Moving to a new apartment isn’t always easy. Tight spaces, unclear rules, and even hidden fees can quickly derail your carefully laid plans.
To help you avoid any moving-day surprises, we’ve put together this guide on what to know before moving into a city apartment. By the end, you’ll know how to avoid the unexpected costs of moving into an apartment, understand your building’s lease terms and regulations, and learn how to avoid fines.
Know What Date and Time You Can Move In
Moving can be disruptive, and apartments aren’t particularly known for being soundproof. Even if you’re mindful, you can make a lot of noise coming back and forth with boxes or rearranging furniture. Quiet hours often apply in apartment communities, so you may have to plan around them.
Traffic, noise ordinances, and general rules can also affect your move-in. If your building uses an elevator, there may be specific hours or days that management allows you to book it.
Depending on your complex, you may have to move in on a Saturday. Others might specify that you have to move on a weekday when foot traffic is lighter. Check your building’s move-in policies in advance if you have time constraints for getting everything moved in.
Plan the Best Places to Park Your Moving Truck
Moving into an apartment is often more complicated than relocating to a house with a clear driveway. And if you live in the heart of a big city, it can be even harder. Ask your management office about hours, time limits, permits, and where you need to park. If you need a permit, apply as soon as possible so processing times don’t delay your move-in.
Some buildings offer a rear service entrance or loading dock. This can make things easier since you have a designated place to park, but you may have to schedule a block of time to use it.
Ask About Your Apartment’s Unloading Policy
Before moving day, ask your building management about how and where unloading works. Some apartment complexes require you to unload onto a staging area and move your truck away from the loading dock or service entrance as quickly as possible.
“A COI is a Certificate of Insurance. It lets your apartment complex know that your moving company is insured and provides important coverage details, such as policy limits, effective dates, and other key details.”
Others won’t allow you to leave items out, or they’ll require you to keep clear paths for egress. Don’t forget to inform your moving team of any rules or requirements.
Bonus Tip: Know Where to Dispose of Boxes
Many buildings set specific rules for how to dispose of moving boxes and packing materials. Even if a recycling bin is available, they may ask that moving debris not be placed there to prevent it from filling up too quickly.
Your building manager can tell you the preferred way to dispose of boxes. You can also try giving away empty boxes on social media. Or, if you unpack quickly, the movers might be willing to haul the boxes away for you.
Take Floor Protection Seriously
Many buildings require floor protection to prevent damage in shared areas, especially those with hardwood or tile flooring. For example, an area with nice hardwood or marble flooring may require Masonite: wooden hardboards that can prevent damage to the floor while you’re shifting furniture. If you need it, make sure your movers have one on hand. Some buildings may have hardboards available to lend you, so ask ahead of time.
And don’t stop at protecting just the floor. Some management companies require additional protection in doorways and stairwells.
Familiarize Yourself With Your Movers’ Insurance
Most licensed moving companies have to provide basic liability insurance. However, some buildings in big cities require proof of moving insurance or even the purchase of extra policies. That way, if an accident happens, they can recoup the cost quickly. Without insurance, you could be left with hidden apartment move-in fees.
“Even if you’re mindful, you can make a lot of noise coming back and forth with boxes or rearranging furniture. Quiet hours often apply in apartment communities, so you may have to plan around them.”
If you need proof of insurance, tell your moving company as soon as possible. They’ll need time to get a COI form from the office and return it with all the necessary paperwork from their own insurance company. The building may not let you move in if you don’t have the proper paperwork filed, so check carefully.
Review City Apartment Moving Rules
There’s plenty more to know to make your move seamless. Check with your apartment complex about common rules like:
Building move-in hours: Confirm whether there are set moving hours listed in the lease.
Elevator reservations: If you need an elevator reservation, familiarize yourself with the process in advance. Make sure you book the reservation early to get the best date and time for moving day.
COI requirements: A COI is a Certificate of Insurance. It lets your apartment complex know that your moving company is insured and provides important coverage details, such as policy limits, effective dates, and other key details.
Noise and disturbance levels: Evenings and weekends may be subject to noise restrictions. While you shouldn’t be particularly loud while moving, you also want to avoid a costly fine for violating regulations.
Fire safety regulations: While you move, avoid any fire safety violations. Ensure that you never obstruct fire exits or safety equipment.
Parking: Know where to park your moving truck (and where guests should park if friends or family are coming to help you).
Prepare for a Smooth City Move
Ready to make your move as smooth as possible? Check out our moving checklist to make sure you have all the necessary supplies, such as dollies, stretch wrap, and moving blankets.
Additionally, if you’re moving on a narrow city street or to the top of a towering apartment building, let us know. We make budgeting for apartment moves easy by providing clear, upfront quotes from local moving companies. Compare services and book trusted, vetted, and highly rated movers through HireAHelper’s online platform.
2024 Study: A Look at the Biggest Wave of Retiree Moves in Three Years
More than 338,000 Americans moved to retire in 2023, an increase of 44% compared to 2022
Florida is the top destination for retirement moves that crossed state lines, attracting 11% of them in 2023
California (18%) and New York (11%) have the highest share of retirees moving to new states
Miami-Fort-Lauderdale, FL is the #1 metro for retirement moves, with 12.3% of them headed to this area in Florida
Nearly a quarter (23%) of all Americans moving to retire were early retirees aged under 55
The year 2023 was a big year for retirement moves!
According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, retirement moves reached a three-year high! With housing markets cooling off, inflation slowing down, and social security benefits increasing, it’s no surprise that 44% more Americans moved in retirement compared to in 2022.
How else have these developments affected moving after retirement in 2023? Where did retirees relocate to, and which places did they leave behind?
In this latest edition of our annual retirement moves study, we look at trends that shaped moving in retirement in 2023, highlight top origins and destinations, and zoom in on the changing demographics of retirees on the move.
Bucking the Trend: Retirement Moves Continued Rising Through 2023
In 2023, when the share of Americans who moved fell to a historic low of 7.8%, retirement moves registered a 44% growth compared to the year prior. That equates to more than 338,000 Americans moving to retire in 2023 — the highest in three years.
This means that after falling briefly during COVID, the number of Americans moving to retire has grown for the third consecutive year.
Similarly to the findings in our previousstudies of moving for retirement, Americans who moved at this stage of their lives were more likely to relocate to a different state last year. A quarter (25%) of retirement moves in the U.S. in 2023 crossed state lines, compared to 18% of moves overall.
Sun, Sun, Sun: Florida Tops State Destination Rankings, Again
For those Americans choosing to retire out of state, Florida was again the number one destination in 2023. The Sunshine Stateattracted around one in ten (11%) of all retirement moves that went to a different state.
South Carolina gave Florida a good run for its money as the destination for 10% of all cross-state retirement moves in 2023. Meanwhile, New Jersey and Texas each accounted for roughly 6% of such moves, respectively.
“The 2023 crop of retirees on the move was significantly younger…37% of them were under the age of 65, including 23% who were under 55.”
As for the states retirees are leaving, the greatest share of relocating retirees came from California, with 18% of all retirement moves that crossed state lines originating in California. New York contributed a further 11% of retirees seeking a new place to live outside their home state.
Curiously enough, states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania appear on both receiving and leaving lists. This has to do with the fact that while many people do move to Florida and New Jersey for retirement, a similar amount of people are leaving these states too.
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Miami Remains a Retirement Magnet: Top Metros for Retirees on the Move
In another victory for Florida,Miami-Fort Lauderdale was the top destination for retirement moves in 2023.
This metro located right on the Atlantic coast is well within its right to attract many of those seeking a great place to retire. Highland Beach — one of Fort Lauderdale’s suburbs — ranks #3 as the best place to retire according to Niche.com, while Miami is in the fourth spot of CN Traveller’s ranking of best retirement destinations.
And even though the cost of living in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metro is on the rise, it’s still significantly lower than in the U.S. biggest cities.
“In 2023, when the share of Americans who moved fell to a historic low of 7.8%, retirement moves registered a 44% growth compared to the year prior. That equates to more than 338,000 Americans moving to retire…”
Retirees with money
The fact that two Californian metros feature on the top 10 list of retirement move destinations in 2023 suggests two parallel trends within retirement moves.
Retirees with a good amount of savings and high pensions are likely moving to metros like Miami-Fort Lauderdale, FL and San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA. Folks looking to save money in retirement, on the other hand, are more likely to choose El Paso, TX, and Kansas City, MO-KS — areas where settling down for retirement won’t cost a fortune.
To browse states and metros you may be interested in, check out the interactive map below:
Health and Family: Key Reason Behind Retirement Moves in 2023
Besides retirement itself, some of the most common reasons contributing to retirement movies in 2023, according to a recent U.S. Census Bureau moving data report, were said to do with family and health. “Better housing” and “cheaper housing” did remain relevant, but they’re not driving as many moves as they did in 2022.
It’s worth noting that “other family reason” was most often clarified to mean adding a new family member (e.g., pregnant, had a baby, adoption), moving with family member(s), or assisting or taking care of family members.
Because adding a new family member is unlikely for someone of retirement age, it’s safe to assume that the majority of retirees who moved citing “other family reason” did so to be closer to family, either to help take care of them or to receive care themselves.
“…the median household income of retirees who moved in 2023 was $88,347, which is 17% higher than a typical household income in the United States…”
This is consistent with the findings of our study of the Sandwich Generation — meaning adults “sandwiched” between taking care of their aging (and likely retired) parents, and their children.
More than a quarter (26%) of the respondents in our Sandwich Generation survey were considering moving their parents closer to give them the care they need, and 24% were thinking about their parent(s) moving in with them. With so many retirees factoring in family and health into their moves in 2023, it’s likely this emerging trend is already starting to unfold.
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Younger, Wealthier, and Most Likely Single: The Demographics of Retirees Moving in 2023
One standout feature of 2023 moving retirees is that they were overwhelmingly more likely to be single. (Or, at the very least, not married.)
In 2022, more than half (55%) of retirees moving were spouses. But last year, that share dropped to just 45% — the lowest percentage ever on record.
The 2023 crop of retirees on the move was significantly younger as well, as 37% of them were under the age of 65, including 23% who were under 55. Compare this to just 26% of 2022 retirees who were under 55.
In another change compared to 2022, a third (33%) of American retirees moving in 2023 were people of color, up from 14% the year before.
Finally, the median household income of retirees who moved in 2023 was $88,347, which is 17% higher than a typical household income in the United States, according to the latest data. It is also 35% higher than the median income of someone moving into retirement last year, which was just above $65,000.
Gen Z is the most mobile generation, as 17% of its adult members moved in 2023, compared to 8% across all ages
Around 16% of moves by Gen Z adults were to “establish their own household” – the highest percentage of all generations
Texas welcomed the most Gen Z overall (345,000), but West Virginia saw the highest net gain in Gen Z moves (+138%)
Vermont (-73%), Alabama (-68%), and Mississippi (-64%) were the states Gen Z were most likely to leave
The NYC metro area saw the biggest numeric influx of Gen Z members (183,000), but Austin-Round Rock, TX (+106%) had the greatest net gain
Generation Z — or Zoomers, as they’re sometimes called — have been the subject of many headlines lately. As they come of age, their differences from other generations in terms of workplace habits, home ownership ambitions, political views, and the use of technology are increasingly well-documented.
“In absolute terms, their top destination was Texas, which welcomed 345,000 new Gen Z residents in 2023. However, the state with the greatest net gain of Gen Z moves was West Virginia. “
When we look at the moving data, however, a different trend emerges. Despite making up just 12% of the population, Gen Z adults (aged 18 to 26) accounted for 26% of all moves that took place in America this year.
In this study, we take a deep dive into Gen Z moving patterns to uncover how actively they’re moving compared to other generations, highlight what motivates their moves and reveal where they’re moving to and from.
Zoom Zoom: Gen Z is the Most Mobile of All Generations in 2023
The thing about America is that, as a nation, we move a lot less now than we did a few decades ago. Save for a blip in 2022 when the percentage went up, the overarching trend has been pointing down since the mid-1980s.
However, this isn’t true for Gen Z at all. 17% of them moved in 2023 — a number twice as high as the national average. It was also the highest out of all other generations.
By comparison, only 11% of Millennials (Gen Y) moved this year. That share dips even lower for older generations, as 5% of Gen X and just 3% of Baby Boomers changed where they live in 2023.
Not only are Gen Z the most mobile generation, but they’re also the ones bucking the overall downward trend in moving. After a drop in 2020, which was likely caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more Gen Z adults have been moving each year. And they’re the only generation to do so.
Flying the Nest to Make Their Own: Key Reasons Behind Moves of Gen Z Members
Based on the U.S. Census Bureau data, the most common reason for moving among Gen Z members in 2023 was “establishing their own household”, i.e. most likely moving out of their parents’ home.
Responsible for around 17% of all Gen Z moves, it was more popular with this generation than any other. Another reason for moving most distinctly popular with Gen Z was “relationship with unmarried partner” (read: move in with a significant other).
This reason drove around 8% of moves by Gen Z adults in 2023, which is higher than any other generation and is above the 5% national average.
Despite reports of increased home-buying activity, Gen Z has the lowest share of moves associated with becoming a homeowner (≈5%) compared to other generations.
At the same time, 9% of Gen Z adults moved for cheaper housing in 2023. The only generation for whom it was higher was Baby Boomers (10%).
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Almost Heaven: West Virginia Records Highest Net Gain in Gen Z Moves in 2023
So Gen Z is moving in record numbers, but where are they moving to and from?
In absolute terms, their top destination was Texas, which welcomed 345,000 new Gen Z residents in 2023. However, the state with the greatest net gain of Gen Z moves was West Virginia.
In 2023, 138% more Gen Z adults moved to this state than left it. Four others — Utah (+137%), South Carolina (+136%), Colorado (+107%), and Kansas (+107%) — had at least twice as many members of Generation Z move in than move out.
States by net moves (only interstate moves are included)
On the flipside, members of Gen Z were most likely to leave Vermont (-73%), Alabama (-68%), and Mississippi (-64%). It’s worth noting that New York (-57%) and California (-43%) are states that often come out on top of net outflow rankings, and they feature here in the 4th and the 9th spot respectively. And speaking of the volume of moves, California alone saw over 415,000 Gen Z people leave the state in 2023.
To see what the Gen Z moving patterns looked like for all other states, check out our interactive map below.
Austin, TX Metro is a Gen Z Magnet: Top Destinations for Gen Z Moves
Texas and Florida didn’t feature high in state rankings, but their metros sure are up there for moving destinations among Generation Z members.
“17% of [Gen Z] moved in 2023 — a number twice as high as the national average. It was also the highest out of all other generations.”
Austin-Round Rock, TX (+106%) is in first place — it had twice as many Gen Z members move in than out of it. Florida, on the other hand, is represented by metro areas around Tampa, FL (+55%) and Jacksonville, FL (+38%), both posting healthy net gains.
In line with state-level findings, Columbia, SC (+82%), Provo-Orem, UT (+53%), and Colorado Springs, CO (+37%) feature among the 10 metropolitan areas with the highest net gain in moves by Gen Z.
The other side of the table is dominated by metropolitan areas in California. As some of the most expensive places to live in the United States, metro areas around cities such as San Jose, CA (-39%), Los Angeles, CA (-24%), and San Francisco, CA (-22%) all many more Gen Z members leave than relocate here.
Incidentally, Florida also has a metropolitan area with one of the highest net losses of Gen Z residents. About 24% more members of Generation Z moved out of Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL than moved there in 2023.
Curious about what the situation is near you? We’ve put all metros with a significant number of moves by Gen Z adults onto this interactive map.
Sources and Methodology
All data on moves, their origins, destinations, and reasons behind them was taken from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey and its Annual Social and Economic Supplements, as available via IPUMS. All estimates and percentages are based on moves within the United States.
For this study, we adapted the definition of generations from Beresford Research which defined them based on their age in 2023 as follows:
Gen Z: 18* – 26
Gen Y (Millennials): 27 – 42
Gen X: 43 – 58
Baby Boomers: 59 – 77
Technically, Gen Z includes anyone from age 11, but our analysis only included moves made by adults.
Net gain and loss for states and metropolitan areas was calculated as follows:
Planning a move to Brooklyn? Offering a perfect balance between the energetic pace of city life and a more localized community feel — along with a vibrant arts and culture scene and a world-class culinary landscape — this historically rich and culturally diverse borough certainly has a lot to offer.
If Brooklyn is calling your name, here’s what you need to know about the best Brooklyn neighborhoods as of 2023.
Moving to Brooklyn in 2023
After its unprecedented growth over the course of 2010–2020 as the second most popular borough to move to in NYC, its pack-leading recovery after COVID-19 is no surprise — especially as droves of Manhattanites traded their big city abodes for lower rents, bigger square footage, and greenery in the Borough of Trees during the rise of remote work.
Since the end of the pandemic, people have been flocking to Brooklyn in large numbers — either to live, work, or visit — which has brought some neighborhoods back to life and transformed the flavor (and rent prices) of others.
If you’re moving to Brooklyn in 2023, here are some things to consider:
Population: About 31% of the population of NYC lives in Brooklyn (over 2.5 million people).
Salary: The average income for Brooklyn residents is almost $95,000, which is 80% higher than the national average, and can be attributed to the higher cost of living in NYC.
Rent: The average rent in Brooklyn is $3,252 as of February 2023 (minus utilities), compared to the national average of $1,169.
Mortgage: To buy an apartment, the price per square foot in Brooklyn ranges from about $926 to $1,238.
Cost of Living: The average cost of living in Brooklyn is almost $5,000 per family of four, without accounting for mortgage payments or rent.
Inflation: The cost of living in Brooklyn increased by 1.6% from 2022 to 2023. To make some comparisons, if you’re moving from San Francisco, California, your cost of living would decrease by about 9.5%. If you’re moving from Dallas, Texas, your cost of living would increase by about 70%.
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Best Brooklyn Neighborhoods Guide
It’s hard to say what exactly makes a neighborhood “better” than others, as it all depends on what you’re looking for. Most people moving to Brooklyn come in search of affordable housing (for the NYC area, anyway), safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities
With that in mind, here are some of the best Brooklyn neighborhoods based on those qualities.
Best Brooklyn Neighborhoods for Families
Cobble Hill
Cobble Hill brings together everything that’s important to families — not only is it very safe, but it’s extremely affordable compared to some neighborhoods with similar safety ratings. Cobble Hill is full of schools (especially preschools) and parks, in addition to grocery stores, bookstores, bakeries, and one of the most convenient movie theaters in the area. It’s adjacent to the waterfront, the ferry, and an incredible playground at Pier 6.
As of July 2023, the average rent for a 1-bedroom Cobble Hill apartment will set you back $3,400 a month — a 21% increase compared to the previous year.
Brooklyn Heights
Brooklyn Heights is a sprawling neighborhood full of stunning brownstones and spotted with gardens, playgrounds, dog parks, and athletic courts. This neighborhood is known for being popular with celebrities, and it’s easy to see why. The homes in Brooklyn Heights are absolutely stunning brownstones wrapped in ivy and plenty of Gothic Revival architecture.
The neighborhood’s east side runs along the scenic Brooklyn Promenade, plus it’s a relatively safe place to live. Dubbed “America’s original suburb,” this posh and trendy area offers its residents an interesting mix of community-focused and big-name businesses, not to mention the A-rated public and private schools.
All in all, Brooklyn Heights is a great place to raise a family — if you can afford it. As of August 2023, the average monthly rent in Brooklyn Heights is $3,700, 1% higher compared to the previous year.
Park Slope
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, Park Slope harmoniously blends urban vibrancy with small-town community charm. Its historic brownstones, tree-lined streets, and welcoming atmosphere define quintessential Brooklyn living — without all the late-night clamor.
One of the things that make Park Slope so desirable is its close proximity to hot spots like the Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Prospect Park (which has its very own lake!).For a night out on the town, locals need go no further than Park Slope’s very own 5th Avenue. It’s brimming with diverse local businesses, boutiques, and eateries, including local favorites like Haenyeo, Miriam, and Harlem Shake.
“For the last 30+ years, Dyker Heights locals have been constructing crowd-pleasing displays, attracting over 100,000 spectators each year.”
While people without children will undoubtedly enjoy living here, it’s definitely a parent’s paradise. Niche rated Park Slope the 8th best neighborhood in New York City to raise a family. The schools are above average, crime is low, and the area is extremely walkable. All these perks do come with a price, though. The average home value in Park Slope is $1.35 million and the average rent is $4,064 a month.
Special Note: While Park Slope has generally been considered one of the safer places to live in New York, at the beginning of 2023 the neighborhood saw a noted spike in thefts. Violent crime remains very low, but this recent increase in property crime is something that should be taken into account.
Cheapest Brooklyn Neighborhood
Looking to save a buck? Despite its popularity, Brooklyn still offers lower rents in several neighborhoods. Here are some of the cheapest Brooklyn neighborhoods as of July 2023.
Bay Ridge
Bay Ridge has long been considered one of the most affordable places to live in the borough — particularly because it’s located quite far from Manhattan and accessible primarily by one subway line (the R). But as of 2023, it snagged the title as the cheapest neighborhood in Brooklyn, with an average rent for a one-bedroom of $1,750. Studios came in at $1,600 and a three-bedroom came in at $3,200.
Bay Ridge was impacted by the housing crisis, much like the rest of NYC, but rent only increased an average of about $50 from 2022 to 2023.
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East Flatbush
The next cheapest rent in Brooklyn can be found in East Flatbush, at $2,200 for a one-bedroom (which is a $400 increase from 2022). By comparison, a studio sets you back $1,600 and a three-bedroom runs about $2,399.
While one of the less affluent areas of Brooklyn, the neighborhood offers lower crime rates than the city average, and is culturally rich, with a strong Caribbean heritage and historic landmarks.
Brighton Beach
If you’ve heard talk of Brighton Beach it was likely something about the Eastern European food or the literal beach itself. This neighborhood is bordered by Coney Island on the east, Manhattan Beach on the west, and the south features a relaxing boardwalk with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a very popular summer destination for tourists — with good reason!
If you get tired of relaxing on the beach, you can hit up the main shopping district on Brighton Beach Avenue, between Brighton 15th Street and Ocean Parkway. You’ll find pretty much anything you’re looking for here, from bakeries and sidewalk handbags to jewelry stores and boutiques.
“The cost of living in Brooklyn increased by 1.6% from 2022 to 2023. To make some comparisons, if you’re moving from San Francisco, California, your cost of living would decrease by about 9.5%.”
All of this is to say that Brighton Beach is a unique and fun place to call home in the great Borough of Brooklyn, with a relatively affordable average rent of just $2,498 a month. And it’s just a Q-train ride away from Manhattan.
Safest Brooklyn Neighborhoods
It’s not surprising that family-friendly neighborhoods Bay Ridge and Brooklyn Heights (covered above) top the list of the safest Brooklyn neighborhoods. Here are some others worthy of your consideration.
Dyker Heights
Dyker Heights is one of the safest neighborhoods in Brooklyn, with a total crime rate that’s 60% lower than the national average. Located in southwest Brooklyn, this area offers a close-knit neighborhood experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Locals enjoy outdoor escapes to McKinley Park (dog-friendly areas aplenty) and Dyker Beach Park (waterfront views, golf courses, multiple sports fields/courts). The dining scene is nothing to sneeze at either, with local gems like Mama Rao’s serving up delicious, authentic Italian fare and quick-bite favorites like Krispy Pizza.
“Since the end of the pandemic, people have been flocking to Brooklyn in large numbers — either to live, work, or visit — which has brought some neighborhoods back to life and transformed the flavor (and rent prices) of others.”
Ask any New Yorker about Dyker Heights and they’ll almost certainly mention its outrageous and stunning Christmas light displays. For the last 30+ years, Dyker Heights locals have been constructing crowd-pleasing displays, attracting over 100,000 spectators each year. Residents take immense pride in maintaining the neighborhood’s charming character, resulting in meticulously kept houses and beautifully landscaped streets.
The average rent in Dyker Heights is $1,750, and, according to a recent Zillow search, it’ll cost between $270K and $370K to purchase a one-bedroom condo. Larger homes will cost upwards of $500K (and into the millions).
Kensington
Kensington shines as a Brooklyn gem for many reasons. Safety takes center stage, with the total crime rate a remarkable 89% below the national average. Located in central Brooklyn, Kensington is just south of Prospect Park and the historic Green-Wood Cemetary. There are relatively few businesses in the area, but you can still get your foodie fix at local spots like Werkstatt, Thai Farm Kitchen, and Hamilton’s.
The neighborhood’s affordability and housing options further enhance its appeal. A one-bedroom apartment averages $1,994, and over half of the apartments fall between $1,000 and $2,000 monthly, making it budget-friendly. If you’d rather purchase than rent, you can acquire a studio for as little as $200K or a one-bedroom for between $300K and $500K. The most affordable 3-bedrooms available in Kensington start at $745K.
Moving to Brooklyn
Just like the City That Never Sleeps across the river, Brooklyn is defined by its ability to grow, adapt, and flourish — qualities also inherent in the people who live here. Whether you’re looking for a neighborhood to raise your family, save on housing costs, or feel safe and secure near the big city, we hope this guide helps you get there. Good luck with your move to our favorite borough and enjoy your adventures in Brooklyn!
Based on survey findings and Census data, around 26% of U.S. adults are “sandwiched” between taking care of their children and their aging parents
California is the state with the highest proportion of adults in the Sandwich Generation (39%), and Texas is in 2nd place with 33%
35% of Sandwich Generation adults support their parents financially, spend around $725/month, amounting to between 13% and 16% of their household income.
61% are concerned about the future and 50% worry about being able to continue to juggle supporting their parents and their children
Almost two-thirds (63%) of respondents in our survey are looking to either move in with their parents or have their parents move in with them in the next five years
Meet the Sandwich Generation — adults who are “sandwiched” between their aging parents and their children by having to financially support and/or care for both. According to our estimates, some 26% of American adults are part of the Sandwich Generation, which equates to about 67.8 million people.
Why do so many Americans find themselves in this living arrangement? It’s a mixture of both demographic and socio-economic factors:
Older Americans enjoy an increasing life expectancy, and more need support in their advanced age.
More people are choosing to have children later in life.
For this study, we surveyed 1,000 members of the Sandwich Generation to find out more about their family situation, the challenges they face, and their feelings about it. We also combined our findings with the U.S. Census Bureau data to estimate the number of people in the Sandwich Generation and how they’re spread across the United States.
Caught in the Middle: Demographics of the Sandwich Generation
Pew Research defines the Sandwich Generation as those who have both a living parent aged 65 or olderand at least one child who is either under 18 or an adult child who still needs financial support.
Based on the data from the Current Population Survey and our own survey that polled 1,000 members of the Sandwich Generation, we estimate that 26% of American adults (approximately 67.8 million people) are “sandwiched” between supporting both their children and their aging parents. This is up from 23% in 2022, as found by the Pew Research study.
“It’s worth pointing out that in Sandwich Generation families, care and support go both ways. Over half (57%) of Sandwich Generation adults are supported by their 65 or older parents socially, and 40% get help with kids.”
According to our survey, women make up the majority of the Sandwich Generation (58%), while men account for 42%. Age-wise, two-thirds (66%) of those in the Sandwich Generation are in their 30s or 40s.
Among those surveyed, 59% are supporting their parents aged 65+ and at least one child aged under 18, making it the most common variation of the family setup.
A further 17% have parents aged 65 or older and adult children living at home, while approximately 1 in 10 adults in the Sandwich Generation supports their 65+ parents and adult children who live separately.
There is also a minority (7%) of adults who not only support their parents aged 65 or older, but also have at least one child under 18 and a child aged 18 or older living with them.
Sandwiched in the Sun Belt: Mapping the Sandwich Generation
Even though the trends shaping the Sandwich Generation — such as the growing cost of living — apply to the whole of the U.S., there are certain regional differences in this demographic.
Based on the data from the combination of the Current Population Survey, the American Community Survey, and the survey we conducted, California has the highest proportion of Sandwich Generation adults in its population (39%).
There are four other states where that share is over 30% and they are Texas (33%), Nevada (31%), Mississippi (31%), and Arizona (31%).
State
Estimated % of adults in the Sandwich Generation
California
39%
Texas
33%
Mississippi
31%
Nevada
31%
Arizona
31%
Maryland
30%
Georgia
29%
New Mexico
29%
New York
29%
Florida
29%
One reason so many states in The Sun Belt make up the top ten is that these states have some of the highest average family sizes. Meaning that families in these states are more likely to have more children than families in other parts of the country.
That being said, the family size alone doesn’t explain why New York and Maryland make the top ten. Instead, what these states have in common is a high cost of living, which results in more young adults needing the financial support of their parents. According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, New York has the 5th highest cost of living of all states and Maryland is 7th highest in that ranking.
This brings us back to why California is the Sandwich Generation hotspot: it’s the state with the second-largest family size and the fourth-highest cost of living.
To see what percentage of adults are in the Sandwich Generation in your state, check our interactive map below.
Networks of Care: How Sandwich Generation Families Make it Work
As we have established above, being part of the Sandwich Generation generally means caring for and supporting your parents and children, and there are different ways individuals go about it.
“…59% of respondents agree that caring for their children and parents makes them feel fulfilled and invigorated.”
Among our survey participants, most support their aging parents socially (75%) and emotionally (68%). Nearly half (45%) support their aging parents financially (including housing), and 31% support their parents with acts of physical care, such as helping with medical needs or day-to-day activities.
Those supporting their parents financially spend an average of $725 per month on it, accounting for between 13% and 16% of their household income.
“I like being able to [take care of my parents],” said one of the Sandwich Generation adults we surveyed. “But my money is stretched out to the max”.
When it comes to caring about their adult children, emotional (45%) and financial support (39%) are the two most common ways adults in the Sandwich Generation help their kids.
Those supporting their adult children financially estimate their extra spending at an average of $567 per month, to the tune of 6% and 8% of the household income.
For some, continuously supporting their adult child is difficult. “I feel like it’s taking a toll on my mental and physical health…I’m still having to support my child that’s 18 or older knowing they can do good on their own,” one study participant wrote.
“I do wish my 20-year-old son was more independent,” wrote another.
It’s worth pointing out that in Sandwich Generation families, care and support go both ways. Over half (57%) of Sandwich Generation adults are supported by their 65 or older parents socially, and 40% get help with kids.
Over a quarter (26%) of respondents in our survey receive financial support from their parents aged 65 or older, and 16% get help with the chores around the house.
Parents’ Health and Children’s Future: What Worries the Sandwich Generation Adults
Thinking about the next five years, members of the Sandwich Generation are primarily concerned about their aging parents, namely their physical health (73%) and cognitive function (62%).
For some, that problem remains in the future, but it still plays on the minds of those in the Sandwich Generation. “I don’t yet care for my parents but worry about their changing needs as they age,” wrote one respondent to our survey.
On a related note, nearly half (45%) are worried about having to find a care facility and being able to afford their care.
And because they have other family members to take care of, half (50%) of those surveyed worry about being able to juggle caring for both parents and their own kids and family members.
Of those who have children under 18, 35% are concerned about not having enough money to support them. Around a quarter worried their kids won’t be able to find a job (27%) or get into college (23%) when they grow up.
A quarter of respondents (24%) worry about having to continually support their adult children financially. As one respondent said, “We’re still paying for college for our 21-year-old and we’ll be glad when he graduates.”
A further 15% worry their adult kids might move in with them. However, some are ready for this possibility and accept that may be necessary due to the broader situation in the country. “I’ll do what I need to do to help my babies,” said one adult in the Sandwich Generation we surveyed.
“The kids need help though because the economy sucks,” admitted another.
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Moving to Care: How Sandwich Generation Plans for Future Care Arrangements
Speaking of moving, almost two-thirds (63%) of Sandwich Generation members in our survey anticipate that either they or their parents will move in the next five years to be closer to each other.
More than a quarter (26%) of the Sandwich Generation adults are considering moving their parents closer to them to better be able to give them the care they need. 24% are thinking about their parent(s) moving in with them, including 18% of those for whom it’d mean moving their parents across state lines.
“It’s going to be a bit of a struggle I already foresee this,” one of the respondents noted. “However, they are my parents and were there for me as I grew into an adult so I shall be there for them.“
Almost 1 in 5 (18%) are thinking about finding a care facility for their aging parents to move to, and as many as 12% are prepared to move in with their parents to care for them.
Miranda Marquit, a Consumer Advocate at HireAHelper and a member of the Sandwich Generation herself, recommends starting conversations with parents about their care sooner rather than later:
“It may be awkward and difficult to talk to your parents about care arrangements they don’t need yet, but…[h]aving a plan for their care helps bring everyone on the same page. It helps you, your parents, and other family members prepare for it mentally, emotionally, and financially. And even if you had this conversation once, it’s worth revisiting after a period of time, or if someone’s health, work, or financial circumstances have changed.”
Care for parents isn’t the only factor driving potential moving intentions among people in the Sandwich Generation. Around1 in 10 (11%) anticipate their aging parents moving in to save money on housing, while 8% might need their parents to help take care of children.
And while for some having family move in is hard to imagine, others are keen to take it on. As one of our study participants said, “I want to do what I can to help my family. I would move all my family in here if I have to. It’s not a burden at all!”
“Rewarding but Tiring”: What It’s Like To Be in the Sandwich Generation
Much like their family status, the experience of being in the Sandwich Generation is, for lack of a better word, complicated.
On one hand, most (61%) of the Sandwich Generation members we surveyed feel anxious and concerned about the future. “It is exhausting. I never know which direction I’m being pulled in. It is a daily struggle,” one of our survey respondents said.
Then, there is the cost of caring for two generations of family members. Almost half (46%) of those we surveyed reported their financial situation getting worse, with around one-third reporting sacrificing their retirement savings in order to financially support their children or parents.
Also among the negatives is the effect on psychological well-being. Around 41% of our survey respondents said having to support both their children and parents had a negative impact on their mental health. Around a quarter said their social life (28%) or work (23%) have suffered.
But there are positives, too. Almost a third of Sandwich Generation members we surveyed (31%) believe their “sandwiched” status made their family life better, and 28% note a positive effect on their overall well-being.
“…women make up the majority of the Sandwich Generation (58%), while men account for 42%. Age-wise, two-thirds (66%) of those in the Sandwich Generation are in their 30s or 40s.”
Finally, despite the amount of time, money, and effort it takes to care for their family, it’s part of what fills the lives of those in the Sandwich Generation with meaning.
“I feel happy caring for both my parent and my children, because I feel the love of having a family,” one of our study participants wrote. Sure enough, 59% of respondents agree that caring for their children and parents makes them feel fulfilled and invigorated.
Sources and Methodology
All data, unless otherwise stated, have been derived from the findings of the survey HireAHelper ran via Pollfish in August 2023.
The survey used a sample of 1,000 adults (18+) living in the United States, who fall under the definition of being in the “Sandwich Generation”:
Having at least one living parent aged 65 or older
AND
Having a child under 18, or a child over 18 who lives with them or whom they support financially
Survey results were weighted by age, gender, and income using data extracted from the American Community Survey’s five-year data, collected from ~120,000 households.
The overall percentage of adults in the Sandwich Generation was determined based on the percentage of adults in the representative sample of adults in the U.S. who satisfy the screening criteria to qualify as being part of the Sandwich Generation.
The percentage of adults in the Sandwich Generation in each state was estimated using:
593 (~9%) of America’s corporations moved headquarters since the beginning of 2022, the highest rate since 2017
29% more companies moved their HQs in 2022-23 than in the previous fiscal year
20% of corporate relocations happened within the same city; 31% moved to a different city within the same state
62% of corporations moved to a city with a smaller population
According to our survey, 72% of people would be prepared to move with their employer, provided relocation costs were covered
Almost half (44%) of our survey respondents would be willing to follow their employer to a different state
Whether to cut costs, gain a more beneficial tax rate, or be closer to a target market, about 9% of corporations in the United States moved their headquarters within the past fiscal year — the highest percentage since 2016-17, according to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings.
States like New York and cities like Seattle are seeing corporate headquarters move away, while smaller cities outside large urban centers are becoming new homes to big companies in tech and pharmaceuticals.
Our study breaks down where companies are moving to, which states and cities they’re leaving behind, and whether workers are on board with following their employer to their new HQ location.
On the Move: Corporate Relocation Rate Highest in Seven Years
According to the most recent SEC figures, 593 (or 8.9%) of the roughly 6,700 publicly traded corporations in America moved their HQs in the past fiscal year (i.e., March 2022-March 2023).
2022-2023 had the highest rate of corporate headquarters relocation in seven years, and it’s been on the rise since it took a dip to below 7% in 2020 (likely due to the pandemic).
Comparing the absolute number of companies moving their offices year-over-year, the 593 corporations moving HQs in 2022-23 represents a 29% growth over the fewer number of companies (458) that relocated in 2021-22.
It is also the highest year-over-year bounce in a decade, besting even the post-pandemic return to activity in 2021-22. That was a banner year, where the number of corporations relocating their HQs went up by 25%.
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Top States
Florida for the Win: Which states are corporations moving to?
Not only are corporates moving in high numbers, but as many as 24% of those that moved chose to relocate their headquarters to a different state entirely. Here’s the breakdown.
Florida had 86% more corporations move their HQ there, compared to the number of companies that chose to move their head office out of Florida — the highest net gain of any state!
Texas, the state that in the last year has officially moved their welcomed Hewlett-Packard and Caterpillar Inc, among other companies, saw the second highest net gain (71%).
Two other states had notably strong showings, Arizona (+65%) and Utah (+57%), both saw very impressive growth in the number of HQs of America’s corporations they now host.
Which states are corporations leaving?
Office moving trends appear to be relatively similar to individual people’s moving trends, at least in the sense that leaving places like New York and California is a popular idea.
The state that corporations were most likely to abandon was, surprisingly, Washington, with 83% more companies leaving it than moving in. Notable departures include media company Arena Group, and Clearsign Technologies, a developer of emission control solutions.
New York (-51%) and California (-46%) aren’t far behind Washington, ranking second and third among the states that lost the most corporate HQs, respectively.
Among the companies that left New York are Philip Morris International and the financial firm Assurant, Inc. California’s noteworthy departures include the coworking space giant WeWork and clinical nutrition company Guardion Health Sciences.
Location-based Insights
Florida (+86%) and Texas (+71%) are the states with the greatest net gain of corporate headquarters in the past year
Washington (-83%) registered the highest net loss of corporate HQs since the start of 2022
Waltham, MA (+175%), Burlington, MA (+133%), and Spring, TX (+100%) had the most corporate move-ins, compared to the number of those moving out
Cambridge, MA (-40%), Seattle, WA (-37%), and San Jose, CA (-25%) are the cities with the largest net losses of corporate HQs in the past year
Top Cities
Going East: Which cities are corporations moving to?
When it comes to specific destinations for corporates looking for a new HQ, Waltham, MA saw the highest corporate net growth across cities over the past fiscal year (+175%). (Five companies moved to this relatively small city on the outskirts of Boston, and not a single one left.)
Noteworthy new corporate residents of Waltham, MA include biotech and pharmaceutical firms such as Cogent Biosciences and CinCor Pharma.
Burlington, MA (+133%) and Spring, TX (+100%) are second and third in growth, respectively. Burlington’s newly headquartered corporations are software companies and biotech firms, while Spring, TX is where Hewlett-Packard moved their headquarters in a widely publicized move.
Meanwhile, three cities in Florida are among the 10 with the highest net gains: Jacksonville, FL (+67%), Tampa, FL (+49%), and Miami, FL (+33%).
Which cities are corporations leaving?
Unexpectedly, the city that lost the most corporate HQs compared to the number it gained is Cambridge, MA(-40%).
“Not only are corporates moving in high numbers, but as many as 24% of those that moved chose to relocate their headquarters to a different state entirely.”
Just beneath Cambridge, Seattle (-37.5%), as well as multiple cities in the Bay Area of California, lost multiple company headquarters over the past fiscal year compared to the number they gained. New York City (-13.4% ) also makes an appearance in the 12th spot.
It is worth noting that despite the net losses, dozens of companies still established their new headquartered in New York City within the past year, as well as in other net loss cities, like San Jose and San Francisco.
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Top Potential Reasons for HQ Relocations: Lower Taxes, Lower Rent
Based on our most recent moving study, Americans mostly move for new or better housing, or for a new job. But what are the main reasons behind corporate relocations?
One commonly presumed reason is the desire to cut costs, which can mean moving to areas where taxes are lower. This might explain why Florida and Nevada are seeing more corporations move in versus out.
Of note, the Tax Foundation’s 2023 State Business Tax Climate Indexmeasures, among other things, how burdensome state taxes are on businesses. It lists Florida and Nevada among the 10 least tax-burdened states. Meanwhile, Texas — a state without a corporate tax — is not too far behind in 12th place.
“Assuming moving costs are covered, over 72% of respondents in a nationally representative survey HireAHelper conducted earlier this month said they’d be ready and willing to move with their employer.”
Another reason for corporate relocation is that the cost of office space is too high. Looking at office rent levels across the country, most cities that registered net losses of corporate HQs (e.g., New York City and San Jose) are among the most expensive for business rental costs.
The cost of office space is a problem that’s also been exacerbated by the rise of remote work in the pandemic years. America’s biggest cities continue to struggle with high office vacancy rates, as companies remain remote, or adopt a hybrid work arrangement.
In support of this trend, our analysis of 2022-23 SEC filings showed that 62% of corporates that relocated their HQ in the past year moved to cities with smaller populations, and in turn, more affordable rental rates.
Employee Perspectives: Most Americans Willing To Move with Employer
It’s sensible for corporations to seek better fiscal conditions for their business. But what about the employees that get caught up in corporate relocations and transfers?
We may not know what percentage of employees are forced to relocate when a corporation moves its HQ, but we do have data that suggests a significant percentage of employees would be willing to move for work.
Assuming moving costs are covered, over 72% of respondents in a nationally representative survey HireAHelper conducted earlier this month said they’d be ready and willing to move with their employer. Surprisingly enough, ~27% would be willing to move to a “nearby” state, and almost one in five (~17%) said they would consider traveling with their employer across the country.
On the whole, willingness to relocate with the employer reportedly decreases with age; Gen Y/Millennials (~78%), are more likely to move with their employer than Gen Z (~74%).
Curiously enough, it’s actually Gen X that seems most amenable to moving to a different state on the other side of the country (~21% of Gen X respondents, compared to ~19% of Millennials and ~15% of Gen Z members.).
Having children doesn’t appear to dramatically affect the desire to follow the employer’s move, either. Over 75% of Parents would be prepared to make a move for their company, provided relocation costs were covered, which is actually more than the 69% of Non-Parents who said they were willing to move with the company they worked for.
People of Color (~78%) are more likely to consider such a move than White Americans (69%), with ~31% of people of color saying they would be prepared to move to a state in a different part of the country, compared to ~25% of white Americans.
Headquarters location was taken as the “business address” field of each company’s filing and each change in the business address of the company was counted as a move of their headquarters.
The annual HQ moving rate in a given year was calculated as the number of companies that changed address compared to the total number of companies that had filed with the SEC in that year, expressed as a percentage.
As per the disclaimer issued by the SEC regarding this data: “The Financial Statement Data Sets contain information derived from structured data filed with the Commission by individual registrants as well as Commission-generated filing identifiers. Because the data sets are derived from information provided by individual registrants, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the data sets. In addition, it is possible inaccuracies or other errors were introduced into the data sets during the process of extracting the data and compiling the data sets.“
Only companies based in the United States were included in the analysis.
The Freedom Tower. The Statue of Liberty. The City That Never Sleeps. Such are the images of possibility and promise that New York evokes.
At the same time, the state’s many strict and sometimes convoluted laws can turn your east coast dream into a nightmare in (ahem) a New York minute. To help you move to the Empire State with confidence—and without legal troubles—take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with what you can (and can’t) transport into your new home state.
New York Alcohol Laws
Generally, there are no prohibitions against transporting alcohol into New York state for your personal use. The thing to note here is that open containers are illegal in New York if they are anywhere within reach of the driver’s seat. This includes in the hands (or in the laps, or under the feet) of other passengers.
What counts as an “open container”?
A container does not have to be open to being deemed “an open container”; a bottle that has been opened is an open container, even if the cap has been screwed tightly back on. On top of this, it doesn’t matter if the vehicle is moving or parked—the law applies at all times on all public roads (and parking lots).
Open containers are only legal to have in your vehicle if they are in the trunk or, if there’s no trunk, back behind the seat furthest from the driver. As an extra tip, we’d advise not even having an empty container in your vehicle, as that can be enough for a police officer to start asking questions and possibly perform a full DWI investigation, which is no fun even if you are sober.
New York Animal and Pet Laws
Like most (if not all) states, New York requires a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) for all dogs and cats brought into New York.
According to the state’s website, your pet’s CVI must be issued within 30 days prior to entry into New York. When applicable, your CVI must also include rabies vaccination information. In addition, New York state requires your dog or dogs to be licensed “immediately” with your local municipality.
Be aware that laws can differ between New York City and the rest of the state. For an exhaustive list of animals illegal to be kept as pets in New York state, check out this 25-page pdf produced by the New York Department of Agriculture. (More than half the list consists of a massive number of monkeys and snakes.)
Some highlights of animals not allowed in New York include:
Black spider monkey
Tiger
Leopard
Coyote
Giant panda
King cobra
Swamp crocodile
If you have a question about your particular pet, including your pet giant panda, contact the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets here.
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New York Firearm and Gun Laws (and Permits)
While laws can vary to some degree across the state, New York is known for having the strictest gun laws in the U.S.
Moving to New York with a gun can be tricky. If you have a permit to carry in your original state, you’ll have a grace period once arriving in New York state to obtain a New York state permit for your handgun, rifle, or long gun. But if you are moving to New York City, there is no grace period for weapons.
In other words, you cannot legally bring your gun with you when you move to New York City.
New York Gun Permits (two permits are required in New York City)
Handguns and items that fall under the broad definition of “assault weapon” (as defined in the NY SAFE Act) are illegal to carry in New York without a permit. See that link for more details.
Specifically, in New York City, a special city permit is required on top of the state-issued permit to possess ANY kind of firearm. Long guns and rifles fall under a separate category and are, in some parts of the state, less tightly controlled. Unlike with handguns, it is actually legal to open carry a long gun in New York (though you still need a permit).
You’ll have to store it somewhere, surrender it to the authorities in advance of your move, or transfer it to someone who can legally hold onto it while you work through the process of obtaining a license to possess or purchase a handgun.
“…if you are moving to New York City, there is no grace period for weapons. In other words, you cannot legally bring your gun with you when you move to New York City.”
What is important to know if you are moving to New York is that the state does not necessarily recognize permits or licenses issued in otherstates. In other words, depending on your gun and your situation, New York may not care what sort of legal permission you have from your home state and declare that you are in violation of New York state or City firearms laws.
One exception is if you are legally licensed in your home state and are just passing through New York en route to another state where your firearm is legal and your permit or license valid. Even then your firearm must be unloaded and, separately from your ammunition, locked, and out of reach.
Once again, the above applies to New York state. In New York City, mere possession of a firearm requires a city-issued permit, even if you are just passing through. We suggest taking the long way around. Traffic is terrible anyway.
What’s the penalty for bringing a gun to New York?
In New York, gun-related offenses can rank anywhere from a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1-year imprisonment and up to a $1,000 fine, to a class B felony, punishable by up to 25 years imprisonment.
New York Penal Code Section 265.00 and Section 400.00, along with all articles contained within, cover all you need to know. If you still aren’t completely sure how to navigate this sea of laws and you just have to bring your gun, contact the police or sheriff’s department in your new home county/municipality. If that doesn’t help you sleep better at night, get some quality legal advice. It’s better—and probably cheaper—than facing a weapons charge.
What other weapons are illegal in New York?
Aside from firearms, New York also has laws prohibiting owning other kinds of weapons.
Illegal weapons without a license
Illegal weapons in any circumstance
BB guns
Stun guns
Throwing stars (also known as Chinese stars and shuriken)
Paintball guns
Switchblades
Various kinds of knuckles and clubs
Pellet guns
Nunchucks
Slingshots
However, in 2019, the ban on certain of these, notably stun guns, tasers and nunchucks, was determined by the federal court to be unconstitutional. Yet the ban is, at the moment, still on the books. You may find resources asserting that stun guns, tasers, and nunchucks are legal in New York City, but the issue still seems to be unresolved. We suggest erring on the side of caution.
What about knives?
New York laws concerning knives are as convoluted as those pertaining to guns. State Penal Code Section 265 defines certain knives that are illegal, but in Section 265.01, it is stated that possession of “any dagger, dangerous knife…or undetectable knife with intent to use the same unlawfully against another” constitutes criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. (That’s not a good thing.)
The American Knife and Tool Institute gives a rundown of New York statutes regarding knives with several real scenarios to illustrate how the laws have played out. Of course, this all pertains to people already in New York. For someone like yourself, hauling your stuff into the state in your car or on a rental truck, just having that illegal knife or billy club may be enough to get you into hot water.
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New York Plants and Produce Laws
House plants are generally not a concern when moving to New York, unlike many other states. But there are a whole host of plants that New York regulates, or even outright bans.
“Prohibited invasive species cannot be knowingly possessed with the intent to sell, import, purchase, transport or introduce. In addition, no person shall sell, import, purchase, transport, introduce or propagate prohibited invasive species.”
Regulated plants
New York defines “regulated plants” as:
“…species which cannot be knowingly introduced into a free-living state, or introduced by a means that one should have known would lead to such an introduction, although such species shall be legal to possess, sell, buy, propagate and transport.”
TERRESTRIAL PLANTS
PROHIBITED
REGULATED
Amur Cork Tree
Fly Honeysuckle
Mile-a-minute Weed
Black Locust
Amur Honeysuckle
Garden Loosestrife
Morrow’s Honeysuckle
Burning Bush
Autumn Olive
Garlic Mustard
Mugwort
Chinese Silver Grass
Beach Vitex
Giant Hogweed
Multifora Rose
Japanese Virgin’s Bower
Black Swallow-wort
Giant Knotweed
Narrowleaf Bittercress
Norway Maple Acer
Bohemian Knotweed
Golden Bamboo
Oriental Bittersweet
Winter Creeper
Border Privet
Gray Florist’s Willow
Pale Swallow-wort
Broad-leaved Pepper-grass
Japanese Angelica Tree
Porcelain Berry
Canada Thistle
Japanese Barberry
Slender False Brome
Lepidium latifolium
Japanese Chaff Flower
Small Carpetgrass
Chinese Lespedeza
Japanese Honeysuckle
Spotted Knapweed
Chinese Yam
Japanese Hops
Sycamore Maple
Cogon Grass
Japanese Knotweed
Tartarian Honeysuckle
Common Buckthorn
Japanese Stilt Grass
Wavyleaf Basketgrass
Cup-plant
Kudzu
Wild Chervil
Cut-leaf Teasel
Leafy Spurge
Wineberry Rubus
Cypress Spurge
Lesser Celandine
Yellow Groove Bamboo
WETLAND PLANTS
AQUATIC PLANTS
PROHIBITED
PROHIBITED
Common Reed Grass
Brazilian Waterweed
Marsh Dewfower
Broadleaf Water-milfoil Hybrid
Purple Loosestrife
Curly Pondweed
Reed Manna Grass
Eurasian Water-milfoil
Yellow Iris
Fanwort
Floating Primrose Willow
Frogbit
Hydrilla/Water Thyme
Parrot-feather
Why are some plants illegal in New York?
Grapes are a vital component of New York’s economy, so protecting them is critical. Any part of a grapevine or plant (aside from the fruit itself), if infested, can cause catastrophe to the grape and wine industry.
The same goes for other fruit-bearing plants, which can harbor invasive and/or destructive pests. If you need to bring such plant material into the state, each item must be accompanied by a certificate of inspection from your state of origin verifying that it is all disease and pest-free.
While there may be no legal requirement to have your house plants inspected and certified, it is a great (and shall we add noble) idea to inspect your plants for any signs of pests. And that includes eggs and anything else pests can leave behind. Make sure your plants are sitting in pest- and disease-free soil. (For the same reason, please leave your firewood and scrap lumber behind.)
Yes. In March of 2021, New York state passed a law decriminalizing marijuana—but to a degree.
It is now legal in New York to possess up to three ounces of marijuana outside of one’s residence, and up to five pounds of marijuana in one’s home. But it is also, as of this writing, still illegal to sell marijuana.
On top of this, laws detailing the legal limits of owning and growing marijuana plants, as well as selling and distributing marijuana, have not yet been worked out, and will take time to implement once they are.
But all this only matters once you are physically inside New York, because federal law still prohibits carrying marijuana across state lines! Doing so opens you up to the possibility of drug trafficking charges. So unless and until this changes, you’ll want to leave mary jane behind with your friends.
To read more about traveling with weed anywhere in the country, click here.
“It’s Up To You, New York, New York*”
When it comes to the laws regarding transporting weapons, animals, and plants, the safest route to take by far is simply not to have no weapons and nothing exotic in your possession when you enter New York.
We hope the above helps shed some light on this murky subject, but please, do not take any chances. Go directly to the New York State or NYC authorities—before you arrive—if you are not entirely certain of the legality of your situation. Get expert advice. Protect yourself.
You’ve got a world of possibility and promise waiting.
*Lyrics made famous by Frank Sinatra, native of New Jersey
In February 2019 I’d been living in New York for a decade. I had vague, hazy plans to consider a move to the west coast in the next three to five years, but had done zero planning about how to make that happen.
Then, on the first of the month, my boyfriend was offered his dream job in Los Angeles, with a proposed start date of March 1st. That gave us just four weeks to break our lease, pack up our entire lives, make the cross-country move, and find an apartment in an unfamiliar city. Yikes.
Where do I even start with my whirlwind NYC to LA move?
It was an intimidating proposition, made even more so by the fact that I couldn’t find any published resources to help guide the way. Luckily, my partner and I are both writers and performers, so there were a lot of people in our community who’d made that same move. (It’s super common for creatives on one coast to get cast or staffed on a show on the other, and have just weeks or even days to show up on site.)
Through a combination of their recommendations and my own frantic research, I was able to cobble together a plan for how to do the long distance move from NYC to LA that went off without a hitch… and then I wrote it all down.
Month 1: Leaving New York
Day 1: Book your movers ASAP (they get booked fast)
Your very first call should be to a moving company, because long-distance mover slots book up lightning fast. Come in with as wide a range of possible moving dates as you can—shoot for three to five days—that flexibility will make it more likely that you’ll be able to snag your first choice.
Our first choice was a business called Oz Moving & Storage, a company offering residential, commercial, and long-distance moves in three states: New York, New Jersey, and California. (But of course, you can check a mover marketplace like HireAHelper.com to find a company that works for you.) Not only did Oz come highly recommended by friends who’d used them, but the company offered a service that seemed tailor-made for our situation: the ability to book without an existing address on the LA end, plus 30 days of free storage.
Oz quoted me a price of $1954.59 to move our one-bedroom just under 3,000 miles (this is not a bad deal for a coast to coast move), and I put down my $50 deposit to reserve an appointment. Then I moved on to the next item on my list, ready to build out the rest of my schedule around that tentpole.
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Day 1-5: Get your plane ticket
Now that your stuff has a way to get to LA, you should probably find a way to get your body there as well.
We’d toyed with the idea of driving for our cross-country move, but ultimately opted to fly so we’d have more time to apartment hunt on the other end. Also, like most New Yorkers, we didn’t have a car, which both complicated and eased our travel arrangements.
Once we’d booked a flight—scheduling it for well into the afternoon, since our movers were set to arrive in the morning—we looked for a short term Airbnb in LA. We booked an affordable spot for five days up front, and confirmed with our host that she’d be open to us extending our stay if we didn’t find an apartment during that time.
Day 1-5: (Gently) break your lease
Ideally, your lease is ending organically, or you’re in a month-to-month situation, but if you’re not and don’t want to pay a penalty, your best bet is to drop the news on your landlord as soon as possible. The sooner the unit is filled after your departure, the less likely it is that you’ll have to pay any kind of penalty for bailing out early. In our case, avoiding getting dinged came down to flexibility… and a tremendous amount of luck.
“Your very first call should be to a moving company, because long-distance mover slots book up lightning fast.”
Moments after we spoke to our landlord, he ran into our downstairs neighbor, who happened to have a friend looking for a spot. She shot some video of our space, and he asked if he could come by to view the place before a scheduled trip took him out of town. He committed to taking the place on the spot.
With a move-in date of March 1st, the apartment wouldn’t sit empty for a single day, so we didn’t have to pay a penalty, and got back every dollar of our deposit. Phew!
Day 5-infinity: Spend as much time as you want apartment-browsing online, but don’t sign anything
You’ll notice that I haven’t said anything about trying to lock down an apartment in advance, and the reason for that is —I didn’t do it, and I don’t want you to either.
Here’s why: for those of us who have lived in New York City for any length of time, the rental market has broken our brains. This is a fact. But the Los Angeles market isn’t nearly as competitive, so signing an LA lease sight unseen is setting yourself up for a scam or a disappointment.
For example, one of my friends lined up a gorgeous one-bedroom in advance, only to discover a cockroach infestation that necessitated a quick move-out. I was also shown quite a few listings that were priced higher online than the number I was quoted in person. It seems many agencies are well aware that out-of-towners are eager to get everything nailed down in advance, and some take advantage by increasing the rent on online listings to see what they can get away with!
Also, final note: the LA apartment we ended up renting was one I’d seen a listing for in advance and hadn’t even bothered saving. But I had a totally different reaction when I saw it in person, so please don’t stress too hard if you’re not seeing anything that grabs you.
Day 10: Sell any big-ticket items you’re not in love with
The price of a long-distance move has everything to do with the amount of boxes and larger furniture pieces you’re bringing, so make your choices wisely. Anything that doesn’t fall into the must-have category can go up on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, where the profits from its sale can go toward your moving costs.
Neither of us was completely enamored with our couch, so we sold it in New York — for almost as much as it had cost in the first place. And since we had a connection to the guy who was moving into our place, I took photos and wrote detailed descriptions of all the furniture we weren’t bringing with us, in hopes he might want to buy some of it. It was a time-consuming process, but the new tenant wound up wanting almost all of it! He Venmoed us $1,100 for the pieces he was interested in, which made it well worth the effort.
Day 14: Start packing up your New York apartment
My personal feeling is it’s never too early to start packing, but I’d say make sure you’ve begun in earnest by the time your move date is two weeks out. Don’t seal up the boxes until Day 25 or so, but you can start filling them now with items you don’t use on a regular basis, making sure to label the boxes carefully and avoid overloading them.
Day 28: Bring your freaking sheets with you
Since we’d have to go without the majority of our stuff for weeks as we waited for the rest of our stuff to arrive, I made sure to leave space for daily items in our checked luggage. For us, that list included a few kitchen supplies, toiletries, our electronics, and was missing one big item: bed linens.
We’d always planned to purchase an air mattress before our first night in our new apartment, but for some reason, we hadn’t considered what we’d sleep under. We spent a few embarrassing, shivery nights swaddled in coats and towels before a lovely friend took pity on us and brought over some sheets, pillows, and a comforter.
Month 2: Okay, You’re in LA. Now What?
Congratulations! Your feet are on the ground in Los Angeles, and the settling in has begun. (This is the easy part, I promise.)
Day 1-5: Stretch your apartment-hunting legs (literally)
The advice we heard over and over again was simple: walk the streets looking for “FOR RENT” signs. Once you find one, call the number listed and cross your fingers you get to talk to a real person, who will either schedule an appointment or come show you the place right then.
“To get a moving permit, Los Angeles City residents can call (213) 485-2298 with at least five days’ notice—be prepared to pay around $50.”
We got started in West Hollywood, because it was walkable to my boyfriend’s new job, and set our sights on a one-bedroom for $2,000 or less. I’d learned from my research that that would be a tough ask, and one agent actually laughed in our faces as she showed us a unit, but I figured we could afford to be a little picky since this was our first day looking. That mindset paid off when just down the block from that giggly agent, we found the perfect spot on our very first day looking: an adorable one-bedroom for just $1,750.
We applied on the spot and were approved, our new building manager eyeing us nervously as we sweatily raced through the application, desperate to protect this apartment from the hordes of prospective renters we were certain were on our tail. (We saw no one all day, our brains are very sick.)
Day 5: Give your address to your moving company
Once you have keys in hand, it’s time to inform the moving company (or whoever you’re storing your stuff with) of your new address, which in our case also triggered the next phase of our move. Oz would be moving our boxes from New York storage and onto the truck any day now, which opened a 14-day window during which we could expect to receive our items.
Day 15: Get a moving permit, ideally for the correct city
As the time got closer, we heard from Oz again, with informative emails narrowing down the delivery window to a certain day, and noting that we’d likely need a moving permit.
To get a moving permit, Los Angeles City residents can call (213) 485-2298 with at least five days’ notice—be prepared to pay around $50. (For West Hollywood residents, the number is (323) 848-6392, and charges start at $10 and go up to $35 depending on the specifics of your move.)
Just for fun, try knowing what city you live in beforeyou get a permit. I called LA instead of WeHo, and they got all the way out to our block before realizing that we were outside the LA City limits. They refunded my money, but I had to start over with WeHo with not enough time before the deadline, which was nice and stressful. (Thankfully, everything ultimately worked out.)
Day 15: Ask your landlord whether your new building requires a Certificate of Insurance (COI)
This was a new concept to me. Oz noted in an email that if our building required one, they’d be happy to provide it, but that didn’t turn out to be necessary at our location.
I wish my fridge looked this cool.
Day 15: Be aware that for some bizarre reason, your apartment might not come with a fridge
I know. This is a very weird one. Our apartment did come with a fridge. And we were warned that plenty don’t. If yours doesn’t, don’t worry—there’s apparently a thriving market for secondhand fridges in and around LA. If you need one, consider planning its arrival for the day the rest of your stuff arrives, so you don’t have to lug it into your apartment solo. (Remembering to check with your movers to make sure that’s an okay task to add, of course.)
Day 366: Note that your lease will likely transition to month-to-month after a year
Apparently, this is the case in other cities as well, but since I’d been in a rent-stabilized unit for most of my time in New York, I wasn’t aware. After your first year in many LA apartments, your lease will switch over to a month-to-month situation.
And that’s a wrap on that—you’re officially an Angeleno! Who knows if the time will ever come when I need to attempt this long distance move in reverse, but if it does, I feel much more prepared now than I did the first time around.
Homebodies of Michigan: 77% of people living in Michigan were born there
Only 25% of people living in Nevada were born in Nevada, 19% were born in California
14% of the Oregonian population are actually from California
People born in New York state account for 8% of Florida’s population
A quarter (25%) of Miami residents are from Cuba
52% of New Yorkers were born outside the state of New York
28% of Miami residents who were born elsewhere are under 24
Americans move around a lot. Less than in years and decades, as we’ve noted in our studies, but millions of Americans move every year.
Whether it’s chasing dreams in New York City or LA, chasing the sun in Phoenix or Miami, or craving a change of pace in Seattle or Austin – many of us end up living in places far from places where we were born.
In this post, we look at the U.S. states and cities to see where their residents are from. Which cities have the most diverse populations? Which states the most residents from neighboring states, and which are top destinations for expats from overseas?
Read on below to find out.
Born and Raised: Proud ‘Michiganers’ and More
Before we get into the cities, let’s have a quick look at the states. For most states, it is true that the lion’s share of the population was born in that state. The state that houses the highest percentage of its original residents is Michigan, with 77%. The lowest? It’s Nevada, where only 25% of the current population were born in Nevada.
Interestingly enough, it’s these states in the Midwest and around the Great Lakes that have the highest proportion of people born in them who still live there. Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin—over 70% of people living in these states never left them.
The curious exception to this rule is Louisiana, where only 24% of the population were born outside the Bayou State.
New Yorkers in California, Californians in Texas
Things get more interesting when we look at the people born outside the states they live in.
California might be a dream destination for many people in the U.S. and beyond, but boy do Californians get around. Not only were 19% of Nevada’s residents born in the Golden State, so were 14% inside Oregon, 10% in Idaho, and 9% in the state of Washington. Even 3% of all Texans were born in California.
“…it’s these states in the Midwest and around the Great Lakes that have the highest proportion of people born in them who still live there: Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin—over 70% of people living in these states never left them.”
But it’s not just Californians that like to settle outside their home state. New Yorkers have been up and down the East Coast: 11% of people in the neighboring New Jersey were born in the Empire State, as were 10% of those living in Connecticut, 8% of those in Florida. Enough New Yorkers have made it to the West Coast that 2% of California’s population are from New York, making it the largest out-of-state diaspora in the state.
Elsewhere, born-and-bred Texans, regardless of whether they were born in Dallas or San Antonio, have a strong presence in the four states Texas borders, just like those from the state of Illinois, who successfully settled just outside the border of their own state.
Breaking Down Cities: Where Are New Yorkers Actually From?
Now that we’ve looked at the states, let’s turn to the cities. We looked at ten of the biggest cities across the country to get a sense of just how many people from all over the country and the world they bring together.
Looking at the most obvious example of a global metropolis that is New York City, you might be surprised to find out that 48% of people living in NYC are from the state of New York, with the total share of U.S.-born population at 59%.
About 15% of New York City residents are from other countries in North America—DR and Jamaica being top countries representing the regions, while 12% are from Asia with 4.4% from China.
Just under 7% of New Yorkers were born in Europe, and there’s a clear Slavic bias there with three of the top four countries being Russia, Ukraine, and Poland.
We Love LA!
Across the country on the West Coast, the picture for Los Angeles is both different and similar to that of NYC. The overwhelming majority of the LA residents are American-born (62%), with 45% being born in the Golden State itself.
However, the breakdown of overseas residents is entirely different. Where New York is dominated by the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, more people in LA hail from Mexico and El Salvador. Where most Asian-born New Yorkers are from China, in Los Angeles, they originate from the Philippines and Korea.
The share of European expats in LA is half that of New York City – only 3.5% – with the biggest diaspora hailing from Armenia.
Miami, the Melting Pot City
The one big city with a starkly different picture of its population is Miami, FL. Not only do as many as 44% of its residents come from abroad, a quarter of them (25%) hail from Cuba.
“The state that houses the highest percentage of its original residents is Michigan, with 77%. The lowest? It’s Nevada, where only 25% of the current population were born in Nevada.”
Slightly more (28%) were born in Florida itself, with a share of all American-born residents at 41%. Where South American-born residents were much more of a rarity in the likes of NYC and LA, as many as one in ten people in Miami were born on that continent.
Expats from Europe make up 3% of Miami’s population, but note that most Europeans in Miami are from Spain. Asian-born residents barely register 1%.
Check our interactive chart below to find out how the population of other big US cities breaks down by their place of birth.
What Age to Move
Miami’s Cuban heritage isn’t the only thing that makes it stand out. Unlike many of the biggest cities in the United States, over a quarter of people moving there (28%) are in their teens and early twenties.
For cities like Boston, DC, and Philadelphia, the majority of people (over 50%) who were born elsewhere are Millennials, i.e., those who in 2020 are between the ages of 29 and 34.
Surprisingly enough, out-of-state movers to NYC, San Francisco, LA are overwhelmingly in their forties and early fifties.
Nearly 93% of people who moved to LA from outside of California were Gen X’ers, as are 83% of people in San Francisco. For New York City, Gen X’ers accounted for almost two-thirds (65%) of all residents born out-of-state.
These stats mean one of two things: either people who have moved to these cities moved a long time ago, or that people are moving to these cities when they’re much older and have the means to do it. Either way, it’s either a sign of trends changing or these big cities becoming increasingly unaffordable for young people to move into.
For better or for worse, most people across the United States tend to stay put and never leave their state. However, for all those homebodies, there are plenty of those who seek their fortunes elsewhere: all those New Yorkers in California, Cubans in Miami, Russians in New York City, and Californians in Texas.
Methodology
All the percentages, graphs, maps, and visualizations are based on the data from the American Community Survey – a Census Bureau survey reaching around 170,000 Americans each year – for the years 2014 through 2019 (latest year available) detailing the place of birth and the place of residence of survey participants.
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For some, continuously supporting their adult child is difficult. “
It’s sensible for corporations to seek better fiscal conditions for their business. But what about the employees that get caught up in corporate relocations and transfers?
Now that we’ve looked at the states, let’s turn to the cities. We looked at ten of the biggest cities across the country to get a sense of just how many people from all over the country and the world they bring together.