Times Square

Things to Consider When Planning to Migrate to New York

New Yorkers take pride in the fact that they are living in—arguably—the best city in the world. The Big Apple, as it is known, is brimming with good food, fantastic spots, and just about anything that defines what a great city would look like. However, despite all these amazing characteristics, relocating to New York takes some getting used to, especially when coming from a smaller city or a different country.

We came up with this article to help you prepare with regards to your big, life-changing move.  As a matter of fact, we interviewed some of our closest New Yorker friends and asked for tips on how to make your transition to New York as smooth as possible. Here are their answers:

Consider a Temporary Place to Live Before Going All In

If we could offer one tip, it is to secure housing prior to your arrival. If you know the city well and decide where you want to live, you can do it all remotely. If you are unsure about where to live, how much you want to spend, or who you want to live with then I’d recommend finding a temporary place for a month or two.

This will give you ample time to find longer-term housing, explore the city, and meet potential roommates personally if that is your living situation. Airbnb, hotels, etc. can be very costly and you might need more than a few days until you find your permanent place.

Even if you find a place on day one, viewings, lease approvals, lease signing, etc. could take a few days to finalize. You can find many short-term options online or look for roommates that are offering an extra space or furnished co-livings rooms with flexible leases.

– Rany Burstein, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Diggz

New York – The city where you’re not alone

Remember That You Are Not Alone

New York is an amazing city to live in. People have experienced city life in many parts of the world, but NYC has to be the most vibrant and exciting of all. Bursting with culture, landmarks, amazing food from all over the world, and a melting pot of cultures, there is surely something for everyone.

There are many things to consider when making the move to a large city like New York and most people think of things like costs, transport, and climate. The one thing I did not consider for a moment was that it can be a very lonely place.

In a city with millions of people everywhere you look, you should be meeting new people all the time, right? The reality is that it can be harder to make friends in large cities than in a small town. Fortunately, you are never alone in being alone.

There are so many people in the same situation, and it can be easy to make friends if you know where to look. Volunteering is one great way to meet people and there are social communities that will have a group or activity whatever your niche interest. At the end of the day, New York can be lonely, but you do not have to be.

– Ahmed Mir, Founder of Sip Coffee House

Discover the Many Inexpensive Places in the City

while ny boasts with a lot it has to offer, remember that there are also sights and experiences for free.

The number one thing I feel anyone planning to migrate to New York should consider is their finances.

When I moved from rural Oklahoma to the city, it was quite a shock when I discovered just how expensive city life can be. Admittedly, I was a student and living on a budget, but I think it is something everyone should carefully consider.

New York is a fabulous city to live in, but it is not cheap. Of course, it is possible to live in NYC with a modest income, but it really depends on your lifestyle. The city has an incredibly diverse population, and you do not have to be a millionaire to live here, but it certainly helps.

Within my social circle, we are not really “party people,” we are more a kind of “back to basics” crowd. We recycle, grow our own food, and shop at thrift stores. When we venture out, there are plenty of cheap eateries in the city and fun activities that are inexpensive or even free of charge.

If your lifestyle involves regular dining out in high-end restaurants and you wish to live in Manhattan, then you need to know that this is going to cost big bucks. New York is one of the most expensive cities in the world and rents are high. New York is awesome and I cannot imagine living anywhere else, but I would advise anyone to consider whether they can afford to maintain a lifestyle they are comfortable with here in the Big Apple.

– Gina Harper, Founder of Harper’s Nurseries
Cecilia Solomon
She is one of the amazing people in the company. She is in charge of all the admin work as well as human resources.