If you've been wondering what it's like to live in or visit New York City, the Crowdsourced Explorer community can help. We asked 98 people living in New York City what someone who is considering moving to or visiting there should know. Here are their pros and cons, tips, and advice:

Living in New York City, New York:
Tips for Moving and Visiting
98 local experts
98 comments on “New York City”
Bring a lot of money. Manhattan apartments run $3000/month for a studio. Even in not so great areas. You can get that even in Brooklyn and Queens and have a place to park and still be an hour or more to the city (Manhattan). Unless rich your best bet for living decent is to go to Long Island and get a place near an LIRR train station.
New York City is a vibrant town that can at times be larger than life and as small as the smallest village. There are friendly voices who will help you find your path to success but who will also tell you the truth. Be ready and open to experiencing the best and worst times of your life.
Someone considering moving to NYC should know that it is easy to take the wrong bus or train as a newcomer. I recommend asking people nearby for directions. It is definitely a stereotype that New Yorkers are all mean. We are actually very friendly and are almost always willing to help.
Someone considering moving to NYC should know that there is always something to do at all time. Many restaurants and other businesses stay open all night. They should also know that there is always traffic so it’d be more convenient to take public transportation such as trains and busses.
If you are planning on moving to NYC there are a few important things you need to know. First of all, you should know that “dollar slices” are some of the best pizza in the entire city. Second of all, you should know that it is always worth it to go a bit out of your way to avoid walking through Times Square. And third of all, never cry on the subway.
Anyone moving to NYC needs to know first and foremost that they really WANT to move here. This city is a test. Pass it and you’ll never run out of things to do or ways to enjoy yourself. However if you fail your life will be a constant struggle day-to-day. You may be wondering what kind of test this city has for you. Simple. How much money do you have?
New York City is intimidating; trash litters the streets, homelessness is rampant, and crime is steadily increasing. Living here takes some getting used to, but in the end, it opens up your life to new experiences. NYC is full of originality and everyone here is unapologetically themselves. If you intend on unleashing your inner self, New York City is the place to do it.
Always take your shoes off when entering your household in New York City. New York city’s inefficient waste-management system makes it one of the dirtiest cities in America; the scale of trash you tread on day to day in the city is vast. The transfer of debris from street to household can be easily mitigated by taking off your shoes at the door.
Someone considering moving to my city should know that it is the most wonderful city in the world. However, because of its size and dense population (over 6,000,000), certain issues may be experienced, if one is not used to city life, i.e., noise, smells, etc. much is available to those living in New York City that most issues and annoyances can be ignored.
If you are going to move to NYC you need to consider the neighborhood you are going to move to and the history it holds. You also have to know if you can afford to live in this particular area because it can get pretty expensive, especially, in Manhattan. You probably won’t need a car because there are so many ways to get around in the city like the subway.
New York City has flashing lights, honking taxis, and the pushing and shoving from the excessive number of people roaming the streets. Most of New York City’s residents are either immigrants or first or second generation Americans. New York City is the embodiment of the United States’ “salad bowl” motto; with the exchange of culture and the level of appreciation each culture has for each other, the city is built on the expression of heritage that can be felt by anyone native or foreign.
New York City is The Melting Pot due to the various backgrounds of people and cultures. We have many venues to choose from in the form of entertainment. Landmarks are also here and there are plenty of opportunities to be led by tour guides to teach you the history of this wonderful place.
If you like movement and you are a fast-paced person, New York City is just the place for you. You can experience a variety of foods from different cultures since New York City is a melting pot of different ethnicities. One of the cons of moving to NYC is the high price of housing, but don’t let that discourage you from exploring this wonderful city.
New York City is a wonderful place, albeit the high living expense that comes with this prime location is hardly ideal. The best part of the city is the mixing of cultures which is seen in the myriad of museums, restaurants, and performance centers. There is always something new to explore and the invigorating experiences are never ending. The city can be overwhelming at times, but there is solace to be found among the array of diverse neighborhoods.
New York City is well known for her excellent mass transit system, easily utilized with the use of a refillable metrocard. Owning a vehicle is as necessary as it is in many other major cities, which can lighten the financial load of living in such an expensive area considerably. Additionally, commuting by mass transit can be used as an opportunity to read, listen to music, and even get work done. However, be forewarned that there can often be construction or delays on the subway lines, causing disruption to people’s schedules; therefore, it is often necessary to allot extra time for this possibility.
New York City is not necessarily conducive to owning a car. Although there is street parking throughout the five boroughs, outdoor restaurant seating and complex parking rules make it difficult to own a vehicle in the city. The MTA may not have the best reputation, but public transit is the best way to navigate living in the Big Apple.
New York City is a place with many ethnicities. When walking down the street, you feel like you are at home and there is nothing wrong in the world. Living in New York opens your mind to trying new things and meeting new people. No one looks at you as if you are an alien and everyone attempts to understand your background and history even if it is not their own.
Someone moving to NYC should know how many opportunities the City has to offer. There are tons of jobs whether it is working for someone, starting your own company, or even showcasing your talent in Times Square. The city never sleeps, and the hustle never stops. The busy lifestyle is not for everyone, but if you are looking to make money this is the place for you.
From the beautiful lights of the city nights to the diverse community of New York, the Big Apple is the place. Like anywhere else, there are pros and cons, especially in the city that never sleeps. You might want to consider the following: to get from the upper east side to Brooklyn, you will have to take the renowned subways. You hop on and if you’re lucky, you’ll get a seat. Rush hour is no joke and get used to being packed in the subway car like sardines. Now let’s move on to some of the wonders of living in New York City. You get celebrity sighting every corner of Manhattan, the diversity calls for various types of cuisines, go sightseeing at the Statue of Liberty, take your kids to Central Park… The possibilities are endless.
New York City is a sprawling metropolitan city with strong multicultural roots due to its diverse population. It’s occupants include many ethnicities, such as Asian, European, and more. Due to its melting-pot culture, visitors are often impressed by the authentic cuisines that can rarely be found outside of the original countries.
Someone moving to NYC should know the subway is incredibly hot and humid in summers, and the rats love to scamper over the feet of those waiting for the train. I would highly suggest taking a taxi, if affordable. They should also know that Governor’s Island is a wonderful place to spend a summer afternoon.
Whoever moves to NYC should know the average cost of living is relatively high compared to that of other cities in the United States. People tend to be straightforward and blunt, but they do not mean any harms. There are so many restaurants and bars that are expensive, but the quality of food is priceless.
It is the most beautiful city in the world and it is the concrete jungle. It has great pizza and a variety of hanging out spots. It is a tourist destination with many wonderful sites to enjoy. The Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. The people are a bit rude though it is one of the best cities in the world with a fusion of cultures.
Everyone seems to know about New York City real estate, but I’ve seen many newcomers taken aback by the overall cost of living, even after doing research before the move. Plan ahead: save money to get you through the first few months, make a budget and stick to it, and do your research. it’s always a good idea to visit the city to which you plan on moving ahead of time, especially if the move involves a major lifestyle change.
Although New York City appears to be overwhelmingly large, there are ways to make it feel small. Finding your niche in NYC is possible through finding like-minded people and attending events that pique your interest. In New York, there is always an event to partake in or attend; it’s never boring here. Also, diversity is responsible for the city’s vibrancy, so be open to learning about other people’ cultures and backgrounds.
New York City seems like the Holy Grail for many people. It is desirable, and elusive. While cost of living here can be astronomical, there are many housing options that won’t break the bank. Think about exploring boroughs like Brooklyn or Queens, or check out neighborhoods like Inwood or Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan. If you have friends or family in the city, ask them what they like and dislike about their own neighborhood. Midtown and Lower Manhattan are just a small percentage of the all wonderful areas New York City has to offer.
New York City is notoriously known for its tourism, lights, and busy nature. Living here is not as glamorous as TV shows claim, but it is charming nonetheless. There is an endless array of restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and more, and an abundance of career opportunities to choose from. If you are looking to stay busy, New York City is the place for you.
New York City is nicknamed ‘The Big Apple’. Everyone visiting my city is sure to experience a location that is always busy with lots to do. Activities range from sightseeing, dining and dancing, among many others. Additionally, the people of New York are diverse as they originate from varied cultural backgrounds and support a very fun experience for all visitors.
be prepared to walk everywhere and eat everything. This city is the melting pot of the world where different cultures are spread through the nooks and crannies of the busy streets. Be ready for an unprecedented sense of privilege that derives from being able to order absolutely anything to your front door.
In New York City, the food can be extremely expensive, meaning that you have to be aware of the places at which you will be getting the most bang for your buck. While most New York City food is exceptional, some places will use this fact to their advantage, by using a misleading title for their food establishment. Examples include a pizza place referring to themselves as the home of the original New York slice.
New York City can seem overwhelming, but it is much easier if you find a group of people with similar interests. I met my friends through college. Others make friends through their job. There are volunteer groups, arts organizations, and sports teams all over the city that can help you find your people and make the city feel a little smaller.
Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, the boroughs that make up the great New York City. Many know this popular location as the “Big Apple” or “The City That Never Sleeps”, there is simply no other place in the world like New York. It is known for their magnificent buildings and beautiful surroundings. However, due to our popularity there are always people coming in and out, meaning wherever you go, there are people. It’s a crowded, but one worth walking through. In the night it is quite a beautiful site to get lost into.
The one thing that tourists, as well as non-NYC residents, hear is New Yorkers are always hostile, and it’s reasonable to think that. When looking at the people around you, people tend not to make eye contact with others and walk around people that are too slow or doing something inconvenient. In New York, it may seem that no one is paying attention to what you’re doing, and it’s true to a certain extent, but it’s because everyone is focused on what they need to get done. Everyone is driven to accomplish their dreams, and from that common trait, a sense of community is formed.
New York City is one of the densest and diverse cities in the world. New York City welcomes all tourists and immigrants at all times. Additionally, New York City is home to a few of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Many skyscrapers, like the Empire State Building, tower the city at more than a thousand feet tall.
New York City is indeed the city of lights, it is always busy and full of activity, whether it be Broadway shows or tours to the famous landmarks of the city. It is a melting pot of diverse cultures which presents numerous different daily experiences. The different cultures also present the opportunity to experience different food options.
Above all, know moving to NYC is very expensive. That being said, there are always more budget-friendly options for residents with lower salaries. Apartments located farther from the city center are lower in price, and the public transportation system makes getting around the city without a car fairly easy.
Before moving to NYC, one should first consider the cost of living. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a doorman building is about $3,000. However, the city is filled with fantastic nightlife experiences, wonderful restaurants and a host of Broadway shows. The city is also home to several outstanding universities.
NYC has a high cost of living and high rates of crime in some areas. Its population density is the highest among major cities of the United States, and as a result, places may seem unclean or unpleasant. However, it is also a restless and bustling city that attracts millions of tourists yearly—and for good reason!
Of all the important considerations when apartment hunting in NYC, there is one in particular that tops my list: transportation. I learned this lesson the hard way; I fell in love with a bright, airy, two-bedroom gem that was in a quiet neighborhood that had tree-lined streets and loads of charm. I was too excited about the possibility of having a small garden to remember that there was no subway nearby. I spent the following year cursing my choice, planning my move, and discovering that a subway platform is lovelier than a daffodil.
New York City is a fast-paced whirlwind of a city. Life moves quickly in the Big Apple. When looking for an apartment, contact a realtor and let them show you what options are available. Beware of fees! Sometimes apartments will have a 10-15% broker fee attached. It is easier to find more space and lower rents uptown.
Knowledge of the subway, and obtaining a readable street map of the five boroughs — Manhattan specifically — is handy. Rent guidelines, i.e., knowing the going rate of city rentals is also helpful. Persistence and dedication will always serve one. Diversity and inclusion are imperative. Networking is an asset. Knowing which coffee shop one can depend on 24/7 can be invaluable.
New York City is filled to the brim with incredible dining and sightseeing opportunities. From walking the High Line to sailing past the Statue of Liberty to enjoying the city skyline from the top of the Empire State Building, New York City is the greatest city in the world. The city also offers many dining opportunities, including world-famous New York pizza at Lombardi’s and classic American fare with a view of Central Park at Tavern on the Green.
When moving to NYC, it is important to remember that everything in Manhattan is going to far more expensive than it has any right to be. If you should find yourself downtown around lunch, don’t give in to the temptation of hunger. Instead, you should vacate to a part of the city with considerably less towering glass skyscrapers, and find a reasonably priced bodega to satiate your hunger.
Before moving to NYC, one should consider his or her finances. New York, though great, is remarkably expensive. Most earn at least $80,000 to live comfortably in Manhattan. If this seems improbable, I would consider other boroughs like Brooklyn, Queens or the Bronx. To save money on living expenses, some people live in New Jersey, just off of the Hudson River.
The cost of living in New York City can be astronomical. I suggest visiting the city first and fully exploring the different boroughs. Manhattan is very different from Queens or Brooklyn, and depending on their own interests, I would strongly advise spending a few days getting a feel for the city and navigating the subway system.
With a population of 8 million and counting, and over 800 languages and dialects spoken, New York City is about as unique as it gets. The reputation of the city precedes it. You can go anywhere in the world and say “New York City” and everyone knows what you’re talking about. From the nightlife to the unforgettable subways, NYC just can’t be replicated anywhere else in the world. Just walking down the street from point A to point B is an adventure. There might be a new street performer, a new food cart, or even a new guy pretending to be Spiderman or the Statue of Liberty in the subway.
Someone who moves to NYC should know there will be a lot of noise due to the cars and traffic that piles up especially if they go to Manhattan. They should also know that as they walk through the streets, there will unfortunately be many homeless people. The amount of pizza stores that crowd New York City is preposterous.
People who want to move to NYC should invest in a good pair of sneakers. Cars are not convenient to keep without a parking space, and most establishments, like restaurants, grocery stores, and movie theaters, are within walking distance from each other anyway. Having a bike is also very helpful, since they are easy to lock up outside.
Someone moving to NYC should know it is extremely fast-paced. Everyone has somewhere they want or need to go, and will get there as fast as possible. Walk fast, and pack light. Public transportation is usually a mess. Bus schedules are never accurate, and subways are always crowded. At night the city is absolutely gorgeous and will probably remind you (as it does to me) that you won’t want to live anywhere else.
New York City is the best city on Earth. That being said, know it can also be quite overwhelming at times. Mastering the subway system is important, as is learning how to navigate through the throngs of people who populate the busy sidewalks across the city. If you do not like crowds, this city is not right for you. However, if you can learn to deal with being constantly surrounded by other people, you will soon begin to see and appreciate the electrifying beauty of the city that I am lucky enough to call home.
New York City is the melting pot of the world. It welcomes and embodies most of the world’s cultures and practices that exist. Before coming to NYC, one must be aware of this diversity. Be prepared for interactions with people who hail from these varying cultures and to explore its relevant background.
New York, New York, the greatest city on Earth. The city that never sleeps, and the city you can always find exactly what you’d like to eat. One day you may live the starring role of a romantic comedy. The next, you could live a tragedy. The city that never sleeps, but can make all your dreams come true.
New York City is big and busy. It has fabulous opportunities for young people in the arts. It has many high skyscrapers which can cast shadows and block sunlight. There are almost 10 million people living there. It affords excellent opportunities for young people working in the arts. However, the prices for apartments and other things tend to be quite high.
In my humble city, each morning, you are greeted to the serene music of the parakeets flying overhead. The people are very courteous to one another as there is a warmth of friendship in the air. The food is comforting to the soul. There is a surplus amount of activities to leisurely enjoy such as swimming and hiking.
New York City is sometimes known as a city where dreams come true. If you have never been, you would imagine it to be something resembling what you have probably seen in movies; the bright blinding lights of Time Square, flowers blooming in Central Park and yellow Taxi cabs on every street. While these do exist (maybe not on every street), this is only a glimpse into what NYC is like. It is filled with people from all different backgrounds and their cultures are integrated throughout the city, whether it be through food, clothing, or language. If you move to NYC, I urge you to take advantage of the melting pot that it is and explore everything it has to offer.
New York City is always moving. Day and night, something is going on. Riding the train while it’s mostly empty is a rare and beautiful moment. Treasure the time you have on the train alone. Yet, you will never see a show like a subway train performance. Although the extra bustle can be annoying, the performances are always unique.
New York City caters to its more than half population who either does not drive or commute by car. NYC has Julliard, Central Park, The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Broadway. It has the highest rent with the second highest homeless population. When you walk the streets of New York City you can’t help but to realize how small you are compared to the towering skyscrapers and the amount of people who have engulfed you while walking down the packed sidewalk.
When moving to NYC one thing to keep in mind is, life is very fast-paced. People just want to get to work and go home. We walk fast, we talk fast, and we will quickly get annoyed if someone slows us down. However, we are also some of the nicest people you will ever meet. New York City is the greatest place to move, if you don’t mind a fast pace life.
Be especially thoughtful when selecting in which neighborhood they want. The skyrocketing rents may prevent aspiring residents from obtaining a satisfactory apartment that is close to public transit, essential services, and vibrant cultural landmarks. One should conduct comprehensive research before even moving to evaluate whether such a decision will be financially feasible.
New York City is one of the major cities in the United States. It is densely populated with people from all walks of life and races. The City has a lot to offer with a large variety of shopping mall and places. NYC has a large variety of culture and a very rich history. There is no other City would love to live except here.
The vibrant energy that comes along with air in New York City, pushes and makes each and every individual with zeal to push themselves forward. As, the concrete jungle is THE place where all the diverse ideas of the world come together and develop more intriguing achievements. The feeling of accomplishment when you strive in New York City is one you can carry with you for the rest of your lives.
New York City contains the most beautiful things in the world wide and clean streets good people and ancient traditions It is also one of the largest cultural centers in the world where there are many halls of art theaters music museums and famous cultural societies Some famous poets writers actors artists and the largest centers of industry trade and money It has the largest government and private institutions where many jobs are available and therefore the city’s economy is developing more as a result of the spread of roads and an increase in the workforce.
1. Career Opportunities
There are plenty of career opportunities, including jobs in finance, fashion, modeling, advertising, PR and marketing.
2. Public Transport
You don’t have to drive anywhere. The subway system is awesome and cost efficient. There are also taxis, Uber, and buses to consider for some some journeys, if the subway is insufficient.
3. History and Culture
You are surrounded by history and culture. There are world-class museums and iconic buildings all.
4. Great Food
and a vibrant culture, you also have a wide range of restaurants, bars, music, and art events to keep you amused. Food from all over the world is available, most of it high quality and authentic.
5. Celebrities
If you enjoy celebrity spotting, then NYC is a great place!
6. Dating
If you are young and single, it’s a great place for meeting people and dating.
7. Reduced Crime
The dark days of the 1980s and ’90s when crime was rife are gone, and most areas of the city are pretty safe now.
New York City is one of the busiest cities in America but it has beautiful views of skyscrapers. One major things that someone should know before moving to this gorgeous city, is the sound of honking horns, and the high taxes and high price. Something that shocked me when I got here was how fast people move or how much things are rushed.
New York City is a massive city with an almost overwhelming number of opportunities to choose from. If you can imagine it, without a doubt, we have it. Some people claim New Yorkers can be hostile to newcomers, but in my (admittedly biased) experience, New Yorkers are actually quite open and helpful. As with any big city, however, one should be wary of those looking to take advantage of recent arrivals.
Before moving to NYC, you must consider your tolerance of large groups of people. Regardless of where you live, passing by a mass of people is to be expected, whether on a busy street or on the subway system. It’s also important to understand how filthy the city tends to be. Although the government does a wonderful job at upkeep, with millions of people on a small island and even more passing through daily, littered streets are to be expected. This also increases your chances of seeing critters like rats and pigeons. The last, and most important, element is the price point to live in the city. Rent is exorbitant compared to most other cities, and simple products that you could buy from a local grocer will be found at higher prices up here. On top of all this, you end up being taxed by not only the state and federal government, but the city government as well. Obviously, none of this altered my decision to live here, but they are important elements to consider before making to leap.
I’ll talk a bit about my hometown, Long Beach, California, as I know it better than New York City. The first thing is that you’re going to need a car. Long Beach wants to be known as a bike-friendly city, but like the rest of California, the reality is that public transport infrastructure is severely underdeveloped. I’d also suggest that you thoroughly research different neighborhoods, as some parts of the city are unsafe. Likewise, ask around about specifics streets within those neighborhoods—like the rest of Southern California, a safe area becomes dangerous remarkably fast.
Research the various neighborhoods across New York City’s five boroughs. Each neighborhood has a distinct identity. Residents are proud of their chosen identities and communities. Housing and rental prices vary drastically with different neighborhoods. For example, $1500 per month could fetch a spacious, sunny one-bedroom apartment in some parts of Brooklyn. That deal is impossible to find in Manhattan.
Anyone moving here should know despite the size of New York in terms of population it is the safest big city in the United States. However, rent is very costly. Transportation in NYC is fairly easy with a large number of taxis, trains, and buses.
The first thing one should consider when moving to NYC is whether one’s job will support the city’s expensive living costs. Once the less exciting financial planning is done, one can begin to consider which neighborhood they could live and map out a daily route, following the colorful lines of the New York subway map. It is also important for one to consider who they would like to be once they are in New York. After all, no city is better than New York to reinvent oneself.
Staying grounded in New York City is difficult and important. Establishing a sense of community in whichever neighborhood you decide to, or can afford to, live in will be an essential lifeline for you. The city certainly is exciting, flashy, romantic and thrilling, but it is the people who you must hold on to.
New York City is a fast-paced, heavily populated metropolis that has amassed a resounding reputation as a place where dreams come true. What they fail to mention is that everyone in NYC has some type of dream, whether it’s to see your name on a Broadway marquee, or climb to the top floor of a media conglomerate. Amid all of the frenzy, most New Yorkers are simply trying to survive and make ends meet.
New York City is known for many things, but often people forget it is technically an island. Though small, it is built and designed to contain most of what you need and desire; even the things you don’t know you need or desire yet. This city is saturated and steeped in stories. Over the years, it has been constructed layer by layer, like a historical parfait. Even though it is connected to other places, like an island you will find yourself caught up and hardly able to leave.
Traffic is bizarre in NYC. And often people make mistakes of buying way overpriced homes. You wouldn’t usually live in the city unless you’re very wealthy and upper class. However, the city is beautiful and I would recommend anyone to move here. As famously said, it’s the city that never sleeps.
New York City is filled with many cultures and people. We are the city that never sleeps. Public transportation is one of the most common ways for people here to get to places. About a million of people take public transportation everyday. We have so many kinds of restaurants here, so you have many options as well!
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