Harlem stretches from the East River to the Hudson River between 158th Street and is broken into different sections including east, central and west Harlem.
In the 1920s and into early 1930s Harlem experienced cultural movement known as the Harlem Renaissance--ushering in an era of new prosperity for the black community .
Home to landmarks for some of the greatest contributors to American and African American culture, there are no signs of the economic wave slowing.
FOX Business reporter Charles Payne heads back to his hometown to prove American prosperity is alive and well.
Harlem By the Numbers
The Apollo theater attracts1.3 millionvisitors annually and is Manhattan's 3rd most popular tourist destination
In 2004 the median price for a co-op and condo was $305,490 up 32.8%
$41,966: The average household income
There are more than 59,000Harlem residents and the median age is 32
Former President Bill Clinton moved his office to the 14th floor penthouse office at 55 W. 125thStreet
Harlem Real Estate Renaissance
As the neighborhood continues to experiencing social and economic gentrification, the real estate industry is booming. Even though home prices and rent are close to 20% lower than what you will pay in the rest of Manhattan, the industry is booming.
In 2005, sales of condominiums and co-ops located above West 116th Street and East 96th Street made up 5.5% of all sales in Manhattan--compared to the 3.6% in 2003.
A Glance in the Rearview Mirror
1.) What has changed about your hometown the most since you left?
It's become cleaner, less violent, and much more expensive as well as much more diverse.
2.) What one characteristic in your life now do you credit your hometown for planting in you?
Lack of fear…I worry, but for the most part I have rarely been afraid of anything since I left my hometown.
3.) What do you miss the most?
The energy and vibrancy of the people can't be found anywhere else in the world. I often have my friends and family from the hood over to the house now and always have a great time with them.
4) Given the chance, would you move back? Why?
I would not because it is still too rough for my children. I live in a house with a swimming pool, pool table, big back yard and a nature preserve with animals like deer.
5.) What economic opportunity has your hometown lost?
Organic growth has passed a lot of long-time residence by and now it's unlikely they could enjoy the renaissance of Harlem.
6.) What does your hometown not get enough credit for?
It has nurtured so many people and was the home of creatively that enhanced literature, art and music. That legacy has faded over the last decade or so.
