Living in New York
Last updated on Feb 23, 2023
Summary: People often describe life in New York as fast-paced, exciting, and diverse. People love the energy of the city, the endless opportunities for entertainment, the variety of cultures, and the convenience of living in a major metropolitan area. The average cost of living in New York is high, with the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan being around $3,000 per month. The approximate population of New York is 19.5 million, and the largest cities are New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, and Syracuse. The cons of living in New York include the high cost of living, the crowded streets, and the lack of affordable housing.
Is the cost of living in New York high?
We asked people about the cost of living in New York, they wrote:
"The cost of living in New York is generally high. Rent for a nice one bedroom apartment in New York City typically ranges from around $2,500 to over $3,000 per month. The cost of rent for a nicely appointed two bedroom apartment usually starts at around $3,200 dollars per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in New York City typically costs around $30 per person," commented one expat who moved to New York.
What type of recreational facilities are in New York?
When we asked people living in New York about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"Residents of New York enjoy a wide variety of recreational facilities, from parks and playgrounds to beaches and pools. There are also many sports facilities, such as golf courses, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds. For those who prefer the indoors, there are bowling alleys, movie theaters, and arcades. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails, biking paths, and camping sites. New York also has a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. No matter what type of recreational activity you are looking for, New York has something to offer," remarked one expat in New York.
What is the weather like in New York?
"The weather in New York is usually quite varied. In the summer, temperatures can range from the mid-70s to the mid-90s, with occasional heat waves. In the winter, temperatures can range from the mid-20s to the mid-40s, with occasional snowstorms. Spring and fall are usually mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s," said one expat.
Are there good restaurants in New York?
"One of the most popular restaurants in New York is Katz's Delicatessen. Located in the Lower East Side, Katz's has been serving up classic Jewish deli fare since 1888. The restaurant is known for its pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and knishes. Another popular restaurant is Peter Luger Steak House. Located in Brooklyn, Peter Luger has been serving up some of the best steaks in the city since 1887. The restaurant is known for its dry-aged steaks, thick-cut bacon, and creamed spinach. Another favorite is The Spotted Pig. Located in the West Village, The Spotted Pig is a gastropub that serves up classic British fare. The restaurant is known for its burgers, fish and chips, and shepherd's pie. Finally, there is Momofuku Noodle Bar. Located in the East Village, Momofuku Noodle Bar is a modern Asian restaurant that serves up ramen, buns, and other Asian-inspired dishes," said one expat.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in New York?
"People living in New York typically buy groceries from supermarkets, convenience stores, and farmers markets. Other shopping can be done at department stores, boutiques, and specialty stores. Additionally, many people in New York take advantage of online shopping for groceries and other items," remarked one expat in New York.
What are the visa & residency requirements in New York?
"In order to apply for a visa in New York, individuals must submit an immigration application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Applications can be filled out in person, by mail, or online. The application must include forms, documents, and a processing fee. After being reviewed by immigration authorities, applicants will receive an approval or denial of their visa application. In order to apply for residency in New York, individuals must submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services to receive a green card. The application must include various forms, documents, and a processing fee. After the application is reviewed, applicants can receive approval for their residence in New York. In many cases, applicants must interview with immigration authorities before getting approved for residency in New York," remarked one expat in New York.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in New York?
"Healthcare and health insurance in New York can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs, can be high. Health insurance premiums can also be costly, and the cost of coverage can vary depending on the type of plan and the provider. Additionally, New York has some of the highest deductibles and copayments in the country, which can add to the cost of healthcare," remarked one expat living in New York.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.