Many people consider moving from Washington DC to NYC for opportunity and quality of life. Here are the pros and cons of making the move.
Pros
Diversity
It’s no secret that NYC is one of the most diverse places in the world. Queens NY, one borough of the city, is the most ethnically diverse urban area in the world. Moving from DC to NYC will open you up to new cultures and ways of life, which can only ever be a good thing.
Life and Career Beyond Politics
Politics play an important role in the progress of our country, and New York City is certainly not immune to politics. However, New York City is way better for people trying to grow in their careers in professions like finance, entertainment, fashion, advertising, marketing, and P.R. New York City is home to more Fortune 500 companies than anywhere else in the country. A lack of career opportunities just isn’t in the cards in NYC.
Entertainment and Dining
Though Washington DC has some amazing monuments, historical sights, and museums, New York City is the capital for entertainment and dining. You can truly eat and drink your way around the world in the city. The city hosts more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other in the United States. The dining options are vast and varied to serve the diverse needs and tastes of the city’s residents. New York City also offers a truly wide range of activities for any taste. Classic things to do in NYC include getting that infamous slice of NYC pizza, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, visiting Central Park and more. But New York City also offers a host of eccentric activities from immersive art exhibits to indoor skiing. If you can’t find it in NYC, it likely doesn’t exist yet.
Better Public Education
Public schools in Washington DC do not reflect the exceptionalism that we are all supposed to strive for, especially when it comes to raising our kids. Moving from DC to NYC is a wise strategic move for young professionals or young families who want to set their kids up for success. There are some seriously excellent public high schools in NYC. They reflect the values of parents who want to raise well-rounded, book-smart and life-smart kids. Washington DC has not achieved this with their public education.
Cons
Cost of Living
According to BestPlaces’ 2022 Cost of Living Calculator, NYC is about 47% more expensive than Washington DC, with housing costs being the most expensive factor. However, if you’re chasing career opportunities or want to raise a family, the extra cost might be worth it. The good news is that there are still plenty of cheap neighborhoods in NYC. If aspiring New Yorkers do their homework and make smart decisions with housing, they can make this cost of living gap much less than 47% and enjoy all that NYC has to offer.
Weather
NYC is much farther north along the Atlantic Ocean than Washington DC. This means that the winters are much more mild, and the weather is generally better. Also, Washington DC gets less rain than NYC. With that being said, New York is an excellent urban home base for winter sports enthusiasts, with a wide variety of resorts and ski areas within driving distance of NYC. The city truly experiences the best of all four seasons.
Washington DC to NYC Movers
If you’re dreaming of living in NYC, Metropolis Moving can help. We have gained a reputation for being one of NYC’s most courteous, careful, and qualified moving companies. Get a moving quote today and you’ll be on your way to enjoying the electric energy and abundant opportunity this beautiful city has to offer.
