Pros and Cons of Moving to New York City

With all the glitz and glamour associated with New York City, it can be hard to keep expectations in check when considering a move to the Big Apple.

While it's true that there are many unique and exciting things about moving to New York City, there are also downsides when the initial shine wears off and the grind of day-to-day life sets in.

Below, we've weighed up the pros and cons of moving to New York City.

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Lifestyle in New York City

+ PRO: A global cultural capital

New York City has an almost legendary status as a cultural goldmine. From cultural marvels such as Broadway and the Met to famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, there's an endless array of things to see and do in New York City. And unlike tourists, those living in the city will have much more time to take in everything the city has to offer.

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Accommodation in New York City

- CON: Expensive and often small accommodation

Given that New York City is the USA's most populated city, it comes as no surprise that space comes at a premium. Renting is the norm when it comes to accommodation in New York City, as the cost of buying real estate is eye-wateringly expensive. Not that rental fees in the city are cheap either, with the average New York City rental price being double the national average.

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Cost of living in New York City

- CON: One of the world's most expensive cities

It's not just the accommodation that's pricey – though it certainly does its bit in pushing up the cost of living in New York City. Other expenses such as healthcare, food, transport and international schooling can add up fast.

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Getting around in New York City

+ PRO: Well-developed transport network

With the subway running 24/7 through its network of more than 400 stations across the five boroughs, getting around in New York City is easy. The subway is also well integrated with other types of public transport, such as buses and commuter trains.

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Working in New York City

+ PRO: A thriving and diverse economy

New York City is one of the world's top financial centres, and the city is replete with headquarters of large multinational companies in all kinds of industries.

- CON: Stiff competition for jobs

With a highly educated population, new arrivals looking to find work in New York City will find themselves up against some strong candidates.

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Education in New York City

+ PRO: Local schooling is a good option

Public schooling is free of charge, and as long as newly arrived families live in a good school district, they can expect good quality education.

+ PRO: Lots of options for international schools

International schools are private institutions offering the curriculum of a foreign country, usually in that country's main language. As a multicultural and diverse city, New York City has plenty of excellent international schools for parents to choose from.

This selection includes British, German, French and Japanese schools, among others. International schools also frequently offer the International Baccalaureate, a global curriculum allowing easy transition between schools around the world.

- CON: Extremely high cost of international schools

When opting for international schooling, parents should be mindful of the fact that fees and other associated costs are high and will take up a large chunk of their budget.

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Healthcare in New York City

+ PRO: Experts and cutting-edge medical facilities

For those who can afford it, healthcare in New York City is of an excellent standard and is one of the primary industries driving its economy.

- CON: Healthcare is often unaffordable without medical insurance

Without private medical insurance or other means of paying medical bills, hospitals may refuse to treat a patient unless it is an emergency. In this case, patients will receive stabilising treatment but will need to secure payment for long-term treatment.