Moving to New York or any large city is an incredibly exciting experience, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t stressful and overwhelming as well. To reduce the number of worries you have, it’s important to plan every detail in advance. This way, almost nothing can go wrong.
You might already have started your property search, checking out all the latest apartments to rent Brooklyn or homes in Queens. But before jumping at the first place you like, think carefully about which area of New York you want to live in. The city is a big place and different boroughs all have unique qualities that make them appealing. Even if you love your apartment, hating your borough can put a real dampener on your time there.
Here are some tips for making sure you find the best area in New York to live:
Parties vs relaxation
New York is an amazing place to attend parties and socialize. Whether you love big events, hole-in-the-wall bars, or simply can’t get enough of meeting new people while out and about, the heart of New York is the place to be. However, if you’re someone who needs to unwind after a long day in the office in relative peace and quiet, you might be feeling anxious about living in any area of New York. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of areas that afford you a little bit more peace. Consider areas such as Upper East Side, Bayside, or Borough Park to get away from the hectic streets.
Transport links
If you do decide to live in an area of New York or any big city that’s further away from all the main attractions, you should make sure you can easily access the subway. Always think about where your office is located, as this is the place you’ll probably be traveling to on a daily basis. Rush hour in New York can be a challenge to navigate, so you don’t want to make your commute longer than it has to be. Don’t forget to do a bit of research to make sure there are a few local stores and gyms close to your apartment too.
Cost and space
It’s no secret that some parts of New York are expensive, so depending on your priorities, you may have to compromise on space to get a cheaper home. However, if space is non-negotiable for you because you work from home or have certain accessibility needs, be prepared to pay considerable amounts of money for your apartment. One way to lower your costs and get the space you need, however, is to live in a less desirable area or one that is quite far from the center of the city. It’s very hard to get all your needs met in New York unless you have an unlimited budget, so you will need to compromise on something.
The best way to choose the area of New York you want to live in is to visit the city before moving there and locking in on a rental agreement. Set aside a weekend and wander the streets to get a feel for your new home.
