There Is No Manhattan, New York

Moving to New York has been the single most expensive, fund crippling thing I have done in my life thus far. No worries.

The cost of renting a place in the most expensive city in the United States is…well, a lot. You won’t see much for your money either. Those incredible NY condos you see on television with sleek, modern furnishings and floor to ceiling windows… NOT gonna happen. Unless you are gifted with a well-off mommy and daddy or you’re originally from outer New York, be prepared for some MAJOR downgrades. Stop imagining that Seinfeld or Carrie Bradshaw Manhattan apartment, you’re just teasing yourself. Say hello to your new walk-in closet/bedroom!

Of course, you don’t have to live in Manhattan. You could just as easily pay less and/or get more for your money in one of the outer boroughs and commute into town, but in comparison to other parts of the country you will still in general be paying a good amount higher. Living in one of the outer boroughs is a great way of saving money on living costs!

New York City is made up of five boroughs: Brooklyn, The Bronx, Staten Island, Queens and Manhattan. These are boroughs, NOT cities. Manhattan is a borough of New York City. There is no such thing as Manhattan,NY. If you live in Manhattan, you live in New York City, NY. If you tell someone you are from Manhattan, NY you might as well wear a sign on your back that says “I’m from out of state”. Got it? Don’t do it.

Anyways, living in Manhattan is a thrilling, lively experience that you may very well get addicted to. Living in one of the other boroughs can be just as amazing as well. Research well to find somewhere affordable and safe for your new place. The subway system is incredible so don’t be afraid to commute! Here’s a great resource by NY Magazine on the most livable neighborhoods in NYC:

http://nymag.com/realestate/neighborhoods/2010/65374/