You have just made the life-changing decision to move across the country. PHEW! That was the hardest part, everything else is easier from here. However, there are a million things to think about before, during and after the move. Moving from the West Coast to NYC is almost like moving to another planet, or at least another continent. We have selected and analyzed the most noticeable differences between these two destinations along with useful tips for starting a new life in New York.
Prepare for higher living costs after moving from the West Coast to NYC
The overall cost of living on the West Coast is usually lower than that in New York City. To be more precise, the cost of living in NYC is around 70% higher than the national average. The income taxes are among the highest in the US. Furthermore, the costs of housing and groceries are way above the national average. However, some neighborhoods are less affordable than others. There are five major boroughswith many neighborhoods, Manhattan being the most expensive. You’ll probably need a higher income or to reorganize your budget.
Tips for saving a few bucks:
- settle somewhere cheaper like Queens or The Bronx;
- find a roommate or two;
- walk, use a bike, share a taxi or carpool to work;
- bring only the basics to save space;
- cook your own meals whenever you can;
- don’t be ashamed to use every discount you can get;
- find free entertainment, there’s plenty to choose from.
Winter clothes and raincoats are a must if you move to NY from the West Coast
New York has all sorts of weather. Unlike the West coast, NYC has four seasons. This could be a positive thing, depending on your personal preferences. Some of us love the year-round summer, while others like change.
Firstly, there’s nothing like nature in the fall with a million shades and colors. Secondly, not only children get ecstatic when they see the first snow, adults do too. The only downside is shoveling the snow. If the cold is not your thing, reconsider relocating to NY from the West Coast because it often gets freezing cold in the winter. Sometimes it brings the whole city to a halt. Thirdly, springtime means the awakening of nature and all its creatures. It is like a fresh start for everyone after a long winter and you can feel positive energy everywhere you turn. Finally, summertime in NY is pretty hot, sometimes hotter than LA, for example. But you can easily go to the beach to cool off and have all the summer fun you would have on the west coast of the US.
The average temperature in July, the hottest month of the year, is 76F (25C). With 11 hours of daily sunshine, July is also the sunniest month. The best month for swimming is August with an average sea temperature of 73F (23C). The coldest month is January when the average temperature is 35F (2C). May is the wettest month of the year with 114mm of rain on average.
Transporting your belongings – you cannot do it without help
Moving your entire life from one place to another is challenging and usually stressful. When moving from the West Coast to NYC, you have the whole country to cross. This is why you should consider hiring professional movers specialized in long-distance moving. Reliable movers will help you move safely and provide all the information you need. Doing it yourself could be cheaper but more time-consuming and exhausting, you’ll also need help from friends and family members, and you’re more likely to make mistakes along the way if you lack experience.
If you hire movers, compare moving companies, do your research on the movers’ reputation, making sure they are licensed and insured. Before you start the moving process, require the price estimation in order to know the approximate price in advance. Moreover, there’s something called in-house inspection or home survey. Its purpose is to predict potential difficulties such as narrow corridors or small doorways. Then, compare the received estimates carefully. Picking the right date will save you some money, so try to be flexible.
Tips on packing
When it comes to packing (and unpacking) you can leave that to the pros, too, especially if you don’t trust your packing skills. This is one of the additional services they provide. If you decide to do it yourself, be extra careful, because you have thousands of miles to go, traffic can be crazy, and the roads are not always smooth. Also, remember that you’ll need stronger moving supplies than the ones you would normally use. Don’t be stingy with cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, padding materials and duct tape because it will cost you more if something breaks or gets damaged. Many movers provide their own supplies, but you can also buy them or even get used ones for free if you know where to look. If possible, don’t get rid of the packing supplies, you may need them again.
Whether you do it yourself or leave it to the pros, here are a few more tips for moving your belongings coast to coast:
- all the boxes should be clearly labeled when packing;
- the most used items should be packed last;
- you are not allowed to bring certain items to all states;
- always keep an eye on your valuables during the move to NY;
- pack only the necessities to reduce the cost of moving from the West Coast to NYC;
- measure everything first to make sure it fits in your new place and make a plan before you start unpacking heavy items.
Prepare to deal with an emotional roller-coaster
There is one thing left to mention – relocation blues. Being apart from your friends and family is never easy, especially in the beginning. When surrounded by unfamiliar things and people most of us feel like a fish out of water. If you get the blues after moving from the West Coast to NYC, know that it is completely normal to feel sad, worried and disoriented. Also, remember that it will pass. Try to make new friends and keep in touch with your loved ones on the opposite coast. Keep the same routines and (healthy) habits you’ve always had so as to reduce the stress your body and mind are going through. Finally, believe in yourself and have to regrets.