<p>Agreed; most people I know from New York lump Morningside in with the Upper West Side. I think this is just a matter of their associating it with nearby parts of the city that are most similar to Morningside, even though it is bounded to the north and east by Harlem proper. </p>
<p>The fact is that, for the past two decades, gentrification has drastically altered the makeup of the neighborhood (in terms of basic demographics, income distribution, street life, local businesses, and crime rates) in such a way that it feels very distinct from the parts of Harlem that are in close proximity. This is neither good nor bad, per se, but anyone who’s spent significant time in Morningside and the rest of Harlem would be hard-pressed not to acknowledge these distinctions, as they’re very obvious and right on the surface. </p>
<p>Morningside itself is defined by the presence of its academic institutions, a group that is obviously anchored by Columbia. It has a relatively quiet, relaxed character, along with a good selection of businesses, bars, and restaurants that cater to students and faculty. In my opinion, that’s what distinguishes it from both the Upper West Side and Harlem–it’s just a pleasant academic enclave sandwiched between the two.</p>
<p>To learn more: <a href=“http://www.morningside-heights.net/today.htm[/url]”>http://www.morningside-heights.net/today.htm</a></p>