Wondering if NYC moms think the city is slowly getting better, I believe it is, but only from what I hear.
I have been waiting to move back for so long (had left in 2016) finally there are a few job opportunities opening up, after 2 years of actively searching - so my dream is finally turning to reality.
I would be happy if I could afford a one bedroom apt (possibly Upper East/Yorkville) for a while rents were slightly lower, but now prices seem to be going up again.
Also, in terms of safety, I heard from some friends that they are avoiding subway and also walking around at night - as they feel it is not as safe as it used to be. What are your thoughts? Is this everywhere or only in some parts of the city?
Anyway, this year has been particularly tough, not only Covid but other things (including imminent divorce) I am trying to stay positive and look forward to coming back to the only city I have ever loved, although there is a lot to plan for.
Any feedback/advice really appreciated. Thank you for reading.
I'm downtown and while things are getting depressing with all of the permanent closures it is still very safe. I take the subway occasionally and so does DS and it has been quiet, clean and free of homeless.
I guess I can't reassure you that the city is "slowly getting better" - I never thought it was unsafe to begin with. I take the subway, walk the dog, go to the park with my kids, and have never felt unsafe. A friend of mine who lives in NJ and hasn't been to NYC since March was shocked that I'm taking the subway ("is it safe??") but people who are actually in the city are going about their lives.
I don’t really know how it is at night because we don’t go out at night with everything closed. However, during the day it feels totally safe. We live downtown and I frequently take my kid to school by subway.
I’m in the city today and it does feel busy and safe on the UES. I only drive- no subway. But’s let be real, it has a very dystopian feel with everyone masked and so many businesses closed. I’m looking forward to heading to country home later today..
Don't take this the wrong way but I find living in NYC to be more enjoyable now that is less packed with tourists and commuters. Of course this is bad for the city and will have lasting impact in many ways so I'm not suggesting its a good thing but I don't really understand people who live her who are saying its so terrible. I still feel safe. The city is cleaner and less congested. I miss theater and events and my old social life but there are some benefits too. That said, Im too old to hit the clubs or the bars so if that's something that drew one to NYC, then i can see how boring they think it is now.
ok, but events, social life, Broadway, and clubs are why most people come to NY. Not for peace and tranquility!
@anonymous I am a lifelong NYer so I didn't "come" here for anything. But Id say the vast majority of locals do not go the clubs. Broadway yes but it will return. All Im saying is that while there is a lot to to miss right now but there is also lots to appreciate while the city is without tourists and commuters.
@Anon "vast majority of locals do not go the clubs" Huh? From the city that coined the phrase "B&T" about the non-locals?
Native NYer,live on UWS, it's certainly not normal but it's also not so bad. I take the subway regularly, we order in, sometimes eat outside if it's not too cold, go to the parks and Metropolitan Museum, see friends outdoors, see family, all of our usual grocery stores are open and the regular farmers' market has been going strong. Feel safe on the streets, don't hang out outdoors late at night but that was never my thing even in my 20s. This idea some people have that it's all "Escape from NY" over here is sort of ridiculous. Is the city as a whole in a bad place, and are many, many people struggling and suffering? Absolutely. But the apocalyptic visions that people seem to have are just not reality.
Thank you, this is a very helpful reply. I hope I can get back to NYC soon.
I remember you! I hope it works out. It sounds like you have put a lot of thought into your decision. it won't be the NYC you remember, but hopefully not forever!