New York City is an iconic metropolis that has long been the heartbeat of America, and it has undergone transformations unlike any other city. From the cobblestone streets of the 17th century to the towering skyscrapers of today, the city’s evolution is a testament to resilience, innovation, and relentless ambition. Yet, even as the skyline has changed and the streets have grown ever busier, New York has held on to the same magnetic energy that draws people from every corner of the globe.
Through the lens of its architecture, neighborhoods, culture, and people, we see how New York has maintained its place as a symbol of possibility while embracing the future without forgetting its roots. The city’s ability to constantly reinvent itself while staying true to its essence is what keeps it forever relevant. From the humble beginnings of immigrant communities to becoming the cultural capital of the world, New York’s story is one of constant growth and reinvention. Here are 20 photos that show how New York City has transformed over the years.
1. The same location in 1970 vs now.
At least they added a Barnes & Nobile.
2. Lower East Side.
The first photo is from 1980; the other is from the present day.
3. Crosby Street in Manhattan.
The first photo is from 1978.
4. New York skyline in 1906 vs. the present day.
The ships give a much different feel to the city.
5. Central Park, 1980 vs. 2015.
It goes without saying that we’re doing something right here.
6. The NYC Blackout in 1977 and now.
In the ’70s, the higher you pulled those tube socks the cooler you were.
7. This area has been through four buildings.
One of the rare cases when we see a significant improvement in something so terribly messed with.
8. We miss the early NYC skyline.
I’d bet money that one of those vehicles from the ’70s is still parked on that street.
9. Pier 54 in 1915 and today.
This is where the Titanic’s survivors arrived in 1912.
10. Orchard Street, winter 1926.
I miss old-school street vendors.
11. The same spot in Central Park, 1933 and 2012.
We did a bit of upgrading.
12. Mulberry Street in the early 1900s vs today.
The first photo looks like it’s straight out of a movie.
13. The Flatiron Building in 1917 and 2012.
This has to be the least changed part of New York.
14. The temporary Dewey Arch, 1899.
It looked South down Fifth Avenue at 24th Street.
15. Broad Street, New York City.
The first photo is from the early 1900s, the second is modern day.
16. Sailing into New York, 100 years apart.
For 1900, that’s a fairly modern-looking city.
17. Times Square.
The first photo is from 1905, and the second is from 2015.
18. Looking South from the Empire State Building.
The first photo is from 1931 and the second is from 2011.
19. The evolution of Times Square.
Billboards took over in the mid-90s.
20. New York in 1956 vs today.
At least there’s still some greenery.
