20 HONEST Pros & Cons of Living in New York City (From a Local) (2024)

Are you thinking about moving to New York City? You thrill seeker, you. There’s no adequate way to describe the way living in New York City feels. The Big Apple casts both shadows and spells and your experience will depend entirely on you.

But there’s also no denying that living in New York City is an extraordinary feat. The city tempts people in hordes, and millions of locals are willing to overlook the inevitable cons of daily life in NYC because the perks are irresistible. Read on to learn about the my personal list of the HONEST pros and cons of living in New York City after 10 years.

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

Meet the Author | This post was written by Antonina P. who sometimes leaves the house on Sundays and sometimes doesn’t. She moved to NYC 10 years ago from the Pacific Northwest and doesn’t miss the rain as much as she thought she would. You can follow her daily life in NYC here.

Things to Know About Living in New York City

First, Let’s Talk About the Perks of Moving to NYC

“New Yorkers are born all over the country, and then they come to New York City and it hits them: Oh, that’s who I am.”

— Delia Ephron

#1. New York City is the Land of Opportunity (Truly)

Cue: “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.” New York City is where dreamers go to see if dreams can become reality, and in my experience, this is true in two ways:

• If you’re an entrepreneur (way to go, you!), there’s no better place than New York City to try and make it big. The opportunities and networking connections you can make while living in New York City are hard to beat.

• Career-wise, New York City has the biggest names in tech, marketing, apparel, journalism, sports, you name it. So if you can’t follow your entrepreneurial dreams (yet), there’s definitely a job for you. However, I don’t want to paint a false picture, you should definitely have a gig lined up before moving to NYC otherwise you won’t be setting yourself up for success.

New York City is home to 65 Fortune 500 companies, the second-highest concentration of Fortune 500 companies in the world (outside of Tokyo). In terms of finding a job in New York City, it helps to be mindful of finding a sector that works well with your lifestyle. Because the first thing you’ll learn after moving to New York City is that you will need to hustle hard (and that means long hours at the office).

With a population of 8.4 million, competition is fierce. Securing a job and growing a career will require more effort than it does in elsewhere. This is a big reason why New Yorkers get labeled as workaholics (I’ll cover this in more detail below). But at the end of the day, one thing is certain: if you’re passionate enough to move to New York City then chances are good you’ll find a way to make it work, one way or another.

This is the city of dreamers and time and again it’s the place where the greatest dream of all, the American dream, has been tested and has triumphed.

Michael Bloomberg

#2. New York City is a Safe Place to Live

It may surprise you to learn that living in New York City is not unsafe, as most folks assume. It’s hard to blame anyone for thinking that daily life in New York City thought! With 8.4 million residents, NYC is the most populous city in America, so sensational headlines are bound to happen.

However, relative to its size, New York City is considered one of the top 5 safest large cities in America. After living in New York City for 10+ years, I can honestly say that I’ve never felt unsafe in the city, and that’s mostly because I’ve never really been alone on the streets.

There’s so many people exploring the city all hours of the day, so you’re seldom alone (there’s power in numbers). Stick to the main streets, know which areas to avoid and trust your gut. For instance, I don’t walk through Central Park after dark.

I currently live in the Upper West Side (Manhattan) and understand that busy streets are not as common in the other boroughs, so make sure to research the best places to live in New York City.

#3. Exposure to the Arts (and History)

New York City is often described at the cultural capital of the world, not without reason! Having daily access to world-class museums is one of my favorite things about living in NYC.

Home to a whopping 83 museums, including the fifth largest museum in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art (colloquially known as the MET). The Big Apple is also home to two of the most gorgeous libraries in the world, the JP Morgan Library & the New York Public Library (3rd largest library in the world).

If history is more your thing, why not visit the birthplace of Theodore Roosevelt? Or maybe grab a drink at the bar where George Washington bid an emotional farewell to his troops? Heck, you can even visit Alexander Hamilton’s final resting place.

The point is, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more culturally exciting city than New York. For example, my friend starts every weekend by exploring a museum with her kids and at the rate she’s going, her kids will see more world-renowned art by the age of 7 than most people do in a lifetime!

If you want to become a real New Yorker, there’s only one rule: You have to believe New York is, has been, and always will be the greatest city on earth. The center of the universe.

– Ellen R. Shapiro

#4. New York City is Diverse

It’s probably no surprise that with more than 200+ languages spoken on a daily basis, the habits, food and dress reflect the vibrant diversity of life in New York City. In fact, New York City is the most diverse city in the country.

As a result, no matter what you do, you will always “fit” in. In many ways, it feels like there’s zero judgement in day-to-day life in NYC. I personally feel like I can be whoever I want to be (I mean this sincerely).

This realization, and subsequent freedom, makes me more confident and allows me to take risks I normally wouldn’t. Talk about liberating. For example, within two months of moving to NYC, I found that my wardrobe had completely changed.

I started wearing clothing that just didn’t make sense in my previous city (Portland, Oregon) because there was seldom an occasion to get dressed for. After living in NYC, I’ve realized that the city is occasion enough. All this to say, if you need a fresh start, moving to New York City should fit the bill. I swear, this city makes you self-sufficient in no time.

If you’re seriously considering moving to New York City, I suggest reading: Don’t Move to New York City Without Knowing These 20 Crucial Things First

#5. Networking & Social Scene

One of the best things about living in New York City is that you’re always in the heart of the action. On any given day, there’s hundreds of events going on throughout the city. This is the place where trends are born and million-dollar ideas take root.

In fact, New York City was home to more billionaires than anywhere else in the world, before being surpassed by Beijing not too long ago. And since everyone is hustling hard to get their piece of the pie, you will make some serious connections while living in NYC.

If you’re open to meeting new people and putting yourself out there, you’ll find that there’s never a shortage of new folks to grab dinner or drinks with. I will add, the social atmosphere in NYC is downright euphoric.

Personal experience of living in New York City: I’ve changed so much since moving to NYC. I went from hanging out with close friends once a month to grabbing drinks with friends 2-3 times a week. You’ll want to budget social events if you’re considering living in NYC on a budget.

#6. There’s (Always) Something to Do

When you live in New York City, it’s hard to justify staying home because there’s ALWAYS something going on. Whether it’s a new exhibit at a museum, a famous musician playing at the Blue Note, sunset yoga in Central Park or a five-course meal at a Michelin-star restaurant, you’ll never have a reason to be bored with daily life in New York City.

Even random walks sometimes end on a magical note.

For example, my husband and I took a morning stroll through Central Park and stumbled across a film shoot. We watched Sarah Jessica Parker film a scene for the Sex and the City reboot and I couldn’t believe it (so cool!). Long gone are the days of “there’s nothing to do around here” because when you move to New York City, that excuse is no longer valid.

In the country, there are a few chances of sudden rejuvenation–a shift in weather, perhaps, or something arriving in the mail. But in New York the chances are endless.

E.B. White

#7. The food in New York City is incredible

We can’t talk about the biggest advantages of living in New York City without mentioning the food. Oh my goodness! If there’s one thing I love most about daily life in NYC, it’s the incredible food scene.

With 69 Michelin-Starred restaurants, New York City is has the 5th highest concentration of Michelin-Starred restaurants in the world. And sure, you’ll need a trust fund to try them all, but you know the best part? You don’t need to eat at these fancy places to enjoy a memorable meal because NYC’s culinary scene spans the gamut.

New York City is a melting pot of different cultures so locals are privy to the best-of-the-best in all international cuisines. After living in New York City, it’s hard to find other cities that satisfy my cravings for good food.

I mean, let’s get real real, you haven’t lived until you find yourself with a hot bowl of award-winning ramen at 1am. P.S. I’m currently working on a post about the best cheap eats in NYC, so sign up for the email list to be notified when it comes out. I share gems and photos, not spam.

Read: The 10 BEST Pizzas in New York City & 15 Mouthwatering Bagels in Manhattan

#8. New York City Has Great Public Parks

The amount of public parks sprinkled throughout the city is a huge perk of living in the Concrete Jungle. Obviously Central Park takes the cake, spanning nearly 850 acres, this gem is bigger than the country of Monaco and is the most filmed location in the world.

And it’s true, Central Park is picture-perfect, but don’t make the mistake of overlooking the other 1,700+ parks in NYC. It’s clear that New York City understands the importance public green spaces and acts on that knowledge.

In fact, 22% of the city is dedicated specially for public parks and 99% of New York City residents are a mere 10-minute walk from a park. I can attest that having access to green spaces makes living in NYC easy because when the city feels overwhelming it’s not hard to find a little slice of greenery to escape to.

Further Reading:

#9. Street Fashion is Exciting

For the most part, New Yorkers dress very well, especially when compared to other US cities. Now, I’m not saying we hold ourselves to European standards, but close enough.

There’s something exciting about living in a city where people take pride in the way they dress that makes you want to put your best foot forward, too. Having daily exposure to the newest trends definitely changes a person’s relationship with clothes.

Personally, I noticed this change in myself. As mentioned earlier, my wardrobe has substantially changed since moving to New York City (for the better, I think!). There’s no pressure to dress any particular way, which means everything is fair game. I’m taking more risks with my attire and it’s been really fun to have occasions worth dressing up for.

#10. Top-Notch Public Transportation

I know that most everyone likes to hate on their city’s public transportation, but New York City’s subway system super efficient, in my opinion. We chose to move to NYC without a car, which turned out to be the right move because street parking is a nightmare.

Honestly, I can’t imagine the headache of owning a car while living in NYC. Plus, the savings are starting to add up. We don’t pay for gas and regular vehicle maintenance, not to mention the savings on car insurance.

Besides, using the subway is a no-brainer and we don’t dread it, which says a lot. Trains run on time 80-90% of the time and I can get wherever needed in a reasonable time. But don’t just take my word for it, more than 3 million people ride the subway daily. The only time the subway really sucks is during the holiday season when the trains are packed to the brim.

All this to say, if you’re planning on moving to New York City with a car, think twice. It won’t be necessary.

#11. The City (Really) Never Sleeps

You may not realize how big of a perk this is until you move out of New York City, but just wait until that 2am craving strikes. There’s always something lively going on in the city all hours of the day (and night). It’s not hard to find something fun to do after work (even if you get off closer to 9pm).

Great bars, awesome jazz clubs, romantic restaurants, you name it and it’s at your fingertips well into the evening. Seriously, this perk of living in NYC can’t be overstated because it makes daily life so enjoyable. We recently met up with some friends from Portland and found ourselves out until 2am.

We capped the night with a slice of pizza before heading home. We didn’t even have to search hard to find a restaurant open near us, we had 10+ options within three blocks.

And New York is the most beautiful city in the world? It is not far from it. No urban night is like the night there…. Squares after squares of flame, set up, and cut into the aether. Here is our poetry, for we have pulled down the stars to our will.

Ezra Pound

The Disadvantages of Living in NYC

#1. The Rent is Too Damn High

Let’s be honest, the astronomical cost of living in New York City is not realistic for most people. Rental prices are off the charts! As of this writing, the average cost of a one bedroom apartment in Manhattan is $5,550 (I wish I had some water to spit out for dramatic effect).

All this to say, New York City isn’t even in the same time zone as affordable.

I fell in love with the city after visiting for the first time after college. After that trip, I spent 6+ years daydreaming about living in NYC but it felt so out of reach because of the cost. I saved as much as I could to finally make the big move to New York City, but I don’t want to fool you, it was not easy.

The high cost of housing is why so many people live with roommates or find themselves far from the center (and then have to commute 45+ minute each way).

If helpful, our current rent for a 420-square foot apartment on the Upper West Side is $3,000. It’s charming but TINY! The bathroom door doesn’t open all the way because of a small trash can, it’s hilarious and sad at the same time.

But as most New Yorkers will tell you, you pay for the access, not space. Anyways, I’ll post photos of our apartment soon and will send an update through the newsletter, if you’re interested.

#2. The Summer Humidity & Winter Weather

There’s a few New York City living essentials that you’ll need to get sorted out before moving to NYC. Mainly, you’re going to need a good AC (here’s the one we use) because the summer humidity and heat is no joke.

From June through September, the city is muggy and oftentimes stinky (because of the garbage being left out on the streets). The average summer temperature hovers around 85 – 90° and the humidity is intense. You know the drill: smells get amplified but the summer heat, brace yourself for the smells of trash on the streets and body odor in the subway.

The winter weather sits on the other end of the spectrum. A brutal bone-chilling cold awaits you from December to March, so you better be sure that your tiny closet is full of quality coats and wool socks.

Need help getting through New York City winters? Don’t move to NYC without getting this super handy device first, it helps drastically with the dark gray winter skies. My therapist recommended it and I use it daily, I can’t recommend it enough.

#3. The Daily Cost of Living in NYC is Sky High

I know, understatement of the century, right? But bear with me. New York City is the 7^thmost expensive city in the world. Let that sink in.

I guess this goes hand-in-hand with the atrocious rent prices but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. Expect everyday amenities, like haircuts, groceries and experiences, to be way more expensive while living in New York. For example, an average co*cktail in NYC will set you back $18-22, pre-tip (ouch). And since daily life in NYC is a social affair, living in New York City on a budget won’t be easy.

In fact, the high cost of living in New York City was the hardest adjustment for my husband and I. We had some serious talks about reigning in our finances shortly after moving to New York City because it became evident that our previous budget wouldn’t work here.

We mentioned this to a friend who’s been living in NYC for 15+ years, he said that when people first move to New York City they feel like they’re on vacation. I couldn’t agree more. So many cool restaurants to try, world-class museums museums, new attractions — it’s all so exciting! So it takes a while to adjust to a more disciplined way of daily life in New York.

Additionally, I can’t speak for everyone (and I’m slightly embarrassed to admit this) but living in New York City has made me more materialistic. There’s something in the atmosphere that makes me more interested in buying things (in a way I never did before). It sucks to say this out loud, but I’m trying to keep this list honest.

#4. Crowds Are Par for the Course

Do you like standing in line? Great! You’re going to LOVE living in New York City. Jokes aside, expect crowds, long lines and impossible wait-lists for the hottest restaurants and exhibits in town.

You anticipate this as a tourist, but as a local, it feels a bit different. Not only will you wait in line for most popular spots, but the streets are crowded all the (dang) time. Comes with the territory, I guess.

I feel like all first dates in NYC should go something like this: Name, occupation, longest wait time. Because nothing proves commitment like a 2 hour line for donuts. That’s marriage material.

#5. New Yorkers Are Busy & Blunt

New Yorkers don’t sugarcoat. They are direct because they don’t like to waste time. You can tell this by how fast they walk … everywhere. New Yorkers weren’t raised by southern mothers – forget manners, enter brevity. They have places to be and people to see.

It’s just the way things are around here. I can try to explain it away, but why bother? It is what it is, just don’t take it personally because it’s not. Everyone’s eager to make a dream come true.

#6. Moving to New York City? Apartment Hunting is a Bear

One of the biggest disadvantages of living in New York City is trying to find an apartment. The competition is intense and you’ll need a broker to get an apartment, which greatly increases the overall expense. Most broker fees are equivalent to one month’s rent or 10-15% of your total annual rent.

Here’s my firsthand account of our experience finding an apartment in New York City. I talk about dead co*ckroaches, mouse traps and a few lessons we learned the hard way so you don’t have to.

#7. If You Live in NYC, Prepare to be Labeled a Workaholic

There’s no way around this. New York City is a hard working city. 40 hour work week? Sounds like a distant dream. Living in NYC is not for the faint of heart, most come here to make a name for themselves, and it shows. Expect to put in long hours.

For example, both of our long-term NYC friends work until 8-9pm in the evening. They joke that they can hang out during the “other” 9-9. It’s not uncommon to find them answering emails on the weekends or checking their phones during happy hour.

Some days it feels like anxiety is a second language and we are all proficient in it.You can to hustle to make it here and everyone works hard. Some people work 150 hours a week, others have 2-3 jobs to scrape by. Whatever you do, secure a job before moving to New York City.

#8. New York City is So Dirty

I know some people like to call New York City “grungy” because it sounds cute, but let’s get real: the city is dirty. I mean, in 2018, New York City was rated the dirtiest city in America. My biggest peeve is the fact that we toss trash bags on the street, hard to believe that such an innovative city hasn’t thought of a better solution.

“When you leave New York, you are astonished at how clean the rest of the world is. Clean is not enough.”

Fran Lebowitz

#9. Homelessness

When people ask me what’s it’s really like to live in New York City day to day, I can’t help but mention the dire homeless situation. In recent years homelessness in New York City has reached its highest levels since the Great Depression.

Homelessness is a real problem in this city and it will become a part of your daily life if you move to New York City. As mentioned earlier, I’ve never felt unsafe here, but homelessness is noticeable.

What’s It Like Living in NYC? (FAQ)

Is NYC a good city to live in?

Living in New York City, one of the world’s most iconic cities, will definitely change you one way or another. The city offers a unique living experience that can be both exhilarating and challenging. With a population of over 8 million people, it’s a melting pot of cultures with a plethora of perks. But, the high cost of living and overall stress of daily life in a large city (like career pressures, etc) can take their toll. The answer depends entirely on you, but I hope this list was helpful in guiding you in the right direction.

How Many People Live in New York City?

As of 2024, the population of New York City is 8.468 million, making it the most populous city in the country and the 11th most populated city in the world. So yeah, let your hair down. You’ll always fit in here.

What Salary Do You Need to Live in NYC?

It depends on your lifestyle and the sacrifices you’re willing to make. But I won’t lie to you, living in NYC on a budget isn’t easy. OK with roommates? Living in NYC just became a lot more affordable. Value your independence? A 1 bedroom unit won’t come cheap.

Theoretically you can live in NYC with a salary of 60K a year. You’ll have roommates (probably more than one) and won’t be eating out at sit-down restaurants too often. What’s more, Broadway shows and rooftop bars will be reserved for (very) special occasions.

A salary of 70K+ a year in New York City will afford you a more comfortable social life in the city that never sleeps. You may still have a roommate and eat out 2-3 times a week or you might find an apartment without a roommate – bagels all the way!

If you’re making a salary of 120K+ a year in NYC you will be able to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. Getting drinks with friends after work, celebrating special occasions with a fancy dinner, attending the latest shows, and strolling down SOHO more than once a week (if you know, you know) 😉

Things to Know Before Living in New York City (Post Summary)

In sum these are the pros and cons of living in New York City

1. New York City is a safe city
2. Land of opportunity
3. Rich history and culture
4. The food scene in New York City
5. Social scene/networking
6. You can be anyone here
7. Central Park
8. Fashion scene
9. Everything is open well into the night
10. Efficient transportation
11. There’s always something to do
12. High rent prices
13. NYC is expensive
14. Work culture
15. Rude locals
16. Apartment hunting
17. NYC is dirty
18. Summer and winter weather
19. Homelessness
20. Crowds

Looking for the Best Things to Do in New York City?

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20 Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE Moving to New York City (Firsthand Account)
15 Best Places to Live in New York State (Helpful Guide)

And there you have it, my friends. These are the honest pros and cons of living in New York City. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. Always happy to help!

Cheers!