So, you have decided to move to New York City. This major metropolitan city is different than any other in the country, so here are six tips to help your upcoming transition, if you’re moving across the country.
1. Ditch the Car
Driving anywhere in the New York City, and especially Manhattan, is not recommended. Traffic moves at the pace of a snail, and having a car gets to be expensive. The good news is that much of the city can be easily accessed by foot, the subway, buses, rideshare transport or a taxi. Leave the car or sell it if you know you will be staying in the city long term.
2. Be prepared to get lost
It is no secret that New York City is large and densely populated. With long streets and a non-intuitive subway system to the uninitiated, you are bound to take a wrong turn or get lost at some point. Do not be afraid to reference a map when needed. The nice thing about New York City, since it is designed to be walkable, is that even if you get lost, you could come across a store, restaurant or other attraction that catches your eye.
3. Make sure you can afford it
Depending on where you are moving from, the cost of housing, services, and everyday life will be much higher than to what you are accustomed. Before you move, make sure you can afford it. If money is tight, consider moving once you know you will be able to live comfortably.
4. Do housing research beforehand
Research the best and safest neighborhoods in which to live in New York City. Make sure you have the needed paperwork to sign a lease. If you are apartment hunting, try to see buildings before you sign the lease. StreetEasy and NYBits are good resources where you can view listings and set up appointments to see spaces. Know exactly what you are getting before you commit to anything.
Here are some things to keep in mind when looking at any living space:
- Is laundry available?
- How far from a subway stop are you? The grocery store? Your place of employment? A hospital?
- Do things appear to be clean or dirty? Do the appliances work?
- How secure is your living space?
5. Dress for the weather
There are four distinct seasons in New York. Make sure you are prepared for any weather. That means lighter fabrics for summer, rain gear for spring, light layers for fall and heavy outerwear for winter, which includes a heavy coat, hat, gloves, scarf, socks and boots.
6. Embrace the culture
New Yorkers talk and move fast. People tend to be career-oriented and not as social with strangers as what you could be accustomed. It might be a culture shock but embrace it. Push yourself harder. Discover a group or a smaller community to make the big city seem smaller.
Excitement and adventure await you in your new home. New York is about to become your playground! For assistance with your move, call Cheap Movers NYC (433 Broadway #2, New York, NY 10013, (646) 570-1698). This New York moving company offers affordable rates on moving services across the city.