Moving From New York to California

Posted on 09/11/202309/12/2023 by BigApple

The act of relocating from one state to another is a momentous occasion in one’s life. It may be prompted by various factors such as career prospects, a desire for a different way of life, or an eagerness for novel experiences.

The decision to move from the vibrant metropolis of New York to the idyllic coast of California necessitates a significant adjustment that warrants meticulous preparation and contemplation. Our all-encompassing manual will provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure a seamless transition.

Moving From NYC to California: Tips

Transitioning from the vibrant streets of New York to the picturesque shores of California is a momentous life decision. Whether your destination is the illustrious city of Los Angeles or the technological hub of San Francisco, this shift presents distinctive prospects and challenges.

Research and Planning

Before you start packing your bags, it’s essential to do your research and create a solid plan for your move. Firstly, consider your destination. California is a vast state with diverse cities and regions, each offering a unique lifestyle. Research different areas to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors like job opportunities, cost of living, climate, and lifestyle.

Making a budget is important when moving. It can cost a lot of money, so make a budget that covers moving expenses, transportation, housing, and living costs in California. Remember to include any unexpected expenses that might come up.

Timing is also a significant factor. Consider the best time to move based on your personal circumstances, such as job commitments, family obligations, and weather conditions. Planning your move during a less hectic time can reduce stress.

Preparing for the Move

With your plan in place, it’s time to start preparing for the move. One of the first steps is decluttering. Before you pack, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. The less you have to move, the easier and cheaper it will be.

Hiring movers is another crucial aspect. Research moving companies and obtain quotes. Make sure to read reviews and check for any hidden fees. Schedule your move well in advance to secure your preferred moving date.

When it comes to packing, start early. Use sturdy boxes and packing materials to protect your items during transit. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in for easy unpacking at your new home.

Don’t forget the administrative details. Notify important parties of your address change, including the post office, banks, utility companies, and any subscriptions or memberships you have. Ensure a smooth transition for your mail and services.

The Logistics of the Move

Moving across the country involves several logistical challenges. Here’s how to tackle them:

Transportation: Decide whether you’ll drive, fly, or hire a moving company to transport your belongings. If you’re driving, plan your route and accommodations along the way. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the long journey.

Packing essentials is an often overlooked aspect. Pack a separate box with essential items you’ll need right away, such as toiletries, clothing, and important documents. Keep this box easily accessible during the move to avoid unnecessary rummaging.

Take care of legal considerations. Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including your driver’s license, car registration, and insurance updated with your new California address. Compliance with local regulations is essential.

If you have pets, make arrangements for their transportation and accommodations during the move. Research pet-friendly hotels and airlines if needed. Ensure your furry friends are comfortable and safe throughout the journey.

Settling into California

Once you’ve arrived in California, it’s time to settle in and make the Golden State your new home. Here’s what to do:

Discover your new place. Spend some time discovering your new community and town. Check out nearby stores, eateries, and green spaces to get a sense of your environment. Get to know the local customs and conveniences.

Meeting your neighbors is a great way to establish connections. Introduce yourself and become a part of the community. Building a social network can make your transition smoother and help you feel more at home.

Register your car promptly. Update your vehicle’s registration and insurance to comply with California’s requirements. Ensure your vehicle is road-ready according to state standards.

A visit to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is essential. Get a new driver’s license and register to vote if you plan to stay in California for an extended period. Complying with state regulations is necessary for legal residency.

Moving From NYC to LA

If you’re planning to make the move from the bustling streets of New York City to the sunny and sprawling landscape of Los Angeles, there are some important tips to keep in mind to make your transition as smooth as possible:

Research Neighborhoods

Los Angeles is a massive city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe and lifestyle. Research and visit different areas to find the one that suits your preferences and needs best.
Consider factors like commute times, proximity to work, schools, and amenities when choosing your new neighborhood.

Prepare for the Cost of Living

The cost of living in Los Angeles can be high, especially when it comes to housing. Be prepared for potentially higher rent or mortgage payments compared to what you’re used to in NYC.
Create a budget that takes into account your new living expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, transportation, and groceries.

Climate Adjustment

Los Angeles enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine. Be ready for a change in weather from NYC’s colder winters.
Invest in appropriate clothing for the warm and dry climate, including sunscreen and sunglasses.

Beach Lifestyle

If you’re moving to LA, you’ll likely want to take advantage of the beautiful coastline. Enjoy beach activities, but also be mindful of beach rules and regulations.
Invest in beach essentials like sunscreen, beach towels, and swimwear.

Moving From New York to San Francisco

If you’re thinking about moving from busy New York City to the beautiful and tech-savvy San Francisco, here are some helpful tips to make your transition easier:

Prepare for the High Cost of Living

San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States, especially when it comes to housing. Expect to pay a premium for rent or real estate.
Create a detailed budget that accounts for your new living expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, transportation, and groceries.

Public Transportation

Unlike Los Angeles, San Francisco has an extensive and reliable public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the iconic cable cars. Consider using these options to avoid the hassles of parking and traffic.

Microclimates

San Francisco is known for its microclimates, with temperatures varying significantly from one neighborhood to another. Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes, even within the same day.

Tech-Centric Culture

San Francisco is at the heart of the tech industry. If you’re in the tech field, you’re in the right place. Network and explore job opportunities in the thriving tech ecosystem.

Embrace Outdoor Activities

San Francisco offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Take advantage of the city’s parks, hiking trails, and nearby beaches to stay active and enjoy the scenic landscapes.

Conclusion

Moving from NYC to LA can be a big change, but it can also be fun and rewarding. To make the transition easier, learn about your new city, plan for expenses, get used to driving, and enjoy the local lifestyle. LA has lots to offer, so get ready to enjoy the sun and make your new life in the City of Angels!

Moving to Pittsburgh from NYC

Posted on 01/06/202209/27/2023 by BigApple

Only a few people decide to alter their addresses only for the change of scenery. Usually, there is some bigger reason for relocation. Maybe you are starting college in a different state or you’re moving for a different lifestyle, and perhaps you or your spouse are going after a great new job.

There are so many reasons why people chose to move and whatever the case might be, it is unlikely that you will meet a New Yorker who is leaving the City willingly, with no bigger reason. But, after they get there, the story somewhat changes. When it comes to moving to Pittsburgh from NYC, although it sounds difficult at the beginning, it usually ends up in a good way.

There are inherent distinctions between the City of Bridges and the Big Apple, and while Pittsburgh may be deemed the ultimate place to reside by some, it may be perceived as the complete opposite by others. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that the extent to which one experiences positive or negative aspects of their relocation is solely determined by their own perspective.

Consequently, directing one’s attention towards the favorable aspects undoubtedly facilitates the discovery of contentment, regardless of location. Presently, let us examine a few fundamental aspects that one should acquaint themselves with prior to transitioning from New York City to Pittsburgh.

What to know before moving to Pittsburgh from NYC

The biggest difference between these two is definitely the size of the population. As we know, New York City is the most populous city in the USA by far. With more than 8 million residents, it is also one of the world’s largest cities. And once you add so many tourists that are in the city at all times, the number grows pretty quickly and NYC looks even more populated than it truly is.

Knowing that you can see why it can be different living in Pittsburgh with a much smaller population of around 300.000. So, before you call the movers Manhattan, think about the differences and similarities between these two great cities. The Big Apple never sleeps, compared to Pittsburgh, which is a more laid-back city. According to your preferences and needs, you will enjoy more one or the other. Also, the current family situation can make a distinction.

Whether you prioritize a single and career-focused lifestyle or embrace the role of a family person, the choice of location can significantly impact your experience. While some individuals successfully navigate the challenges of raising a family in New York City, many would concur that smaller cities like Pittsburgh offer a more manageable environment for child-rearing.

To ascertain your stance on relocation and its suitability for your circumstances, it is advisable to visit the prospective destination and gain firsthand impressions before making a final decision. In the event that such a visit is not feasible, alternative means such as utilizing online platforms like Google, Facebook groups, reviews, and blogs can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of Pittsburgh.

The weather

Although we can say they are both in the North East of the USA, there are some differences between the climates. If you are moving to Pittsburgh from NYC, the first thing you’ll notice is there is no ocean. Even though there is a lot of bridges, Pittsburgh isn’t on the coast like New York. And that has some effect on the climate.

They both have all four seasons, which is great if you are used to it in NYC. It may come as a surprise, though, that Pittsburgh has less sunshine than the Big Apple. All in all, climates are similar. It will not be nearly as shocking as it would be if you were moving from Miami to NYC. It’s just that Pittsburgh is a little colder and has a bit more snow in winter. You are already used to snow in NYC, so it won’t make a big difference. And remember how awful was to have sunburns in the City during summers? Well, you can avoid that problem here, because the summers are a little colder, too.

Cost of living

It is safe to say that if you are moving to Pittsburgh from NYC you will love this one. Guess what! You are moving into a lot cheaper city. Everything is more affordable in Pittsburgh than in NYC − starting with real estate. Whether you are buying or renting, you will have left more of your paycheck left in your wallet at the end of the month. Your average median home cost in Pittsburg is currently around $218,400 while it’s $654,300 in New York City.

If this wasn’t enough to make you happy about moving, you should know that the same goes for food, clothes, services, restaurants, entertainment, and taxes. The cost of living index is 87.5 in Pittsburg, which is pretty low compared to the national average of 100. And once you compare this to NYC which has the cost of living index of 187,2, you’ll get an even better idea of how exactly affordable your new home is compared to Big Apple.

New York is known to be expensive in every way. So it should not come as a surprise that, compared to it, Pittsburgh has a low cost of living. If nothing else, that is a good reason to look at the moving companies’ prices and think about options. If there isn’t something that is stopping you, Pittsburgh can be a great place to live in. So if your income remains the same as while you were in NYC, you will have left much more money to spend or save.

People

We can’t say that there is a lot of difference between the people of Pittsburg and New York. The main thing is that the people in Pittsburgh are a little more laid back than the others. For example, there are much fewer drivers on the streets, so of course, there will be less tension. And more parking space, which is always great. But don’t make the mistake of confronting someone when it comes to sports. They are pretty pumped out about that. Everyone is a fan of either Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, or Penguins. So try to pick a sport, and soon before later you will be attending the matches and learning the rules.

There are multiple universities around, so there is a lot of young people. Even in the neighborhoods known for a primarily older population, the change is coming. Younger professionals are moving to Pittsburgh from NYC and other cities, taking the places of the older generation. Of course, one of the reasons for that is the fact that Pittsburgh is safer than NYC. So, people with children prefer it over the Big Apple.

Their laid-back areas are very social, though. You will not have any problem using your neighbor’s garage for some of your stuff while you decorate, for example. On the other hand, even if you have good friends and neighbors in NYC, you will probably have to use some cheap storage in NYC for your belongings. It’s not that people aren’t polite enough to help you − it’s just that there is a shortage of space for everyone.

Entertainment

Even though there is no city like New York, after all, its nickname is the City That Never Sleeps, you will find that Pittsburgh has a lot to offer. It will certainly be slower than NYC in every way, but it still has its charms and in case you’re not so much into the NYC nightlife scene, you may enjoy Pittsburg more than you think. For example, you can always visit some of the theaters or movies. If you prefer world-class museums that are full of tourists and residents, you can visit:

The Carnegie Museum of Art,
Carnegie Museum of Natural History,
Carnegie Science Center,
Andy Warhol Museum.

As you will see, most museums are a legacy of the business magnate of the steel industry and a great philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. So if you are moving to Pittsburgh from NYC, make sure to hire piano movers for your great love because there will be a lot of opportunities and venues to show your talent. And after you finish with the educational part, you can enjoy one of the many bars and restaurants that the city has to offer.

Driving

One of the biggest changes you may face when you move to Pittsburg from New York City is driving. While you’ll rarely know a person in NYC that owns a car and most people rely on public transportation. Things are quite different in the City Of Bridges. Pittsburg is definitely a driving city so the sooner you get a car and start driving the better. You will certainly be glad that you own a car since public transportation is not exactly the best so this is something to keep in mind when planning your relocation.

In case you’re wondering how much it would cost you to move to Pittsburg from NYC, the good news is that you can get Brooklyn moving quote free of charge. Any reliable and professional movers and storage NYC, like Big Apple Movers, will provide a complimentary in-house moving estimate and tailor a personalized plan for your upcoming move. Go ahead and contact us by phone or email to start planning your move to Pittsburg!

Why You Should Move From Brooklyn To Raleigh

Posted on 07/06/202008/02/2023 by BigApple

The act of relocating from one city to another is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Each location presents its distinct combination of culture, prospects, and way of life. Should you find yourself pondering a move from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the hospitable ambiance of Raleigh, you are embarking on a life-altering expedition.

This article explores the compelling factors that make relocating from Brooklyn to Raleigh a decision that can have a profound impact on you and your loved ones.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Brooklyn’s appeal is accompanied by a substantial financial burden. Escalating rental and living expenses can exert pressure on your finances. Conversely, Raleigh presents a considerably lower cost of living, affording you the opportunity to relish more expansive lodgings, plan for the future, and partake in experiences without persistent financial concerns.

Job Opportunities and Economy

Raleigh has been consistently garnering attention as a flourishing technology hub, frequently dubbed as the “Silicon Valley of the East Coast.” Prominent corporations and emerging businesses are establishing their foothold in the area, leading to a surge in employment prospects.

For those seeking a promising career, Raleigh’s job market is brimming with potential in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and research.

Quality of Life

Raleigh offers a harmonious lifestyle that seamlessly blends urban amenities with a serene ambiance. The city’s verdant expanses, parks, and leisure pursuits offer abundant prospects to relish the outdoors. Notably, the traffic congestion in Raleigh is significantly lower than that of Brooklyn, which fosters a more tranquil daily routine.

Cultural Scene and Entertainment

Education and Family-Friendly Environment

Raleigh’s reputation as a family-friendly destination is well-earned, particularly for those relocating with or planning to start a family. The region is home to exceptional educational institutions, both public and private, that offer children a solid foundation for their future. These institutions are renowned for their quality and provide a nurturing environment for children to learn and grow.

With a focus on education, Raleigh is an ideal location for families seeking a supportive community that values academic excellence. Whether you’re looking to relocate or start a family, Raleigh is an excellent choice for those seeking a family-friendly environment.

Diverse Culinary Experiences

Raleigh, much like Brooklyn, is renowned for its culinary variety. The city’s burgeoning food scene offers an array of delectable options, ranging from Southern comfort food to international cuisines, that are certain to tantalize even the most discerning palate.

Community and Welcoming Spirit

Raleigh’s southern hospitality is renowned. The warm and welcoming community atmosphere provides a stark contrast to the often fast-paced and detached nature of larger cities. Building connections and making friends can be more accessible and meaningful.

Moving from New York to Texas

Posted on 08/25/201909/05/2023 by BigApple

Are you dissatisfied with the fast-paced lifestyle of New York? Are you experiencing ennui due to the crowds and traffic, inclement weather, and exorbitant cost of living? If so, it may be worthwhile to contemplate relocating from New York to Texas. Furthermore, you are not alone in this endeavor, as individuals throughout the United States are relocating for various reasons, including employment prospects, reasonably priced housing, reduced living expenses, low crime rates, and agreeable weather conditions, among others.

Prices and costs of living in Texas are much lower than in New York. For example, you can find big apartments in Austin only about half as much as small apartment price in Manhattan. And if you’re fed up with crowds and traffic, you’ll feel more space to breathe on the streets of Texas.

Think about your preferences before you consider moving from NY to Texas. If you’re moving from NY to Texas, consider hiring NYC interstate movers to move your belongings quickly, efficiently and safely.

Why More People are Moving from New York to Texas?

We’ll try to give an answer. According to a new U.S. Census Bureau report, of the 15 fastest-growing cities larger than 50,000 people, seven are in Texas. This also includes the top three: Frisco, New Braunfels, and Pflugerville. San Antonio is one of the cities with the greatest population by adding some 66 citizens every day!

San Antonio now has more than 1.5 million people and ranks as the nation’s seventh-largest city, just behind Philadelphia. But don’t worry, there are no such crowds on the streets like in NY. Houston is America’s fourth-largest city and is also the most diverse large city in the nation.

No taxes and lower costs of living are the reasons why more people are moving from NY to Texas. Texas expanded its housing supply by 10.3 percent for every household during the period, more than double the rate of New York.

Low Taxes

If you are considering relocating from New York to Texas, it may interest you to learn that despite New York having the highest tax burden of any state, Texas does not impose any state income taxes. The majority of Texas’ tax revenues are derived from taxes on businesses, property, and retail sales. The effective property tax rate throughout the state is 1.7%.

This means – more savings! Compared to NY where the state collects $7,400 per resident, Texas collects $3,500! What do you need to pay? If you want to start a small business in Texas, expect to pay employment and sales tax. You’ll also pay taxes on retail purchases. In Dallas and Austin, you’ll pay 8.25% in retail tax, while in Zavalla, you’ll pay a combined sales tax rate of 6.75%.

Costs of Living

Consider the prospect of expending a mere $7 in Texas for a commensurate brunch that would otherwise cost $20 in Manhattan. It is a well-established fact that New York is a city of exorbitant expenses, with a high cost of living and prices. In contrast, Texas boasts of a significantly lower cost of living, with affordable housing and gasoline prices.

Furthermore, Texas is among the top five most affordable places to reside in the United States, owing to its lack of income tax. The availability of reasonably priced housing is a significant draw for individuals, with the added benefit of larger homes.

The average 1 bedroom apartment is 870 square feet – that’s at least 40 sq feet larger than you’ll find in Manhattan. When it comes to cost, consider the risks of hiring cheap movers, you don’t want bad service. The median home price in Texas varies because the state is large. El Paso, Laredo, and Beaumont have median home prices of around $151,000. The median household income is $59,295, which is $2077 lower than the US average.

Job Opportunities

When considering the abundance of employment prospects, New York City stands unparalleled. However, it must be noted that the cost of living in this region is significantly higher than that of Texas. In recent years, Texas has witnessed the addition of over 300,000 job opportunities, which accounts for 12% of the total jobs added across the nation. In comparison, the private job sector in New York has only increased by 113,000, indicating that Texas has more than twice the number of job opportunities.

When it comes to the unemployment rates, Texas wins with 5.5 percent against New York’s 6.9. Texas’ major industries include energy, agriculture, petrochemicals, higher education, tech, aerospace and other. According to recent research, the energy sector and higher education are Texas’ biggest employers.

There are many large companies in Texas such as Exxon Mobil, Phillips 66, ConocoPhillips, Sysco, Kimberly Clark, AT&T, American Airlines and other. Also, a quick reminder to seek where to find free packing materials as well.

Transportation Costs

Transport is really expensive in New York. Transportation costs are about 52% higher in New York than in Texas. Traffic and crowds in NY are a real nightmare, but you can also meet with it in large metropolitan cities like San Antonio, Austin, Dallas or Houston. The difference is, you can easily drive your car, while more than half New Yorkers don’t own their car.

Simply, it’s not affordable. It’s expensive and you can’t find a place to park. This is why they are using the metro, taxi or UBER. The Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is the second largest in the nation, while rail system doesn’t quite match up to New York standards, but Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin have bus and light rail systems. Amtrak can take you around Texas, Chicago, Los Angeles, or some other place.

Moving From Texas to New York

Posted on 11/25/201709/27/2023 by BigApple

Are you in the process of relocating from Texas to New York? Congratulations on your new job opportunity or on your decision to move in with your loved one in New York. Alternatively, perhaps you are seeking to make a significant change in your life by leaving Texas for New York.

Regardless of the reason, such a long-distance move entails numerous factors to consider. If you are still in the planning stage and have not yet made a final decision, we offer some information on the differences between the two locations to aid in your decision-making process.

Moving From Texas to New York: Good or Bad Idea

Granted both states have their perks, and no place is perfect. It just depends on what you’re looking for in a ‘home’. The article will be focusing on the most fundamental criteria and give an opinion as to who is taking the stand. Hopefully, after reading this article you will have a better idea as to which is better for you.

Jobs

Moving from Texas to New York will, in most cases, inquire that you need a new job. No matter the skills you have, finding a new job is no easy task. Especially if you’re looking for one in a totally unfamiliar place where you have little to no friends, yet.

New York is huge and the opportunities are endless. If you are, for instance, moving to Brooklyn without a job – you won’t have much of a problem. From looking to be a bartender to pursuing a corporate career, you can find it all. However, aside from some entry-level positions it is not that easy to get.

On the other hand, Texas has added over 300,000 jobs within the past couple of years – which amounted to a total of 12 percent of jobs added throughout the nation. New York private job sector increased by 113,000 within the same time frame, based on the information from the state Department of Labor. Hence, Texas has more than double to offer.

Upon comparing the unemployment rates, Texas emerges as the victor with a rate of 5.5 percent, while New York trails behind with a rate of 6.9 percent. However, it is important to note that these figures are merely statistical data and do not necessarily reflect the true employment opportunities available in either state. As a capable individual, it is possible to secure employment with perseverance and determination. It is recommended to exercise patience and actively seek out job opportunities.

Education

Whether if it’s for you, or your little ones, education is an important factor in deciding whether you’ll be moving from Texas to New York. The amount of people who get their high school diplomas is a whopping 84.6 percent. Furthermore, the amount of public and private schools offered is incredible when compared to anywhere else in the USA even.

The Empire State is also home to two very powerful, Ivy League schools – Cornell and Columbia. This alone has been a reason for countless people moving to New York from across the country (and across the world even). When compared, Texas is just not that big on education. Not that Texas doesn’t have any, it’s just not as focused as it is in New York.

Cost of Living

If the previous section lacked information about Texas, it will undoubtedly be compensated for in this section. New York is widely recognized as an expensive city, not in comparison to Texas, but rather in comparison to the rest of the country. Residing in New York is commonly regarded as a luxurious experience. Nevertheless, there are still reasonably priced neighborhoods within the city.

Conversely, Texas possesses its own unique beauty, offered at a significantly lower cost. Therefore, if you are contemplating a move from Texas to New York, it is essential to be prepared for substantial financial commitments.

Texas has cheaper labor, cheaper houses and cheaper gas – all of which combined dictate a cheaper cost of living. On top of it all, Texas doesn’t have income tax which brings it to top 5 affordable places to live in in the USA. Where Texas is in the top five, New York ranked 47th – making it one of the most expensive locations to live in.

Crime Rate

Texas is the place where owning a gun is almost mandatory. This also dictates that it isn’t as safe as you’d hope it to be. Now, I am not going to go into the entire ‘should we or should we not have a gun’, that’s a personal decision everyone should make while being within the law. I am, however, going to go into statistics about the crime rates in Texas and New York, since this is something you must know when thinking of moving from Texas to New York.

Texas crime rate per 100,000 people is almost double of what New York is – 3770 versus 2300. The Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence has given New York an A- grade for preventing gun violence. In that same year, under the same criteria, Texas has received an F. This is a large enough indicator as to just how safer New York is in comparison to Texas.

Economy

Texas has the second fastest growing economy in all the 50 states. The gross domestic product of the state growth has had more than a 3 time higher number than New York. This is all a product of a huge energy boom and population growth. From 2000 until 2010 the population in Texas grew by more than 20 percent. Above all, Texas mining industry is the largest of all states in the nation, holding for more than 40 percent of the nations mining output.

Health

New York rocks this part. The state has been ranked the third lowest obesity state in the nation, according to the American Public Health Association. Texas, however, ranked 32nd. The same association ranked New York as the 15th overall health state out of the 50, whereas Texas ranked 36th. The amount of people having health insurance is much higher as well. Overall, NY has been dominating this field not only versus Texas but versus the rest of the United States.

Moving From Texas to New York?

So what do you think? Is New York really for you? Should you be moving from Texas to New York, or are you good where you’re at? This long distance NYC move is no easy task, so let us know what you think!

Moving from Brooklyn to Jersey City

Posted on 11/21/201708/03/2023 by BigApple

Are you prepared for a significant change in your life? If you are considering relocation, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of options and the associated stress. However, in my experience, the most challenging aspect of the process is making the decision of where to move.

Allow me to offer a potential suggestion: consider relocating from Brooklyn to Jersey City, the sixth borough of New York City. While there are both positive and negative aspects to this option, this is true of any neighborhood. Often, a lack of familiarity with a location can lead to a decision not to move there.

Costs Drop

You will be amazed! Everything and I mean everything in Jersey City is cheaper. Something unheard of – I went out with 3 friends for dinner, into an American style pub. We ate our soul out and the check for all of us was no more than 100 bucks. You won’t see that in Brooklyn.

I have experienced a significant decrease in my monthly expenses, including a reduction of nearly $50 in my internet and cable bill. Additionally, it is noteworthy that Jersey City is designated as an urban enterprise zone, which provides entrepreneurs and investors with government incentives. Notably, the sales tax rate in this zone is only 3.5%.

Even the standard necessities are cheaper. My standard shopping for hair shampoo and food costs quite less than it did in Brooklyn. Housing is also cheaper. Granted, there are million dollar condos located on the water, but there are condos in Midtown that would normally go for 7 digits in Brooklyn but would go for much less here.

My two bedroom, two bathroom apartment that goes even with a concierge and a movie theater goes for $400.000 while being FHA approved. You won’t find that in Brooklyn.

Still Close to Manhattan

Despite Jersey City being located in a different state, the proximity to Manhattan is remarkably close. My daily commute to my office at 35th and 5th Avenue typically takes between 30-40 minutes. In comparison to some of my colleagues who reside in New York City, their commute to the same location takes approximately 20-30 minutes, indicating that the distance I travel is not significantly greater.

It’s a Fun Place

One of the most popular products of ignorance about Jersey City is the misconception that there is nothing to do there. Quite the contrary, Jersey City is full of restaurants, big and small, expensive and cheap. There are numerous boutiques and countless NYC spin-off home furnishing shops.

On top of this, there is the Liberty Science Center, performance venues, movies, ice rinks, etc. We also have the Liberty State Park from which you can access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Strong Sense of Community

Jersey City has a very high level of diversity within its neighborhoods. The historic downtown area resembles like Brooklyn a lot. the Waterfront area is entirely different grasping Paulus Hook and the Harborside Financial Center. Additionally, Little India is located in the Journal Square area. Regardless of the diversity, you will want to connect with your new neighbors after the move.

The diversity present in Jersey City does not hinder the strong sense of community that exists within the area. The community is actively engaged in various events, such as craft fairs, farmers markets, and festivals, including the highly popular All About Downtown Street Festival, which receive significant support.

Do You Miss the Beach?

For those who yearn for frequent visits to the beach, Jersey City offers a convenient option with a travel time of just over an hour by car or train to reach the sandy shores of Asbury Park. A mere twenty-minute extension of your journey will bring you to Seaside Heights. Furthermore, the absence of bridges and tunnels ensures a more enjoyable travel experience.

A Few Negative Aspects of Moving From Brooklyn to Jersey City

Even though Jersey City is awesome, if you’re going to make a decision – you need to know both sides of the story. Here are a few negative aspects of moving to Jersey City.

Few People Will Come to Visit

New Jersey has a poor reputation with New Yorkers. I’m not sure what it is. It may be the misconception of the distance to it or the wrong idea about what can be done over there. Whatever it is, people will rarely spend the time to come and visit. What’s worse, if they do end up visiting they will make it sound like they are doing you a favor. Not sure what’s worse. Just try to make new friends locally.

Public Transport

Even though there are numerous ways to go around, the route that takes you around Jersey City is very inconvenient. If you need to go around for a couple of miles, it will usually be just easier to catch a cab or walk to the distance. When compared to the transportation you’ve had in New York, this will greatly fade in comparison.

Don’t Stay Up Open Late

This goes even for something as simple as ordering a pizza. After a certain hour, the place goes to sleep and it is difficult to find anything open. It simply won’t be the 24/7 New York that you’re used to. Places will often not work on major holidays and Sundays. Plus, pubs and places to go out to usually close around 1 am or 2 am.

There Are Some Growing Pains in This Place

The population of this place is on the rise. Many people are relocating there for its obvious qualities. This rise in population dictates that the infrastructure of Jersey City is not yet fully accommodated to the rise in the population. Roads are blocked at rush hours, people argue about new constructions and so on.

All of these factors need to be considered when deciding whether you should move from Brooklyn to Jersey City. Oh and one more thing, moving just like any other, you need to be careful. Picking a long distance moving company is key.