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With all the glitz and glamour associated with New York City, it can be hard to keep your expectations in check when considering the pros and cons of moving to the Big Apple.
While it’s true that there are many unique and exciting things about relocating to NYC, there are also downsides when the initial shine wears off and the grind of day-to-day life sets in.
Below, we’ve weighed up the pros and cons of moving to New York City.
Lifestyle in New York City
+ PRO: A global cultural capital
New York City has an almost legendary status as a cultural goldmine. From cultural marvels such as Broadway and the Met to famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, there’s an endless array of things to see and do. If you’re not here as a tourist, you can take as much time as you want to take in everything the city has to offer.
- CON: Noise pollution and urban stress
Living in New York City means constant exposure to urban noise, and nearly one in five New Yorkers report frequent disturbance from noise at home. The 24/7 activity and crowded streets can lead to stress and fatigue. It is a genuine challenge to find quiet moments in your daily routine as a New Yorker.
- CON: Constant competition and crowds
The sheer density of New York City means you’ll face competition for almost everything – from apartment viewings where you’re one of dozens of applicants to popular restaurants that book up weeks in advance. Simple tasks often require more time and planning than in less populated areas.
Things to See and Do in New York City
Getting around in New York City
+ PRO: Well-developed transport network
With the subway running 24/7 through its network of more than 400 stations across the five boroughs, you’ll find getting around New York City easy. The subway is also well integrated with other types of public transport, such as buses and commuter trains.
+ PRO: Car-free living and walkable neighbourhoods
You can easily live in New York City without owning a car, thanks to its exceptional walkability and extensive public transport network. Most activities are accessible on foot or via subway. This can save you thousands in car costs annually.
Getting Around in New York City
Accommodation in New York City
- CON: Expensive and often small accommodation
Given that New York City is the USA’s most populous city, it comes as no surprise that space comes at a premium when looking at accommodation. Renting is the norm, as the cost of buying real estate is eye-wateringly expensive. Not that rental fees in the city are cheap either, with the average New York City rental price being double the national average. You’ll also find apartments are noticeably smaller than elsewhere, with many units under 400 square feet (35m²).
Accommodation in New York City
Cost of living in New York City
- CON: One of the world’s most expensive cities
It’s not just the accommodation that’s pricey – although it does its bit in pushing up living costs. Other expenses, such as healthcare, food, transport, and international schooling, can add up fast. Groceries alone cost around 35 percent more than the national average, while utilities can run several hundred dollars monthly.
Cost of Living in New York City
Working in New York City
+ PRO: A thriving and diverse economy
New York City is one of the world’s top financial centres, and the city is replete with headquarters of large multinational companies in all kinds of industries.
+ PRO: Leading tech hub with growing opportunities
New York City’s tech sector continues to drive significant job growth, accounting for a large portion of new positions created in recent years. The city has established itself as a major technology hub.
- CON: Extremely challenging job market
New York City’s job market has become incredibly competitive in recent years. The city’s job growth has stagnated to its slowest in decades. You’ll likely face intense competition and fewer available opportunities.
Education in New York City
+ PRO: Local schooling is a good option
Public schooling is free of charge, and as long as you live in a good school district, you can expect a good quality education.
+ PRO: Improving class sizes and education initiatives
New York City is implementing significant education reforms, including state-mandated class size reductions that require smaller student-to-teacher ratios. These improvements aim to enhance learning environments and provide more individualised attention in public schools.
+ PRO: Lots of options for international schools
As a multicultural and diverse city, New York City has plenty of excellent international schools to choose from. International schools are private institutions offering the curriculum of a foreign country, usually in that country’s main language.
This selection includes British, German, French and Japanese schools, among others. International schools also frequently offer the International Baccalaureate, a global curriculum designed for easy transition between schools around the world.
- CON: Extremely high cost of international schools
If you’re springing for international schooling, be mindful that fees at top-tier institutions have reached extreme levels, with other associated costs adding to the expense. These fees will take up a substantial chunk of even high earners’ budgets.
Education and Schools in New York City
International Schools in New York City
Healthcare in New York City
+ PRO: Experts and cutting-edge medical facilities
If you can afford it, healthcare in New York City is of an excellent standard and is one of the primary industries driving its economy.
- CON: High healthcare costs despite insurance requirements
Even with insurance, healthcare costs in New York can be substantial due to high premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. While emergency treatment is guaranteed regardless of ability to pay, ongoing care and specialist treatments can create significant financial strain without comprehensive coverage.
+ PRO: Universal healthcare access programmes
New York City provides comprehensive healthcare access through programmes like NYC Care, which guarantees healthcare for all residents regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. This safety net ensures you can access basic medical care even without traditional insurance coverage.