Moving from LA to NYC

 

At OZ Moving we have two moving offices in Los Angeles & New York City. As such we have a lot of experience moving people back forth from Coast to Coast.

Everyone loves choosing a side in this iconic duel.Los Angeles and New York are the two of the most popular and talked-about cities in the United States. However, there are huge differences between the two, and life in either city may not directly translate to the other. Anyone moving between Los Angeles and New York City will have to make some adjustments. If curious as to how to make these adjustments, we reached out to a number of people who moved from NYC to Los Angeles to find out what they’d recommend to someone trading the 405 (freeway) for the 4&5 (Subway). We heard back a lot of things that we expected, and a few things multiple people agreed on that were a little surprising. Here’s what they told us:

 

Transportation

 

In our piece on moving to Los Angeles, we described driving and car ownership as “compulsory.” The public transportation system in L.A. is simply not robust enough to facilitate the transportation needs of its residents, and they should look behind the wheel to get around.  As SBEB PR manager Joe Marchelewski can speak to, that isn’t the case in New York. The former LA resident quipped that “NYC has great public transportation and zero parking.” That’s putting it lightly.

The implications of NY’s transportation options goes beyond what is immediately obvious. “That was a revelation. Freedom was really great.” noted Jody Britt, former Angellino currently managing her own firm,Britt Fine Art Consulting. You might think relying on a fixed transportation system rather than being able to pick their own trail would limit traveller’s independence, but it’s proven to be the opposite for our respondents. “You can get anywhere in 45 minutes. And there’s more drinking now.” Britt continued. Not having to drive means longer nights out with fewer responsibilities.  

Brian Pickler, president of Nadeau Furniture, says the ease of the subways creates a “...Totally different mentality to your day to day activities - and I love it!” Leaving the car-obligated, traffic-filled and constant search for parking “way of life” (as Pickler called it) had plenty of upsides for our group.

As Marchelewski says, “You can hang out at a bar until 2 and [still] get home safely.”

Even with the (likely) increase in alcohol consumption, the increased walking in NYC that leaving a car behind entails can help new residents improve their health. “I lost weight walking”, Britt told us. “I am in much better physical shape too, [with] all the walking in Manhattan!” Pickler added.

Walking also added to their sense of community in many cases. “Walking in New York is an inclusive experience with so many other people. LA felt like a bubble, but you feel the diversity, humanity and energy of everybody else in NY.”Alina Adams, author of "Getting Into NYC Kindergarten", concurred: “I actually found it much easier to meet people here. In LA, everyone is in their cars. In NYC, you interact with people on the streets every day.”

 

Attitude

Passion and dedication seem to come up frequently when transplants discuss what they find in New York. Dana Humphrey of Whitegate PR, noted to us that on “My first day in Manhattan, a rat ran over my feet, it was raining and a gentleman held the door open for me. I could feel the energy of the city.” Humphrey continued; “In southern california, people do as little as possible to get by and to drink and relax at the beach. Trust me, I'm all about relaxation, but I also love passion. New Yorkers are extremely passionate about what they do.“

Britt had to agree about the passion she found in these New Yorkers; “New Yorkers have something to prove, typically. They’re very direct, unafraid of telling you what they think, and opinionated.” Britt’s New York illustrated a town full of ambition, with corners full of dedication for whichever field its residents wanted to pursue greatness.

“The energy in New York is amazing and full of life! The creative people who work in the city continue to amaze me.” Pickler added, noting the many unique ways he’s seen people get their furniture from his store to their homes. “I never realized what joy I would get seeing satisfied customers carry a huge dining room table down a busy street and then up the hill around the corner. A true team effort by people excited by our furniture.”

To some, this has its downsides: “Los Angeles’ attitude as a city seems far more welcoming. Every time I’ve moved there, the city seemed to welcome me with open arms. New York wants to make everything difficult, from getting an apartment, to getting home after a long day.” Marchelewski said. He has some words of warning for would be movers; “It takes roughly two years to adjust to the rapid shift in culture, so find a way to vent your anger, but commit to at least two years in NYC before you decide if it’s really for you.”

Humphrey noticed something different, though; a keen, understated altruism at a heart of the shared NY experience:

“If you take the subway (which I do most days) you will see women with baby carriages, strollers, luggage etc. Without even speaking to the person will offer to help lift the stroller or object up or down the stairs, by just walking up and picking up the back or front. It's a quick, quiet, helpful, caring transaction that occurs with no wasted time for small talk, which you might experience in other parts of the country. It's a silent understanding that we have with each other, knowing that person is not trying to steal our luggage or kidnap our kids, but literally just giving a lift.”

Despite the assumed rudeness, there is still a strong sense of New Yorker solidarity that Humphrey feels.  “About two years ago I was in Istanbul visiting and I ordered a coffee. The barista said to the other barista, don't worry, I'll take care of the New Yorker.” Seems like living there a few years showed in her mannerisms. “How he knew? [I’m] not sure.” But I do think that I have sped up my pace in talking.”

 

Weather

Central Park turns into a winter wonderland in January.

 

“I moved from LA to NYC in December of 1994. The most important thing I learned - I needed a winter coat.” Adams’ perspective here makes it clear; the colder climate is one of the most striking differences between the two cities.

“There are seasons here.” Britt says in beginning her elucidation of the differences between NY and L.A.’s climate. “The winters are trying; it’s a very different experience. It’s no surprise to anyone that New York’s a much colder state, climate wise, than Los Angeles, but some of the residual effects of that may be unanticipated. “It Makes you appreciate spring and summer so much more, and causes more people to travel.”

Humphrey offered that cold weather means New Yorkers could enjoy winter activities, like ice hockey and snowball fights. “Ice skates are a brilliant thing to have in NYC because then you can skate for free at Bryant Park, all winter long!” She had practical advice to would be movers, learned from experience, too: “Don't buy any jackets until you get to NYC. Living in southern california, they don't make warm jackets. Wait to arrive in NYC to do your shopping. Nothing will be warm enough.” Her experience holds true for most southern states as well; coats made in regions where the cold isn’t like New York’s simply won’t be adequate cover. “I remember going to Burlington Coat factory in CA and thinking that I had stocked up.... no. That's not the case. A winter coat for NYC is made differently, it's warmer.”

 

Outdoors 

Though some New Yorkers may have country homes upstate, or small backyards, New Yorkers generally don’t have as much access to the outdoors as Angelinos. But that doesn’t stop them! In the warmer months, New Yorkers head to the beaches in Rockaway, Long Island and other beaches across the East Coast. They go to Central Park and Prospect Park. They take the Metro North upstate and go on hikes throughout Minnewaska State Park! Meanwhile those in Los Angeles hike around Griffith Park and swim in Venice Beach. These activities are more rooted in the lives of Angelinos, but that doesn’t mean they can’t transition to life in the Big Apple. For instance, LA surfers may be pleased to know that they can catch some good waves in the early mornings at Rockaway Beach. Moreover, LA folks may enjoy the hikes upstate! And those hoping to have more space can opt for Brooklyn, where there is more sky and less skyscrapers.  

 

Affordances: Is it more expensive to live in NYC or LA?

Though neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Santa Monica are very expensive, people who move to NYC typically say that NYC takes the cake when it comes to the high cost of living.

“It’s much more expensive here.” Britt claims, even without having to pay for gas and car maintenance. “[Some things cost] triple in NYC what [they were] in LA.” Britt noticed the price disparity most strikingly in her searches for apartments: “It was the most challenging to find an apartment. There is a real broker culture.”

Food in New York can be quite expensive, but there are still ways to save money when eating out. For instance, you may opt to grab a slice of famous NY Pizza or get a classic NYC bagel for under $5. 

Prospective New Yorkers should be aware; a LOT of their money is going to go to rent. They ought to keep that in mind when they’re picking what kind of living space they want. “Know where you want to live and know your limits on what you can afford.” Pickler commented. “Don't go in blind and end up in serious debt or in a terrible apartment that is overpriced.”

Expensive rents also means less bang for your buck in smaller living spaces. “Your bed might not fit into your Upper West Side Apartment, even though it costs $5,000 a month.” Marchelewski added. “You need to maximize every inch of your home’s space, floor to ceiling...Prepare to totally downsize across the board.” Basically, get ready for a more minimalist lifestyle.

The crowded space New York leads to crowded school districts, presenting obstacles for families moving to the city. “Getting a child into school in NYC is notoriously difficult,” Adams told us. you are not guaranteed a seat at your local, zoned public school. “The most popular ones are overcrowded and turning away local kids in September - they are unlikely to have a spot for a child who arrives in the middle of the year.” Meaning kids could be put in pretty much any school; “Odds are, the Department of Ed will place you in any school that has space, not caring if it's inconvenient geographically, or if you want to be there.”

Is it better to live in New York or LA?

The West Coast is a lot more laid back and relaxed. Californians always boast about how their side of the country is full of nature (mountains, oceans, desert). It’s true, California is a good place to be if you like to chill out and lead a slower pace of life. Meanwhile, NYC is quite the opposite. Instead of nature, you are surrounded by skyscrapers and people running around a mile a minute. The answer to this question depends on your personal lifestyle and taste.

How much money should you move to NYC with?

We recommend moving with at least $5,000 saved up. This amount will allow you to feel comfortable while you search for an apartment or a job.

How to Move from Los Angeles to NYC?

There are a number of ways to move from LA to NYC. You can either hire movers who will drive your belongings across the country, or you can rent a U-Haul and drive them yourself. You can also put all of your belongings in storage and start over in NYC. The last option is good for those who want to test out NYC without making any commitments. You can spend a few months in NYC before you make a real move and make NYC your new home.

 

Takeaways: Pros & Cons

If you are thinking of ditching Hollywood, note that there are several pros and cons when it comes to moving to NYC from LA. The tacos and avocados may be tastier in LA, the long commute time can be terrible. When you move to NYC, you won’t miss the traffic jams or terrible rush hours. While NYC does have traffic, commuting is easy via the MTA.

Moving to New York can present some limitations, but also plenty of opportunities. Most Angelenos don’t love the cold, but many enjoy being able to see snow. Some may not feel they can handle the fast pace and high-stakes of New York life; others relish the challenge and thrive, like many of the people featured here have. Doing your homework is key to understanding New York - because it’s likely if you look around long enough, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the city (provided it’s not a downtown studio for under $1000 a month). If you’re making the move to New York, relish the opportunity, and find what is out there for you.

Gathering your entire life and relocating to a new place may be a burdensome affair, that’s why you may consider contacting LA movers or one of the many excellent moving companies in NYC . Movers can be essential for this long-distance cross-country move to your new city.

 

Call 212-452-6683 for long distance moves originating in NYC and the Greater New York area

Call 973-273-7535 for long distance moves originating in New Jersey  

Call 323-796-0133 for long distance moves originating in Los Angeles and the Greater Southern California area

 

Moving Cross Country from Los Angeles to New York? Oz Moving’s express lines will get your belongings to N.Y. fast and safe. Oz handles your move beginning & end with the same care as a local move at an affordable rate. For more information on moving to NYC or the NY tri-state area, read more or get a quote for your move.

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