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New York, New York: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in New York | Expat Exchange
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New York, New York

William Russell
William Russell

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 08, 2023

Summary: The population of New York, NY is estimated to be around 8.6 million people. People love living in New York because of its vibrant culture, diverse population, and endless opportunities. There are a variety of activities for residents in New York, from visiting world-class museums and galleries to exploring the city's many parks and green spaces. The weather in New York is generally mild, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 75°F (24°C) and in the winter it is around 35°F (2°C). The cost of living in New York is high, with the median household income being around $63,000. The cost of a three bedroom home in New York is around $1.2 million, while a four bedroom home is around $1.5 million. Some of the best neighborhoods to live in New York are Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, and the Upper West Side. These neighborhoods offer a variety of amenities, including great restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. They also have excellent public transportation options, making it easy to get around the city.

What do I need to know about living in New York?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to New York, they said:

"Don't do it! Its a horrible city, one big concrete jungle (exception in a city of c.8m people is Central Park which is grotty and dangerous). People are aggressive, although you get used to that. Overall, only reason to come here is to make money," said one expat who made the move to New York.

How do I meet people in New York?

When we asked people living in New York about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Church groups, Choirs, Volunteer organizations, Bars, cafes, library. So many options to choose," said one expat in Brooklyn.

Will I be able to find a job in New York?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in New York, they reponded:

"Too many to list, but main ones are publishing, finance (Wall St), fashion, advertising (Madison Ave), retail, tourism," remarked one expat living in New York, US.

What are the pros and cons of living in New York?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in New York responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the vibrant energy of New York City, as well as the many cultural and entertainment opportunities it offers. They also enjoy the city's diverse population and the fact that it is a major hub for business and finance. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in New York City to be prohibitively expensive, and the city's fast-paced lifestyle can be overwhelming. Additionally, the city's public transportation system can be unreliable and overcrowded," commented one expat who moved to New York.

What type of social life can someone expect in New York?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in New York, they replied:

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in New York typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through networking events, meetups, and social clubs. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore, as well as cultural events, concerts, and festivals to attend. Additionally, many expats, retirees, and digital nomads take advantage of the city's many parks and green spaces to relax and socialize with friends," mentioned one expat inNew York.

"The social scene in New York is vibrant and diverse. There are countless bars, clubs, restaurants, and other venues to explore, and the city is home to a wide variety of cultures and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends, a romantic evening, or a casual gathering, there's something for everyone in New York. The city also offers a variety of activities and events, from art galleries and museums to music festivals and outdoor activities. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to do in New York," remarked one expat living in New York.

What advice to expats in New York have about housing?

"1. Research the neighborhoods carefully before committing to a rental or purchase. 2. Consider the cost of living in the area and the commute to work. 3. Be aware of the potential for high rent prices and the availability of affordable housing. 4. Look into the safety of the area and the quality of the schools. 5. Make sure to read the lease carefully and understand all the terms and conditions. 6. Be prepared to pay a security deposit and first and last month's rent. 7. Ask for references from the landlord or real estate agent. 8. Be aware of the potential for hidden costs such as broker fees and application fees. 9. Consider the amenities offered in the building or complex. 10. Ask about the availability of parking and public transportation," commented one expat who moved to New York.

What are medical services in New York like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in New York, they replied:

"New York offers a wide range of medical services, from primary care to specialized care. Patients can access a variety of medical services, including preventive care, diagnostic testing, and treatments for acute and chronic conditions. The city also has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide emergency care, as well as specialized care for cancer, heart disease, and other conditions. Additionally, New York is home to a number of research institutions and medical schools, which provide access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities," remarked one expat living 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 City residents may be subject to additional taxes and fees on their health insurance premiums," said an expat in New York.

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 City varies widely. I lived in the city with roomates after college, ate out often (but always cheaply) and it didn't break the bank. But, an expat family whose kids need to go to a bi-lingual school, may find that the cost of living can quickly get out of hand. Affordable NYC rents are as low as $1,900 for a basic studio on the Lower East Side to $4,800 for a "cozy" 2-bedroom on the Upper West Side with a small patio. Of course, if you're company has given you a higher housing allowance or you're not on a tight budget, you can spend, spend, spend. Groceries are affordable (they are not much higher than groceries in other places in the US) and restaurant prices are all over the map -- with many cheap but delicious meals to be had. Currently the cost of a subway or bus ride is $2.75 and cars are not needed in NYC (in fact, in many neighborhoods, locals would tell you that having a car is a hassle). And, of course, healthcare can be a huge expense in New York (this is a universal problem in the United States). ," mentioned an expat living in New York.

"The cost of living in New York is generally considered to be high. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in New York can range from around $2,000 to $3,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $2,500 to $4,500 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in New York can cost around $20 to $30 per person," said an expat in New York.

What are the visa & residency requirements in New York?

"In order to obtain a visa to live and work in New York, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that allows them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in New York, applicants must first submit an application to the USCIS. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Additionally, applicants must provide evidence of their employment or educational status in the United States. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a green card that allows them to live and work in the United States," said one expat living in New York.

Why do people move to New York?

When we asked people why foreigners move to New York, they responded:

" New York City is inarguably the most fast-paced city in the United States. Los Angeles often fights for the US title of biggest and best, but the two cities really don't need to compete. They're two completely different worlds with opposite climates, urban density vs. urban sprawl, Hollywood vs. Wall Street, etc. New York's energy is infectious and its diversity is impressive -- and, in my opinion, those are the main reasons that so many people love this city. That being said, the city is not always an easy place to live -- the high cost of living, dreary winter weather (which sometimes lasts through much of spring) and non-stop, run-you-over attitude of some New Yorkers can wear you down. New York is made up of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens. Every neighborhood in each of the 5 boroughs has its own unique vibe. Spend the morning in the West Village (Manhattan), the afternoon in Fordham (the Bronx) and the evening in Williamsburg (Brooklyn) and you'll understand. Expats find themselves landing in New York for different reasons. Many people come to New York City to study at one of the cities many universities (New York University (NYU), Fordham University, Brooklyn College, Columbia University, Julliard, Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), Cooper Union and the list goes on. Others move to NYC for career opportunities and job transfers. The financial, fashion and publishing industries are based in New York. And, many of the largest corporations in the US are headquartered or have offices here as well. Additionally, there are jobs in healthcare, IT, hotel industry, restaurants, education, visual arts, theater, TV and film and many other industries. ," said an expat in New York.

"New York is a vibrant and exciting city that offers a wide range of opportunities for expats. It is a global hub for business, finance, culture, and entertainment, and is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks. The city also boasts a diverse population, with people from all over the world living and working in the city. The city's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around, and its many neighborhoods offer a variety of housing options. Additionally, New York is home to some of the best universities in the world, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to further their education," remarked one expat in New York.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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