Moving to New York City

Those moving to New York City today aren’t the wide-eyed ‘fresh off the boat’ fortune seekers of yesteryear but are instead the jet-setting, business-savvy players of the world’s economy.

A concrete jungle perched on the Atlantic Ocean, New York City is the storied destination of American immigration and the world’s largest destination for international residents, with over three million foreign-born inhabitants. Its diverse communities and enduring old-world neighbourhoods are living representations of the city’s worldly appeal.

Living in New York City as an expat

At first, moving to New York can be frustrating; new arrivals must learn to manage the competitive housing market, which often requires additional documentation and guarantors for international tenants, adjust to a new schooling system and find lucrative employment. The work environment and the Manhattan lifestyle are brisk and energetic, and enjoying the fruits of your labour is the best part of working in the Big Apple.

NYC is known as the city that never sleeps, and it’s true that New Yorkers really do work hard and play harder. New arrivals to New York will be moving to the most populated city in the United States and will find that while space comes at a premium, they will have a host of diverse neighbourhoods to choose from.

The city’s well-established public transport network is another bonus, with ridership and service quality steadily improving. The subway operates 24/7, and there are also buses, commuter trains and ferries for those travelling to places that are a little further afield. As is the case throughout the US, expats moving to New York will have to ensure they have invested in a fully comprehensive health insurance plan. This will allow them to take advantage of the leading healthcare facilities in the city.

Working in New York City 
Lifestyle in New York City 
Getting Around in New York City

Cost of living in New York City

While it’s true that the cost of living in NYC ranks among the highest in the United States, it’s best thought of as the price of admission to living in a city with endless highlights. There’s no better place in the US when it comes to broadening your horizons, with ample opportunities to experience the lively nightlife, eclectic selection of restaurants and thriving theatre scene.

Accommodation will take a significant chunk of new arrivals’ salaries, but fortunately, newcomers can mitigate these costs by opting for a houseshare or living further out from the city centre. Entertainment and eating out will largely depend on newcomers’ personal preferences, as New York offers opportunities for both fine and food truck dining.

Cost of Living in New York City
Renting Accommodation in New York City
Neighbourhoods in New York City 

Expat families and children in New York City

The standard of public schools in New York is generally excellent, but many international newcomers send their children to one of the city’s outstanding international schools. Fees are high, but the facilities and standard of teaching are usually top-notch. Space at the most popular schools is limited, so it is best to begin the application process before relocating.

Those planning on opting for public schooling should note that priority is given to families living in the school’s zoning area, a fact best kept in mind when choosing a new home. Similarly, spots at some of the best public schools in the city are also limited, so parents should prepare their plans and applications well in advance.

Education and Schools in New York City 
International Schools in New York City 
Healthcare Facilities in New York City

Climate in New York City

New York City’s climate was officially reclassified as humid subtropical as a result of climate change impacts on the region. The city’s weather patterns are characterised by hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms, and winters are milder than in the past, although still cold with rain and occasional snow. Newcomers to New York should be sure to pack their umbrellas and warm clothing, as well as sunscreen for occasional heatwaves in summer.

Weather in New York City

New arrivals moving to New York City will be in for one of the most exhilarating and culturally immersive experiences of their life, thanks to the city’s diversity, economic prowess and fast-paced nature.