Where Not to Live in New York City: A Survival Guide
New York City is a bustling metropolis with something to offer everyone. However, not all neighborhoods are created equal. Some areas are more desirable than others due to factors such as safety, affordability, and amenities. If you're considering moving to New York City, it's important to do your research and avoid these neighborhoods.
1. Crime-Ridden Areas
Unfortunately, some neighborhoods in New York City have high crime rates. These areas should be avoided at all costs, as your safety is paramount. Research crime statistics before considering any neighborhood.
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- Bronx: While the Bronx has undergone significant improvements in recent years, some areas still have high crime rates.
- Queens: Certain neighborhoods in Queens, such as Jamaica and South Ozone Park, have also been identified as high-crime areas.
- Brooklyn: Brownsville, East New York, and Bushwick are among the neighborhoods in Brooklyn with higher crime rates.
2. Expensive Neighborhoods
New York City is known for its high cost of living, but some neighborhoods are more expensive than others. If you're on a budget, you may want to avoid these areas.
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- Manhattan: It's no secret that Manhattan is the most expensive borough in New York City. Even within Manhattan, some neighborhoods, such as the Upper East Side and West Village, are significantly more expensive than others.
- Brooklyn: While Brooklyn is generally more affordable than Manhattan, some neighborhoods, such as Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights, are also quite expensive.
- Queens: Astoria and Sunnyside are among the more expensive neighborhoods in Queens.
3. Tourist Traps
While it's great to experience the tourist attractions that New York City has to offer, living in a tourist trap can be a hassle. These areas are often crowded, noisy, and expensive.
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- Times Square: Times Square is undoubtedly the most iconic tourist destination in New York City. However, living in this area can be overwhelming and expensive.
- Midtown: Midtown is another popular tourist destination, with many attractions such as Rockefeller Center and the Empire State Building. Living here can also be noisy and crowded.
- Chinatown: While Chinatown is a fascinating neighborhood with a rich culture, it can also be quite touristy and crowded.
4. Boring Neighborhoods
Some neighborhoods in New York City are simply boring. These areas may lack amenities, nightlife, and cultural attractions. If you're looking for a vibrant and exciting neighborhood, you may want to avoid these areas.
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- Forest Hills: Forest Hills is a quiet and residential neighborhood in Queens. While it's a safe and family-friendly area, it may not be the most exciting place to live.
- Bay Ridge: Bay Ridge is another quiet and residential neighborhood in Brooklyn. It's a great place to raise a family, but it may not have much to offer in terms of nightlife and entertainment.
- Staten Island: Staten Island is the least populated borough in New York City and is known for its suburban feel. While it has its charms, it may not be the most exciting place to live for young professionals or partygoers.
5. Neighborhoods with Poor Public Transportation
New York City is a city that relies heavily on public transportation. If you don't have a car, it's important to choose a neighborhood with good public transportation options.
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- The Bronx: Some neighborhoods in the Bronx, such as Riverdale and Wakefield, have limited public transportation options.
- Queens: Some neighborhoods in Queens, such as Flushing Meadows Corona Park and Jamaica Hills, also have limited public transportation options.
- Staten Island: Staten Island is the only borough in New York City that is not served by the subway system. However, it does have a bus system and a ferry service.
FAQs
How to find a safe neighborhood in New York City?
Research crime statistics for different neighborhoods and talk to people who live there. You can also check online forums and reviews to get a sense of the safety of different neighborhoods.
How to find an affordable neighborhood in New York City?
Look for neighborhoods that are located outside of Manhattan and Brooklyn. You can also consider sharing an apartment with roommates to reduce your costs.
How to find a neighborhood with good public transportation?
Use the MTA website to check subway and bus routes and schedules. You can also talk to people who live in different neighborhoods to get their recommendations.
How to find a neighborhood with a good nightlife?
Look for neighborhoods with a lot of bars, clubs, and restaurants. You can also check online event calendars to see what's happening in different neighborhoods.
How to find a neighborhood with good schools?
Research school ratings and rankings online. You can also talk to parents who live in different neighborhoods to get their recommendations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right neighborhood in New York City is important for your overall quality of life. By avoiding the neighborhoods listed above, you can increase your chances of finding a safe, affordable, and enjoyable place to live.
Remember, this is just a general guide. It's important to do your own research and visit different neighborhoods before making a decision.