Rarely does a home of this scale and character come to market. Occupying an entire private floor within an intimate pre-war boutique building, this exceptional four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence is set on a beautiful, tree-lined townhouse block in the heart of Manhattan's Upper East Side.
A private elevator vestibule opens into approximately 4,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, where classic pre-war detail meets modern comfort. With exposures in every direction, the home is brimming with natural light throughout the day, enhancing its expansive feel.
The centerpiece of the home is a truly impressive entertaining space: an open concept living and dining room spanning 55'. The living room is anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and framed by four sets of south-facing, full-height French doors with elegant Juliet railings, bringing in beautiful light and adding architectural presence. Coffered ceilings, hand-crafted moldings, and rich oak hardwood floors carry throughout, creating a warm yet refined atmosphere.
The custom, windowed chef's kitchen is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, featuring stainless steel countertops, granite surfaces, double sinks, and premium Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. An electric oven is complemented by a gas range that vents out.
The home offers four generously sized bedrooms, with an additional den/office space off the kitchen which can easily be converted to a fifth. The primary suite is a standout, complete with charming bay windows and a gas fireplace, offering a quiet and comfortable retreat. Throughout the home, custom 8-foot solid wood doors, excellent storage, and multiple walk-in closets reflect the level of detail and care put into the design.
Additional features include two-zone central air conditioning, recessed lighting, WiFi access points throughout, and a full laundry room with a brand-new washer.
This is a rare opportunity to reside in a full-floor home that blends scale, light, and craftsmanship in one of the Upper East Side's most desirable settings.
A $20 Application Fee applies per applicant.
Pets permitted. Showings by appointment. Welcome Home!
157 E 81st St
New York, NY 10028
Apartment building
2-4 beds
Available units
This building may have units for rent or for sale. Select a unit to contact.

$40,000
Fees may apply
4 bd, 3 ba
-- sqft
For rent - Unit 8
Listing by: Compass
What's special
Recessed lightingStainless steel countertopsWifi access points throughoutDouble sinksFour generously sized bedroomsTwo-zone central air conditioningRich oak hardwood floors
Facts, features & policies
Unit features
Flooring
- Hardwood
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Areas of interest
Use our interactive map to explore the neighborhood and see how it matches your interests.
Travel times
Walk, Transit & Bike Scores
Walk Score®
/ 100
Walker's ParadiseTransit Score®
/ 100
Rider's ParadiseBike Score®
/ 100
Very BikeableNearby schools in New York
GreatSchools rating
- 10/10Ps 6 Lillie D BlakeGrades: PK-5Distance: 0.3 mi
- 8/10Jhs 167 Robert F WagnerGrades: 6-8Distance: 0.4 mi
- 9/10Eleanor Roosevelt High SchoolGrades: 9-12Distance: 0.5 mi
Nearby apartments for rent
Listing order may reflect relevance, quality, and paid promotion.
Frequently asked questions
What is the walk score of 157 E 81st St?
157 E 81st St has a walk score of 98, it's a walker's paradise.
What is the transit score of 157 E 81st St?
157 E 81st St has a transit score of 100, it's a rider's paradise.
What schools are assigned to 157 E 81st St?
The schools assigned to 157 E 81st St include Ps 6 Lillie D Blake, Jhs 167 Robert F Wagner, and Eleanor Roosevelt High School.
What neighborhood is 157 E 81st St in?
157 E 81st St is in the Upper East Side neighborhood in New York, NY.







