Twenty-three years after “Sex and the City” first graced our screens, the allure of Carrie Bradshaw’s New York City apartment remains as potent as ever. Even with the exciting news of the “Sex and the City” gang reuniting for a reboot on HBO Max, fans can’t help but wonder about the real-life inspiration behind Carrie’s dreamy abode. That address, forever etched in pop culture history, is none other than 64 Perry Street in the heart of the West Village. For devotees of the show and lovers of iconic New York locations, 64 Perry Street stands as a testament to the fashionable and fabulous spirit of the city.
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The Real 64 Perry Street: More West Village Charm Than Upper East Side Glam
While Carrie Bradshaw declared herself an Upper East Sider on the show, the exterior shots of her iconic apartment actually showcase the beauty of 64 Perry Street, situated in the charming West Village. This brownstone at 64 Perry Street became a pilgrimage site for “Sex and the City” enthusiasts right from the show’s initial seasons. It served as the perfect backdrop for Carrie’s quintessential New York life, a life filled with Manolo Blahniks and cosmopolitan dreams. Interestingly, in the show’s narrative, Carrie’s rent-stabilized apartment was supposedly a mere $700 a month, a detail that strains credulity given the West Village’s real estate landscape, even back then. This fictional affordability certainly helped explain how a freelance writer could maintain such a lavish lifestyle, complete with frequent shopping sprees at Barneys New York.
In reality, 64 Perry Street is a far cry from a budget rental. This stunning townhouse, built in 1899, boasts five bedrooms and three bathrooms and last changed hands in 2013 for a staggering $13,250,000. Its desirability extends beyond its TV fame; the property itself is inherently unique, featuring a lush garden and a nearly 300-year-old chestnut tree. The history of 64 Perry Street is as rich as its facade. Remarkably, only three families owned this gem before the 2013 sale, tracing back to its construction in the 19th century, indicating its enduring appeal and desirability.
Carrie’s Affordability in the West Village vs. Reality
Stepping back into the realm of reality, let’s consider the financial feasibility of Carrie Bradshaw living at 64 Perry Street. If Carrie were to rent a similar-sized apartment in the West Village today, she’d face a median asking rent of around $3,100 a month, according to real estate data. Purchasing a one-bedroom in the West Village comes with a median asking price of approximately $1,649,500. These figures starkly contrast with the more budget-friendly Upper East Side, where, as of November 2020, a one-bedroom rental averaged $2,430 a month, and the median asking price to buy was $1,595,000. Even in Carrie’s fictional Upper East Side, affording an apartment, let alone buying one as depicted in the “Ring a Ding Ding” episode, would likely require a hefty income, perhaps even necessitating Mr. Big’s financial assistance.
The contrast highlights the fictionalized economic reality of “Sex and the City” against the backdrop of actual New York City real estate prices. However, the show’s stars, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristen Davis, reportedly earn $1 million per episode for the reboot, easily affording any address in Perry Street, or anywhere else in Manhattan, in real life!
64 Perry Street: Beyond “Sex and the City”
The allure of 64 Perry Street extends beyond its “Sex and the City” connection. Fashion icon Tim Gunn, known for his role on “Project Runway,” called the top floor of 64 Perry Street home for 16 years, adding another layer of celebrity history to the address. Furthermore, renowned filmmaker Woody Allen, celebrated for his New York-centric movies, filmed scenes for his movie “Alice” at this very location in 1990.
These connections solidify 64 Perry Street’s status as a celebrity-associated building in a city brimming with star-studded real estate. Stepping inside 64 Perry Street reveals even more of its charm and character. While the exterior is classic brownstone, the interior boasts a grand staircase upon entry, six marble fireplaces with intricate detailing, five spacious bedrooms, three bathrooms, and approximately 4,000 square feet of living space. Architect Robert Mook’s original design shines through in the ornate crown and ceiling moldings, elegant archways, and herringbone wood floors, complemented by gold accents that lend a touch of glamour.
After three seasons, “Sex and the City” production shifted exterior filming to 66 Perry Street, right next door, further cementing Perry Street’s place in television history.
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Perry Street: A Lasting Pilgrimage for “Sex and the City” Fans
Decades after “Sex and the City”‘s debut, Perry Street continues to draw fans from around the globe. A simple online search for “Carrie Bradshaw’s stoop” reveals countless images of fans recreating iconic moments on the steps of both 64 and 66 Perry Street. The photogenic appeal is undeniable, making it an Instagrammable spot for visitors wanting to connect with the show.
However, the street’s popularity as a tourist destination has presented challenges for residents. To maintain privacy, local residents have requested tour companies to refrain from using large buses on the street. Despite this, “Sex and the City” tours still operate, often including Perry Street as a must-see stop, alongside other locations like Steve and Aidan’s bar. For fans, a visit to Perry Street offers a tangible connection to the beloved series. Standing before 64 Perry Street, one can almost envision Carrie Bradshaw herself, adding a touch of magic to this already enchanting corner of New York City.
