Moving to Manhattan: Is it right for you?

Situated between the Hudson and East River as part of New York City, Manhattan has something for everyone. Whether you’re single or are moving with a family, there is an option for you. The city that never sleeps truly lives up to its name. However, not everyone feels at home there. New York City can be a lonely place if you don’t know what you’re doing. There is a lot to consider when moving to Manhattan. These tips will help you make an informed decision.

Choosing the right neighborhood

Like any other city, Manhattan has different neighborhoods. When moving to Manhattan, it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences. Here is a list of some of Manhattan’s most popular neighborhoods:

• SoHo – one of Manhattan’s most expensive neighborhoods. It is also the shopping center of Manhattan, as well as home to many trendy hotels. If you enjoy high-end restaurants and stores, this is the place for you.
• Upper East Side – home to the best schools in Manhattan, such as the Spence School and Rudolph Steiner School. Although fairly expensive, many families choose this neighborhood for their educational options.
• Chelsea – for the artistic types and those in the art business. Packed with high ceilings and freight elevators, Chelsea is the place for artists.
• Lower East Side – one of the few affordable neighborhoods in Manhattan. It is very close to Chinatown and Little Italy, making it a foodie’s dream come true. Lower East Side is famous for its many nightclubs and restaurants, so you will never be bored. Additionally, it is home to many museums and art galleries.
• Harlem – once with a bad reputation, Harlem has taken a turn for the better. Its growing music and restaurant businesses have brought a new look to the neighborhood. Home to many immigrants, Harlem offers a unique mix of cultures and traditions.

Moving can be very stressful, and you need to find reliable movers. Many companies, such as Sky Moving and Storage, will help with this process at an affordable rate.

Getting used to the transportation

Most people living in Manhattan don’t have a car. The traffic jams can be a nightmare and finding parking almost impossible. This is why most people take advantage of public transportation. Besides taxis and buses, there is the subway. The subway seems to be the most efficient and cheap way to get around Manhattan. Although it can be hard to understand at first, this system is quite simple. It takes some time getting used to, but it is worth the trouble. Almost all of Manhattan’s neighborhoods connect through this system.

If you prefer to take a cab, don’t worry. Taxis patrol the streets regularly, although this might cost more than you are willing to pay.

You will always meet new people

If all of America is a melting pot, then Manhattan is at its center. With people coming from all around the world, it is inevitable that you will experience different cultures. This can be an amazing adventure, as you never know who you are going to become friends with next. Harlem, for example, is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Manhattan. All around you can hear different music and smell different kinds of food. A unique opportunity to meet cultures far away from your own.

While most people are welcoming and friendly, you should stay safe and don’t trust everyone. 

Your career can take off

New York is one of the best cities for young professionals in the United States. Many businesses find their biggest market right in New York City, from entertainment to medicine. That is why so many people come to this city in search of career opportunities. From singers to lawyers, doctors, businessmen, and fashion designers, this is the place to be. If career advancement is what you are looking for, moving to Manhattan is for you. Major companies are always looking for talented individuals with fresh outlooks and ideas. Who knows, maybe it will be you.

Moving to Manhattan means moving fast

Living in a small town means having a slower lifestyle. Manhattan, however, moves almost at the speed of light. Due to its increasing population, pedestrians take up every inch of the streets. Most of the time, all of them are in a hurry, and walking slowly can be dangerous. New Yorkers won’t hold back when it comes to pushing and shoving, and sometimes even being very aggressive. You will have to learn the speed of the city, in order to protect yourself. It is necessary to walk with purpose, without stopping or looking around. If you wish to take a walk, there are many parks just for that.

It can also be a lonely place

Even though there are so many people, everyone seems focused on themselves. It can be hard to meet people if you are not super open and outgoing. Many people leave New York for this very reason. Loneliness can lead to depression, which in turn leads to regrets when it comes to moving. However, there are many things to do in New York and people to meet, you just have to look for them. Neighborhoods often organize meet-ups and activities for singles and families alike. It is important to surround yourself with people who make you feel less lonely and give you strength. 

Weighing out the pros and cons

Moving to Manhattan can be the best thing for you if you know what you are in for. The best way for this is to figure out why you want to move there. Whether you want to make a career move, meet new people, or simply make a change, Manhattan can be the perfect place. If you are single, it can be the place you meet your soul mate. With over 1.5 million people, Manhattan has some of the countries best dating opportunities. On the other hand, it is also suitable for families with small children. Both private and public schools here have a great reputation, and most of its neighborhoods are very safe. Career opportunities are abundant, and starting your own business can be very lucrative. Whatever your decision, make sure you weigh out the pros and the cons, in order to make the right decision.