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The Ultimate Guide to Moving to New York State: What to Know Before You Pack!

So, you’re thinking of joining the ranks of folks who can proudly proclaim, “I heart NY!”? Moving to New York State (yes, there’s more than just the city) is a wild ride through a landscape bursting with bustling cities, serene suburbs, and gorgeous countryside. 

It’s like life’s rollercoaster with a side of hotdogs. Get ready to dive into the realm of the “Empire State,” where the weather is as unpredictable as a sitcom plot twist and the vibes range from “bright lights, big city” to “cute little cottage on the outskirts.” 

Whether you’re set on being the next Broadway star, or simply looking for a serene spot next to the Hudson, here’s a cheeky yet comprehensive rundown on everything you ought to know about moving to New York State. 

Let’s get started, shall we?

Here is the List of 13 Things to Consider When Moving to New York State

The Pre-NY Checklist – Before Stepping into the Big Apple

So, you’ve made the bold decision. Moving to New York State is in your near future. A standing ovation for your adventurous spirit! But before you’re elbow-deep in a box of ‘I <3 NY’ tees, let’s get a few things straight.

First and foremost, the moving hustle. Do you really want to play Tetris with your entire living room set on a busy New York street? Probably not. So, finding a reliable moving company is your golden ticket. 

Remember, it’s not about how shiny the trucks are but the track record. Go deep—dig into those reviews, scrutinize that website, and maybe even look for some old-fashioned testimonials. A decade or two of experience doesn’t hurt either.

Once You’ve Landed – NY's Welcoming Committee

Welcome to the Empire State! Now that you’ve safely landed (hopefully without any boxes labeled ‘fragile’ looking suspiciously squished), there are a few must-dos. 

First up: Changing that address. You wouldn’t want your Hogwarts acceptance letter mistakenly sent to your old place, right? Get on that ASAP – with everyone from the DMV to your magazine subscriptions.

Got a driver’s license from another realm…I mean state? Time to swap that out. NY likes to have you on its list within 30 days of moving in. 

And if you’ve brought your trusty vehicle along, remember to register it to show you’re truly committed to this relationship with New York State.

Best Spots to Call Home When Moving to New York State

Ah, the age-old question. “Where in New York should I nest?”  

For families, Rochester waves hello with its stellar education system and hospitals that can handle even the most intense of flu seasons. 

But, if you’re a swinging single, aiming to make it big or just to have a good brunch spot on every corner, the siren call of New York City awaits. 

Wherever you pick, remember: every corner of New York State has its quirks, magic, and maybe a mystery or two (like where all the missing socks from the laundry vanish to!)

central park in NYC

House Hunting in NY – Where Dreams and Reality Collide

Let’s chat housing in the “Empire State”, shall we? Moving to New York State offers a smorgasbord of choices, from penthouses with views of other people’s penthouses to suburban homes with white picket fences (or possibly neon, it’s New York after all).

To find an apartment – where walls are so thin you’ll know your neighbor’s favorite Netflix show by osmosis – you might want to dive into the depths of websites like Apartments.com or Zillow. These sites might sometimes feel like dating apps for homes: swipe right if it’s a match, left if you can’t bear the thought of that wall color.

Hankering for more permanence? Say, an actual house where you can plant flowers or just forget to water them? Websites like Realtor and Point2Homes are your go-to wingmen. They’re packed with options, whether you’re looking for a brownstone or something that looks suspiciously like the house from “Up.”

New York Utility Rumble – Getting Wired Up

Welcome to the concrete jungle where your dreams of getting utilities set up are made of… patience and a tad bit of elbow grease. 

To light up your world (literally), New York State Electric and Gas Corporation is your beacon. Need more options for electricity? Constellation Energy might light your fire.

Oh, and water? You’re in luck, because in New York, it’s crisp, delicious, and brought to you by institutions like the Buffalo Water Board.

Internet-wise, New York’s got more coverage than your grandma’s afghan blanket. Dive into the wonders of 3G, 4G LTE, and probably some other Gs we haven’t discovered yet.

Living Costs – Where Your Wallet Gives You the Side-Eye

New York, New York! The city of dreams, arts, culture, and… well, eye-watering price tags. Thinking of settling in NYC? 

Brace yourself. A monthly tally for a couple might orbit around $5500. With rent that could potentially rival Bruce Wayne’s mortgage and utility bills that make you rethink that last Amazon splurge, it’s good to be prepared.

Break it down, and your average New York living looks like this: A stately sum for rent, utilities that include all those gadgets and gizmos aplenty, groceries (because even in NY, one cannot live on takeout alone), a sprinkle of entertainment costs, and insurance for all those “just in case” moments.

Bear in mind, while the Big Apple might give your wallet a workout, the experiences, memories, and random celebrity sightings? Priceless.

Income and Expense Table Comparison

ItemAverage Monthly Income (USD)Average Monthly Expense (USD)
Income  
Salary (After Tax)4,500
Additional Income (e.g., freelance, investments)500
   
Expenses  
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)2,000
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas, Internet)450
Groceries600
Transportation (Public and/or Gas for Car)150
Health Insurance350
Entertainment & Dining Out400
Miscellaneous (Clothing, Leisure, etc.)300
Net Savings600

(Note: The figures provided are average estimates and can vary based on location within New York State, lifestyle, and personal choices.)

winter in nyc park

Weather Whimsies in New York – Pack for Everything, Seriously

Ah, New York! Where Mother Nature apparently spins a giant wheel to decide the day’s mood. Moving to New York State? You’re about to experience meteorological mood swings on an epic scale.

On average, New York flaunts a dazzling 230 sunny days per year. Sounds dreamy, right? But wait, there’s more. Come July, the city turns into a free sauna session, averaging around 78°F. 

And in January, let’s just say your coffee might freeze if you stand outside too long. It’s a balmy 35°F average during those times, making it perfect for snowmen, icicles, and questioning your life choices.

Remember to pack everything from sunscreen to scarves because in New York, every day’s a surprise party thrown by the weather gods.

New York Transportation – From Subways to Side-Eyes

Okay, so you’ve made the epic decision of moving to New York State. You have two options now: master the art of teleportation or get familiar with New York transportation.

If you’re in NYC, the city that never sleeps (or finds parking), you’ll quickly realize that most folks shuffle about using bikes, taxis, and the ever-iconic subway. 

The New York City subway, aka the MTA, boasts 472 stations and is one of the few places where a rat might scurry past a millionaire. It’s a unique blend of chaos, art, and unparalleled people-watching.

However, if you’re wandering the broader landscapes of New York State, be ready to find your way amidst lesser-developed public transport. And maybe occasionally hitching a ride with a friendly New Yorker.

The Edible & Shop-able Diaries of New York

Hungry in New York? You’re in luck because the state’s food scene is more diverse than a pack of crayons. From the hotdog stands of Manhattan to the avant-garde cafes in Brooklyn, there’s something for every palate.

On the grocery side of things, stores like ALDI, and Shoprite are ready to ensure your pantry’s always stocked. And if you’ve got an itch for some retail therapy, giants like Walmart and Costco are waiting, where you can buy everything from a canoe to cranberries.

Fast food is also an art form here. Beyond the Big Mac, explore delicacies from places like Church’s Chicken and Chick-fil-A. Because in New York, every meal is a culinary adventure, whether it’s fine dining or finger foods.

american food and soda

New York's Bucket List – More Than Just Big Apples and Bigger Buildings

So you’re considering moving to New York State, huh? Brace yourself; this isn’t just a place to live, it’s a grand ol’ adventure waiting to be had. Sure, NYC offers the hustle and bustle, the bright lights of Times Square, and that tall green lady holding a torch, but there’s more to New York than just the city.

Ever felt the urge to barrel over a waterfall in a wooden barrel? While we don’t recommend that (seriously, don’t), you can get close enough to feel the spray of Niagara Falls, a mesmerizing natural wonder. 

Or perhaps you’re in the mood to lose yourself – not literally, please – in the lush expanse of the Adirondack State Park. Trees, mountains, lakes… it’s like Mother Nature’s theme park, minus the rollercoasters.

And then there’s Boldt Castle. It’s not Hogwarts, but it’s the next best thing. A symbol of love, this grand castle sits on Heart Island and is a testament to what happens when romance meets architecture. Also, rumor has it, there’s an occasional ghost sighting – because why not?

The Secret Garden: New York’s Lesser-Known Natural Spots

Move over Central Park, New York State is home to some absolute natural gems that aren’t in every tourist guidebook. For those thinking of moving to New York State, here’s the scoop: the hidden Minnewaska State Park Preserve. 

Picture crystal-clear lakes, dramatic waterfalls, and dizzying cliffs. And the best part? Not a hot dog vendor in sight! If you fancy taking a walk on the wild side, there’s also the ‘Gunks (short for Shawangunks) which is the East Coast’s rock-climbing Mecca. 

Safety first though – no scaling rocks in flip-flops!

New York's Quirky Side: Unusual Attractions

Sure, you’ve heard of the iconic landmarks, but did you know New York has a Salt Museum? Yep, a whole museum dedicated to salt! Located in Liverpool, it’s a testament to the time when New York controlled the entire salt market. 

If you’re feeling a bit salty after a long week, this might just be the place to visit. On the sweeter side, there’s also the JELL-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy. It’s wobbly, it’s weird, and it’s wonderfully New York.

New York's Underground Scene: More Than Just a Subway

Beyond the rumble of subways, New York has a vibrant underground scene – and no, we’re not talking about mole people. Dive into the speakeasies hidden behind phone booths and unassuming shop fronts. 

These are the places where the jazz is smooth, and the cocktails come with a story. Also, ever danced in an abandoned subway station? The underground parties are legendary. 

Just remember, “I got lost in the subway” might not be the most convincing excuse for being late to work on Monday!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! A concise guide to embracing the “Empire State of Mind.” Moving to New York State is not just about shifting to a place; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. 

Whether you’re a food lover who salivates at the mere mention of a New York cheesecake, or an outdoor enthusiast itching to hike the Adirondacks, there’s something here for everyone. 

Remember, New York isn’t just skyscrapers and yellow taxis; it’s a mosaic of cultures, climates, and adventures. From the roaring Niagara Falls to the quaint streets of Albany, every corner has a story. 

So, as you embark on this new chapter, don’t forget to enjoy the journey, laugh at the unexpected subway stories, and maybe – just maybe – keep a slice of pizza handy for good measure. 

Welcome aboard, future New Yorker!

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