New York is one of the most renowned places in the world. It is home to the vibrant city of NYC and the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, as well as stunning natural scenery and a forward-thinking business sector. This state is also imbued with a rich history, stemming from being one of the original 13 colonies. Take a hike in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York or wander through charming towns like Beacon; there are lots to explore.
So whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Albany, an apartment in the East Village, or just dipping your toes into what living in New York is like, here are ten pros and cons of living in New York to help you decide if New York is a good place to live.
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Quick Facts about New York
| Population | 20,201,249 |
| Median home sale price | $576,400 |
| Average rent in New York | $3,560 |
| Largest cities in New York | New York City, Buffalo, Yonkers |
What is it like to live in New York?
Living in New York – especially in the city – means being at the center of culture, opportunity, and constant motion. It’s a place where people come to chase big goals, often juggling work, side gigs, and late-night takeout. The pace can be exhausting, but it’s also energizing. You’re surrounded by different cultures, languages, and ideas, all packed into walkable neighborhoods and connected by a subway that (usually) gets you where you need to go. It’s not always glamorous – space is tight, rent is steep, and winters are no joke – but for many, the access to world-class food, arts, jobs, and people makes it worth it. While NYC isn’t for everyone, if you thrive on hustle, diversity, and being in the center of it all, there’s nothing quite like it.
Outside of NYC, the state offers a range of lifestyles, from the peaceful Adirondacks to the Finger Lakes, where wineries and outdoor activities reign supreme. Upstate New York offers more space, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed environment without sacrificing access to the city’s opportunities.
Living in New York at a glance:
- Constant energy: New York is always buzzing. Whether it’s the late-night diners, 24/7 subways, or the busy streets of Manhattan, there’s never a dull moment.
- Unbeatable food scene: From street food to five-star restaurants, New York’s food options reflect its diverse population and are available at any time of day or night.
- Diverse, ambitious people: New Yorkers are passionate, driven, and creative, and you’ll find a mix of cultures, industries, and personalities around every corner.
- Space is scarce, but access is abundant: Living in New York often means sacrificing space for location, unless you live in the suburbs or Upstate New York, but you’re never far from world-class museums, parks, theaters, and dining.
- The cost of living is high: New York’s weather keeps you on your toes, from frigid winters with heavy snow to scorching summer heat, but the spring and fall are worth it.
1. Pro: Amazing career and networking opportunities
There’s no denying that people move to New York to experience the iconic New York City. And one of the biggest draws is the incredible job market and networking opportunities. As a global business hub, NYC attracts top talent and companies across industries like finance, tech, fashion, media, and the arts. With countless events, conferences, and meet-ups throughout the year, the city offers endless chances to connect with influential professionals and expand your career. Whether you’re looking to start a new job, advance in your field, or explore a completely new industry, the networking landscape here can open doors that are hard to find anywhere else.
2. Con: The cost of housing is steep
New York State, while offering a range of living environments, also comes with some steep housing costs. A recent study found that to be able to afford a typical home in New York, homebuyers would need to make $160,300 annually. The median sale price for a home in the state is $576,400, which is significantly higher than the national median. However, New York City skews this figure dramatically, with the median sale price of a home in the city itself reaching $852,500. Rent is similarly costly, with the average price for a 1-bedroom apartment in NYC at around $5,097 per month. While upstate New York and smaller cities like Buffalo, Saratoga Springs, and Albany offer more affordable housing options in New York, the overall cost of living in the state can be high, particularly for those seeking proximity to the city’s job market and cultural hubs.
3. Pro: You’ll find beautiful scenery throughout the state
We’ll let New York City have its moment with its beautiful skyscrapers and monuments, but throughout the state, you’ll find a beauty that is sure to compare. In the winter, head over to Belleayre Mountain for snow activities like skiing or tubing. Explore the trails of nature preserves like the Falling Waters Preserve, or explore The Wild Walk, towering above the trees in an 81-acre High-Line playground.
4. Con: The rental market is highly competitive
Finding a rental in New York can feel like a full-time job. With high demand, limited availability, and prices often well above the national average, the rental market is incredibly competitive, especially in popular neighborhoods like Manhattan, Brooklyn, and parts of Queens, where apartments are snatched up quickly. Prospective tenants often face bidding wars, strict application processes, and the need to move fast to secure a place. It’s not uncommon for renters to have to offer more than the asking price or deal with brokers’ fees just to land an apartment. The pressure to find a place can make the process stressful, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with the city’s fast-paced real estate environment.
5. Pro: New York is culturally diverse
New York’s cultural diversity is one of its standout features, with a mix of communities from all over the world. In New York City alone, you’ll find vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem, where different languages, cuisines, and traditions thrive side by side. The state’s rich blend of cultures also brings a year-round calendar of festivals, parades, and events celebrating everything from Caribbean heritage to Chinese New Year. Whether you’re living in NYC or upstate, the diversity of people, perspectives, and experiences are what bring New York to life.
6. Con: New York has high taxes all around
There’s no denying that New York is an expensive state to live in, from income tax, sales tax, and property taxes. New York has some of the highest taxes in the nation coming in at a combined rate of 8.53%. New York state has a sales tax of 4% but combined with the New York City tax of an additional 4.5%, you’ll be paying a hefty tax that you’ll want to incorporate into your budget.
7. Pro: The food and dining scene is unparalleled
From street food vendors selling iconic NYC hot dogs and pizza slices to Michelin-starred restaurants serving gourmet meals, there’s something for every taste and budget in New York. The state’s rich cultural diversity is reflected in its food, with neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Astoria offering authentic dishes from around the world. Whether you’re craving sushi, bagels, or innovative fusion cuisine, New York delivers culinary experiences that are as dynamic and exciting as the city itself.
8. Con: Pollution and air quality problems
The dense traffic, industrial activity, and construction projects contribute to smog and elevated levels of particulate matter, which can make the air feel thick and uncomfortable, especially during high-traffic hours or on hot days. For those with respiratory issues or allergies, the air quality can be a concern, and the city’s noise and light pollution further add to the overall environmental impact. While efforts are being made to improve air quality, it’s something residents need to contend with regularly, particularly in the more congested areas.
9. Pro: New York is well connected within the state, the East Coast, and beyond
New York offers exceptional connectivity, making it easy to travel both within the state and beyond. Whether you’re hopping on a train to Albany, flying out of one of NYC’s major airports (JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark), or catching a quick flight to other major U.S. cities, getting around is a breeze. The state’s extensive transportation network, including the MTA subway system and regional rail services, ensures that even smaller cities are easily accessible. Additionally, New York City’s global reach means you can easily fly to Europe and other international destinations, with direct flights available to cities like London, Paris, and Madrid. Whether for business or leisure, New York’s transportation infrastructure offers unmatched convenience for both residents and visitors.
10. Con: New York City’s dense population leads to crowded streets and terrible traffic
New York City is the most densely populated city in the U.S., with over 8.8 million residents and a constant influx of tourists. This creates a crowded environment, especially in popular neighborhoods and downtown areas. Getting in and out of the city can be a nightmare, with heavy traffic making car travel slow and frustrating. While the public transportation system offers a more efficient way to navigate the city, the combination of population density and traffic congestion can make commuting a challenge. A great way to enjoy being close to downtown is to look at less populated neighborhoods outside the city like Larchmont and Manhasset.
11. Pro: New York has all four seasons
One great thing about New York is that you’ll be able to experience each season fully. Snowy winters, beautiful springs, warm summers, and vibrant falls, you’ll be lucky to call this place home. Although the seasons are great to experience if you’re moving from somewhere like Arizona, you’ll need to prepare yourself for the extreme weather the seasons bring.
12. Con: You’ll want to bundle up for the freezing winters
If you live in New York, you know how cold the state can get in winter. You can expect daily temperatures to reach 43 degrees Fahrenheit while nightly temperatures drop below freezing. With bone-chilling wind and snowfall, temperatures likely dip well below multiple freezing days of the year. You’ll want to bundle up and prepare your home for winter.
So, is New York a good place to live?
It depends on what you’re looking for – but for many, the answer is yes. New York offers unmatched access to culture, career opportunities, and natural beauty, all within one state. From the fast-paced energy of NYC to the slower charm of upstate towns, there’s a wide range of lifestyles to choose from. You’ll find world-class dining, iconic landmarks, and a deeply diverse population. But living here also means navigating high housing costs, dense crowds, and a competitive job and rental market. If you thrive on opportunity, variety, and don’t mind the hustle, New York can be an exciting and rewarding place to call home.