people moving into a lower-income neighborhood and driving up property values and rents, has led to the displacement of some longtime residents. Rising housing costs have made it increasingly difficult for people on lower incomes to afford to live in the city.

A Balancing Act

The future of Kingston will depend on the city’s ability to balance the benefits of economic growth and revitalization with the needs of its residents. As the city continues to evolve, it will be crucial to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in its prosperity.