The pre-war building, constructed in 1903 with a residential/commercial original use, is a five-bay wide structure designed by architects Sass & Smallheiser . The brick and terra cotta facade features distinctive architectural details, including a bracketed cornice, decorative beltcourse, and iron balconies, offering a historic backdrop for any brand . The 6-story building contains 38 residential units, providing a built-in local customer base .
Key Features
- Asking Rent: $20,000 / month
- Available Space: 1,200 SF
- Property Type: Ground-Floor Retail Storefront
- Lease Type: Direct Lease
- Building Class: Pre-war Residential/Commercial
- Year Built: 1903
- Stories: 6 Stories; 38 Units
- Layout: Open, flexible floorplan ideal for restaurant, retail, or service use
- Frontage: Street-level exposure on East 13th Street with strong neighborhood visibility
- Access: Direct sidewalk entry
- Neighborhood Highlights: Located in the East Village, minutes from Tompkins Square Park, Union Square, and St. Mark’s Place
Neighborhood Highlights
The East Village is one of Manhattan’s most vibrant, culturally significant, and desirable neighborhoods, attracting a diverse mix of young professionals, artists, NYU students, and tourists. The average household income in the area is approximately $123,569, and the average age of residents is 34, reflecting a prime demographic for retail and dining concepts .
The property is situated near some of the neighborhood’s key attractions, including Tompkins Square Park, known for its farmers’ market and community events, and the bustling retail and nightlife corridors of St. Mark’s Place and Second Avenue. Its location within walking distance to Union Square provides a steady flow of pedestrian traffic from shoppers and commuters .
This is a well-established retail corridor. Comparable spaces in the immediate vicinity have recently leased at rates from $9,000 to $13,000 per month for similar square footage, with some offering flexible use for food and beverage concepts . For example, a 1,200 SF space on East 13th Street is listed for $13,000/month with full basement and venting in place , while a 750 SF boutique retail/showroom is available for $9,000/month . The 432-434 location’s asking rent of $20,000 reflects its premium position and scale.
Transportation is highly convenient, with the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, and W trains all accessible at nearby Union Square, and the F train at 2nd Avenue, providing seamless connectivity across Manhattan and beyond .
Summary
The 1,200 SF retail storefront at 432-434 East 13th Street, New York, NY 10009, is available for $20,000 per month under a direct lease. With its prime East Village location, strong demographic profile, excellent transit access, and historic building character, this property represents a compelling opportunity for operators seeking a high-visibility and accessible home in one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods.