The property is a classic pre-war mixed-use building constructed in 1910, comprising five stories with four residential units above the commercial space . Its generous, open floorplan provides remarkable flexibility for a wide range of concepts, from boutique retail and fitness studios to wellness practices and showrooms. The East Village is a true 24/7 neighborhood with strong foot traffic from residents, NYU students, artists, young professionals, and tourists at all hours .
Key Features
- Asking Rent: $25,000 / month
- Available Space: 1,500 SF
- Property Type: Ground-Floor Retail Storefront
- Lease Type: Direct Lease
- Building Class: S4 – Primarily Four Family with One Store or Office
- Year Built: 1910
- Stories: 5 Stories; 4 Residential Units
- Commercial Units: 1
- Building Sq Ft: 3,075 SF total (769 SF commercial)
- Lot Size: 1,250 SF
- Layout: Open, flexible floorplan suitable for a variety of retail, fitness, or service concepts
- Condition: Well-maintained; available for tenant fit-out and branding
- Frontage: Street-level exposure on First Avenue with strong pedestrian visibility
- Neighborhood Highlights: Located in the East Village, surrounded by St. Mark’s Place, Tompkins Square Park, and NYU
Neighborhood Highlights
Located in the heart of the East Village, 15 First Avenue places your business in one of downtown Manhattan’s most vibrant, culturally rich, and historically significant neighborhoods, known for its punk rock history, street art, community gardens, independent boutiques, legendary nightlife, and world-class dining . First Avenue serves as a commercial spine for the neighborhood, with constant pedestrian and vehicular flow from local residents, NYU students, artists, musicians, young professionals, families, and tourists .
The property is just steps from Tompkins Square Park (7th-10th Streets between Avenues A and B), a beloved neighborhood hub featuring a weekly farmers’ market (Sundays), dog run, playgrounds, concerts, and community events — generating strong foot traffic from dog walkers, families, skateboarders, and park visitors . It is also minutes from St. Mark’s Place (8th Street), Second Avenue, Ludlow Street, and the Lower East Side — all lined with boutiques, restaurants, bars, music venues, and nightlife . The East River Promenade is a short walk away, offering beautiful waterfront paths with stunning views of the Williamsburg Bridge and Brooklyn .
Transportation is highly convenient, with the First Avenue subway station (L) moments away, providing a direct connection to 14th Street, Union Square, Williamsburg, and Bushwick . Nearby stations include 2nd Avenue (F), Astor Place (6), 8th Street/NYU (N, R, W), and 14th Street/Union Square (4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W) . Multiple bus routes serve First Avenue, Second Avenue, and 14th Street (M9, M14, M15, M8) .
Summary
The 1,500 SF retail storefront at 15 First Avenue, New York, NY 10003, is available for $25,000 per month under a direct lease. With its prime East Village location, substantial square footage, excellent street-level visibility, and access to one of Manhattan’s most dynamic and diverse customer bases, this property represents a compelling opportunity for retailers, fitness operators, or service providers seeking a high-profile and accessible home in the heart of downtown Manhattan.
