British in name only, with a character that's pure Brooklyn.
In the 1850s, Frederick Law Olmsted designed Ocean Parkway and thus began the transformation of this area from farmland to residential, naming the neighborhood after the London borough to give it a feeling of distinction. Today the road still serves, along with Church Ave. and Coney Island Ave., as a major thoroughfare. Housing development accelerated in the 1920s and has continued in waves ever since.
What to expect:
Relatively few businesses, a mix of home styles, and an old old school feel. Primarily residential, Kensington offers quiet streets — some with beautiful old Victorians. In between, you’ll find parks, schools, and a slowly evolving mix of businesses on the major thoroughfares. The architecture and slower pace can make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The lifestyle:
Neighborly and easygoing, with deep roots. People tend to settle here and stay put. The area may be quiet but it’s filled with life. Afternoons are spent playing chess on Ocean Parkway and bars are few and far between.
Unexpected appeal:
Space in New York City? Yes, it’s possible. Between the low skyline, multi-level detached homes and apartments that feature true storage space, you’ll relish the breathing room — especially when commuting from the city’s denser neighborhoods.
The market:
Prepare to be surprised by the square footage that’s suddenly in budget. From detached Victorian homes to apartment buildings, you’ve got options, with lower prices per square foot than trendier Brooklyn neighborhoods. The southern end of the neighborhood, off Ocean Parkway, has seen an influx of new apartments.
You'll fall in love with:
The pace of it all. Chess matches on Ocean Parkway, Victorian rooflines against a low skyline, and more room to breathe than you thought Brooklyn allowed. Longtime residents will tell you: once you’ve had the space, it’s hard to give back.
