Moving to the big apple is a dream for many people. The city never sleeps, with endless opportunities waiting around every corner. The city was named the most expensive city in the United States for 2019, so it’s important to ensure you have everything in order before packing up and heading to New York. So, before you can start living your dream, there are a few things you need to do first. You need to take care of eight things before making a move.
Get Health Insurance
One of the most important decisions you’ll make before moving to the Big Apple is whether or not to get health insurance. The good news is that a variety of options are available to you, and it’s important to research your options before making a decision.
The first step is understanding what type of coverage you need. Do you only need coverage for emergencies, or do you want a plan covering preventive care and doctor’s visits? Are you looking for a plan that covers just yourself, or do you need coverage for your whole family?
Once you’ve answered these questions, it’s time to start researching different plans. The New York Insurance Information Portal at NewYorkInsurance.org is a great place to start – it allows you to compare plans side-by-side and see which ones offer the best value for your needs. It’s important to remember that no one plan is perfect for everyone, so take the time to research all of your options and find the plan that fits you best.
Find an Affordable Place to Live
One of the biggest challenges of living in NYC is finding a place that’s both affordable and spacious enough for your needs. Unless you’re prepared to live in a cramped studio or share an apartment with several roommates, you’ll need to be creative when searching for housing.
One option is to look outside Manhattan and consider neighborhoods like Brooklyn or Queens. You can also explore different boroughs by searching on websites like Streeteasy or Naked Apartments, which allow you to filter your results by price, size, and other criteria. Another option is subletting – renting out someone else’s apartment for a short time – but this can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Make sure you research beforehand and always meet potential roommates in person before signing any agreements.
Get Used To The City’s Pace
New York City is known for its fast-paced, hustle-and-bustle lifestyle. Before moving to the city, it’s important to prepare yourself for this intense energy – otherwise, it may be overwhelming. One way to prepare is by immersing yourself in the culture of NYC – visit as a tourist or spend time with friends or family who live there. This will give you a taste of daily life in the city.
You can also start incorporating small changes into your current routine – try walking or taking public transportation instead of driving, make a habit of multi-tasking and being efficient with your time, and practice saying “no” when necessary.
Set A Budget For Expenses
Living in NYC can be expensive – from the cost of living to entertainment and dining out. It’s important to set a budget for yourself before moving to the city and stick to it. Make sure you factor in expenses like rent, utilities, transportation costs (which may include MetroCard or Uber/Lyft rides), groceries, clothing, and recreational activities.
It can also be helpful to make a list of free or affordable options for entertainment – take advantage of parks, museums with pay-what-you-wish admission fees, and free outdoor concerts. Thoroughly research and plan for expenses before committing to a lease or signing any agreements.
Familiarize Yourself With Public Transportation
Navigating the NYC subway system can be daunting at first, but it’s one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. Before moving, take some time to familiarize yourself with the map and various train lines – you can even download a subway app on your phone for easy reference. It’s also important to know which trains run 24 hours and other transportation options like buses and taxis.
If you plan on owning a car in NYC, make sure you have a parking spot included in your rental agreement; otherwise, finding one on your own may be difficult (and expensive). It’s also important to consider the cost of tolls and insurance and alternate transportation options for when streets are closed for events or construction.
Explore Local Neighborhoods
New York City is made up of various neighborhoods, all with their own unique culture and atmosphere. Before moving:
- Take the time to explore different areas – visit at different times of the day.
- Try out local restaurants and shops.
- Talk to residents to get a feel for the community.
This will not only give you a better understanding of where you may want to live but also allow you to discover hidden gems in the city.
Get Your Essentials In Order
Before moving to the city, ensure you have all your essential documents in order – this includes a birth certificate, social security card, driver’s license/ID, and any necessary visas or work permits.
It’s also important to transfer any necessary services to your new address. Set up utilities like electricity and internet, transfer your bank accounts, update your address for mail delivery, and notify credit card companies and other lenders of your move.
Explore All That The City Has To Offer
Once you’ve taken care of all the logistics of moving to NYC, it’s time to start exploring all the city offers. Take time to check out famous landmarks, visit museums and cultural institutions, try new restaurants and cuisines, and attend events or festivals.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the city’s parks – from Central Park to smaller neighborhood green spaces. They offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. And don’t be afraid to branch out and explore different neighborhoods – each has unique character and attractions.
Moving to NYC can be overwhelming, but thorough planning and preparation will make the transition smoother. There’s a lot to do and explore in the city – make sure you prioritize your needs and take advantage of all the opportunities it offers.