Hollis, New York

Hollis is a quiet, well-established residential neighborhood in southeastern Queens, primarily known for its neat single-family homes, strong community ties, and family-friendly atmosphere. Located in zip code 11423, Hollis offers solid value in the Queens real estate market and has long been a destination for families seeking homeownership in a stable neighborhood.

Location and Borders

Hollis is bounded roughly by Hillside Avenue to the north, Francis Lewis Boulevard to the east, the Laurelton and Springfield Gardens area to the south, and Jamaica to the west. The neighborhood sits on a gentle rise, and many blocks feature mature street trees that give the area a pleasant, leafy character.

Housing Stock

Hollis is predominantly a single-family neighborhood, with the majority of homes being detached or semi-detached two-story houses built between the 1920s and 1950s. These brick and frame homes typically have basements, small yards, and driveways or garages — features that are relatively rare in denser parts of Queens and that contribute to the neighborhood's appeal among families.

Prices in Hollis have historically been moderate by Queens standards. Single-family homes have typically ranged from approximately $450,000 to $700,000 depending on condition, size, and precise location. The most desirable streets are generally the tree-lined residential blocks away from commercial corridors.

Transportation

Hollis is served primarily by the F train (179th Street station) on its western edge, which provides direct service to Jamaica, Forest Hills, and Midtown Manhattan. Multiple bus routes provide additional connections. The neighborhood is also within reasonable distance of the LIRR Jamaica station, which offers faster service to Penn Station for commuters. While Hollis is more car-friendly than Manhattan-adjacent neighborhoods, it is entirely possible to commute without one.

Schools

Hollis falls within NYC Community School District 29. Local elementary and middle schools serve the neighborhood, with high school options available across the district and through the citywide specialized school system. For current zoning and enrollment information, visit the NYC Department of Education.

Community Character

Hollis has deep roots as an African American community in Queens, with a cultural legacy that includes connections to early hip-hop history — the neighborhood is credited as a birthplace of the genre. Today, Hollis maintains a strong community identity and active civic organizations. The neighborhood has a mix of longtime residents and newer families drawn by housing prices that offer better value than western Queens.

What Buyers Should Know About Hollis

• Many homes retain original 1940s-1950s construction — hire a licensed home inspector to check roofs, foundations, plumbing, and electrical systems carefully.
• The proximity to Francis Lewis Boulevard brings some traffic noise to eastern blocks — view properties at different times of day.
• Check for basement apartments or converted spaces: make sure any rental unit has a valid certificate of occupancy.
• The Q4, Q5, and F train provide solid transit options, but a car is helpful for some errands.
• Review the full property tax history through NYC ACRIS before purchasing.