Moving from California to New York can be an exciting and adventurous journey but requires proper planning and preparation. With the many opportunities and attractions that New York has to offer, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to call it home. However, several essential factors must be considered before packing your bags and moving, including housing, employment, transportation, and education.
In this article, our team at SecureSpace Self Storage will provide you with everything you need to know about moving from California to New York so that you can be fully prepared for this exciting new chapter in your life. Whether you’re a recent graduate seeking new career opportunities or a family looking to start fresh in the big city, this guide will provide the information you need to navigate the challenges of relocating to New York. So, let’s get started on your journey to the Empire State!
Benefits of Moving from California to New York
New York is known for its dynamic job market, with many educational opportunities, health services, and business opportunities. It has also become a hub for careers in fashion, finance, and the arts. However, beyond the bustling city life of New York, the state offers natural beauty, great food, and adventure.
The Adirondack mountains, Lake Placid, and vast wilderness attract outdoor enthusiasts with skiing, boating, fishing, sailing, and hiking. The state’s four distinct seasons make it an ideal location for those who enjoy changing weather patterns and the activities that come with them. Additionally, New York provides endless entertainment, art, and culture options, making it an attractive destination for anyone seeking a diverse and enriching lifestyle.
Take a look at some of the other benefits of living in New York City:
Public Transportation
New York City offers a variety of advantages for those looking to move, including reliable public transportation and distinct seasonal changes. Unlike Los Angeles, where cars are the preferred mode of transportation and public transport options are limited, New York City offers a comprehensive public transit system, meaning owning a car is unnecessary. The subway or train can take you anywhere you need to go within 45 minutes. Moreover, New York City is highly walkable, allowing you to avoid sitting in traffic jams or searching for expensive parking spots. Walking around the city is also a great way to stay active and feel a greater community.
The Seasons Actually Change
When moving to New York city, you should pack a winter coat. On the East Coast, the weather drastically differs from what you would find in California. Winter is on its way, so prepare for snowfall and much colder temperatures, but look at it as an opportunity to experience something new: the seasons are changing.
Los Angeles is known for its great weather, and it’s rare for the city to suffer from anything more than a drizzle. However, having a home in New York gives you access to all kinds of winter activities, such as ice skating, snowball fights, and hockey. It may be a pleasant change from the monotonous cold weather here on the West Coast to have four distinct seasons in New York.
Highly affordable suburbs
The city of Manhattan (unsurprisingly) is the most expensive place in the country, but some NYC suburbs are downright affordable:
- Old Mill Basin, Brooklyn: The average home in this neighborhood costs $231,000, while homes in the surrounding area cost $765,000 on average. While public transportation is only sometimes convenient, the extra hike is worth it for the lower cost of living.
- University Heights, located in the Bronx: The neighborhood has the urban feel of a big city, but with an average home price of $195,000, living costs are much lower.
- Grant City, in Staten Island: Staten Island is another affordable suburb, but its distance from New York City makes it a more relaxed place to live. Getting to the big city is still easy, so it’s a win-win situation.
Job opportunities
New York City offers a vast range of job opportunities across various industries. Being one of the biggest economic powerhouses in the world, the city attracts numerous large companies and startups from diverse sectors, making it an ideal destination for job seekers.
One of the biggest advantages of working in New York is the presence of numerous Fortune 500 companies. Some of the biggest names in the corporate world, such as IBM, JP Morgan Chase & Co., PepsiCo, Pfizer, and Verizon, have their headquarters in the city. The financial industry, in particular, is a significant contributor to the city’s economy, with Wall Street serving as the global hub for finance.
The technology sector has also grown significantly recently, with numerous startups and established companies setting up shops in the city. Tech giants moving companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft have a strong presence in the city, providing ample employment opportunities for tech professionals.
New York City is known for its law firms, fashion companies, tech giants, logistics companies, financial gurus, and a whole host of other industries that offer employment for people across the city and cross country.
Things To Do
Living in New York City is an adventure, as the city offers endless opportunities to explore its diverse and exciting neighborhoods, world-famous landmarks, iconic cities, and cultural hotspots. From Times Square to Central Park and the Statue of Liberty, the city is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the United States.
But beyond the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple lies the rest of New York State, with plenty of hidden treasures to discover. Take a horseback ride along the scenic shoreline of Long Island, or experience the rush of white water rafting in the Adirondacks. Hiking through the tranquil forests and mountains of the Catskills or admiring the breathtaking views of Letchworth State Park are also must-do activities for nature enthusiasts.
Whether you crave the excitement of the city or the serenity of the great outdoors, New York has something to offer for everyone. The state’s unique blend of urban and natural environments makes it a truly special place to call home.
Cost of living in New York City
New York City is known for its high cost of living, making it one of the most expensive cities in the world. The main contributor to this high cost is the steep housing expenses. Renting a house in New York City can cost a couple an average of $3000 monthly. Additionally, utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet can cost around $450 per month.
Apart from housing and utilities, groceries in New York City can also be expensive. It’s estimated that a couple spends around $800 per month on groceries. Entertainment, such as dining out, going to the movies, and attending concerts, can also add up quickly, costing an average of $400 monthly.
Other expenses, such as additional services such as transportation and material goods, can vary depending on the lifestyle and needs of the couple. Public transportation in New York City is extensive, but using taxis and ride-sharing services can add up quickly. Miscellaneous expenses such as clothing, personal care, and household items can also contribute to the overall cost of living.
Overall, the cost of living in New York City for a couple can easily exceed $5000 per month, making it necessary to budget and plan accordingly. Considering these costs when considering a move to New York City or planning to live there long-term is essential.
Best Places to Live in New York
New York State may be the perfect place to relocate if its rich culture, thrilling outdoors, and robust job market piques your interest. Several factors, including housing availability, crime rate, commute time, and school quality, influence your choice of where to live.
If you are considering relocating to New York, here are the six best cities and towns to consider:
New York City
New York City is known for its fast-paced lifestyle, making it an ideal place for those who crave excitement and hustle. The five boroughs that comprise the city – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island – each have unique charm, culture, and opportunities.
Manhattan, the most affluent and pricey of the boroughs, is a hub for art, culture, and education. It boasts world-renowned universities like New York University (NYU) and Columbia University, which attract a diverse student body worldwide. New York City has a thriving job market with a low unemployment rate.
The city’s financial institutions, hospitals, entertainment venues, and other large employers offer job opportunities across various industries. The city’s crime rate has been consistently declining since the 1990s, and today, it has one of the lowest crime rates among major cities in the US. Overall, it’s an exciting time to move to the City That Never Sleeps and pursue your dreams.
Albany
The state capital of New York, Albany, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city politics. As the largest employer in the region, the State of New York provides job opportunities to over 300,000 people. Along with the state government, the region has become a hub for tech startups, earning the nickname “Tech Valley.” Albany’s proximity to the Adirondack Mountains and the vibrant town of Troy make it a great place to live.
Albany and its surrounding areas are home to numerous colleges and universities, including Union College in Schenectady and Skidmore in Saratoga Springs. The city boasts a lower crime rate than the national average, making it a safe place to live and work.
The town of Troy, often called the Brooklyn of upstate New York, is a trendy spot with a thriving restaurant scene, cozy coffee shops, and a bustling farmer’s market. Overall, Albany and the surrounding region offer an excellent quality of life and plenty of opportunities for education and employment.
Rochester
Rochester, located in upstate New York, boasts of being home to the headquarters of Wegmans. This regional grocery store chain is highly regarded as a top employer in the region. Ranked number 2 on the Fortune best list of Companies to Work for, Wegmans is not the only company that offers excellent employment opportunities in the area. Significant employers include Strong Memorial Hospital, the University of Rochester, and the Rochester General Health System.
When it comes to leisure, Rochester has a lot to offer. The Eastman Museum, named after George Eastman, founder of Kodak, provides an exciting glimpse into the history of cameras. The Strong Museum of Play, a two-floor interactive exhibit space, provides fun for people of all ages, not just children.
The city of Rochester only gets 61 days of bright sunshine per year. Additionally, the region receives several feet of snow yearly from winter weather systems. Despite the weather, the new city of Rochester still offers plenty of job opportunities, affordable housing, and local tourist attractions, making it an excellent place to live.
North Hills
North Hills is a lovely community in North Hempstead in Nassau County, New York. Known for its quiet and picturesque streets, North Hills offers its residents a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The community features a range of stunning homes, from cozy cottages to grand estates, all nestled in lush greenery and tree-lined streets. The area is also home to several parks and golf courses, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
It is an excellent place to settle down, with a median home value of $957,600 and a low unemployment rate of 1%. Also, great restaurants in Flushing, Queens, that serve authentic Chinese and Korean cuisine are close to the town. There are also two golf courses in North Hills, the North Hills Country Club and Deepdale Golf Club, which are ideal for golf enthusiasts. A low crime rate and excellent schools make the town a great place to live.
Buffalo
In Nassau County, a suburb of New York City, lies a hidden gem that offers the best small-town living and city conveniences. It is an ideal setting for those who want a peaceful lifestyle while still having easy access to all living space amenities in a big city. Meanwhile, Buffalo, a vibrant city in western New York, has recently increased in popularity thanks to a significant waterfront revitalization project.
The project has brought numerous new restaurants, shopping areas, bike lanes, and kayak tours downtown. This has made it an even more attractive destination for residents and visitors. In addition, Buffalo has become a hub for the tech industry, with IBM investing in the city’s future as a tech hub. While Buffalo is a busy city, it retains a strong sense of community and neighborliness. However, it’s worth noting that safety can be a concern after dark, so it’s best to exercise caution when venturing out at night.
Rye
Rye is a beautiful Westchester County city with spectacular views of Long Island Sound. The Rye School District has three elementary schools that won national awards, like Blue Ribbon Schools and New York State Schools of Excellence. Playland Park is a major tourist attraction in Rye, so there’s plenty to do.
Rye Shopping Center has many upscale boutiques for men and women. Rye Beach is a popular beach escape for local families who want to escape the city. MetroNorth railroad only takes 45 minutes to Rye from Grand Central Terminal. The cost of housing in Rye is high, with houses costing more than $1 million, while studio apartments are cheaper but still cost around $700,000.
Best school district in New York
Great Neck Public Schools
Great Neck, New York, is home to one of the top-rated school districts in the state. The school enrolls 6,846 students and has an 11:1 student-teacher ratio. A remarkable 86 percent of this school district’s students are proficient in math and reading. The Great Neck Public Schools have a perfect A+ rating for academics, teachers, health, and safety.
Jericho Union Free School District
The Jericho Union Free School District is one of the best school districts in Jericho. 3,173 students attend the school, with a ratio of 11 students to teachers. Students at the school have a safe learning environment.
Roslyn Union Free School District
Roslyn’s highly-rated school district has five schools and ranks third out of the three. Currently, there are 3,218 students at the school, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 11:1. The school district offers students an excellent learning environment with licensed and experienced teachers.
Scarsdale Union Free School District
Among Scarsdale’s public school districts, Scarsdale Union Free School District holds the fourth position. The student-teacher ratio is 13:1, with 4,791 students. According to state test scores, math proficiency is 90% among students, and reading proficiency is 87%.
Syosset Central School District
Syosset Central School District is one of the top-rated public school districts in the country. Approximately 6,626 students are enrolled with a student-teacher ratio of 10:1. The school district has also achieved an A+ for academics and college preparation.
Home Services in New York
Electricity, gas, and water in New York
Contact or visit the New York State Electric and Gas Corporation website for electricity and gas supply. Check out Clearview Energy & Constellation Energy if you’re looking for electricity. Buffalo Water Board is a public benefit corporation that provides water services to its customers through its service area.
Internet in New York
New York has 3G and 4G LTE. It has about 42 internet providers, making it the 4th most connected state in the country. The company offers Fiber, DSL, Cable, Mobile, and Phone services. You can count on excellent customer service and reliability. It’s best to pick an internet provider in New York that can bundle, offer a variety of speeds, and has multiple packages at a reasonable price.
Insurance in New York
Car insurance in New York City
Car insurance costs in New York are much higher than in other states. A full-coverage car costs almost $3,433 a year, or $168 a month, double the national average. New York has a minimum coverage of $941 a year. Compared to California, where insurance for a full-coverage car costs almost $2,065 or $172 a month. In addition, minimum coverage costs around $773 a year.
Health insurance in New York
Getting health insurance is a great way to make sure you are taking care of your health. In a health-related emergency, health insurance will protect you from spending much money. State governments regulate healthcare in the US, so New York offers a website to help you find health insurance. Select New York as your state when you set up your account.
Is moving from Los Angeles, CA, to New York City, NY, a good idea?
Moving from Los Angeles, CA, to New York City, NY, is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. One of the most critical factors to consider is the cost of living in both cities. According to recent data, New York City’s living cost is higher than in Los Angeles, CA. Consumer prices, including rent, are 29.9% higher in New York City than in Los Angeles, while consumer prices without rent are 23.1% higher. Rent prices alone are a whopping 38.1% higher in New York City than in Los Angeles.
Groceries in New York City are 27.9% more expensive than in Los Angeles, while restaurant prices are 6.6% higher. Moreover, the local purchasing power in New York City is 10.6% lower than in Los Angeles. It’s crucial to remember that New York City offers an unparalleled experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. The city boasts a unique culture, fantastic food, and endless entertainment options. However, it’s also essential to consider the higher cost of living when moving.
Whether moving from Los Angeles, CA, to New York City, NY, is a good idea depends on several factors, including personal preferences, lifestyle, job opportunities, and financial situation. It’s essential to thoroughly research and consider all aspects before making a final decision.
How is life different in Los Angeles, CA, and New York City, NY?
Los Angeles, CA, and New York City, NY, have different lifestyles, cultures, and opportunities, which may appeal to other individuals. New York City’s population is about 10% less than Los Angeles, but it is more densely populated and has a higher concentration of people within a smaller area. However, New York City is known for its extensive public transportation system, although it may be better than Los Angeles, which scores higher in this area.
Regarding walkability and bike-friendliness, New York City takes the lead, scoring 88 and 69, respectively, while Los Angeles scores 69 and 59 in these categories. New York City’s extensive pedestrian network and bike lanes make it a popular choice for people who prefer to get around on foot or by bike.
Regarding safety, New York City has a lower crime rate than Los Angeles, with a score of 25.8 compared to 29.96. New York City also has a higher safety index of 52.42, which is generally considered safer than Los Angeles, which has a safety index of 49.78.
Both cities have unique features and offer different opportunities, whether the sunny beaches of Los Angeles or the bustling streets of New York City. Ultimately, deciding which city to live in between two cities depends on individual preferences and needs.
Thanks For Reading!
In conclusion, moving from California to New York can be daunting, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a rewarding experience. It’s essential to research the housing and job markets, as well as the cultural differences, to ensure a smooth transition. A critical aspect of moving is finding a reliable storage solution to keep your belongings safe and secure. SecureSpace Self Storage offers various storage options to suit your needs, including climate-controlled units and enhanced security. With their help, you can have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are in good hands. Moving can be stressful, but with the proper preparation and support, you can make the most of your new adventure in New York.
Storage Facilities Near Los Angeles, CA
Now that you’re up to date on what you should know before moving to Los Angeles, it’s time to think about what comes next. If you find yourself in need of self-storage near Los Angeles, CA, SecureSpace Self Storage is the way to go. We have facilities located conveniently nearby and each one is constantly monitored for your safety and peace of mind. Plus, we know the area like no other storage facility can – which makes us perfect guides for keeping your items secure. If you are looking for more local information checkout some more of our guides. Thanks For Reading!
