Relocating from NYC to Upstate: What I Long For and What I Don't

Living in New York City was a dream I always intended to pursue, and when the opportunity arose, I embraced it fully. Those three years were filled with exceptional cultural experiences and discovering hidden spots throughout each borough. It was during this time I also established my ideal career path as a writer.

However, last year marked a turning point. Ready to start a family and finally save some money, the ideal move was clear: return to Rochester, my childhood home in Upstate New York.

There are times I find myself yearning for a leisurely walk through Central Park or heading to a vibrant Broadway production. Yet, I am also reminded of my choice when I recall lugging groceries in chilly weather instead of conveniently loading them into my car.

The Perks of Walkability and Public Transport in NYC

For my debut workday in Manhattan, I chose to meander for an hour from my Upper East Side dwelling to my workplace in Flatiron. The reason? Simply because it was possible.

Every weekend was an adventure, whether it was window shopping in Midtown or capturing photos of brownstones in West Village. The community gardens of the Upper West Side were another frequent stroll venue. For more distant explorations, the subway was always an affordable gateway to new cuisines in Astoria or amusement in Coney Island.

Nowadays, driving is my primary mode of transport. But back in NYC, swiping a Metrocard was my ticket to uncharted territories.

Unmatched Cultural Experiences of NYC

Having the ultimate culinary, cultural, and entertainment experiences just steps from your front door is truly unparalleled.

Whether my craving was for hand-prepared noodles or exquisite cookies, the city always delivered. An evening of unfiltered laughter at the Comedy Cellar was a constant option, and finding solitude to read at the New York Public Library was a gift.

Being whisked to a bygone era was as simple as indulging in live jazz at clubs like the Village Vanguard. And with world-famous art museums, theatrical performances, and enlightening bookstore talks, the extravagant rent found its justification.

Bountiful Career Prospects

For anyone in creative fields, New York City stands as the ultimate hub, offering endless opportunities that seemed to affirm my dreams were within reach.

The city, celebrated as a nucleus for advertising and media, confirmed my decision to pursue copywriting and journalism. Moreover, the diversity of opportunities allowed for transferring skills to other sectors if desired.

Even with Rochester presenting a burgeoning scene for startups and several marketing agencies, my plan to engage with NYC-based global brands remotely remains steadfast.

Cost of Living: A Lighter Wallet

As someone who enjoys daily indulgences, I witnessed how the so-called 'luxuries' quickly compounded financially in NYC, noted as one of the most expensive places in the United States for 2025-2026.

For instance, my preferred café's cold brew was a cool $7.50, whereas now it’s halved. Likewise, a cocktail accompanied by a Lower Manhattan vista might fetch $32—an unnecessary extravagance I don't miss.

The expense was evident across the board from groceries to a basic haircut.

Welcoming Spacious Living Arrangements

While my Manhattan apartment was charming and historic, the annual rent hikes were anything but.

Considering our family expansion plans, along with a large canine companion, it was the right move to exchange our cramped one-bedroom for a sprawling four-bedroom home.

I now enjoy a garden, a dedicated space for my child, an office for work, and an expansive kitchen for culinary pursuits—all while reducing monthly expenses by around $1,500.

The Balance of Life Over Hustle

The relentless pace of a career-oriented life in NYC inevitably led to an imbalance between work and personal time.

Achieving success meant absorbing the high-pressure environment and long hours frequently encountered in the city's corporate ladder. However committed I am to my career, the objective always remains clear: work to live, not the reverse. My position now grants this luxury.

While I remain connected to a company based in Manhattan, the flexible nature of remote work from home allows for greater life harmony.

Reflecting on my time in NYC, it's unmistakably distinct, yet the irreplaceable comfort of being home outweighs the allure of the city.