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642 West 138th Street

Hamilton Heights, Manhattan | Broadway & Riverside Drive

7 Rooms5 Beds2.5 Baths1,980 Square FeetSingle Family

$1,950,000
floors / apts3 / 1
Lot Size15'x99'
Built Size15'x44'
ZoneR8
Building TypeTownhouse
RE Taxes$5,220
Price Per SF
$985

Listing Features

  • Deco Fireplace
  • Gas Heat

Outdoor space and views

  • Backyard
  • Deck [13'x4']
  • Riverside Park

Building Amenities

  • Voice Intercom
  • Garden

Property Description for 642 West 138th Street

All open houses are BY APPOINTMENT only

642 West 138th Street presents a rare opportunity to own a classic Harlem townhouse on a picturesque, tree lined block between Broadway and Riverside Drive in the heart of Hamilton Heights.

Built in 1901, this well maintained single family townhouse is currently configured with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a dedicated home office, offering a flexible layout for modern living. The property also provides the option to convert to a two family configuration, giving future owners additional flexibility for rental income, multigenerational living, or a separate guest residence.

One of the property's most compelling features is its long term development potential. With a maximum buildable area of approximately 7,885 square feet, there is an opportunity to substantially increase the existing footprint. Located outside of a historic district, the property also offers greater freedom to reimagine and customize the exterior, subject to applicable zoning and building approvals.

The home is fully electric and benefits from exceptionally low annual property taxes of under $6,000, an increasingly rare advantage for a Manhattan townhouse.

The location combines residential charm with exceptional accessibility. The 1 train at 137th Street City College is just one block away, providing a convenient commute to Midtown and throughout Manhattan. Riverside Park and Riverbank State Park are nearby, offering waterfront paths, green space, recreation, and access to the Hudson River.

The surrounding neighborhood continues to benefit from major institutional anchors, including Columbia University's expanding Manhattanville campus, The City College of New York, and NewYork Presbyterian Hospital.

Whether you're looking for a spacious primary residence, the flexibility of a two family home, or a townhouse with meaningful expansion potential, 642 West 138th Street offers a unique combination of location, versatility, low carrying costs, and future upside in one of Hamilton Heights' most desirable residential pockets.


Listing History for 642 West 138th Street

Now
09/02/2026
$1,950,000
Initial Price by Stanley Montfort
Serhant LLC
2026

Building Details for 642 West 138th Street

OwnershipSingle Family
Building TypeTownhouse
Service LevelVoice Intercom
AgePre-War
AccessWalk-up
Year Built1901
Floors/Apts3/1
Learn More About the Building

Transit and Citi Bike

Subway

137 St-City College
0.06 miles
145 St
0.37 miles
135 St
0.48 miles

Citi Bike

Broadway & W 138 St
0.07 miles
Riverside Dr & W 138 St
0.08 miles

Contact Agents

Contact Agents

1 Open House

Sunday, October 18, 2026
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
View this property on the company's website

Hamilton Heights | Manhattan

Quick Profile

Primarily a residential neighborhood, Hamilton Heights has a mix of brownstones, walk-ups and older apartment buildings, together with more luxurious apartment and condo buildings situated along Riverside Drive. Known for being a working class neighborhood in the past, now there are many artists, teachers and actors making their homes in Hamilton Heights.  

Hamilton Heights has a diverse population that prides itself on being a tight-knit community, one where neighbors know and respect one another, work together on issues that confront the community, support each other in difficult times, and spend time together socializing at block and seasonal parties.

Although there are many types of public transportation available, the area subway stops may require a bit of a walk, so you will need to plan for this time in your commute.

Hamilton Heights has a definite family-oriented vibe, and there are many playgrounds and activities for children. Additionally, you can find child daycare at reasonable prices. Riverbank State Park has many activities and recreational opportunities geared toward children. 

Although there are plentiful places to shop for groceries, everything from the bigger national chains to the neighborhood bodegas and delis, they are starting to show the impact of gentrification in the higher prices they are charging, especially for organic products.

Similar Listings in Hamilton Heights

All information furnished regarding property for sale, rental or financing is from sources deemed reliable, but no warranty or representation is made as to the accuracy thereof and same is submitted subject to errors, omissions, change of price, rental or other conditions, prior sale, lease or financing or withdrawal without notice. All dimensions are approximate. For exact dimensions, you must hire your own architect or engineer.
OLR ID: 23540TH