photo thanks to Freefoto.com
Big news. The Mister is looking into a career change and if, as a family, we decide it’s a good fit, we will be moving to NYC for 6 months while he trains. This is all contingent on a number of factors, both financial and emotional, but today we are leaning towards going. If we decide to move forward, we can start the interview process. The Mister hasn’t been guaranteed a job, but he is a strong candidate.
So, what can you tell this die-hard southern California girl about New York? I like to research an issue to death before I make a decision, and I’m looking for all the information I can handle. The training center is in Manhattan, but will, in the future, move to Jersey City. It may already be in Jersey City by the time we move.
Do we need cars? What about all these neighborhoods? Upper/Lower East Side, Upper/Lower West Side, Harlem, Brooklyn, Washington Heights. Ack! I’ve looked around online, but all I found were real estate agencies and of course they don’t have a bad thing to say about any of them.
We’re a family of four with two Beagles. Is there enough room for us in the city? And can that room be under $2000?
I don’t know much about NY, but I do know it’s only a few hours drive from here. ;)
I leave a short distance from NYC (my hub commutes there to work everyday) and can sadly tell you NOTHING about anything. But what I WILL tell you is that it is going to be an awesome experience for you and your boys and you’re going to love it. It’s hard to explain but even when I just spend a day in the city I feel a little “tougher” in a good way if that makes any sense! I’m excited for you guys!!
I’ve only been to NY once for a business trip, but I have to say it was an amazing city. Not at all like anyone had ever told me about. I was completely shocked by how nice everyone was. I had always heard that everyone was rude and mean there, but I found it to be the complete opposite. What a great opportunity for your family. I know it will be a nerve wracking decision, but I wish you all the luck in the world.
Okay…so, I love NYC. I have been a few times when I was younger. I don’t know about the price of rentals beyond the fact that they are pretty high. It might be tough to find anything in the city. However, I feel that you would fit in well in the West Village/Greenwich Village near NYU or the East Village(if your personality is anything like mine, which I believe it is, anyway). It is a very eclectic area of the city, funky shops, funky people…
As for the other burroughs, I can’t help ya there. I would say, if you can find a place in Manhattan, you definitely don’t want to bring a car…parking would be ridiculous. It is worse in NYC than it is in Chicago, and that is saying something.
Blah…email me if you want ([email protected]). I am not an expert by any means, but have been there a few times and lived in a large city (Chicago) for ten years.
xoxoxo
I know someone who lives in Jersey City right now who may be willing to tell you more about the neighborhood if you like. If so, you know where to find me.
What a big move, cross country! How exciting. We only moved from NJ to Chicago!
Well I think NYC is pretty cool too. My best friend lives an hour out in a suburb and her hubby commutes in by train every day. I am not sure if that is more your style with the kids and the dog. She lives in North Salem. There are so many cool experiences in the city. I love it there and have only been there a few times but think of all the things you could do…take in a show…go to some amazing restaurants…ground zero.
Not to mention that Kristen and I could roadtrip it out to see you someday! How fun would that be?
Kendra–I had no idea you were so close to NY!
Country Girl– that’s good to know! I always heard the NYers were a grumpy lot, too!
Mrs. F.–I’ll have to look into those areas. If you like them, I suspect I will, too. :)
Amy–thanks! I’ll keep your friend in mind if we decide to go. :)
Kristen–I do love how the east coast seems to be so packed. Seems like you can travel from state to state in only a couple of hours.
we have 4 kids in manhattan
and love it. (upper west side)
under 2K will
be a stretch, but maybe in
the boroughs – bklyn or
queens, perhaps.
:)
good luck!
kari jo
[email protected]
ps – your kids will LOVE it.
Forget the Upper East Side for a family. Move to Queens and enjoy a backyard. I suggest you spend a weekend in your suggested areas and visit their grocery stores. You can tell everything about an area after spending 10 minutes in the local grocery. Congratulations! New York is like no other. Your kids will love it too!