What is the difference between Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst?

Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst are neighboring southern-Brooklyn neighborhoods, both known for family living and Italian-American heritage, but with differences. Bay Ridge sits on the waterfront, tends to be a bit more upscale, and has a livelier commercial and dining scene along Third and Fifth Avenues. Bensonhurst, to the east, is larger and often more affordable, with a strong Italian-American history and a growing Asian community, centered on 18th Avenue and 86th Street. Buyers weigh Bay Ridge's waterfront and amenities against Bensonhurst's value and space.