Moving to Manhattan wouldn’t just drop you into any old borough in New York City—it would place you in the heart of its cultural and professional life.
Around 150,000 new residents flock to New York yearly. While some opt for Brooklyn’s trendy popularity and soaring real estate prices, living in Manhattan remains the dream for anyone wanting to experience an unmatched urban lifestyle.
From world-class dining to iconic entertainment and endless career opportunities, living in Manhattan, New York, means you're surrounded by something new and exciting every day. Unsurprisingly, over 1.6 million people call this bustling island home, even with the high cost of living in Manhattan.
those chasing the unique appeal of living in Manhattan, you need to learn the ins and outs of all the borough offers. Keep reading this guide to discover if moving to Manhattan is right for you.
Moving to Manhattan: Is it Worth it?
When considering moving to Manhattan, it’s impossible not to mention the charm and excitement of living in one of the world's most iconic cities.
This borough offers a unique blend of the classic and the contemporary. From the fast-paced atmosphere of living in Manhattan to the access to world-class amenities and unparalleled career opportunities, Manhattan continues to be a big reason why New York is the city that never sleeps—and for a good reason.
Here’s a closer look at why many people are moving to Manhattan.
The Manhattan Housing Market: A Pricey but Worthwhile Investment
The cost of living in Manhattan is high, but many people find it worth the investment. As of 2023, the median home price in Manhattan is approximately $1.1 million.
While this may seem steep, the unique opportunities, central location, and proximity to some of the best employers in the world make living in Manhattan an attractive experience.
From classic brownstones in the best neighborhoods in Manhattan to sleek high-rise apartments with stunning city views, the Manhattan housing market offers something for everyone—albeit at a price.
Still, the Manhattan housing market offers a range of options depending on where you choose to live. For example, the Upper East and Upper West Side provide a more residential feel, whereas the Financial District and SoHo cater more to professionals who want a shorter commute and fast pace.
Top Reasons People Move to Manhattan
Here are just a few reasons why moving to Manhattan is atop a lot of bucket lists:
Career Opportunities
If you want to excel in finance, innovate in tech, rise through the ranks of fashion, or succeed in the entertainment industry, Manhattan is home to all these sectors.
Some prominent sectors in Manhattan include:
- Finance: As the financial capital of the world, Wall Street offers unparalleled opportunities for careers in investment banking, asset management, and financial technology. Professionals here work with leading institutions that shape the global economy.
- Technology: In Silicon Alley, New York’s answer to Silicon Valley, tech professionals can work with cutting-edge startups, established tech giants, and innovative companies at the forefront of the digital economy. The city has become a hub for artificial intelligence, fintech, and cybersecurity.
- Fashion: Manhattan hosts significant fashion houses and retail brands, making it a global fashion capital. Whether you're aiming to become a designer, buyer, or marketing executive, the fashion industry here offers networking and career advancement opportunities like nowhere else. During New York Fashion Week, the city becomes a vibrant activity hub that draws well-known designers, models, and influencers. This semi-annual event showcases the latest trends with a platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and gain exposure.
- Entertainment: Manhattan is synonymous with the entertainment industry, from Broadway to film and television production. The city's vibrant creative scene allows for growth in acting, directing, production, visual arts, and the broader media landscape.
Central Location
Living in Manhattan puts you in the beating heart of New York City. Imagine reducing your commute to minutes instead of hours. No more missing out on events because of long train rides or traffic jams—everything is just a short walk, subway ride, or cab away.
When living in Manhattan, you’re always in the middle of the action, whether it's a new gallery opening, a rooftop concert, or a spontaneous night out.
The subway system makes travel in Manhattan convenient. With trains running 24/7 and stations throughout the city, the MTA’s network makes sure that you can get anywhere without any hassle. From uptown to downtown and even to the other boroughs, the subway saves you from the stress of traffic and parking. Plus, it’s an iconic part of the city experience.
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Cultural Hub
Living in Manhattan means living on the world stage, as it’s a city that is constantly putting on a show. Want to catch a Broadway premiere or wander through exhibits at the Met or the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)? Here, you can.
The city’s art scene is unmatched; you don’t have to be an art critic to appreciate it. From street art to symphonies, Manhattan’s culture is there for everyone to soak in.
You might even stumble upon a pop-up concert in the park or a film shoot outside your window. It’s all part of the daily rhythm.
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Food Scene
Dining in Manhattan is a legendary experience. If you live for being a foodie, you’ve found your place.
From Michelin-starred restaurants that offer meals you’ll remember for a lifetime to hidden gems serving some of the best sushi you’ve ever had, Manhattan has it all.
You can brunch at trendy spots one weekend and hunt down the perfect slice of New York pizza the next. The food here reflects the borough’s diversity, with flavors from around the globe at every corner.
Entertainment & Nightlife in Manhattan
When you think about fun things to do in Manhattan, the first thing that comes to mind is the countless entertainment options available every night.
Manhattan’s nightlife is famous globally, and there's something for everyone. Whether you enjoy rooftop bars with skyline views, cozy jazz clubs in the West Village, or late-night comedy shows in the East Village, living in Manhattan means you're never far from excitement.
If you're looking for things to do in Lower Manhattan, consider visiting Battery Park for beautiful waterfront views or exploring the galleries and boutiques of Tribeca.
Arts & Culture in Manhattan
Manhattan is a treasure trove of culture. Theaters, galleries, and music venues can be found on nearly every block, which makes the experience of living in Manhattan perfect for art and culture lovers.
Broadway is, of course, a world-renowned destination for theater lovers. Beyond the glitz and glamor of the theater district, countless smaller venues offer everything from experimental performances to timeless classics.
If you prefer visual arts, museums like The Met, MoMA, and The Whitney provide access to some of the world's most important art collections.
Moving to Manhattan will give you access to unparalleled culture
Best Places to Eat in Manhattan
One of the biggest perks of living in Manhattan, New York, is the food. From fancy dinners to casual bites, the variety is impressive.
For brunch, which is practically a religion to residents, some of the best brunch places in Manhattan include Balthazar and Sarabeth's.
You can’t forget about sushi—some of the best sushi places in Manhattan can be found in neighborhoods like NoHo and Midtown East, where restaurants like Sushi Yasuda and Sushi Nakazawa serve some of the finest sushi in the city.
And if you’re looking for a casual bite, head over to one of the many food trucks or pop-up restaurants scattered throughout the borough.
Manhattan is heaven for pizza lovers. If you’re looking for a classic Manhattan slice, Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village is the place to go. They have been serving perfect thin-crust slices since 1975. For something a little different, head to Prince Street Pizza in Nolita, where their famous Spicy Spring square slice with crispy, curly pepperoni is legendary. For authentic Neapolitan pizza, Kesté in the West Village offers delicious, wood-fired pies that transport you straight to Naples.
Things to Do in Manhattan
Living in Manhattan means there’s always something happening, whether it's attending a street fair, seeing a Broadway show, or visiting a new art exhibit. If you're looking for fun things to do in Manhattan, there are countless options:
- Central Park: Enjoy year-round activities like ice skating in the winter, boat rides in the summer, and free concerts at the Great Lawn. There are also scenic walking paths, playgrounds, and the famous Central Park Zoo.
- Broadway and Theater District: Catch a world-class Broadway show or explore Off-Broadway productions for unique and memorable performances.
- Museums and Art Exhibits: Visit world-renowned institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, MoMA, and the Guggenheim.
- Dining and Food Experiences: Manhattan is home to Michelin-starred restaurants across cuisines. One of the best sushi places in Manhattan is Sushi Yasuda. For legendary pizza, check out Mimi's Pizza. For a relaxing weekend, explore the best brunch places in Manhattan like La Grande Boucherie, which offers various culinary options.
- Nightlife: From rooftop bars with stunning skyline views to intimate jazz clubs in the Village, Manhattan’s nightlife is unmatched. The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel for craft cocktails, The Campbell in Grand Central with its 1920s decor, and Village Vanguard in Greenwich Village for Jazz lovers are some venues you can explore.
- Shopping: Manhattan offers shopping for every style, whether you're looking for luxury brands on Fifth Avenue, unique boutiques in SoHo, or vintage finds in the East Village.
You Won’t Regret Moving to Manhattan
Moving to Manhattan is a lifestyle choice. The cost of living in Manhattan can be high, but the borough offers unmatched professional opportunities, culture, and entertainment.
If you’re looking for an exciting place to live where every day brings new experiences, Manhattan is the perfect fit.
If you’re ready to jump in, browse new homes in Manhattan to find the perfect one for your lifestyle.
FAQs
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What is the Cost of Living in Manhattan?
The cost of living in Manhattan is high, with average rents around $4,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Are you buying a home? The median home price is around $1.1 million. Despite the expense, many find the opportunities and lifestyle that come with living in Manhattan well worth it.
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What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Manhattan to Live In?
The best neighborhoods in Manhattan include the Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, and SoHo, each offering a unique blend of residential charm and proximity to the city's hustle and bustle.
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Why Is Manhattan So Expensive?
High demand and limited supply drive the Manhattan housing market, especially in areas like Tribeca and the Upper East Side. Its central location, proximity to top employers, and rich cultural scene also contribute to the high prices.
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Where Should I Live in Manhattan?
The best neighborhood to live in Manhattan depends on your lifestyle and needs. If you prefer a quieter, more residential feel, try the Upper West Side or the Upper East Side. If you want to be near the action, consider Chelsea or SoHo. Browse listings for new homes in Manhattan today.
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What Is There to Do in Manhattan for Fun?
Whether visiting world-class museums, catching a Broadway show, or simply strolling through Central Park, living in Manhattan, New York, gives you access to countless fun things to do in Manhattan every day.
