Facts about New York

Living in New York is a dream for millions of people, and many of these people have made that dream come true. The city has attractions like Times Square, where some of the most famous artists in the world have performed. The Bronx Zoo is a fun family outing and Madison Square Garden hosts some of the best concerts in the world. The cost of living is almost 47.8% higher than the national average, making New York one of the most expensive cities to live in. However, you can expect to receive higher wages to help make up for this.

Moving to New York

Climate

If you love to experience all four seasons, you'll love life in New York City. This city truly has a full range of weather, from bright sunny summer days to cold winter snowfall, and everything in between. NY gets about 47in of rain a year, primarily in the spring and summer months. Here, both your favorite sandals and your coziest scarf will get put to good use each year.

Culture

New York is home to some of the best artistic and cultural attractions in the world. Broadway is renowned as the testing grounds for theater’s best, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a destination for artists of every ilk. Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty make New York a destination for historians too, and contribute to the city’s rich diversity and deep (and complicated) history.

Transportation and Parking

Parking your car is a competitive sport in NYC, so most New Yorkers don't bother. Public transport is readily available, with city-wide coverage of subway and bus lines. If you insist on keeping your car, expect to spend a lot of time navigating traffic, and high costs for private parking garages. Realistically, you're likely better off using a car share service or rentals when you need to get around with private transportation.

Cost of Living

The allure of life in NYC draws people from all over the world, but it comes at a cost. The cost of living in New York is 95% higher than the national average, and 26% higher than the state average. Sure, you can find cheap eats and free events, but expect high rents. There's no way around it.

Where to Live

New York is made up of many boroughs, each with a personality all their own. Which is right for you depends on your lifestyle and budget. Do some research and decide whether you want to live on the tree-lined streets of Brooklyn Heights, near the hip and music-rich nightlife of Williamsburg, among the boutique shops and galleries of SoHo, or somewhere else altogether.

Unpakt’s Most Recommended

Bryant Park (Between 40th & 42nd St & Fifth & Sixth Ave)

Bryant Park is a combination of tranquility and sophistication. Beautiful trees and picnic areas are available, and the park is also the site of fashion shows during New York Fashion Week.

American Two Shot (135 Grand St)

This unique boutique is actually a coffeehouse as well. You can find clothes from a number of independent designers for a one-of-a-kind look while enjoying a quality espresso.

Amelie (22 W 8th St)

If you’ll be spending time in Greenwich Village, you can visit Amelie, one of the best French cafes in the city. The food is authentic and there’s an extensive wine bar.

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