At first impression, Long Island City seems a bit dirty and unfriendly looking, but NYC is making it the new "it" place for NYers to live, as it is one subway stop from Midtown Manhattan where many people work. Plus, it's on the East River, so you have the Manhattan skyline as a view. Lofts are springing up there in the abandoned warehouses, and artists' studios are also finding a home there. It's the Williamsburg-to-be of the Queens borough.








