Pros and cons of living in NYC after one week
Basically an expert
After officially living in New York for one week, I’m wondering when my Girl Scout badge will arrive in the mail.
I’m only half kidding.
Growing up so close to the city, I never thought that this transition would be as hard as I’ve found it to be. I feel immensely lucky, excited, mature, and invigorated; all while feeling anxious, stressed out, exhausted, and in comparison to everyone around me.
After a rollercoaster of emotions that was this week, I’d like to share my personal pros and cons that I’ve found after what feels like years off (or on, not quite sure yet) my life.
Pro: $1(.50) Pizza on every block, particularly mine.
As a committed Casey Neistat fan from 2013-2018, I was aware of the beauty that is $1 pizza in New York. While it ranges from $0.99—(I think this pizza pictured was like $3.50), we can all agree that we’re getting a great deal. Especially after 2 am.
Con: Every other meal being $30,000.
The best part about New York is the food. I think everyone agrees on that. Having the option to eat outside almost anywhere was the only good thing Covid brought (besides being able to WFH sometimes), and it truly is the best social experience. Great people watching, discovering new things, and having a great time with friends outside of 200 square foot apartments. So WHY is every meal above $20? WHY are happy hour deals only 90 minutes? I can’t enjoy a beautiful experience without dropping at least $30.
Pro: Happy Hours (particularly with oysters).
Although they’re truly a strike-while-the-iron’s-hot type deal, happy hour is my new favorite thing. $1 oysters, $20 wine carafes, and $8 cocktails are exactly what I need during the midweek slump. And, being in neighborhoods that have multiple kind of feels like one big party.
Con: Subway delays.
Choosing to live on the east side of downtown meant that I was going to get real familiar with the subway. I work in midtown west, and when I don’t go into the office, I like to explorer different neighborhoods until I grow seasoned and want to just stay within 10 blocks of my apartment. I’m lucky to not live in a different borough where subway delays are detrimental, but still, I’d rather not stand with the rats longer than I have to <3.
Pro: Being able to walk forever.
The idea of going to the Westside Highway later today makes every other task and hurdle I have to jump over immensely worth it. I finally understand what a runner’s high is, even though I don’t ever break even into a mere jog. Even if it’s not on the westside highway, nothing has made me happier than walking around. It’s also a great way to understand where everything is, without looking like a newbie on Google maps.
Con: Global warming.
On the day I moved in, it was around 100 degrees. And then it stayed that way until this weekend, and is creeping back up once again. I may not be complaining about this if I were located in Palm Springs, Ibiza, or somewhere glamorous, but I will complain in New York. It smells disgusting, it feels disgusting, and I feel disgusting.
This is all I’ve got for now, even though I’m sure I’ll have much more to complain about perhaps within the next mere week ahead!
Send this to someone who is (or should) move to NYC <3.
That pasta omg