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11. Moving to New York

New York at a Glance

Moving to New York

Welcome to New York, the most populous city in the USA.

The influx of immigrants moving to New York reached its pinnacle in the 19^th and the early 20^th centuries, with New York overtaking London to become the most populated urban area in the world. Nowadays, the population has risen to about 8.3 million inhabitants. With an estimated 800 languages spoken in NYC, it has also become the most linguistically diverse city in the world.

The reasons why many people are moving to New York have changed only slightly over the centuries, and the city continues to fascinate especially young people from all over the world. Historically speaking, going to New York meant a fresh start in a safe haven. Millions of immigrants came to New York in order to escape oppression, persecution or poverty.

In a similar vein, some of the main selling points of the city are its booming economy as well as the buzz and excitement created by its sheer size and cultural riches. The fact that New York provides the backdrop to countless movies, television shows and books known to a worldwide audience only intensifies the strange fascination which fuels many a dream of moving to New York.

One thing holds true even today: In New York, everything seems possible.

Where to Live

For expatriates relocating to New York, deciding on a neighborhood can be extremely difficult. Some lucky expats in New York either live in corporate accommodation or at least get HR support in finding a new home.

Others are faced with a difficult choice: Where does one live in a city covering 790 square kilometers, or in a metropolitan area stretching over 17,400 square kilometers? This is, of course, a very individual decision based on many personal factors such as cost of living, income, proximity to work, schools, green spaces, etc.

However, the short overview below might help some people who think of making New York their home narrow down their options and get a rough idea of New York City´s neighborhoods.

Metropolitan New York

As it would be impossible to do justice to the vastness and diversity of the New York metropolitan area in a couple of short paragraphs, the following breakdown is limited to New York City.

This does not mean, however, that you should not consider the metropolitan area as a viable option, too. It has some obvious attractions, especially for families or people who might find the prospect of moving to New York City too daunting.

While property is a lot cheaper outside NYC, owning a car may become a necessity and working family members could face a long and nerve-wrecking commute every day. New York City proper might appeal mainly to the young and childless. With the possible exception of Manhattan, however, all boroughs include family-friendly residential neighborhoods as well as hip and expensive areas.

Given the vast numbers of immigrants and overseas workers living all across the city, there are no typical neighborhoods for expats moving to New York.