What You Should Know Before Moving to New York: 21 Things To Consider
Are you planning to move to New York City?
Unlike what you see in movies, this amazing city is way more than just fast yellow cabs, angry commuters, and hectic people. You may visit five distinct boroughs here, each with distinctive architecture, delectable eateries, unique bars, and lush green spaces.
Expats are sure to discover a niche community where they can fit in with so much on offer. There are a few things you should know about New York, though, before you start packing your bags even if it’s for a short term or long term.
1. New York City is more than just Manhattan
People frequently picture Manhattan’s tourist hotspots like Times Square and the Empire State Building. They also think of the beauty of Central Park and the luxury of the Upper East Side. But NYC is made up of five boroughs, each with its own charm:
Manhattan
Manhattan is genuinely at the center of everything, serving as New York’s cultural hub. Visit this location to locate Central Park, Broadway, and other well-known sites.
Brooklyn
Brooklyn is known for arts, music, and trendy areas like Park Slope. Brooklyn offers a mix of historic brownstones and modern apartments.
Queens
The region’s unrivaled cuisine culture is a reflection of its variety. Pass by wonderful Chinese dumplings, scrumptious Greek souvlaki, and a lot more. In addition, Queens is a popular location for those who enjoy modern art, sports, and the outdoors.
Bronx
Hip-hop, sports, and nature are popular interests in The Bronx. Arrive in the Bronx. The largest park in the city and the New York Yankees are both located in this borough.
Staten Island
Residents can easily commute by taking a beautiful ride on the Staten Island Ferry. This is ideal for those who prefer a combination of suburban and city life.
2. The cost of living in NYC is high
One of the biggest challenges when moving to NYC is the cost of living. The majority of New Yorkers will tell you that money disappears quickly here between paychecks.
Housing costs
Rent in New York City is very expensive. NY housing is 238% more expensive in New York than the U.S. average.
The average rent in NYC is $4,500/month for a one-bedroom in Manhattan. Brooklyn is a little cheaper at $4,300, and Queens is more affordable at $3,000.
Living in NYC is exciting, but the high rent makes it hard for many people.
Utilities and groceries
n New York City, utilities are about 6% more expensive compared to the national average. When it comes to basic necessities, groceries cost around 12,8% more than in other parts of the country. Clothing is even more costly, with prices running about 20% higher. So, while you may save a bit on utilities, everyday items like food and clothes are noticeably pricier in NYC.
Security deposit
In New York City, landlords often ask for the first and last month’s rent, along with a security deposit, before you move in. This means you’ll need a lot of money upfront to get an apartment.
The security deposit is usually one month’s rent. It is returned if the apartment is in good condition when you leave. This is a common requirement for renting in NYC.
New Yorkers have to pay three types of income taxes. These include federal, state, and city income taxes. This makes living in New York more expensive than in many other places. High taxes help fund public services, but they can be a big cost for residents.
Healthcare
It is wise to research your healthcare options if you are relocating to New York. Unlike many other countries, the American healthcare system is fully privatized. This means that different businesses run hospitals and doctors’ offices.
After getting treatment, patients often end up with a hefty bill, and that’s when insurance companies come to the rescue. 91.2% of Americans have some kind of medical insurance to offset these costs. They won’t have to pay the bill after a disaster if they pay their supplier regularly.
We suggest Cigna’s services if you’ve already determined that you need private medical coverage in the US. With four distinct pricing tiers and 95 million consumers globally, they can provide you with the ideal cover.
3. Renting an apartment can be tricky
It is wise to research your renting options if you are relocating to New York. Renting in NYC isn’t as simple as in other cities. Many tenants need to earn 40 times the monthly rent and have a solid credit score which can harden the moving process.
To rent an apartment in New York, residents often have to pay estate brokers a substantial commission. This can range from one month’s rent to 15% of the annual cost.
Some tenants may be able to avoid this expense by looking at “no-fee apartments”. You’ll need to act quickly and efficiently because they tend to fill up fast. By using a service or website to find a roommate, you can also avoid broker’s costs.
4. Expect small living spaces
Apartments in NYC are often smaller than in other cities. Maximize storage and get used to cozy spaces. Many residents get creative with furniture and organization to make the most of their square footage. You should consider renting a storage unit for some of your things.
5. That is why many apartments don’t have laundry units
In NYC, especially in older buildings, many apartments lack in-unit washers and dryers. Residents often rely on shared laundry rooms or laundromats, which can be inconvenient and costly. This is a common trade-off for living in the city, where space and modern amenities are often limited.
6. You don’t need a car in NYC
All people living in New York City already know that there are better ways to get around the city than driving. Less than half of New York households (45%) own a car.
In fact, in New York, having a car tends to make people feel more stressed out than not having one. Owning a car in NYC means expensive parking, traffic, and additional costs. If you must drive, be prepared for aggressive drivers and limited parking spaces.
7. And those who do might be pretty angry
Even though we don’t often give in to stereotypes, this one is spot on. When traffic is not at a standstill, New York drivers frequently go beyond the posted speed limit.
Stay alert on the road, whether you’re navigating Madison Avenue or enjoying a quiet stroll in a Brooklyn neighborhood. Safety should always be your priority, no matter the setting. If you don’t want to spend life on the edge, it is also safer to believe they have the right of way
8. Learning to navigate the subway is essential
The subway is the quickest way to travel in NYC. Knowing the routes and using a MetroCard will make your daily trips easier. Apps like Citymapper or Google Maps can help you plan your trips and avoid delays.
9. Public transportation can be crowded
During rush hours, the subway and buses can be packed. If you prefer more space, travel outside peak times when possible. Be prepared for occasional delays or service changes, especially on weekends.
10. Weather extremes are common
In New York, you may anticipate hot summers and snowy, rainy winters.
Winter temperatures typically hover around 32°F (0°C), but they can also go as low as 5/14°F (-10/-15°C). This means there will likely be a lot of snowfall. While summer temperatures can reach 95/100°F (35/38°C), the highest recorded temperature was 103°F (39.5°C) in August 2001.
New York is on the east coast of the US, where cold air from Canada meets warm air from the Gulf of Mexico. This mix creates an unstable climate, causing shifts in temperature and various weather patterns.
11. NYC has some of the best food in the world
NYC is a food lover’s paradise. The food and beverage scene in New York is always changing and offers cuisine from all over the world. You’ll find everything from dollar pizza slices to Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you’re craving Little Italy pizza, Chinatown dumplings, or Greek food in Queens, you’ll never run out of options.
Do you have pizza withdrawals? You’ll fit in quite fine in New York. Since New Yorkers take great pride in their NYC-style pizza, it is not surprising that there is a pizzeria nearly on every corner. Some authentic pizzerias still cook their pies in coal-fired ovens and only provide full pies.
And if you want to experience the true diversity of New York City, go to Harlem. You can sample cuisine from everywhere you like: Ethiopia, Mexico, Japan, Jamaica, Somalia, you name it.
12. NYC’s tap water is among the best
Believe it or not, NYC’s tap water is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the country. Be ready for everyone to gush about how great the tap water is if you move to New York. Even New York City’s “some of the best tap water in the world” is mentioned on the official website.
What gives this water its reputation? It partly has to do with the source of the water, which is a spring in the Catskill Mountains, 125 miles distant. The Department of Environmental Protection reportedly conducts over 900 tests daily from up to 1,200 places across New York
Shhh you didn’t hear this from us… but it’s one of the reasons NYC bagels and pizza crusts taste so good!
13. There’s no shortage of green spaces
Despite being called a “concrete jungle,” NYC has thousands of acres of parks. This includes Central Park, Prospect Park, and Pelham Bay Park in The Bronx. These offer residents a chance to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, with jogging, picnics, and outdoor events.
Central Park
Central Park is one of the most famous parks in the world and a symbol of New York City. It has appeared in many movies and TV shows, making it a well-known spot for everyone all over the world. With its scenic views and iconic locations, the park is a popular place for both tourists and locals.
Pelham Bay Park
Pelham Bay Park is the largest park in New York City, covering over 2,700 acres of land. It offers beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and Orchard Beach, which is a popular summer destination. Despite its size and natural beauty, it remains less famous than Central Park. This makes it a great spot for those looking for a quieter outdoor escape.
Prospect Park
Prospect Park in Brooklyn also has lush meadows, winding paths, and a magnificent boathouse. As an alternative, you can visit Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park to take pictures of the Manhattan skyline while taking in the scenery.
14. You just need to know where to find peace in a busy city
New York may be the ideal location for you even if the commotion annoys you. Many of the city’s peaceful districts are easily accessible from central New York. This is great for those times when you miss the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
Central Park is a calm spot in busy New York City where you can escape the hustle. It has lots of green areas, nice walking paths, and peaceful lakes, making it a great place to relax and think. If you want to have a quiet picnic, take a walk, or just enjoy nature, Central Park is the perfect getaway.
Window Terrace offers the perfect location for anyone seeking a mix of city life and nature. This is because it’s sandwiched between two of Brooklyn’s biggest open parks. Plus, the main business areas are about 30 to 50 minutes from this nice neighborhood.
Similarly, neighborhoods in New York like Forest Hills and Riverdale have a small-town feel. You can relocate there and live in a beautiful neighborhood with streets lined with trees while still being only 15 minutes from Manhattan.
15. NYC is a hub for higher education
In NYC, students have an abundance of options. The city has a sizeable international student population. It is also home to some of the most esteemed colleges and higher education options in America.
Some of the country’s best universities are here:
- Columbia University
- New York University (NYU)
- Cornell University
- Baruch College
- Barnard College
- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
These are only a few of the top schools and universities. If you’re moving for school, expect a competitive yet rewarding academic experience. The mix of students from different backgrounds improves cultural sharing and helps people connect with each other. This makes it a vibrant learning environment.
16. This city is a Center for Culture
New York is bursting with cultural opportunities.
NYC is home to world-class museums like The Met, MoMA, and The American Museum of Natural History. There’s always something to explore, from ancient artifacts to cutting-edge contemporary art. Many museums also offer free or pay-what-you-wish entry on certain days, making culture accessible to everyone.
Do you desire a day of learning? You can visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the Morgan Library and Museum. You can also spend a lot of time exploring history at the American Museum of Natural History.
And if you’re looking for amusement, you can always go to Broadway to see the newest production.
17. The job market is competitive
Finding a job in NYC takes time. New York is the fourth most competitive, with 25.49 applicants per job. Whether you’re in finance, fashion, tech, or hospitality, competition is fierce. Networking can play a crucial role in job hunting. Lots of jobs are obtained through personal contacts instead of regular job applications.
18. A city built to impress
New York City has many famous buildings, like the Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal, and Rockefeller Center. Tourists often stop in the middle of the street to look up at the skyscrapers.
It’s an easy way to tell them apart from locals—who can blame them? These towering buildings are part of what makes New York so special. Whether you’re visiting or living here, it’s hard not to be amazed by the city’s skyline.
19. NYC moves fast and so should you
New Yorkers walk fast, talk fast, and live fast. If you like a fast-paced lifestyle, you’ll fit right in. If not, it might take some getting used to. Patience is key, but once you adapt, you’ll appreciate the city’s energy and efficiency.
20. The world in one city
New York is one of the most diverse cities in the world where you can meet people from all over the world. The city is often called America’s melting pot because it is home to nearly 3.1 million immigrants.
It’s a great place for expats, with about 36% of residents being foreign-born. You can even hear up to 800 different languages spoken throughout the city.
21. A 24-hour city
There’s a good reason why people frequently refer to New York as The City That Never Sleeps. You may come here and wander the streets in the early morning and discover anything you need. This includes bodegas, pharmacies, gyms, restaurants, spas, and more.
You can be sure that the night out won’t end early because pubs legally open at 7 am and close at 4 am. Whether you want a Broadway show or a 24-hour dinner, NYC has it all. The city’s nightlife scene is diverse, offering everything from rooftop lounges to underground clubs.
Make your NYC move stress-free
Moving to New York City is exciting, but it comes with challenges. High rent, fast-paced living, and real estate hurdles can be overwhelming, but the rewards are worth it. Whether you’re drawn to the career opportunities, vibrant culture, or incredible food, NYC has something for everyone.
If you want a stress-free moving experience, OneTwoThreeGuysAndaTruck Movers & Storage, the best moving company in NYC, can help. As experienced NYC movers, we know how to handle the city’s moving challenges. We help with small apartments in popular neighborhoods and high-rise moves. Let us handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on a hassle-free move in the Big Apple!