Lisa O
“It’s too noisy,” “I can’t live without my car,” “Why would I live somewhere where everything is super expensive?” If you’re reading this, you’ve probably heard these comments before and found yourself defending NYC. Sure, the city has its annoying moments. But if you need a quick comeback for someone who doesn’t understand, here are the 15 most common misconceptions about New York City.
It’s Way Too Crowded
Sure, the streets and subways are packed, but that’s part of the fun. More people means more chances to meet cool folks, overhear some hilarious conversations, and have those random encounters you end up telling your friends about. The city’s craziness adds a little spice to your daily routine. And when you actually bump into a friend among all the hustle, it feels like a special little win—like the city’s way of giving you a high-five.
It’s Super Dirty
If you want to live in a super clean place, you might end up somewhere dull. Sure, New York can be a bit messier than other places, but that’s because it’s so full of life. Plus, you can usually just step around most of the dirt. (Just try not to think about what’s hiding under those snow piles when they start melting in spring!)
You Need to Be Rich to Live Here
Head back to the Midwest, and you’ll probably hear stuff like, “I heard a soda costs five bucks there!” or “Isn’t lunch like 15 dollars every day?” To be fair, that can be true—if you don’t know where to look. But live in New York for a while, and you’ll learn all the best spots for cheap eats, free snacks, and other money-saving tricks like it’s second nature.
Everyone Here Is Rich
People from outside New York might think everyone here is loaded, but that’s not the reality. Like anywhere else, New York has a big gap between the rich and those struggling. Sure, the city is super famous for its wealth and luxury, but there are plenty of people dealing with financial challenges, too. The economic divide here is real—just like in every other state across the country.
It’s Really Dangerous
Crime shows might still make New York seem like a dangerous place with random violence everywhere, but that’s not the case anymore. Crime and murder rates have dropped so much that New York is now one of the safest cities in the country. You can stroll around without worrying—no need for a TV detective to keep you safe, we promise.
There’s No Good Mexican Food
We might have fewer taco trucks than California, but if you know where to look, you can still score some fantastic burritos and enchiladas, especially in the outer boroughs. NYC chefs love getting creative with Mexican flavors, mixing them into fancy dishes. So, even though we don’t have the taco truck scene of the West Coast, our sit-down Mexican spots are definitely worth a visit and serve up some seriously awesome meals.
Everyone Is Rude
Out of all the myths about New Yorkers, this one is way off. They might come across as a bit tough, but they’re more than happy to help lost tourists find their way and always give up their subway seats for pregnant women or older folks. They help carry suitcases up the stairs and hold the door open for whoever’s behind them. They may not be smiling all the time—but they’re definitely not cold or unfriendly.
People Only Wear Designer Clothes
People outside New York often imagine the city as a place full of people in fancy designer clothes and pricey suits, hustling to jobs in media and finance. Sure, you’ll see a lot of high-end fashion in Midtown and the Financial District, but most New Yorkers just wear regular, everyday clothes. (They might be stylish, but they’re still pretty down-to-earth.)
There’s Not Enough Green Space
Do you live within a mile of a huge 843-acre park that has Shakespeare plays and ice skating? How about a 585-acre park with free outdoor summer concerts? Probably not. Sure, there’s a lot of concrete in the city, but our parks provide a great escape. Plus, with just a short train ride, you can reach beautiful hikes in the Hudson Valley, Long Island beaches, and tons of apple orchards in the fall.
Manhattan’s the Biggest Borough
Brooklyn has been getting a lot of hype lately for its cool, hipster scene, but many people still think Manhattan and New York are basically the same thing. That’s definitely not true. Every borough has its own unique vibe and charm. Just don’t let on about how awesome Queens is—especially if you’re trying to get a table at Mu Ramen. It’s already tough enough to score a spot there without everyone else finding out!
You Can’t Raise a Family Here
You probably won’t have a backyard or a picket fence, but raising a kid in the city is pretty much like anywhere else. Kids can learn the bus routes and chat with neighbors in the hallway just as well as anywhere. Plus, city kids hardly ever wish they’d grown up in the suburbs, while folks from places like Westchester and Long Island often end up moving to NYC.
It’s Way Too Noisy
Sure, NYC is packed with sirens, honking cabs, and lively conversations, but that constant noise is what makes the city feel so buzzing and alive. You get so used to it that the quiet can actually seem a bit weird. When you’re outside the city—you might find it tough to sleep without that familiar background hum. It’s kind of funny how the city’s noise becomes a comforting part of your routine.
The Pace Is Too Fast
It might just be that others are moving a bit too slowly for your taste. If you’re in the mood to wander and take your time, that’s perfectly fine—just try to keep to the side so people who are rushing can get through. New Yorkers are always on the move, with busy schedules and plenty of things to do. Giving a little extra space helps everyone navigate the city more smoothly.
All Apartments Are Like in Friends
Unfortunately, if you move to New York, you won’t be living in Monica’s massive apartment from Friends or Carrie Bradshaw’s dream Upper East Side studio. If Monica Geller had that apartment now, she’d be a millionaire many times over. They’d probably need to rename the show Millionaire Friends and Their Broke Buddy Joey.
The Subway Is a Pain
They don’t have trunks to store all their stuff, but their commutes let them read, listen to podcasts, and, most importantly, people-watch. Driving alone just doesn’t let them be as productive as riding the train. Even though the subway map might look a bit confusing to outsiders—it’s actually pretty easy to figure out. Plus, the trains run all night, so they don’t have to stress about driving home after a night out.