Woodsy, remote, and a community unto itself, it's hard to believe that Inwood is on the island of Manhattan. But Manhattan it is -- and that's the reason why this area has become increasingly popular (and expensive) in recent years.

True, your commute to Midtown or downtown may be longer than if you lived in the boroughs or even -- gasp! -- the 'burbs. But, hey, it's still a 212 area code, which is precisely why a wave of artsy and young professional types have flocked to this largely Dominican enclave.

Housing stock is limited in this small neighborhood. Broadway divides the area; to the west are the more desirable co-op buildings (many are Art Deco), to the east are less expensive properties and a higher concentration of rentals. Inwood's first luxury condo opened in 2008: The six-story NoMa 175 -- as in Northern Manhattan, get it? -- on Payson Avenue, just across from Inwood Hill Park, has one-bedrooms from about $385,000.

And more change is afoot: A planned rezoning of the area around Sherman Creek could bring new residences and retail to the 'hood.