Tall buildings, Times Square, crowded streets, Central Park and Broadway are some of the things that immediately come to mind when someone mentions New York. Most people forget that there is much more to New York than what it’s popularly known for. But the opinions on New York are divided greatly. Some say it is a good place to live in, while others say living in New York is the worst thing that can happen. We reveal all sides of New York to you. Find out your impression about New York here.
Is New York a Good Place to Live?
The answer to the question above will largely depend on your personal taste and preference. Nonetheless, New York is a pleasant big city, full of fun things and great opportunities. But it’s generally more expensive than most states, crowded, noisy, and fast paced. The weather is also quite harsh during the winter and summer. New York is definitely not for the faint hearted. You need to be strong and financially stable to survive in this beautiful city. Here is an overview of both the good and the bad of living in New York.
Tempting Reasons to Live in New York City
Diverse Cultures
New York is commonly referred to as the melting pot of America. Almost 40% of the inhabitants of the city are from other countries. There are over 800 languages spoken by New Yorkers, be they immigrants, natives or transplants.
Inspiring
When you’re in New York, you feel like you can achieve anything you set out to do. You’ll find inspiration in the streets, in the subway, or while watching a Broadway show. You’ll meet all sorts of creative, smart and inspiring people as you go about your business.
Lively
There is no city in the world that’s more lively and energetic than New York. Is New York a good place to live? Yes, you'll love this city if you’re an energetic person who’s always on the move and likes to meet new people. It’s fast paced and people are always caught up in the hustle and bustle.
Convenience
Need anything? You can get it at any time of the day, anywhere in New York. You can even get a manicure at midnight or in the wee hours of the morning. The convenience the city offers you is addictive. You can hit the drug store, grocery store, wine shop and pets store in one sweep.
Diverse Neighborhoods
While New York is huge, it’s made up of a cluster of smaller towns – at least that’s what it feels like. Each neighborhood has its distinct flavor and personality. You can sample Harlem, Astoria, Flushing, Lower East Side, Coney Islands, Brooklyn Height and others. They all have a distinct persona brimming with culture and character. New York has something for everyone.
Unpredictable
There’s never a dull moment in New York. One minute you’re out walking your dog in the park and the next you’re saying hello to your favorite celebrity. You can never predict how your day will go and who you’ll meet in the streets.
Gorgeous Architecture
New York is home to some of the most outstanding architectural works in the world including the Empire State Building, Grand Central Station, and the Statue of Liberty among others. Visit the museums and enjoy the diverse locations during your free time.
Various Opportunities
Competition
for opportunities in New York is cut throat. However, there are tons of
opportunities for those who are willing to work hard. There are tons of
rags to riches stories out of sheer hard work and perseverance wherever
you go.
Fun
You won’t be getting bored for lack of things to do. There are tons of things you can do during your free time in the city. You can simply hop in the subway and in a few minutes escape into what feels like a new country. Alternatively, you can take the bus, walk or take a taxi to any of the 5 boroughs where there’s something for everyone. So is New York a good place to live? You bet.
Why You Should Steer Clear of New York City
The Weather
You either have to suffer extreme heat or bitter cold – there’s no in-between. Spring is only fun for about 3 days, and the rain starts pouring for weeks on end. This is followed by a wave of unbearable heat.
Everyone Is on the Grind
In
New York, only the cream rises to the top. You have to work your ass
off to make a mark in your profession. You simply have no time to spare
after slogging away for 18 hours a day. It’s not the kind of place you
want to raise your kids.
It's Expensive
Spending $38 plus tip on a cup of coffee is simply not anyone’s idea of a good life. Worse yet, you have to fork out $6000 per month on rent. If you want to lose money fast, move to New York.
Filthy
Is New York a good place to live? Unfortunately, it’s the great city of filth. You haven’t seen roaches until you’ve met a New York roach. They’re everywhere and seem very aggressive just like everyone else in New York. There must be something in the water. When the heat sets in during the summer, the stench of vomit and piss engulfs the streets.
Crowded
If
your idea of grocery shopping is to walk into a grocery store where
you can only buy what’s within arm’s reach by waiting in a queue that circles
the entire store, then you’re bound to enjoy your time in New York. The
crowds can be overwhelming most times on the streets, on the subway and
in traffic.
Noisy
The noise can really get to you especially if you’re used to the nice and quietness of the suburbs.
People Are Devoid of Humanity
Everyone
is so busy minding their own business that sometimes they forget about
caring for others. It’s not unusual to hear cars honking and people
shouting for being held up in traffic after someone has been hit by a
car.
View All Comments /Add Comment