Living in New York is amazing – it’s interesting, it’s different, it’s fun. Moving to Manhattan brings a lot of new and exciting opportunities and that’s why it’s one of the most popular locations in the world. However, many people feel confused and worried about moving to Manhattan for the first time. It shouldn’t be like that. Here’s everything you need to learn about it so you are ready for this adventure!
Things to learn before moving to Manhattan for the first time – it gets expensive
One of the main disadvantages of living in Manhattan is living costs. Being one of the most popular places in the country, it also belongs to the most expensive list, too. The same lifestyle you had in some other state can cost you even two times more. Therefore, when moving to Manhattan for the first time, be sure to reevaluate your finances and see what you can actually afford. Think about the moving costs, create a moving budget, but also think long-term, too. Talk to the friends who already live in Manhattan so they can share some info on Manhattan prices – first hand.
Cost of moving to Manhattan
We can help you out by sharing some of the general numbers. For example, the average rent in Manhattan is around $4,200 whereas the median home price is around $1,200,000 – a lot more than the national average. However, even though everything is generally more expensive, housing is the biggest factor here. That’s why you should be very careful when hiring a moving company to help you relocate. Contact a couple of companies and compare the prices – the cost of your relocation can be estimated online, but you can ask for an in-house estimate for a more precise calculation. However, you should be very careful with moving estimates – don’t go for the cheapest option, since moving frauds are happening quite often. Especially if you need to move your office and your business depends on the move. Make sure you pick the most reliable, not the cheapest option there is.

Manhattan is noisy
The sound of sirens and car horns is a normal thing all day long in Manhattan. Residents of Manhattan are used to this, and you should do to. However, if you are coming from a less busy city or area, this can be a challenge for the first few weeks or months.

You’ll be more active
In New York, people are more active than usual. The reason for that is the busy streets. People avoid having a car in Manhattan – which is a great thing, you don’t actually need it here with all the transportation options. That’s why walking a couple of blocks every day is a common thing. So, get rid of the home gym equipment – you’ll burn enough calories by doing your everyday chores. Also, you will probably pick up the pace – this city is always moving, and it’s moving fast. Therefore, be sure to bring some comfortable shoes for your everyday walks.

Living space is smaller
One of the things to learn before moving to Manhattan for the first time is that homes are relatively small here. This means you will probably have to downsize your home before moving here. Here are some tips so you can move in easily to your new Manhattan home:
- declutter your home before you start packing – remove all the unnecessary items from your home. These often take up a lot of space. This will give you more space in the new home, but also reduce the moving costs and save you time when packing.
- if possible, compare the floor plans of your old and new place, so you are sure all of your furniture fits. If something is bigger and you can’t move it – be sure to replace it with a more suitable pice before you move.
- take a storage unit– there are many affordable storage options in NYC. These can come in handy for all the things you don’t use regularly, yet you don’t want to give up on them – seasonal clothes, sports equipment, hobby items, etc.
Local movers can help a lot when moving to Manhattan for the first time
When it comes to moving to Manhattan for the first time, it’s great to have some help. Luckily, there is a variety of assistance options for your upcoming relocation here. Local moving companies are familiar with the area and can help to have a quick and easy relocation. However, be sure to pick wisely, and find out more about your moving company so you don’t get into a trap of fraudulent companies. Just be sure to hire somebody reliable, like Zenith Moving Manhattan, so you don’t end up stressing out more than necessary and paying a lot more. Safety should be the priority moving to Manhattan for the first time, so be sure to double-check everything and take only the safest options.
You can get lonely
When moving to Manhattan for the first time, people are often excited about the number of different people who live there. However, it’s very easy to become lonely in NYC. Even though there are so many people, they often don’t pay attention to each other due to their busy lives. Therefore, you should definitely stay connected to your old friends, but also become connected to all the new people you meet. Say high to the local bartender, go out with your new co-workers, and meet your neighbors. Don’t let your mood and social life get affected by being too busy – enjoy this amazing opportunity to live in Manhattan to the fullest!